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‘An unspoilt, crowd-free island’: 20 of the best hotels in Greece to book this summer
From Crete to Corfu, we’ve found some hidden-gem hotels for ancient history, delicious food and Aegean views
Home to more than 6,000 islands and promising at least 300 sunshine-filled days a year, Greece is the word when it comes to great holidays. In fact, travel agent Opodo reports it as one of the most travelled-to places in July and August for 2026. Now, thanks to our roundup of the best hotels in Greece and the Greek Islands, you’ll be on your way to soaking up that sun in no time. From an unspoilt, crowd-free island one of our team visited to sleepier stays in the more traditional spots like Santorini, there's something for everyone.
Fabled as the ancient home of Greek gods and legends, the country has historic sites spanning four millennia. And this summer’s big film, The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson, Zendaya and Charlize Theron, is sure to inspire even more travellers to make their own.
On the mainland, you can stay in the capital and be bewitched by the Acropolis, which can be seen from almost every street corner in Athens. Take a hike up Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the Greek Gods, or venture towards Thessaloniki and enjoy sailing around the crystal-clear waters of the Pelion Peninsula.
Many travellers use the mainland as a springboard to the islands, where you’ll find charming fishing villages with white-washed, bougainvillea-strewn houses, lush groves of native olive trees and narrow cobbled lanes leading down to some of the most beautiful bays in the Mediterranean.
From luxury beach resorts to rural boutique guest houses, here’s our pick of the best hotels in Greece found on the mainland and on the Greek Islands.
Whether you’re looking to explore Rhodes, Crete, Corfu or Halkidiki, you’ll want to check out our favourite hotels in Greece.
Casa Cook, Samos
The island of Samos is one of the lesser-visited, more laidback Greek islands, remaining unspoilt and authentic because it used to take two flights to get to. Now, thanks to Jet2’s new direct route from London Stansted, it’s much easier to reach, and while that will bring more tourists to this Aegean paradise, as the eighth largest island in Greece there’s still plenty of room for everyone.
Samos sits just off the Turkish coast, with rugged pine forest-covered mountains, sandy beaches and UNESCO-listed ruins associated with Hera, queen of the gods. It’s also the birthplace of Pythagoras and Epicurus, which suggests there must be something in the aquamarine water that surrounds it – or maybe it’s something to do with the island’s famous sweet Muscat wine.
Casa Cook Samos is an adults-only retreat just five minutes from the airport, which captures the spirit of a small island village and directly faces the crystal-clear sea. Its design is based on traditional Greek houses or ‘Kamares’, the earthy tones, crinkly leather and rustic wood furnishings inspired by the local land, rivers and shores. Each of the 128 rooms has its own balcony or private terrace and they’re connected by six swimming pools (some rooms have their own private pools or whirlpools, too). It’s is a peaceful hideaway with a serene atmosphere, especially in the spa, hammam and morning yoga shala. The vast Beach House menu and buffet breakfast will keep you well fed all day (go for the fresh seafood), while ticking off the cocktail menu will replace your to-do list nicely. Sophie Burgham
The Rooster, Antiparos
This small boutique hotel with just 17 rooms has the hallmarks of a rugged Cycladic retreat, with a wellness offering that punches well above its weight. A stint at the property’s House of Healing feels like sitting your brain in child’s pose – that restorative stretch that reminds you just how good it feels to bring things back to basics. The spa is centred around everything owner Athanasia has tried herself and found made a difference to her own health. Don’t skip the spa’s fire cupping, an ancient therapy that uses heated cups to create suction on the skin, working deeply into the muscles to release tension and stimulate circulation.
The ingredients in your impressive breakfast spread are grown in the grounds of the hotel’s organic farm and the team work with local fishermen to secure the freshest, most delicious seafood. The restaurant offers seasonal dishes designed around whatever’s abundant on the land that day, and if there’s an eponymous fire-grilled rooster on the menu, don’t miss out. While you could come here for a detox, I can’t recommend the private wine pairing experience in the Secret Garden courtyard enough.
Kókkini Porta Rossa, Rhodes
Tucked away down a medieval cobbled lane in Rhodes' Old Town, this charming boutique hotel was originally a knight's residence with origins in the 14th century. Kókkini Porta Rossa is ideal for exploring the Old Town's historical highlights, like the Palace of the Grand Master and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.
Surrounding a leafy courtyard, this tranquil hotel has just six spacious suites, all named after family members who have lived there. Each one is beautifully decorated in a rustic-chic manner with painted wood ceilings, rough sandstone walls and tiled floors adorned with plush Persian rugs and covetable antiques. The Michalis suite, named after the carpenter, has its own garden. While there isn't a restaurant, breakfast is an unmissable event and served in the courtyard under the shade of an ancient mulberry tree.
Creta Maris, Crete
For an all-inclusive experience with something for everyone, Creta Maris is unbeatable. Situated in Hersonissos, 25k east of Heraklion, and family-owned, it’s a big resort yet still feels traditional and laid-back, full of tranquil corners and alfresco spaces. Whether you’re seeking a fun-packed holiday in the sun with kids or you’re a couple looking for a romantic break amid gorgeous scenery, there’s accommodation to suit you, with everything from open-plan villa-style family rooms to exclusive adult suites.
Seven restaurants serve an array of high-quality, sustainable local food, plus there are nine bars in which to enjoy a cocktail or two. Take your pick from lounging by one of the 17 swimming pools, relaxing on the Blue Flag beach or pampering yourself in the spa. Or if you’re in the mood to be (a little) more active, there’s a waterpark, open-air cinema, tennis courts and mini golf to keep you busy. Whatever your holiday vibe, you won’t need – or want – to leave the resort. Sue Smith
Elivi Skiathos, Skiathos
Moments from Skiathos' sandy Koukounaries Beach, this chic hotel originally built in the Sixties was once the stylish hangout of Jackie Onassis. Surrounded by pine trees, Elivi Skiathos features a brace of pools, including an infinity pool with a poolside bar, an outdoor yoga studio and a spa, while the beach taverna is buzzy and fun in the evenings. Rooms are light and neutrally decorated with natural woods, while the Grace suites built into the hill offer uninterrupted views of the sea; some even have private pools.
The hotel is perfectly placed to explore Lake Strofilia, the island's protected wetland, where you'll find cormorant, egret and the island's famous black swan. Don't miss a trip to Kastro, the oldest town on Skiathos. Abandoned in the 19th century, its ruined streets are scattered with cannons, crumbling churches and even the remains of a Turkish-era mosque.
The Merchant's House, Corfu
Located in a 14th-century Venetian village of Old Perithia on Corfu, this small but elegant boutique guesthouse is a great alternative to the beach sprawls the island is known for. Housed in a fully restored 17th-century building, once a tradesman's bazaar, the rustic-chic Merchant's House has just six suites, all with a refined vibe: think beamed ceilings, cast iron beds and dark wood furnishings. Breakfast is served in the courtyard garden and while there isn't a restaurant, the hotel is within walking distance of a handful of excellent tavernas in the village.
There's plenty to see nearby, including the Megali Grava cave. While the highest mountain on Corfu, Mount Pantokrator, is right on the doorstep, offering some of the island's best hiking and cycling trails.
Ikos Kissamos, Crete
If you’re looking for a Greek getaway that takes the stress out of family holidays, IKOS Kissamos is exactly that. Newly opened yet already operating with the slick, friendly service of a long-established resort, this five-star all-inclusive puts you at ease immediately. The resort’s low-rise, thoughtfully spread-out layout folds neatly into the Cretan landscape, with meandering pathways that lead you through a sway of sensory gardens and olive trees down to the beach. Shoreside is where you’ll find most of Kissamos’s dining offerings – there are six à la carte options on site, covering Greek, Italian, French, Asian and even Peruvian, plus an excellent buffet, Market, by the main plaza.
If you can prise yourself away from one of the eight pools, there’s a host of activities for adults and children, including tennis, padel and numerous water sports. Kissamos is a concept that works beautifully as a grown-up getaway (it’s so spread out it always feels like a luxurious escape), but families are exceptionally well looked after, too. There are daily activities for kids of all ages – from six months to 17 years – allowing parents to enjoy a well-deserved break. Better still, British Airways Holidays offers seven nights all-inclusive at the 5* Ikos Kissamos, from £2499pp, including economy return flights from London Gatwick with one checked bag per person. Lynne Hyland
Hotel Grand Bretagne, Athens
If you're looking for five-star Hellenic glamour then look no further than the Grand Bretagne in the Greek capital. Built in 1874, this notable pile is righteously referred to as Athens' grande dame and considered one of the best hotels in Greece. It occupies a fine spot on Syntagma Square, overlooking the Hellenic Parliament where you can see the famous changing of the guards. It's also close to the National Gardens. Inside, find period glamour with stained glass ceiling, potted palms and a wealth of antiques.
There's an outdoor pool on the seventh floor, a fancy spa with mud chambers, thermal suites and steam rooms, and the Wine Library bar. After a night in one a palatial rooms, enjoy breakfast on the rooftop terrace overlooking the city.
Iconic Santorini, Santorini
Perched on the very edge of one of Santorini's volcanic cliffs near the tiny village of Imerovigli, this oh-so stylish cave hotel has incredible views of the Aegean Sea and neighbouring islands. Carved out of the caldera wall, small boutique hotel Iconic Santorini evokes the island in its purest sense with traditional blue-and-white decor, natural stone and wood, and the odd palm tree.
But really, it's all about those views. On the terrace, there's an infinity pool (with those views), a small alfresco restaurant (more views) and a tiny cave spa in case you need further pampering. Stay in one of the 19 cave suites, featuring vaulted ceilings, serene whitewashed walls and driftwood; some have private plunge pools, and guess what, those incredible views.
Kalesma, Mykonos
‘Kalesma’ means 'inviting' in Greek, and despite its luxury appeal, this contemporary boutique hotel in the Aleomandra region of Mykonos is as warm and as welcoming as they come. Designed by the acclaimed restaurateur Aby Saltiel, who created this beautiful space overlooking the Aegean Sea, it's deliberately away from the liveliness of Mykonos Town.
Stay in one of a clutch of white-washed villas, which has been laid out like an old Mykonian village, except that all have decent-sized pools and views over the Aegean. Kalesma also has a tiny chapel, in-room spa treatments and Pere Ubu, the hotel's chic restaurant. It's moments from Ornos Beach, where you can watch both the sun rise and set, while Agios Ioannis, the famous beach from the movie Shirley Valentine, is a short sandy skip away.
Afitis Boutique Hotel, Halkidiki
On the westernmost fringes of Halkidiki peninsula, the Afitis Boutique Hotel has been wooing visitors since it opened in 1969. A stylish Greek hotel with a rare private sandy beach, you can spend halcyon days lounging around the two palm-lined pools or paddling in the sea. However, it's well worth venturing out and exploring the nearby Petralona Cave and thermal springs, or having a long leisurely lunch in Afytos village, a short stroll away.
With just 50 rooms, this is far from a sprawling resort and is more intimate than most on the mainland. It offers good restaurants, Daphne and Mesogeios, both of which champion the region's home-grown produce. Rooms are serene and individually styled, some have a hint of the hotel's original 60s' vibe.
Ypseli Anafi's Hive, Anafi
For a chic island escape look no further than Ypseli Anafi Hive on the small island of Anafi, just east of Santorini. Perched on the south coast of the island, near the beach of Roukounas, this oh-so stylish boutique hotel is named after the traditional clay beehives found on the island. Steps from a handful of beautiful and secluded beaches, there are just eight suites, but each can sleep up to six and comes decorated with a deliciously rustic vibe: think raffia chairs, natural woods and macrame light shades, plus a private terrace with spectacular views over the Aegean.
Although there's no restaurant, a traditional Anafi breakfast is included and can be enjoyed by the pool and under the gaze of Mount Kalamos, one of the highest rocks in the Mediterranean.
Atrium Prestige, Rhodes
Tucked away on the quieter south coast of Rhodes, this sprawling spa resort built into a lush hillside has all the essentials for a relaxed Greek getaway: sweeping sea views, an abundance of dining options and a fantastic spa. The rooms at Atrium Prestige are airy and comfortably furnished, while classic in style. The top-shelf suites come with private pools.
From yoga on the beach to scuba instruction in the PADI dive centre and relaxing by the brace of lagoon-style pools, there's plenty to keep guests attached to the resort. However, don't miss an excursion to the nearby village of Lindos and exploring the acropolis, the ruins of this ancient citadel where the remains of the goddess Athena lie.
Abaton Island Resort & Spa, Crete
For the epitome of luxury Greek living, look no further than Abaton Island Resort and Spa in Hersonissos. It's tempting to hunker down for the week and enjoy the brace of sea-facing infinity pools with wet beds and day beds, a swish Elemis spa with a heated indoor pool. There's also a private beach to play on.
A rash of low-rise, white-washed buildings house the 152 beautifully serene rooms, and almost half have their own heated saltwater pools. There are five restaurants to dine in, including Elemes, famous for its Cretan specialities like zucchini blossoms stuffed with feta and mint, and strapatsada, eggs with Cretan sausage and sour mizithra. Meanwhile, the rustic-chic Bony Fish is a popular beachfront seafood restaurant.
Parīlio Hotel, Paros
Famous for its beautiful pine-fringed beaches and Ekatontapyliani, a Byzantine Monastery known as 'the church with the hundred doors', Paros is known as the gateway to the Cyclades. For sleek Greek style look no further than Parīlio Hotel, a member of Design Hotels it simply oozes whitewashed Greco chic. Doze by the cross-shaped swimming pool, relax in the small by perfectly formed spa or dine out on exquisite Mediterranean and Greek delights in Mr E restaurant.
The 33 suites are serenely styled with a natural palette, stone floors and soft woods. All offer outdoor space; some even have private pools or whirlpool spas to relax in. And if you can bear to tear yourself away from the facilities, visit the soft blonde sands and crystal clear waters of Agioi Anargyroi Beach or explore the Venetian fortress of Naoussa.
Oku Kos, Kos
Perched on a soft, sandy cove on the northern coast of Kos, a short wander from Marmari village, this beautiful adults-only resort has become a holistic haven thanks to its stunning spa and wellbeing centre. At Oku Kos, you can enjoy fragrant body scrubs and relaxing massages, steam away in the saunas or polish up your yoga skills with daily classes on the beach.
The rooms are a delight. Simply furnished using local textures and natural woods, while the suites come with their own private pool. There are two additional outdoor pools, while the exquisite spa also offers an indoor pool and hammam. After a busy day of doing very little, enjoy farm-to-fork dishes from Grecian specialities to sparklingly fresh local fish pulled straight from the sea.
Euphoria Retreat, Peloponnese
Tucked away in the foothills of Mount Taygetus and surrounded by pine forest, this luxury spa retreat is just the ticket for a relaxing wellbeing escape. Close to the fortified town of Mystras and the ancient city of Sparta, Euphoria Retreat also makes an ideal base for exploring the archeological attractions of the Peloponnese peninsula.
The rooms are comfortably stylish and warmly decorated with swathes of natural stone, wood and onyx marble. While The Gaia Restaurant serves nourishing organic dishes made with local produce. At its heart is the spa, which uses the philosophy of ancient Greece and China, and offers healing treatments, yoga classes and acupuncture. However, a highlight for many is to float in the spectacular indoor pool with its vast domed ceiling inspired by the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
Verina Astra, Sifnos
With panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, this elegant and sustainable boutique hotel on the eastern coast of Sifnos is just the spot for some Greek-style R&R. Unlike the buzzy islands of Santorini and Mykonos, Sifnos is all about serenity and quiet escapes. At Verina Astra, you'll want to relax by the seawater infinity pool, which has mesmerising views of the sea, and dine out on mezedes, Greek-style tapas made from locally grown produce.
As a nod to astra, the Greek word for stars, each suite is named after a constellation and is decorated in natural materials, with exposed stone, scrubbed wood and warm, neutral tones. If you can drag yourself away from that incredible view, the charming village of Artemonas is three kilometres away, while island capital Apollonia features beautiful blue domed whitewashed churches and ancient temples dedicated to Apollo's sister-goddess, Artemi.
Santo Mine, Santorini
As one of the country’s leading destinations for luxury experiences, there’s no shortage of spectacular Greek island hotels in Santorini. A swift stroll away from the famous village of Oia, Santo Mine is set in an old quarry, with standalone villas, each with a private pool on its sunset-ready terrace.
It’s the sister property to Santo Pure next door and guests can travel between the two, on foot or in a golf buggy – don’t miss a cocktail at the Akratos poolside bar at Santo Pure as part of the island’s nightly sunset ritual, or dinner at Santo Mine’s Alme restaurant, which is dedicated to seafood. Here, you can expect to dine on dishes such as calamari with pickled mustard seeds, dried miso and wild oregano, and tuna with mushroom duxelles. Caroline Lewis
Delfino Blu Wellness Hotel, Corfu
Overlooking Agios Stefanos on the island's craggy northwest coast, this contemporary wellness hotel built into the cliff face offers some of the finest sunset views on Corfu. Set in lush tropical gardens, Delfino Blu Wellness Hotel offers the choice of three pools, each overlooking the navy sweep of the Ionian Sea. However, the highlight is the luxe outdoor spa, where you can bathe in a crystal steam bath or book a natural thalassotherapy experience.
There are 15 rooms and suites, most have sea views, while some even have fireplace and a large terrace for lazy sundowners. Breakfast is a true Greek feast, complete with champagne, while dinner in Kohili is an elegant Mediterranean affair using local, seasonal produce.
