Which Greek Island to Visit?

I’m not sure Santorini is the right island for you if you like “peaceful quiet” while absorbing the cultural aspects of an island.
Since you’ll be arriving by cruise ship and already be near Athens’ port, a nearby island you can reach by ferry makes sense.

There are several: Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses.
But with your interest in history you might really enjoy Aegina, which has many historical sites and is just a 40-minute ferry ride from Piraeus.

Have a great trip!

www.Ferries.gr

Argosaronic gulf islands (Hydra, Spetses, Poros) have all that you are looking for and are very close to Athens.

Cyclades (Parons, Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini, Milos, Serifos etc.) have the charm of Aegean (unbeatable), stunning beaches and completely different vibes and crowds than the argosaronic group of islands.

Either way check at ferryhopper for tickets.

Bear in mind that most islands slow down completely after October. Its good for prices, availability, heat and crowds ;-)

Have fun!!

Thank you for your comments! : )

Many people claim that Santorini suffers from over-tourism, but this is largely a misconception fueled by social media. The real issue is that Santorini is often misrepresented as just Oia, with its famous blue domes and white houses. In reality, the island has much more to offer, and large parts of it remain peaceful, even during peak season.

For example, Imerovigli is stunning and enjoyable from April to November, offering breathtaking views without the crowds. Traditional villages like Pyrgos and Emporio showcase a more authentic side of Santorini, where you can experience local culture, history, and incredible architecture away from the tourist hotspots.

If your only reason for visiting Santorini is to snap a photo of the blue domes in Oia, then yes, you’ll likely find it crowded. But the same can be said for any famous landmark in the world. Santorini isn’t just Oia—it’s a diverse and beautiful island with so much more to explore.

For a deeper look at this topic, check out this article: The Misguided Criticism of Santorini and Overtourism.

No, Santorini is really overrun with tourism. I live in a major tourist destination and a national historic landmark and an island which swells from 25,000 to over 100,000 in the summer months but Santorini takes it to a whole other level. I’ve also lived in the old city of Jerusalem which, on any given summer day can seem overrun by people but, yet again, Santorini takes the cake on this one. It’s not just Oia or their other picture perfect spots that are overwhelmed by people, and one cannot enjoy their time there.

I would recommend heading to Hydra or Spetses for 2 nights from Athens. Both islands offer a rich culture and history and a serene atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds of Santorini. Hydra is ideal for leisurely walks, hikes and visits to art galleries. Spetses, slightly larger and more cosmopolitan, offers scenic coastal trails and museums. It's known for its neoclassical architecture.

Thank you all for your great comments! : )

Avoid Santorini. Visit Naxos or Paros for a more authentic Greek experience.

Naxos or Paros . No question in my mind

For a breathtaking getaway, visit Samos Island, where you can savor stunning views and delightful deli restaurant options.

I am heading back to Santorini in September. There is much to see and do on the island and 3-4 nights its good for me. For only 2 nights, I would still go. Get a hotel with a Caldera view and enjoy the sunsets. It is a unique place and one to see in your lifetime. It really does have the WOW factor and in October the big crowds will have gone.

So many great comments and options! Thank you everyone!

I glibly say that the best island is the one that is easiest to get to.

But, it's true.

Two days is a travel day plus one full day so any island will have more than enough to captivate you. So for such a short hop I would stay as close to Athens as possible. Hydra would be my first choice, Aegina or Kea honorable mention.

Assuming your cruise ends in Piraeus, it'll be a lot easier getting onto a ferry to one of those islands than by getting a 45-minute ride across town to the airport.