Take a ferry romance to Greece and Turkey. Explore Athens, then head to the dazzling Dodecanese islands for a mix of chic elegance and undiscovered beauty.
Leave it to Ferry to transform Elvin Bishop’s country flavored ballad into something far darker. Throbbing bass and organ ratchet up the tension as his vocal strains for a way out.
1. Mykonos
The great glamour island of Greece flaunts its St-Tropez-meets-Ibiza style and party-hard reputation, but the truth is much more nuanced. Veer off the main roads and discover a backstreets brimming with character, chapels and windmills. It’s here that the island comes into its own, a place to be experienced at dusk when the crowds disappear and you have this magical island all to yourself.
During the daytime, stroll the narrow cobbled streets and snoop around designer clothes and jewelry boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Or, take a boat trip to Delos and Rhenia, two neighboring islands home to important archeological sites and sublime beaches. It’s here that you can truly experience the magic of Mykonos and understand why this is such a popular destination for couples to celebrate their weddings, honeymoons or even renew their vows later in life!
It’s also where the 1989 romantic comedy Shirley Valentine was filmed. Actress Pauline Collins starred as Shirley, a Liverpudlian housewife who embarks on an unexpected journey of self-discovery and rekindles her love for life in the enchanting setting of Mykonos. Visit the beach referred to as the ‘Shirley Valentine Beach’, officially called Agios Ioannis, where the final scenes of the movie were filmed. With craggy cliffs on either side and a lovely waterfront restaurant, this beautiful stretch of beach is an oasis away from the glitzy Jackie O’-esque Super Paradise.
2. Ios
The sister island to Mykonos and a paradise for couples, Ios is full of life. From romantic strolls in stone paved alleys to beach parties by the emerald waters of captivating beaches, Ios is an enchanting destination. Book cheap ferry tickets to Ios with Let’s Ferry and explore its tropical beauty. This dreamy Aegean island has everything you want for your summer vacation: a rich history revealed by its archaeological sites, charm that is reflected in the traditional architecture of its settlements and paradisi sceneries that wake romance or fill your soul with wonder.
The most popular and iconic destination after Santorini for a summer trip in Greece, Ios has gorgeous beaches, charming little villages and a vibrant atmosphere. Take a direct ferry from Athens to Ios and enjoy a romantic vacation in this cosmopolitan island!
Take the time to wander around the picturesque capital of Ios, Chora. Its white houses and covered streets are a sight to behold! The alleys are lined with beautiful details of stairs, frames, shutters and flowers that create a magical image. Make sure to climb up to the church of Panagia Gremiotissa, a 14th-century church perched on a cliff overlooking the town and admire the sunset over Sikinos! Also, pay a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Ios and check out the reputed tomb of Homer at Plakoto.
3. Monemvasia
At the foot of a massive rock that shoots up out of the sea like a sculpture, lies a little hamlet of cobblestone streets and crumbling buildings. Known as Monemvasia or “the Gibraltar of the East”, this time-warp medieval town tethered to land by a thin spit of land is a stony museum of Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian history.
Walk through the Lower Town, past cafes, tavernas and shops and duck into narrow alleyways to admire the old architecture. You can also climb up to the Upper Town and wander amongst the half-Byzantine, half-Venetian mansions of the aristocracy.
Monemvasia is famous for its wine so you should try the local malvasia (a dry white) at the taverna in the Lower Town or at the winery. Also look out for the local handmade goges and saitia – fried cheese pies filled with herbs and cheese.
Matilda is Ferry’s best friend in the first book of Ferry Romance and is stubborn, opinionated and straightforward when it comes to her feelings for May Flower. She is also a tomboy and very sporty. She is the one who convinces Ferry to take his first trip to Tenalach with her. Despite her tough exterior, she has a soft spot for Ferry and is always willing to help. She is the one that explains to him why it’s important not to close doors and make sure everyone has what they need.
4. Paros
Getting around the Cyclades islands is not only a part of island hopping but a romantic experience in itself thanks to the well-developed ferry network. With convenient schedules and a range of ferry options, the ferry ride from Santorini to Paros or Naxos becomes more than just a means of transport; it is an integral part of your Greece honeymoon itinerary.
In Paros the island’s main port is at the town of Parikia, a pulsing hive of activity that teems with tanned Europeans, American honeymooners and elderly Greek couples clutching their strollers. The quainter village of Naoussa is equally charming with its whitewashed houses, blooming bougainvillea and narrow streets crammed with cafes and restaurants.
If you want to escape the tourist crowds consider heading a bit further up the mountain to Lefkes. This village offers pretty neoclassical buildings, cafes with stunning vistas and tiny laneways for a romantic stroll.
There is a small airport on the island and flights are available year-round from Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. A private transfer can be arranged from the airport for an additional cost. Or, if you are staying in the larger resorts like All-Inclusive Paros Honeymoon hotels or adult-only hotels, a car rental is easy to arrange with the concierge. Alternatively, you can rent an independent Paros villa for a Greece honeymoon that is all your own.