If You're Going To Visit Greece's Cyclades Islands, This Is How You Should Do It

On May 14, Greece announced to the world that it would reopen for tourism, "putting the lockdown behind us," as the nation continues its vaccination rollout. However, it's still not as easy as booking a hotel room and airfare and dragging the kids to see the Parthenon. Any visitor coming from one of 53 approved countries must fill out a passenger locator form and provide a vaccination card or proof of a negative PCR test.

It shouldn't surprise anyone that Greece's massive new tourism campaign is also promoting the amazing natural beauty of its islands and beaches, as they provide the sun and fun that so many travelers are craving right now. But a trip to the Greek Isles might just be the smartest and safest way to visit, too, since the right kind of tour package will include all the physical distancing any heart desires, without skimping on the excitement, adventure, and luxury.

For example, private tour operator TCS World Travel is celebrating the reopening of Greece with the Undiscovered Greek Isles Itinerary, which takes guests to four of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades. That's obviously a tall order, what with 39 islands to choose from, but this tour focuses on four of the most unheralded gems in this region, and each island's to-do list is distinct from the next.

In Paros, a private catamaran will usher daring explorers to the sea caves of Antiparos and Tripiti that make for incredible diving. Anyone looking for a more laidback scenario will be especially pleased when the tour arrives at a magnificent lagoon near Tigani, Panteronisi, and Glaropounta.

Next, the group heads to Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades and also the mythological childhood home of Zeus, who many believed was raised in a cave on Mt. Zas. This island is steeped in rich history, and so this adventure is about meeting the amazing people. Visitors will be introduced to weavers and artists, particularly those making mosaics in the restored monastery of Agios Eleftherios.

Folegandros is the third stop, and travelers will trek to Hora, a cliffside town so charming and awe-inspiring that people will instantly dream of moving there. In addition to some of the most amazing views in all of the Cyclades, guests will enjoy a visit to the Panagia church, which is home to a Virgin Mary statue that, according to legend, grants miracles. Always worth a shot.

Finally, we save the most luxurious step for last. A private yacht will take everyone to Milos, home to beaches that will highlight Instagram feeds for eternity and hidden coves that will lead to a variety of adventures. That is, if people even want to leave the beach at all.