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14 of Greece’s Best Kept Secrets That Every Luxury Traveler Must Visit
Greece’s sun-drenched islands have it all: unique luxury villas, ancient ruins, clear turquoise waters, the warm embrace of filoxenia (Greek hospitality), and a proud cultural legacy as the birthplace of Western civilization. It also boasts one of the world’s healthiest—yet most delicious—cuisines, with nods to Ottoman and Levantine influences in every bite.
Greece’s craggy landscape hides many delights and luxury travelers can experience this country in a way that few others do. Sip wine grown in Santorini’s volcanic vineyards, take a trip into the past in car-free Hydra, or simply relax and unwind from the stresses of modern life in your own, private villa in Antiparos, away from the throng.
1. Discover Zakynthos Shipwreck Adventure
Zakynthos Shipwreck Adventure
Zakynthos’ Navigio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach or Smuggler’s Cove. is one of Greece’s most iconic sights. Hidden away from prying eyes in a small bay, smugglers once used this cove for their operations. In 1980, the MV Panagiotis ran aground the pristine beach, adding a unique new sight.
Luxury travelers can take a private boat tour near to the beach and enjoy a dip in the clear water. Beyond the Zakynthos shipwreck, the island’s gorgeous countryside is also dotted with charming villages.
Where to stay in Zakynthos
Villa Jasmine in Zakynthos
Nestled amidst lush gardens, Villa Jasmine in Zakynthos offers a luxurious retreat with modern design, private beach access, and stunning views of Tsilivi Bay. Perfect for couples or families, this two-bedroom villa features opulent interiors, a private pool, and spacious living areas. You can enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, and exploring the charming local villages.
Bonus: Schedule a private boat tour to the iconic Shipwreck Beach.
2. Jump into Action with Paros’ Kitesurfing and Water Sports Scene
Luxury travelers who seek thrills will find their perfect destination in Paros, an island renowned for its pristine waters and consistent winds that allow for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and other water sports like scuba diving.
Just one nautical mile from Paros lies Antiparos, a smaller, quieter, and more relaxed island that’s the perfect escape from the crowds and action of its big brother. For luxury travelers who seek a quiet getaway with plenty of nearby attractions and watersports, Paros and Antiparos cater to these needs perfectly.
Staying in Paros
Luxury villa The Jewel
Infinite blonde-sand beaches, lush mountains, and cliff-top settlements along its 120 kilometers of coastline. Consider staying in one of our luxury villas in some of the best, most comfortable locations in Paros,
Visit our luxury villa collection in Paros ⇒
Staying in Antiparos
Luxury Villa Alexandra
The perfect Greek island for vacations that are relaxed and free of crowds. Swimming and water sports are some of the best things to do in Antiparos because the island is known for its beaches, most of which are accessible by foot from Chora, the island’s capital.
Visit our luxury villa collection in Antiparos ⇒
3. Indulge in the Greek Islands’ Party Capital of Mykonos
Mykonos is an island of contrasts. Its capital, Chora, is a cosmopolitan center with a world-renowned nightlife, while its sandy shoreline offers exclusive beaches such as Psarou and Elia for luxury travelers seeking elegance and privacy.
Take a dive into Mykonos’ sparkling sea, dry off in the golden sun with a refreshing cocktail and light meze (snack) from the beach club by day—then head into the Chora to party the night away. Mykonos has become a favorite of many luxury travelers, and it’s not hard to see why.
Staying in Mykonos
Luxury Villa Tama
Villa Tama in Mykonos is the ideal luxury retreat, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, sunset, and the nearby islands of Delos and Rhenia. Located just five minutes from Mykonos Town, this seven-bedroom villa combines traditional Cycladic architecture with contemporary design and high-tech comforts.
4. Go on a Gastronomic Tour of Athen’s Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Varoulko Seaside (1 Michelin Star)
Greece’s capital city, Athens, is a place of contrasts. The ancient Parthenon on the Acropolis overlooks a chaotic modern city overflowing with food options. For the luxury traveler, exquisite dining options exist on every corner. From a quick souvlaki from O Kostas to a 12-course avant-garde tasting menu at Delta, a 2-star Michelin restaurant, a world of culinary options lies at your feet.
Athenian cuisine focuses on fresh, local ingredients using traditional cooking methods. Hytra (1 Michelin star), serves up traditional Greek food with a contemporary flair. For seafood lovers, Varoulko Seaside (1 Michelin Star) at Piraeus’ Mikrolimano fishing port offers some of the highest-quality fresh seafood dishes in the city.
Where to stay in Athens
A great area to consider would be Kolonaki. Kolonaki is an upscale neighborhood located north east of Syntagma Square. Known for its high-end shops, chic cafes, and elegant buildings, it’s perfect for those who enjoy luxury and sophistication. The area is also close to several museums and galleries, making it ideal for culture enthusiasts.
5. Experience the Gourmet Side of Island Life on Naxos
Naxos, the largest of Greece’s Cycladic Islands, offers a wealth of flavors for the gourmet luxury traveler. The island is famous for its olive oil, used extensively in local dishes. For the food lover, each bite into this island’s diet is a new world of flavor.
Naxos’ fresh seafood is worth the trip alone, as are the mouthwatering desserts dreamed up by the traditional tavernas and restaurants that dot the island. Luxury travelers should also take time to explore Naxos’ endless olive groves and learn how the oil is produced for an unforgettable culinary experience, far from the chaos of the mainland cities.
Where to stay in Naxos
Luxury villa Casa Ilios
Casa Ilios is the ideal place to stay in Naxos, Greece, due to its perfect blend of privacy and convenience. Nestled in three acres of beautifully landscaped gardens filled with local flora and offering stunning sea views, the villa provides a serene and picturesque retreat for any luxury traveler.
6. Rejuvenate and Revive in Crete’s Hidden Spa Retreats
Crete is the largest island of Greece. A place with its own legend and myth, it boasts some of the best-kept secrets of the entire country; luxury spas and elegant retreats built around rejuvenating treatments.
These elite spa retreats, such as Domes Zeen in Chania, are idyllic destinations for the luxury traveler, offering spa therapies like massages and facials in dramatic natural setting designed to rejuvenate the soul. For luxury travelers seeking a true retreat from the world, the luxurious surroundings and serene ambience of Crete’s hidden cove spas are unrivalled.
7. Discover Rhode’s Unexplored Archeological Sites
Source: Serhat Beyazkaya on Unsplash
Rhodes, best known for its pristine beaches and medieval towns, also has a wealth of ancient sites to welcome intrepid luxury travelers. The island’s location has blessed it with a rich history that is still being uncovered.
Here, you can immerse yourself in UNESCO sites like the old city of Rhodes and its Palace of the Grand Master, before stepping back even further in time on Kamiros’ 5th-century streets and gazing out at the Aegean from the clifftop Acropolis of Lindos.
Where to stay in Rhodes
Lindos: Known for its beautiful scenery and luxurious atmosphere, Lindos is our recommendation for those looking for a high-end experience. It offers beautiful sandy beaches, historic sites, and a variety of high-quality restaurants and bars.
For an exclusive and luxurious stay in Lindos, consider booking a stay at one of the high-end resorts or boutique hotels such as the Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites, which is well-regarded for its exceptional service, stunning views, and luxurious amenities. Keep in mind however, it is for adults only.
8. Buy Tailored Artisan Leatherwork in Chania
Chania, one of Crete’s most beautiful cities, is a fantastic destination for the luxury traveler seeking shopping paradise. Nestled in the charming Tabakaria neighborhood is Stivanakia (Skrydlof Street), or “Leather Lane,” which became famous for its production of the traditional stivania boots worn by Cretan men.
The narrow street is lined with shops selling handmade leather goods including bags, shoes, belts, and wallets as well as Cretan knives and folk art. Nearby restaurants, including the city’s best restaurant, Tamam, offer stops for a rest from shopping.
Where to stay in Chania
Domes Noruz luxury hotel
For a luxurious stay in Chania, Crete, consider Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection, an adults-only luxury resort with sleek modern design, private pools, and a spa, or opt for Cressa Suites, a boutique hotel with just 10 suites, offering a tranquil atmosphere and personalized service.
9. Sip the Wine of Santorini’s Volcanic Vineyards with a Private Wine Tasting
Santorini’s volcanic soil lends a uniquely rich flavor to the island’s produce, most famously in the distinct characteristics of its wine. Luxury travelers can discover Santorini’s finest vintages in private wine tastings—while enjoying views of the island at the same time.
The conditions of the island are perfect for winemaking, making these wines among the best in Greece. Santorini’s palate-pleasing crisp whites and rich, flavorful reds and private winemaking tours through volcanic landscapes are a sensory journey for eyes, nose, and mouth.
Where to stay in Santorini
Limestone in Fira. Limestone offers an unparalleled luxurious experience with its exquisite pool villas overlooking the mesmerizing Santorini caldera. This exclusive retreat ensures an indulgent stay with expansive, elegantly designed rooms, providing an oasis of tranquility just five minutes from the vibrant center of Fira.
The unobstructed views of the caldera are a visual feast, particularly at sunset, creating a serene backdrop for an unforgettable holiday. Additionally, the included breakfast service adds a touch of convenience and opulence to your stay.
10. Relax in Thessaloniki’s Stylish Boutique Hotels
Greece’s second city, Thessaloniki, is also its most elegant. Sometimes referred to as the Paris of the North and designed by French architect Ernest Hébrand after a fire in 1917, Thessaloniki is a European city that boasts a rich history and culture.
The city’s boutique hotels are the perfect base for exploring the historical sites of the vibrant old town, such as the 4th-century Arch of Galerius and Rotunda or the 15th-century Lefkos Pyrgos (white tower) on the waterfront. These retreats offer unique experiences in beautifully restored neoclassical mansions through to modern hostel designs.
Where to stay in Thessaloniki
Daios Luxury Living epitomizes opulence and sophistication in the heart of Thessaloniki. This lavish hotel boasts breathtaking views of the Thermaikos Gulf, seamlessly blending modern elegance with top-tier amenities. You are treated to spacious, exquisitely decorated rooms, ensuring an indulgent and restful stay. The prime location, coupled with impeccable service and gourmet dining options, makes Daios Luxury Living the quintessential choice for those seeking an exceptional, high-end experience in Thessaloniki.
11. Live Like Royalty in Corfu’s Palaces and Luxury Villas
Luxury Villa Likos
Corfu, in the Ionian Sea, is dotted with aristocratic mansions and palaces that betray its Greek and venetian history. A stay in one of these palaces is a unique chance to live like royalty and get a glimpse into Greece’s grand past.
Enjoy the opulent interiors and elegant suites, walk in palatial gardens, and enjoy a level of service traditionally reserved for Europe’s kings and queens. Outside the palaces, Corfu’s rich history and stunning nature reward exploration—and after a day of exploration, you return like a conquering hero to your palace.
Where to stay in Corfu
Villa Likos: terrace view
Villa Likos, Corfu is an outrageously beautiful property on Corfu’s “Gold Coast,” located on the exquisite private estate by Nissaki Bay. It features a main house, a guest house, a pool terrace, a sea and sun-bathing area, and a jetty for small boats. Ideal for smaller groups in the low season, the main house alone offers total luxury and privacy for up to 6 guests. Modern architecture maximizes stunning views with glass walls and bespoke furnishings. The gardens boast unique features, including a 25-meter freshwater infinity pool designed to resemble a natural rock pool, a Jacuzzi pavilion, and peaceful terraces leading to the seafront with boat access.
Note: Available at a discount between the 5th and 25th of August.
12. Take In Halkidiki’s Beauty from Your Own Private Villa
Villa Solo: private beach
Halkidiki’s unspoiled promontory offers panoramic sea views and pale golden sandy beaches. The area’s tranquil atmosphere and luxurious private villas draw in discerning travelers each year.
Avoid the crowded spots and drink in uninterrupted sunset views from the tranquility of a terrace or infinity pool at your own private villa. Luxury travelers should also explore the region’s beautiful sandy beaches, all within a short drive from the area’s main attractions.