7 Best Beaches in Greece

Best Airbnb: Shipwreck Apartment

Only a five minute walk from Navagio Beach, this is the closest accommodation for those that want to stick to the area. Designed in a traditional style, you’ll get to discover a unique side to Zakynthos.

Best Backpacker Accommodation: Montes Studios

There aren’t any hostels on Zakynthos, but this aparthotel offers some great budget-friendly alternatives. Right in the heart of Alkys, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to mingle with locals.

Best Hotel: Mabely Grand Hotel

Is it a bit pricey? Absolutely. But we think it’s totally worth it. This five-star hotel will cater to your every need throughout your stay. It’s also only a ten-minute drive from Navagio Beach, and the on-site restaurant has gorgeous views of the sea.

Best Unique Stay: Anemomilos Windmill

It doesn’t get any more traditional than this! This historic windmill was once used to grind wheat into flour. These days it houses one of the most unique accommodations in the country. This is great for a romantic escape.

Shipwreck

Right in the middle of the beach, the shipwreck which it is named after has a unique history. You can also shade under it during the hottest months.

Anafonitria Lookout

The best view of the beach is from above! It’s a bit of a hike, so we recommend setting off in the morning when the weather is a bit cooler.

Laganas

It’s at the opposite end of the island, but Laganas is a must visit for nightlife. It has a bit of a reputation, so prepare for a wild time.

Shipwreck Beach Cruise

The best way to take in Navagio Beach is with a cruise. This fantastic experience includes a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Blue Caves.

Greek Cooking Class

From frappe to gyros, you’ll learn the ins and outs of Greek cooking. Everything is made from scratch with fresh ingredients.

Best Airbnb: Agnanti

This apartment is newly built but still follows the traditional Peloponnese style. Our favourite feature is the mesmerising balcony offering gorgeous views of the surrounding hills.

Best Bed and Breakfast: Irida Resort Suites

This charming little three-star bed and breakfast is perfect for budget travellers looking for somewhere to stay in the Peloponnese. Rooms are pretty basic, but the central location is simply unbeatable.

Best Hotel: Karalis Beach

This is another stunning three-star hotel, although it’s a little bit closer to Voidokilia Beach. It sits right on Karalis Beach, a stunning stretch of coast that comes with smaller crowds.

Best Villa: Miana Villa

Looking for a private pool? Then look no further than this luxurious apartment near Tragana. The whitewashed walls add a sense of serenity – perfect for those that just want to get away from it all.

Nestor’s Cave

This secluded cave is only a short drive from the beach, and it is a fantastic spot for snorkelling in the crystal clear water.

Castle of Pylos

This Old Venetian Castle harks back to the region’s diverse history. Make sure you set aside plenty of time to explore.

Cliffside Views

Hike along the imposing cliffs on the walk from Methoni to Gargaliani. This is the best way to take in those views.

Voidokilia Beach Walk

The beach itself isn’t the only beautiful sight in the area. Let a local guide take you along the hillsides and forests of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Waterfall and River Hike

This is another great hike, but a little further inland. Transport is included, and make sure to take your camera for those epic photos.

Best Airbnb: Golden Beach Villa

Airbnb Luxe properties stand out for their above and beyond guest service. If you’re ready to splurge, you will be treated like royalty at this stunning villa with views along the coast.

Best Hostel: Jimmy’s

Paros can be quite a pricey place to stay, but thankfully this hostel offers excellent dorm rates. They have sea views and unbeatable social areas where you can meet other travellers.

Best Hotel: Calme Boutique Hotel

This five-star hotel is another one for those looking to splurge. It comes with multiple swimming pools, one of which offers sweeping views across the Cyclades.

Best Earth House: Cycladic Cottage

What’s an Earth House? It is built into the ground in a manner that accommodates local ecology. This is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious visitors to Paros.

Panagia Ekatontapiliani

This fascinating church was rebuilt after the 1773 earthquake. It’s now an important monument to the Cyclades lifestyle.

Parikia

The largest town in the Cyclades, make sure you spend some time exploring the historic winding streets of Parikia.

Aqua Park

This is a must-visit attraction for any families with young kids in the area. The boat departs every hour and takes about 15 minutes.

Cooking Grandmother’s Recipes

There are so many fantastic cooking experiences in Greece! Learn traditional cooking in this intimate class.

Cyclades Sailing

Set sail from Paros and discover the rest of the beautiful Cyclades Islands. This is a private excursion, so it’s great for groups.

Best Airbnb: Mamma Vasso

This townhouse oozes rustic charm. We can’t get enough of the mesmerising hillside views from the sunny terrace. It is located in Vathi, an historic village in the heart of Crete.

Best Hostel: Stylianos Kissamos

Nestled in Kissamos, this is the perfect choice for backpackers that prefer somewhere with lots of life but still want to stay close to Elafonisi. The rooftop bar and laid-back spa make this hostel really stand out from others on the island.

Best Hotel: Libyan Princess

This four-star hostel isn’t exactly cheap, but given how luxurious it feels, the rooms are very reasonably priced. It’s the details that make it special, including spa baths in every room.

Best Tiny House: Minimalist Sanctuary

Airbnb Plus properties are selected for their stylish interiors and epic locations. This gorgeous house is the perfect escape for a couple in Crete. We love the Le Corbusier-style design.

Elafonisi Islet

Elafonisi is technically a separate island, but you can usually walk across the sand to reach it. Check the tide times when planning your itinerary.

Paleochora

This gorgeous little town is only a one hour ferry away – perfect as a place to stay, or simply for a day trip.

Crete Kafeneion

Coffee culture is thriving in Crete, and the Kafeneion is an important social hub in every village and neighbourhood. Stop for a cup or two whilst exploring a new area.

Kayak Crete

Crete has a beautiful west coast just waiting to be discovered. This kayak tour takes you to some truly secluded locations.

Shipwreck Snorkel

Snorkelling in the crystal clear waters surrounding Crete is an experience you will never forget. Check out a shipwreck with a local in this experience.

Best Airbnb: Zoe Junior

This rustic dream is located right on the coast giving you unbeatable views of the Mediterranean. It is within walking distance of the beach.

Best Guest House: Agia Anna Studios

For backpackers on a budget, this collection of studios gives you some extra privacy without breaking the bank. There are also some communal facilities where you can socialise with other guests.

Best Hotel: Aegean Land

It might only charge three-star prices, but this hotel oozes style and elegance. It’s located right on the beach, with a gorgeous pool terrace and an attached bar area.

Best Cycladic House: Orkuoise

The Cyclades are best known for their whitewashed houses with a rustic, stone-finished charm. Stay in your own little slice of local culture in this gorgeous getaway.

Naxos Beaches

The great thing about Naxos is all the beaches are accessible by bus. Spend a day or two hopping between them.

Naxos Town

Marvel at the whitewashed architecture and marble monuments of Naxos Town. This is likely where your accommodation will be.

Kouros of Mellanes

There are some gorgeous archaeological sites across the island, including the Kouros of Mellanes.

Marble Carving

Try your hand at a centuries-old craft with this marble carving workshop. You will work on locally sourced materials.

Personal Photoshoot

Naxos is a beautiful island in the heart of the Cyclades. Capture those precious moments with your own private photographer.

Best Airbnb: Vague Summer House

If you’re looking for a more typical villa, this is the place for you. Sleeping up to four guests, this is one of our favourite options for families in the area.

Best Bed and Breakfast: Four Seasons Villas

You don’t need to have a big budget to stay in your own private villa! Four Seasons Villas (no relation) give you a traditional slice of island living without breaking the bank.

Best Hotel: Aelia Studios

Aparthotels offer the best of both worlds – the convenience of a hotel with the privacy of your own apartment. These studios are stylish, calm and full of charm.

Best Farm Stay: Davie’s Lodge

Farm stays are a fantastic way to get acquainted with rural culture. This cute little lodge is for one guest only, making it a great option for solo travellers in Greece ready for adventure. You’ll need a car.

Skiathos Forest

The beach is surrounded by verdant green pines. Take some time to hike around the area and admire the view.

Alexandros Papadiamantis House

Learn about the writings and lifetime achievements of this unique novelist. Many of his works specialised in island life.

Kastro

The medieval heart of the island, this town has since been abandoned. You can still check out the ruins.

Admire the Gorgeous Scenery

Koukounaries isn’t just an awesome water sports destination – it’s also among the most beautiful beaches in the country. Take some time to hike around the area.

Hire a Boat

It doesn’t get any more exciting than this! You’ll need to go into the main town on Skiathos, but you can easily circle around the island in one day.

Best Airbnb: Nammos View

This is another stunning Airbnb Plus property. Escape from the bustling hotspots of Mykonos in your own, dreamy villa with panoramic views of the sea. You can still reach Platys Gialos by public transport.

Best Hostel: Paraga Beach Hostel

Mykonos attracts party animals from across Europe every summer, and if you’re a solo traveller on a budget it’s well worth staying in a hostel. Paraga Beach Hostel hosts regular events and a busy little pool area where you can meet other travellers.

Best Hotel: Nissaki Boutique

It’s not all party party party on Mykonos. You can also find some little slices of luxury on the island. This five-star hotel will cater to your every whim, giving you a peaceful oasis to escape the busy tourist strips.

Best Loft: MOOI Mykonos

This loft is actually up in the town of Mykonos, but it’s still well served by public transport to Platys Gialos. The vibrant location also means you get to see another side of life on the island.

Delos

This uninhabited island next to Mykonos is home to a major archaeological site. There are regular boat trips throughout the day.

Psarou

Just north of Platys Gialos, this is the most popular town on the island with visitors from elsewhere in Greece.

Windmills

If you aren’t able to stay in the windmill we’ve recommended above, you should still visit them. They are a key monument to Mykonos culture.

Ancient Wine Tasting

You’ll be whisked away to a private beach for this unique tasting experience. It includes wines produced using ancient techniques and Greek cheese pairings.

Full Moon Yoga

It only happens once a month so check the availability, but this full moon yoga experience is totally worth it if you’re there on time. A post-session drink is included.