Greek Islands in May - 6 nights

[Coops1]

Heading to Greece in May and looking for opinions on where to go!

We have 2 nights in Athens on arrival, then 1 night before flying to Croatia. So Acropolis, museums, city and a rooftop bar will be about it!

The idea for the islands was 2 nights Santorini (fly), 3 nights Paros, then 1 night on Mykonos before returning to Athens on ferries.

Well Santorini has upturned the apple cart, and being realistic is off the table. Easternmost islands like Rhodes were off the table just due to travel times limiting our 6 nights.

Coastline, hill views and ruins are the top interest. Along with a beach, swim and local boat trips. Will be able to hire a car if needed.

Any thoughts on best islands to stay and places to go/see would be great

Edit note: A friend had a fantastic trip to Crete, but sadly we wouldn't do it justice in 6 nights, nor get to see a few different islands at the same time. I don't think 3 nights just in Heraklion would be worth it for the travel time by air and ferries.


Thanks in advance
Coops1

 

[Must...Fly!]

Looked at Naxos? You could easily spend the whole time there as it is a sizeable island. I much prefer it to Paros, personally. Though I'm not sure if also affected by the reported earthquakes.

 

[Coops1]

Looked at Naxos?

Will wait responses, but it's likely Paros or Naxos for 3 of the nights. I lent towards Naxos, but +1 and daughter thought Paros. It can be either, thanks for the Naxos vote

 

[only4tehlulz]

What about a ferry hopping 1 day Syros - 2 days Naxos - 2 days Paros - 1 day Mykonos for your 6 days.

Syros is the capital island for the cyclades and has a slightly different vibe and interesting architecture.

 

[Coops1]

What about a ferry hopping 1 day Syros - 2 days Naxos - 2 days Paros - 1 day Mykonos for your 6 days.

Syros is the capital island for the cyclades and has a slightly different vibe and interesting architecture.

Preference and thoughts are max of 3 different stays, limited to just one 1 nght stay so we can see more when we do get to an island.

Will look at Syros. Would Milos be better or worse for 2 nights?