A Solo Woman Traveling uses human-written content that contains affiliate links and is a member of Amazon Services LLC. When you make a purchase on a link, we may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.
Cyclades or the Sporades? You might be wondering what’s the difference. Aren’t all the Greek islands kind of the same?
Well, if you’ve been doing any research, you’ve probably noticed two things. First, there are a lot of islands. Second, each island group has its own vibe.
And honestly, that’s what has been it exciting for me when planning but also a little overwhelming.
It’s easy to feel stuck trying to figure out where to spend your time this summer.
After spending this June bouncing between the Cyclades and the Sporades, I’ve got some real insight on just how different these two island groups actually are. And where you should go, depending on your travel style.
Now you might be thinking, can’t I just visit both in one trip? The answer is not really. If you’ve got a lot of time, then sure, you can make it work. But most people don’t, so let’s say you have to pick one.
Here’s the short version. The Sporades are your laid-back vacation vibe, with just a few islands to choose from and a slower pace overall.
The Cyclades have more islands to hop between, more historical sites to explore, and they’re usually easier to reach, especially if you’re starting or ending your trip in Athens.


A Closer Look at the Cyclades
Let’s start with the big ones. Mykonos and Santorini. They’re iconic, no doubt. And yeah, they’re beautiful. But I’m gonna be honest with you, I really don’t think you need to spend much time on either one.
They’re wildly overcrowded, super expensive, and kind of feel like a version of Greece made just for tourists. You won’t really get the vibe of Greek island life here. It’s more like a quick photo op than an actual experience.
Now the real magic of the Cyclades is in the lesser-known islands. That’s where you get the good stuff.
Naxos has quaint villages, amazing beaches, and a local, low-key vibe. Paros is a nice mix of fun and chill without being over the top. Milos is full of unreal landscapes and beaches that don’t even look real. Sifnos and Serifos are peaceful, a little more off the radar, and perfect if you love great food and quiet mornings. Folegandros is tiny, dramatic, and seriously romantic without even trying.
What I like most about the Cyclades is how easy it is to hop between islands. You don’t need to plan anything crazy.
The ferries run all the time, and you can see two or three totally different islands in one trip without much effort. It truly provides a more comprehensive experience of what Greek island life is all about.


Full List of the Cyclades Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Milos, Ios, Folegandros, Amorgos, Sifnos, Serifos, Syros, Tinos, Andros, Anafi, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Sikinos, Antiparos, Donousa, Koufonisia, Iraklia, Schinoussa
A Closer Look at the Sporades
The Sporades are totally different from the Cyclades, but in the best way. There are only four main islands, and they feel way more relaxed, local, and green.
The easiest ones to visit are Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. You can visit all three in one trip without much planning. The ferries are so much cheaper compared to the Cyclades! And run often in the summer, so it’s easy to island hop without spending a lot.
Skyros is the fourth island, but it’s kind of a hassle to get to. There’s no direct ferry from the other Sporades, so I didnt make it there
Skiathos has a fun town and some great beaches. Skopelos is super green and peaceful, and yes, it’s where they filmed Mamma Mia. Alonissos is even more low-key and is amazing for swimming, hiking, and just being out in nature.
If you’re a solo traveler, just know there’s not as much going on here. There are fewer tours, fewer group activities, and not a ton of things to book on sites like GetYourGuide. You need to be okay with doing your own thing, chilling at the beach, and moving at a slower pace.
If your idea of a good day is a swim, a long lunch, and a quiet sunset, the Sporades might be your perfect match.
Full List of Sporades: Skiathos, Skyros, Alonissos, and Skopelos


Which Is More Affordable, the Sporades or the Cyclades?
So, I was actually a bit surprised by this myself. I expected the Sporades to be way cheaper than the Cyclades, but honestly, the prices for things like hotels, taxis, and eating out were pretty similar.
The Cyclades might be slightly more expensive overall, but it’s not the huge difference I thought it would be. For example, I assumed I’d be paying around 7 euros for a Greek salad, but in reality, it was more like 9 to 11 euros. And in Athens, expect around 12 if you’re eating in the city center.
Now, just to be clear, I’m not including Santorini or Mykonos in this comparison. Those two are in a league of their own. Prices there are just wild, and nothing really compares to the cost of things on those islands.
Drinks like an Aperol Spritz were usually between 9 to 12 euros in both the Cyclades and the Sporades, depending on the place.
Where I really noticed a difference was the cost of ferries. I paid as little as 20 euros to go from Skiathos to Alonissos. But going from Naxos to Syros, which is a similar distance, cost me around 60 euros. So if you’re on a tighter budget and want to do a bit of island hopping, the Sporades are definitely the more affordable choice.


Which Islands Are the Easiest to Reach, Sporades or Cyclades?
If you’re starting your trip in Athens, the Cyclades are definitely the easiest to reach. You can catch a ferry from Piraeus or Rafina and be on an island like Paros or Naxos in just a few hours. No need to book a domestic flight or make any complicated plans.
The Sporades take a little more effort. You’ll either need to fly into Skiathos or travel overland to a smaller port like Volos to catch a ferry. It’s not hard, but it’s not as convenient if you’re working with limited time and starting in Athens.
That said, once you’re in the Sporades, everything gets really easy. The islands are close together, and ferries between Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos are quick, cheap, and run often. I flew into Skiathos and visited all three islands without needing to plan much or spend a lot.
In the Cyclades, the distances between islands can be a bit trickier. Some are just a short ride apart, but others can take several hours and cost more. So while it’s easier to get into the Cyclades, hopping between them might take a bit more time and money.


Pros and Cons of the Cyclades
Pros:
- Easy to reach from Athens by ferry
- Lots of variety in islands and experiences
- Great for solo travelers, couples, and groups
- More tours, nightlife, and activities
- Ferry network makes hopping between islands fairly simple
Cons:
- Can get very crowded, especially in high season
- Some islands are expensive (especially Mykonos and Santorini)
- Longer ferry rides between certain islands
- More touristy in feel, less “local” vibe on the popular islands
Pros and Cons of the Sporades
Pros:
- Quieter, more relaxed atmosphere
- Green, lush landscapes and crystal-clear water
- Cheaper and shorter ferry rides between islands
- Great for nature lovers, swimming, and hiking
- Still somewhat under the radar for most tourists
Cons:
- Harder to reach from Athens (requires flight or long transfer)
- Fewer islands to choose from
- Limited group tours and organized activities
- Less social for solo travelers—more DIY experience
- Kinda need a car if you want to explore most of the island
Best Time to Visit the Cyclades or Sporades
The best time to visit either island group is late spring through early fall, especially June through September. That’s when you’ll find warm weather, regular ferries, and everything open and running.
If you’re hoping to visit earlier or later in the season, the Cyclades give you a bit more flexibility. Islands like Mykonos and Santorini stay “open” longer, think April through October, because they see more international visitors.
That said, even in those months, you’ll run into some restaurant closures and fewer ferry options. It’s not a total shutdown, but the energy is definitely slower and quieter.
The Sporades have a shorter season, usually mid-May to mid-September. Outside of that window, things get really quiet. Ferries run less often, and many hotels and tavernas close for the off-season. These islands are more seasonal, and they don’t cater as much to year-round tourism.
So if you’re planning a trip for early spring or late fall, the Cyclades are the safer bet. But for peak summer, both island groups shine kinda just depends on the kind of vibe you’re looking for.


So, Cyclades or Sporades?
In my opinion, if it’s your first time to Greece, you want variety, and you don’t want to overthink the logistics, go with the Cyclades. You’ll have more options, easier access from Athens, and a wider mix of experiences.
If you’ve already done the big-name islands or you’re craving something quieter, greener, and a little more local, the Sporades might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Both are beautiful. Both are worth visiting. But if you only have time for one, choose based on your travel style, not just what looks good on Instagram.
Have more questions? Just ask me!


FAQ: Cyclades vs. Sporades
Not easily. These island groups are far apart and there are no direct ferries between them. You would need to return to the mainland and either drive or fly to switch between them. It’s possible, but only if you have a lot of time and don’t mind the extra effort.
No. Santorini is part of the Cyclades, which are located in the southern Aegean. The Sporades are in the north and include Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros. They’re completely separate island groups.
The Cyclades are usually the better choice for first-timers. They’re easier to reach from Athens, offer more variety in terms of activities and landscapes, and are generally more set up for tourism.
They can be, but it depends on your travel style. If you’re happy doing your own thing, love nature, and don’t need a lot of organized activities, you’ll enjoy it. But if you’re hoping to meet people or join group tours, you’ll find more of that in the Cyclades.
The Sporades are slightly more budget-friendly when it comes to ferry costs and day-to-day expenses. That said, overall prices for food and accommodations are pretty similar unless you’re going to Santorini or Mykonos, which are in a completely different price bracket.
I’ve Been There. I’ve Got You.
Visiting somewhere new can feel overwhelming.
I know the destination and can help you travel smarter. Let me book your accommodations with my travel agent perks at no extra cost. Want every day mapped out? I create custom itineraries!
Travel Resources for Greece
- Solo Trips to Greece
- Greece Travel Guide
- Ultimate Greece Travel Guide
- 15 Best Greek Islands For Solo Travel
- 9 Best Greek Islands for Foodies & Wine Lovers + Map
- Solo Female Packing List For Greece: Summer & Winter
- The Best Private Airport Transfer From Athens Airport
- Affordable Greek Islands Near Mykonos
- Best & Hottest Greek Islands to Visit in May
- Should You Rent a Car on the Greek Islands?
- Most Reliable Ferry Company For Greek Island Hopping
- Cyclades Islands or Sporades Islands? How to Choose!
Alonissos
Athens
- What To See In 2 Days In Athens Itinerary + Map
- What to Expect Visiting Athens in November
- Is Athens Worth Visiting? Should You Go or Skip It?
- What to Expect When Visiting Athens in December
- 10 Best Athens Hotels With Rooftop Pools
- How To Visit Athens On A Budget + Free Calculator
- 7 Easy Day Trips From Athens City Center
- Best Half-Day Tour: Athens To Temple Of Poseidon
- Coco-Mat Athens BC Hotel Review
- The Best Ferry From Athens To Hydra Island in
- Ultimate Athens Solo Travel Guide + Free Map
- Easy Greek Words and Phrases to Learn for Travel
- Is Your Name Greek? Greek Names Generator & Meanings
- 18 Pros & Cons of Living in Athens Greece by an Expat
- Best Cafes in Athens by Neighborhood
Crete Island
Folegandros
Hydra
Koufonisia
Milos Island
- All The Best Things to Do in Milos By Area + Map
- Renting a Car in Milos: What You Need To Know
- The Perfect 4 Days in Milos Itinerary Guide + Map
- 12 Best Boutique Hotels In Milos Greece in
- A Private Luxury Boat Tour to Kleftiko Milos
- Best Milos to Athens Ferry Travel Guide
- Sifnos vs Milos: Which Island is Better
Mykonos
- Ultimate Solo Travel Guide Mykonos
- Is Mykonos Expensive?
- How to Get Around in Mykonos
- Day Trips From Mykonos
Naxos
- Renting a Car in Naxos: Exploring the Pros and Cons
- Best Naxos Bus Tour Highlights of Idyllic Villages
- 10 Best Villages to Visit in Naxos
Sifnos Island
- Best Guide to Sifnos Greece: Everything To Do + Map
- A Guide to Booking a Ferry From Athens To Sifnos
- Flight From Athens to Sifnos By Private Helicopter
- Honest Review of Nival Boutique Hotel in Sifnos
- Best Beaches in Sifnos, Greece
- Sifnos or Serifos: Which Island is Better?
- Milos or Sifnos: Which Island is Better?
- Sifnos or Syros: A True Comparison
Serifos Island
- Complete Island Guide To Serifos Greece + Map
- Which is Better: Sifnos vs Serifos?
- Serifos or Folegandros: Which Island is Better?
Skiathos & Skopelos
Skopelos or Skiathos, Which Greek Island is Better?
