I would love your advice on what Island would be good for mid to late October. Rick Steves' book does not cover many islands so I don't know where to start right now. I've read on this Forum where some towns close down in late October and I would guess we would not be going swimming that time of year so beaches aren't important. I've read Mykonos is mostly about the night life which isn't our thing either. We enjoy visiting ruins, museums and churches and could use a couple days of just relaxing and wandering about. We are planning on flying into and out of Athens with nine nights total ... three or four nights in Athens, three nights in Santorini and two of three somewhere. Any input (including areas around Athens) would be very much appreciated. Thanks!
Posted by
Southeastern US
2607 posts
I did Athens, Paros, Santorini, then back to Athens. You could also do Naxos instead of Paros.
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1441 posts
Naxos and Paros are both good companion islands for Santorini. We were on Naxos first week of October last year and I can say the beach areas were pretty much all shut down by the time we left. Naxos town was still a hive of activity as the remaining tourists concentrated on the town.
We noted that the weather was still quite nice and in fact the water temperature was warmer than in June so swimming is still possible particularly at St George beach at Naxos town.
We also noted that mid to late October was perfect for hiking. Warm dry days.
Naxos Town http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/sets/72157632094558042/
Trip around Naxos http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/sets/72157634605629689/
Naxos sunsets https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157700728046481
However you might want to look at Nafplio. Its on the mainland but feels like an island town. Its only a two hour bus ride away from Athans even faster with a rental car. Its a year round get away destination for Athenians wanting a weekend break.
Nafplio and Peloponnese http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/sets/72157632094108982/
Posted by
OP
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
138 posts
Thank you both for your suggestions! I just ordered Lonely Planet's book on the Greek Islands so I can research Paros and Naxos further. Based on your photos, stanbr, Naxos might be edging out Paros! Thank you for sharing them. They are stunning! I think I would also like to try to fit in Nafplio after seeing your pictures. I am so glad you both took the time to respond. My head was spinning trying to figure out where to go! So many islands, so little time! I now have a solid starting point for my planning.
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1441 posts
Have fun planning.