Hello, we're currently firming up our honeymoon plans and I've come to realize I definitely need some help. We're both in our early 30s, have spent time in a few European countries, but neither of us have been to Greece and the ferry system is completely new to us. Our focus for this vacation will be leisure. We enjoy food, lounging, a little shopping, and some hiking. We're not big on nightlife. We also enjoy architecture, history, and archaeology, but I think we'll be content with what Athens has to offer on the latter. As this is our honeymoon, we're willing to spend a little more than we typically would, but are still conscious of value - i.e. not worried about budget lodgings or restaurant costs, but don't need a top of the line luxury boutique resort when another place will offer the same feel for a better price. Just want to experience the real Greece, and have a romantic time. ;) We like to be near enough to be able to walk to restaurants and the like. Would like to avoid renting a car if we can, but if it's a must we would.
We'll be flying in to Athens, arrive at 12:30 Oct 23. We fly out of Athens at 12:00 Nov 1. Our original plan was to immediately hit Santorini, then Milos/Sifnos, then 3 days in Athens (to hopefully not miss our flight home due to weather). However, upon researching ferries it looks like that's a terrible idea, and it'll need to be Naxos/Paros (or elsewhere?) instead of Milos. I have several questions/concerns:
- Where in Santorini should we stay? I had initially thought Oia - we mainly want a space with a great view and a private jacuzzi. My fiance isn't big on crowds though, and I read that cruise ships are still flooding Oia in October. Should we look at staying elsewhere - maybe Firostefani? I just want to be sure we pick somewhere that is busy enough to still offer many shop and restaurant options this late in the year. Is there plenty to do there, or will we be constantly traveling to the other villages?
- Is Naxos/Paros a good choice for our middle stop? We don't want to be rushed, but would like to experience a little variety and see what other islands are like - I'm open to another destination.
- Should we be worried about end of season closures on the islands we're looking at?
- Do we ferry to all the islands? Or should I be looking at flights between islands instead?
- Is there something else I should be considering and haven't thought of?
Thank you in advance for any wisdom and advice you might share!