As the Greek Islands continue to hover at the top of many travel lists, I find myself drawn to exploring the more ‘local’ islands: ones that offer a mix of incredible food, sandy beaches, local culture, and boutique hotel stays. Sifnos caught my eye a few years back during our trip to Folegandros. It offers a similarly laid-back Greek island…
Read the PostAthens is a unique blend of opposites: ancient marble structures lie among busy residential streets, while century-old family tavernas sit steps away from tourist-trap restaurants. Most travelers to Athens end up basing themselves in Plaka or Monastiraki for convenience, but these neighborhoods are fairly overrun by businesses catering solely to tourists. After multiple trips to Athens, and some learning experiences…
Read the PostNaxos is the largest of the Cycladic islands, and one of its most underrated. With nearby Paros getting a lot of recent attention, and neighboring Mykonos and Santorini making for easy ferry transfers, Naxos is a great pick if you’re looking for a quieter, more authentic Greek island experience. Think: wide golden beaches, charming villages in the hills, ancient ruins…
Read the PostWhen planning a trip to Greece, Athens is often seen as just a necessary stopover or the place you land before heading to the islands. But after spending time there on multiple trips, I’ve come to appreciate it as more than just a layover. Athens is complex: chaotic, beautiful, rough around the edges, and layered with history that feels present…
Read the PostClick here to shop the digital guide. After years of exploring the Greek Islands and falling deeper in love with each return visit, I’m thrilled to announce that The Greek Islands Digital Guide is here. This isn’t just another travel guide — it’s a comprehensive, beautifully designed resource that distills everything I’ve learned from countless island-hopping adventures into one…
Read the PostUpdated for 2026 with current hotel recommendations, restaurants, and travel tips. Paros has become increasingly popular in recent years since we first visited during this Greek island hopping trip; it was initially recommended to us as a ‘foodie’ island. Naoussa town in particular attracts visitors seeking both authentic Greek charm and cosmopolitan amenities. Paros is incredibly diverse: this crowd-pleasing island…
Read the PostWhen I first learned of Tinos, I was surprised no one had recommended it to me before. Just a 15-minute ferry ride from Mykonos, Tinos remains relatively undiscovered: quieter, more authentic, and dotted with traditional villages that feel worlds away from its famous neighbor. After 10 days exploring hidden corners and uncovering one gem after another, Tinos has become one…
Read the PostLast updated: January 2026 This guide is for anyone planning time in Athens, whether it’s your first visit, a return trip, or a stopover before heading to the Greek Islands and beyond. If you’re heading to the Greek Islands before or after Athens, don’t miss my Greek Islands Digital Guide which includes day-by-day itineraries, ferry tips, curated stays, and recommended…
Read the PostFolegandros, Greece is a hidden gem conveniently close to Santorini yet wonderfully less visited. After an attempt at visiting this island a few years back (in which we ended up island hopping to Naxos instead), we finally made it to stay at the beachfront boutique hotel I’d been eyeing for years: Blue Sand Hotel. What makes Folegandros special is its…
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