Greece is easily of the worlds most picturesque and inspiring locations, so it’s no wonder that this diverse group of islands have often appeared as the striking backdrop to innumerable TV shows and Hollywood movies (namely the recent release of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again).
Whether you’re looking for sun-soaked scenery or just the chance to indulge in the finest Greek cuisine – when it comes to island life, there’s something for everyone.
Each island has its own unique character, offering the ideal blend of unbeatable white sandy beaches, picturesque villages, crystalline waters and historical buildings. If you’re looking to squeeze in some island hopping before summer is through, MILLE curated the perfect getaways across five Greek islands.
Skiathos
Most of the original Mamma Mia! was shot on this small secluded island nestled in the north-west Aegean. With stunning beaches, pine-forested scenery, pretty harbours and a cosmopolitan capital, Skiathos also offers an authentic escape with a little-touched rugged coastline, private coves and local tavernas.
A week at chic family hotel Skiathos Princess is 991 USD / 3,642 UAED
Kefalonia
The largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is known as Captain Corelli’s Island and is a treasure chest of secret beaches, hidden coves, majestic mountains and picturesque countryside brimming with laid-back charm. Enjoy a picnic in the poppy fields and sample the local specialty, Kefalonia Meat Pie, or head to Fiskardo to explore a quaint fishing village. From here, Ithaca, the home of Odysseus, is a short boat ride away, offering a sprinkling of local tavernas and shops.
A week at family-run boutique hotel Villa Costa is 1,243 USD / 4,568 UAED
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Corfu
Corfu is undergoing a bit of a re-birth as a luxury destination with a host of new hotels opening, including five star property Ikos Dassia, which just opened in May. However, it is still the greenest of the Greek islands—nicknamed the Emerald Island—and maintains an authentic feel, not least in the UNESCO-listed old quarter of Corfu Town. If you book in to Ikos Dassia, you can drive a Mini Cooper around the island for free to discover the locals’ favourite beaches, Venetian-style architecture, and little fishing villages with whitewashed buildings and narrow streets.
A week at Ikos Dassia is 1,503 USD / 5,521 UAED
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Crete
Although Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, the tiny hamlet of Plaka where the five star Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection is situated is an enchanting throwback to old-world Crete. Plaka has a little beach with clear water, a low-key main street lined with cafes, tiny restaurants and Greek tavernas, which get buzzy once the sun sets. The mysterious island of Spinalonga is also located a little way out from Plaka’s coast. Guests at the Domes of Elounda can immerse themselves in the local culture with a complimentary boat trip around Spinalonga and a Cretan cooking class.
A week at Domes of Elounda for three people is 4,538 USD / 16,668 UAED
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Santorini & Mykonos
For those who can’t decide which island suits them best, island hopping is the best answer. Take in two of Greece’s most picturesque islands in one trip – fun-loving Mykonos is located in the Cyclades (one of 24 inhabited islands and over 200 total islets) and then the indisputably beautiful island of Santorini needs no introduction. Experience dramatic multi-coloured cliffs and beaches, pretty hilltop villages and Minoan ruins. Catching a boat between these two islands is both quick and easy.
Three nights at Carpe Diem in Santorini and four nights a Kirini My Mykonos (including private boat transfers) is 2,268 USD / 8,331 UAED
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