When it comes to stunning scenery and luxurious surroundings, Greece offers a diverse and vibrant landscape. These features make the Greek islands one of the best places in the world for a luxury vacation.
For travelers who have put off their plans in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s no better time to rekindle the idea of a luxury getaway. Here are the five best luxury destinations in Greece — none of which are Santorini!
Mykonos
Mykonos has everything you need for a luxury vacation, from stunning beaches to a lively nightlife. For a truly luxurious trip around the island, consider renting a Kaiki, a small boat, to get around to secluded beaches and tourist hotspots alike. This is a great option for avoiding crowds and whiling away the hours under the sun.
Stay in one of the luxury villas in Mykonos, and take a walk around the cobbled streets and view the ancient windmills of Kato Mili. Traverse to Little Venice to watch the sunset, then head into town to party until sunrise. From ancient delights to youthful parties, it’s no wonder that Mykonos has become a fan favorite when touring the Greek islands.
Corfu
While Greece has a rich history with each island adding to the larger puzzle, Corfu stands apart. This small Ionian island somehow missed much of the political turmoil of Greece’s history, generating a unique subculture that makes for a stunning getaway.
Take a breathtaking walk along the cliffs at Cape Drastis and watch the sunset with someone special. Or walk around Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s home to ancient Venetian houses. Old Town offers a variety of cultural marvels, as well as incredible culinary delights that infuse the best of Greece and Italy.
No trip to Corfu is complete without a trip to Paxos and the blue caves. According to the Greek mythos, Poseidon himself is responsible for creating this beautiful and mysterious part of the world.
Crete
Crete is the largest Greek island, boasting four separate regions and plenty of diversity in food, scenery, and stunning sights to visit. Whether you enjoy spending time sipping wine on a seaside patio or prefer to get into nature, Crete has it all.
Lassithi is one of the four regions where most resort travelers tend to spend their days. If you enjoy socializing on beautiful beaches and touring around quaint fishing villages, Lassithi is the region for you.
Heraklion is more mountainous, filled with ancient landmarks and practices that will appeal to history buffs. You can access this part of the island via ferry from Athens or the large airport that services the area. Roadtrippers will also love this region for the many hidden gems found along the way.
Chania is perhaps the most luxurious region, with crystal blue waters and sparkling white sands. This romantic area boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches in the world.
Finally, Rethymno boasts a quaint town with endless options for fine dining and authentic Greek cuisine. Tour around the ancient ruins and monasteries, and enjoy this peaceful area on your luxury travels through the region.
Zante
Zante, also known as Zakynthos, is a summer hotspot for luxury travelers. Like Mykonos, this region is known for its incredible beaches and vibrant nightlife. When traveling to Zante, you won’t want to miss Shipwreck Beach — a mysterious cove with a large shipwreck washed up onshore.
This island has everything from beautiful beaches to open-air movie theatres and a variety of nightclubs.
Syros
Syros is a smaller island in the Cyclades, making it a viable alternative to the more popular islands of Santorini and Mykonos. The neoclassical seaside buildings are reminiscent of Venice, and the quiet atmosphere is charming and enchanting. Syros is the perfect luxury destination for those who prefer a slower pace.
Greece is filled with astonishing architecture, beautiful seaside towns, fine food, and warm weather. Whether you venture to just one of these islands or travel from place to place, you’ll enjoy an amazing vacation no matter what itinerary you choose.
Carol
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