Our Greek island hopping adventure started with a calamari incident. Specifically, a fried tentacle launching itself off my plate and into my lap on our first night in Mykonos. My husband and I looked at each other, burst into laughter, and toasted to what would be two weeks of sun, saltwater, and maybe a little chaos.
From the whitewashed steps of Santorini to the turquoise waves of Rhodes, Greece was everything and more. But beyond the picture-perfect beaches, what made the trip unforgettable was where we stayed. Each hotel had its own heartbeat, its own soundtrack of sea breezes and bouzouki music in the distance.
Here’s our personal itinerary—mistakes, sunsets, ouzo and all.
Mykonos: Sunsets and Style
Hotel: Niriides Luxury Homes
Tucked in a quiet corner of Ornos, Niriides Luxury Homes felt like a secret. Bougainvillea spilled over the balconies, and everything smelled of lemon and linen. Our suite had a little kitchenette and a patio where we sipped Greek coffee and watched the locals walk their dogs before the tourists woke up.
Tip: Don’t try to walk to Mykonos Town in sandals. It’s longer (and hillier) than it looks.
Also stayed at: Panormos Village
More cliffside, more dramatic views, and one of the best pools I’ve swum in. Breakfast included Greek yogurt so thick it could stand a spoon upright.
Splurge pick: Myconian Panoptis Escape
This is where you go to feel like royalty. Infinity pool, marble floors, views of the Aegean that make you forget how to speak. Just… wow.
Bonus stay: SeaView Villa Mykonos
A quiet, luxurious spot with cloud-like beds and the kind of sunsets that convince you to cancel dinner plans and just watch the sky.
Santorini: Romance Turned Up to Eleven
Hotel: Ikies Santorini
The air smelled like ozone and roses. Our cave suite had a plunge pool facing the caldera. Watching the sun dip into the sea from that pool with a glass of Assyrtiko in hand? Probably the closest we’ve come to living in a movie.
Also loved: Amaya Selection of Villas
Minimalist but luxurious, with soft robes and even softer pillows. The breakfast tray came stacked with pastries, honey, and tiny jars of marmalade.
Hidden gem: Cleo’s Dream Villa
Oia gets crowded, but Cleo’s felt tucked away, like a local secret. We slept like babies in crisp white sheets while church bells chimed.
Luxury list: The Dream Santorini, Armeni Luxury Villas, Sophia Oia View
All had jaw-dropping views. Sophia’s balcony was tiny but magic; Armeni’s had a private hot tub. It’s the kind of indulgence you whisper about later.
Chic favorite: Caldera Premium Villas
White-washed beauty, high-end touches, and a breakfast tray you’ll dream about. Every photo looks like a magazine spread.
Colorful hideaway: Passion Blue Villas
Bright interiors, super friendly hosts, and homemade baklava as a welcome treat. Instant loyalty.
Tip: Book dinner reservations before you arrive in Oia. Everyone’s trying to catch that same sunset.
Rhodes: Mythical Feels and Real Heat
Hotel: Costa Lindia Beach Resort
A resort that actually lives up to its name. Steps from the beach, rows of sunbeds, and staff that called us “my friend” like we were old pals.
Also stayed at: Sunshine Rhodes, Eagles Nest
Sunshine was colorful and family-friendly; Eagles Nest had a killer breakfast buffet and rooms that stayed cool even during the midday heat.
Budget gem: Ilyssion Holidays Hotel
It may not be fancy, but it was clean, friendly, and perfectly placed for beach access.
New addition: Mitsis Rodos Village Beach Hotel & Spa
Great all-inclusive with sunset views from the pool and spa treatments that melted every last ferry muscle ache.
Food tip: Try melekouni, a sesame-honey snack only made on Rhodes. Locals swear by it.
Paros: Calm, Cool, Collected
Hotel: Villa Oceania
The kind of place where the owner remembers your name and hands you a glass of wine at check-in. White walls, blue shutters, and a view that made us pause every time we walked out the door.
Tip: Rent a scooter. The best beaches aren’t on a map—they’re behind olive groves and dirt paths.
Charming pick: Paros Butterfly Villas
Elegant Cycladic design, peaceful surroundings, and hosts who welcomed us with local treats and insider tips on the best beaches and sunset spots.
Lindos: Cobblestones and Castles
Hotel: Elea Resort – Adults Only
You haven’t felt serenity until you’ve had a cocktail in an infinity pool while listening to cicadas. Modern, clean, with the best bed we slept in all trip.
Cultural tip: Visit early morning before the cruise groups arrive. Then grab fresh souvlaki from a taverna and people-watch under the shade.
Romantic stay: Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites
Unbeatable views, calm vibes, and a private beach. This one feels like a honeymoon, even if it’s not.
Bonus: Our Favorite Hotel Moments
- Senses Luxury Villas & Suites (Mykonos): Personal plunge pool, and staff who arranged a sunset boat trip that ended with dolphins. Dolphins!
- Makis Place (Mykonos): Next to the port, perfect for ferry mornings. Also, killer moussaka.
- Top Oia (Santorini): One word: sunrise. Worth waking up for.
- Anemi House & Villas (Santorini): A literal fairytale—arched ceilings, lanterns, and cozy corners.
Final Notes & Honest Advice
- Always carry cash. Some of the most magical places are cash-only.
- Ferries get delayed. Don’t plan anything critical right after a scheduled ferry.
- Book hotels early, especially if you’re going in summer. The good ones disappear fast.
- Don’t overpack. You’ll live in swimsuits, linen, and the same sandals.
Greek island hopping wasn’t just a vacation—it was a love story. With each island, each hotel, and each plate of olives, we found something new: a rhythm slower than our everyday lives, a kindness in strangers, and a shared wonder we’ll never forget.
Would we go again? In a heartbeat. But next time, I’m watching that calamari.