62 Best Hotels in The Cyclades, Greece

These simple yet comfortable rooms, many with terraces, some with pools, are among the island's unsung treasures, perched on the southern side of the caldera just outside Akrotiri, enjoying special views up the rim to Fira and Ia. The experience of a stay in these tile-floored rooms with plain wood furnishings is much more akin to island Greece, rather than Santorini. That said, Red Beach and the quiet village of Akrotiri are walkable, there's a small beach at the foot of the cliff in front of the hotel, and the views and peaceful atmosphere might be all you need.

A perch at the far eastern end of Ia provides inspiring views of the village as well as the caldera, which can be enjoyed from the private terraces of the handsomely furnished cave houses that were once used as workshops to repair and store fishing nets. Nowadays, minimalist luxury is the byword with most of the rooms having their own whirlpools. The center of Ia is a 15-minute walk away, keeping the crowds at a distance.

On a small hill and within comfortable walking distance to town and Psariliki Beach, this bright, open, whitewashed property has been consistently upgraded and expanded over the last 20 or so years by Antiparian couple Magda and Markos. Blending traditional elements with modern decor, the newer suites with private plunge pool are very popular, as are the breakfasts of fresh local Cycladic ingredients.

Sumptuously furnished, this immaculate white cliff-side complex layered on terraces offers ultimate luxury and sleek modern design, with bright fabrics, and handsome furniture—chic as the surroundings are, though, the barrel-vaulted ceilings and other architectural details also lend a traditional air to the place. Suites and villas are contemporary and private; all have terraces that overlook the caldera and are luxuriously appointed. Toast the sunset with lobster and Champagne from the Fleur de Miraval Bar, or better still, retreat to Botrinis for exquisitely plated Greek dishes.

The Kivotos is a deluxe, architecturally ambitious hotel, stylishly arrayed around an impressive pool, and lovingly tended gardens. The common areas are done in a richly decorative island style, with statues in niches and mosaic work, and unexpected little courtyards with bright bougainvillea flowing over walls. The guest rooms, all individually decorated, display local crafts and fine antiques, and are more eye-catching than some blander upmarket rivals. Family-owned, the atmosphere is subdued and intimate with a fine eye for detail.

Three buildings built around a sizable pool have undergone a renovation to offer a slice of design style. Scandinavian inspired guest rooms are minimal rather than plush but feel sophisticated and comfortable. A five-minute walk to the center, it pulls off the rare feat of being an oasis of quiet in town.

Elegant but unstuffy, Melian oozes sophistication. The location, of course, is spot on but the subtle details elevate the hotel. Rooms are large and airy, timelessly decorated with bespoke furniture, and have splendid bathrooms. Outside, private terraces, some with Jacuzzis, enjoy uninterrupted views across the bay. Understated luxury is the key here coupled with effortless service—an alluring prospect for many.

On a narrow lane above Agios Ioannis beach, Mr and Mrs White looks over the bay to the twinkling lights of Mykonos---though it's a world away from its raucous island neighbor, due to its whitewashed buildings crouched around a handsome pool---an oasis of peace and quiet. Rooms are a contemporary update on traditional island style with marble floors, large bathrooms, and white and blue decoration. A breakfast of island specialties is especially good, and poolside snacks are available all day.

This contemporary Cycladic-style hotel sits on a small hill overlooking Naousa, all white cubes and gray and natural woodwork, the better to reflect the blue pool water and bright pink bougainvillea that festoon the walls. The hotel is built upon simplicity—modern and elegant, rooms are sparsely decorated but with well-appointed bathrooms and good-size balconies. Laid-back vibes are the key here and lovers of style and serenity will not be disappointed.

This five-star member of Relais & Châteaux is a chic, modern option for a luxury stay with inspiring views, private pools, and fine service from smartly dressed, hospitable staff. The design is impressively retro-chic, but in a way that clicks with the island's whitewashed traditional architecture. Rooms are of average size for Mykonos, but suites are the way to experience the property, featuring private plunge pools with beautiful sea views. The on-site restaurant is particularly good and has panoramic vistas, as does the hotel's large outdoor pool and bar area.

If you want a good night's sleep away from the pulse of Paros Town but you don't want to give up shopping, nightlife, restaurants, and cafés, the Pandrossos—built on a hill with a splendid view overlooking Paroikía Bay—is the best choice. The lobby, restaurant, and terrace form one great expanse of marble, perfect for sunset watching—unless you're watching it from your room's sea-view balcony.

These very pleasant rooms, in the center of Fira, combine traditional design with contemporary touches, proving that it's possible to enjoy a caldera view without breaking the bank—and without dealing with steps. Perks include sea-facing terraces and a nice pool. An elevator whisks guest up and down the various levels, from a structure directly on the caldera walkway to cave-type houses below, though the trip to the pool, on the lowest level, involves a climb down a flight of steps. On the uppermost level is a breezy dining terrace where breakfast is served and meals, along with sunset cocktails, are available throughout the day.

This shady, quiet hotel at the far edge of Livadia Beach has small rooms, all with balconies or terraces, most with spectacular views over Paroikía Bay. The pool is pretty, but the sea is close. All in all, the place is quiet, the view is lovely, the hotel is well run, and it is near the beach. Breakfast is included.

Parilio—from Paros and Helios, the sun—is the new face of hotels on the island; modern and yet reflecting the timeless Cycladic style. Precise, simple, and crisp contemporary Greek design in a cooling palette of neutral colors makes for a soothing retreat that blends into the surrounding rocks. Rooms are large and peaceful, some with private pools or terraces, and impeccable staff see to every need. A huge cruciform swimming pool aids the glamorous and grown-up vibe, while Michelin starred Thanos Feskos curates the culinary output at Paron, the in-house restaurant.

The best value lodgings in Fira are steps away from the main square, right next to the bars and restaurants, and a short walk from the bus station. The simple, clean, white guest rooms are traditional with dark furnishings, some with balconies and a glimpse of the sea. A flowery terrace is great for sunset drinks and overlooks the pretty restaurant garden next door owned by the same family.

Overlooking picturesque Kalo Livadi beach, this adults-only resort has a chic, sophisticated atmosphere tempered with splashes of bohemia. The design reflects the beauty of Cycladic island minimalistic architecture with whitewashed spaces and smooth curves; comfortable rather than luxurious, the best option is to go for a suite with private Jacuzzi for a true getaway feeling. Service is friendly and there's a good restaurant at the very top of the property with fine views.

This authentic hotel strives for the best in appearance and service with modular Cycladic architecture lending the air of a small village. A lush garden setting looks over to Mykonos and Delos and it's just yards away from pretty Agios Ioannis beach. Guest rooms are simple with white decoration, private and well maintained, they are a taste of true Greek vacations.

At this quiet, no-frills hotel, conveniently located near Megali Ammos Beach and Mykonos Town, pretty white cubes face the sea at an elevated location and all rooms, decorated in blue, white, and green, have terraces with appealing views. Plain and functional, everything is kept clean and well maintained. The pool area is a very tranquil place to hang out during the day, and the celebrated windmills are a five minute walk away along the coast road.

The Rooster doesn't shout its virtues at dawn, it is a far rarer bird than that—close to unspoiled Livadia Beach amid cedar trees and farm fields, the hotel arose from a philosophy of wellness and replenishment. Owner Athanasia's stint at Vogue is reflected in the bohemian world traveler feel of the dwellings—more second home than corporate box. Immersion in nature is the groove with the House of Healing Spa much to the fore offering Ayurvedic treatments and fire ceremonies, and dining options focus on superfoods and farm to table ingredients. If you get the program, cock-a-doodle-do, you will love this place.

A step away from New Golden Beach, the Saint George does everything it promises at first sight—providing stylish accommodation in a great location away from the hubbub of the busier resorts. The views across the Aegean to Naxos are crisscrossed by the water-sport enthusiasts who congregate here. Modern rooms are spacious and up-to-date, but the pull of the sea sees everybody on the sand for most of their stay. A fantastic destination for families with all ages accommodated.

This haven overlooks Phylakopi Bay and rooms are named after island beaches. Barefoot luxury is the peaceful vibe here—shades of white and light wood are calming while stimulation comes from the view from your deck outside, some with Jacuzzi hot tubs. The tamarisk-lined beach is only four minutes walk away, as are a clutch of restaurants and shops in sleepy Pollonia.

A new proposition for Mykonos; a luxury resort on the northern coast, far from Mykonos town. Secluded and chic, the cliffside escape above tiny Merchias beach has peerless views across the Aegean, five-star amenities, and a bold, modern decor. The ultimate private getaway is promised in a selection of suites and villas that feature plunge pools or spas and benefit from outdoor terraces that take advantage of the contours of the site. Dining is taken care of at Icáre, curated by Michelin-starred Ioannis Parikos, and, more informally, at the waterfront Almira Beach Lounge.

Location is everything at this central property. Named after a Greek nymph, this quiet and convenient hotel is right in the middle of the action and yet many of its rooms offer distant sea views. The hotel’s architecture reflects the island’s Cycladic minimalism with a perfect balance of the native style mixed with contemporary glass and stone. Rooms are handsome with strong bathrooms. Though convenient to the town, the pool area, with its terraces and garden view, will tempt you to linger. 

The former San Giorgio has been remodeled by hip private members' brand Soho House. Above a sheltered cove and a few minutes' walk from their beach club, Scorpios, the hotel reflects the relaxed and cool brand style. Polished concrete, wooden fittings and natural materials help to create an organic atmosphere with a defiant neo-bohemian spirit. An open restaurant serves a Mediterranean menu next to the pool carefully decorated with rattan armchairs, macrame hammocks and teak loungers. The good-looking staff are eager to please and there are intriguing diversions on offer from private picnics on Delos to starlit yoga sessions.

Located behind the St. Nicholas Cathedral and just a five-minute walk from Miaoúli Square, this Neoclassical building, which was completed in 1857, sits off a paved sea road in the upscale neighborhood of Vaporia. This central location is convenient yet peaceful, offering sea views that are memorable. The hotel has been completely refurbished with modern amenities but remains true to its original aristocratic style with plaster ceiling paintings, traditional furniture, marble floors, and intricate wrought-iron balconies.

With traditional whitewashed Mykonian architecture and cozy lounging areas, this property's quiet apartments and studios are a refuge from the bustle of Mykonos Town, yet are still close enough to enjoy it. Sharon, a British expat, has had the property for over 25 years, growing a welcoming and hospitable hotel with a roster of loyal and oft-returning customers proving that they get things right. Meticulously clean with great views from the top of town, there is a charm here that reflects well on the amiable staff.

Wishes came true as Tinos got what it needed—a central, convenient, comfortable hotel housed in an attractive blue-and-white building with stone accents that hide a pretty garden with a hot tub. All rooms have balconies and are well decorated with tile floors and marble bathrooms. The Aqua suite gets a large glass plunge pool inside the room and a huge walk-in his 'n' hers shower.