A luxurious trip allows you to indulge in world-class amenities and high-standard services. Sure, they come with a hefty price tag, but they are worth every penny spent.
Greece is one of those destinations that offers the perfect setting for a luxurious getaway. It’s home to picturesque islands with all-inclusive resorts and some of the world’s finest restaurants serving delectable Greek cuisine.
If you want to splurge on your next holiday to Greece, here are some of the best Greek islands for luxury vacations.
1. Crete
As the largest of the Greek Islands, Crete is a Mediterranean jewel that has it all. From pristine beaches to gorgeous weather and the archaeological treasures of the Minoans, Crete can offer a holiday you’ll never forget. And if you’re seeking a luxury vacation, the island will delight you with its five-star resorts and the finest restaurants serving traditional, mouth-watering Cretan cuisine.
Boasting picture-perfect beaches and rugged coastlines, Crete is an incredibly stunning island, perfect for relaxing and enjoying water sports like snorkelling and kayaking. For mesmerising scenery that will stay in your memory forever, head over to the warm shallows of Balos Lagoon on Crete’s northwest tip. The gorgeous lagoon is one of the island’s most photographed beaches and is a favourite for tourists.
Nature lovers and adventure seekers can hike the trails of Samaria Gorge, marvel at the steep walls of the Iron Gates, and come across a wild goat found only in Crete.
No visit to Crete is complete without checking out its archaeological marvels, especially the Palace of Knossos, a Minoan ruin most famous for its connection to Greek mythology. Venture into the beautiful Spinaloga island, where you’ll find the relics of a Venetian fortress from the 16th century and learn of its captivating past.
2. Corfu
Corfu is an enchanting island in the Ionian Sea, offering the perfect setting to enjoy a Greek luxury getaway. The island boasts a harmonious blend of ancient history, rich culture, and natural beauty. It captivates visitors with its picturesque beaches, turquoise blue waters, ancient ruins, and charming villages. A true paradise for luxury lovers, Corfu offers a range of activities for every visitor.
Corfu’s historic centre is a delight to explore, especially for history lovers. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with pretty cobblestone streets, magnificent squares, and vibrant buildings. You’ll love meandering through its narrow streets, stumbling upon numerous captivating historical landmarks, including the iconic Spianada Square.
Nestled on a rocky outcrop along the north-western section of Corfu, Angelokastro, or the Angel Castle, is a must-see. The magnificent castle is a testament to the legacy of the Byzantine era, dating back to the 7th century, and has withstood the test of time.
When it comes to luxury accommodation in Corfu, you will not be disappointed. Here, you’ll find upscale accommodation options that cater to those seeking a luxurious travel experience in Greece. When dining out in Corfu, you’ll find fantastic eateries specialising in a delightful blend of Greek, Italian, and Venetian cuisines. If you want to splurge, you’ll find plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants to enjoy a fancy meal. Some have views overlooking the Ionian Sea and serve the freshest and most mouthwatering seafood.
3. Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most stunning islands in Greece that can make for a perfect destination for a luxurious and fun-filled getaway. Known for its vibrant nightlife scene, Mykonos will entertain you with its fancy beach clubs, bars, and restaurants. Exceedingly beautiful, Mykonos is a slice of paradise on Earth and a must-visit for anyone seeking luxurious travel experiences in Greece.
The best way to start your adventure in Mykonos is to stroll through the picturesque alleys of the Old Town. Begin from Mykonos Town and into Little Venice, a charming seaside area full of restaurants, shops, and cafes. Here, you’ll stumble upon famous attractions like the impressive whitewashed Paraportiani Church and some great restaurants to indulge in gyros and other traditional Greek specialties.
A more exciting way to discover Mykonos is on a quad bike. Venture into the outskirts to uncover hidden gems and remote villages to soak up the local culture. Keep your eyes peeled on some incredible viewpoints, perfect for taking stunning Instagram-worthy snaps!
While exploring Mykonos, don’t miss the chance to visit the traditional windmills of Kato Mili on the western side of Mykonos Town. Here, you’ll find the iconic windmills looking out into the deep blue sea.
4. Santorini
While Santorini is a popular destination for a honeymoon and couples’ romantic getaways, it has something for every visitor, especially those seeking a luxurious getaway. Here, you can relax and swim on its volcanic black sand beaches, dine at clifftop restaurants with breathtaking views, marvel at spectacular sunsets, or take a small ship cruise to discover the caldera and enjoy snorkelling and other water activities.
There’s no doubt that Santorini is breathtaking, but you can best enjoy its views from the water. So, book a small luxury Greek cruise and set sail along Santorini’s coast to enjoy a closer look at the magnificent white caldera.
If you want to relax at the beach, head to Kamari Beach. It’s one of the best beaches on the island, famous for its distinct volcanic black sand. After a day on the beach, head out to the small village of Kamari, where you’ll find bars, restaurants, and cafes.
5. Kefalonia
Made famous by the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, Kefalonia is a picturesque island that’s a perfect choice for your luxury holiday in Greece. It’s the largest of the Ionian Islands, boasting gorgeous beaches, charming fishing villages, and unspoiled scenery. Since the island is seldom busy, you can find plenty of areas on its beaches to stretch out and relax in the shade.
Your trip to Kefalonia is all about discovering stunning nature. Active travellers can hike up Mount Ainos and explore the national park of over 3000 hectares, which is the hub of the island’s biodiversity.
Venture into the stunning Melissani Lake in Karavomylos. The lake lies in a cave with an opening at the top and looks enchanting during the day when the sun shines through to the opening, illuminating the bright turquoise waters!