81 Best Hotels in The Cyclades, Greece

At this welcoming collection of sparkling white, arch-roofed cave houses that spill down the side of the caldera, homey suites and studios all have cozy sitting areas, well-equipped bathrooms, and a private, view-saturated terrace overlooking dark cliffs and turquoise seas. Rooms are furnished with traditional wooden pieces with bright fabrics and supremely comfortable mattresses. A romantic dining terrace serving a choice selection of well-prepared island favorites clings to the side of the cliff, a sparkling half-cave swimming pool is carved out of the rock, and a path descends toward the beach and fish tavernas at Ammoudi.

On one of the island's highest points, these six sumptuous villas offer a 21st-century interpretation of the classic Greek-island hideaway, built in a traditional style with careful respect for Cycladic architecture, with smooth white walls standing out brilliantly against the surrounding dark volcanic stone and the deep blues of the Aegean Sea. The villas are simple in design but entirely luxurious, with a fireplace, private veranda, and modern amenities, and a plunge pool in two. In the common area, a breathtaking infinity pool that has graced the cover of many a travel magazine sits on the edge of the caldera, offering unforgettable sunset views.

Top of the pile of the luxury boutique hotels on the island for style and comfort, Cavo Tagoo is a whitewashed property climbing the hill over the bay in sensuous curves. Natural rocks project onto the winding path to the guest rooms, and the 38-meter (124.8-foot) -long infinity and many private pools make it feel like a hydro-heaven. More water is on tap in the pool bar where a 13-meter (43-foot) -long aquarium comes stocked with sharks. Stunningly decorated common areas lead to the all-white guest rooms—the furniture splashes some blue, pink, and gold—with terraces facing the sea and sunset.

Stunning decor and earthy Cycladic charm blend into what is truly Santorini splendor; think sparkling white cubes with volcanic stone trimmings surrounding an 18th-century mansion. Interiors are picturesquely dotted with domes, skylights, and interior windows, and the decor is a fantasia of Chippendale armchairs, ancient amphorae, Byzantine icons, Corfiot mariner's chests, Picasso ceramics, and gilt-framed engravings; the glowing color schemes were cooked up by legendary British designer David Hicks. The showpiece is the "House of the Winds," where the grand, double-height, cathedral-roofed living room shimmers with elegant antiques and robin's-egg-blue walls. The elegant communal terrace overlooks the caldera, but many choose to enjoy dinner on their own terraces. A splendid cliff edge villa has been added to the collection.

A former convent from the 18th century has been converted into the most comfortable and discreetly luxurious, as well as the most poetic and serenely quiet, place to stay in Fira. This is an aristocratic haven of heavenly fabrics, marble floors, antique furniture, 19th-century engravings, and sublime terraces and balconies overlooking the caldera. There is impeccable 24-hour service, fresh flowers, and a gourmet Mediterranean restaurant that will serve you on your private terrace or in a deep, charmingly decorated cave house.

Perched on the towering cliff overlooking the sea and set amid a series of small garden terraces, this complex with truly breathtaking vistas of sea and sky is one the best places to stay in Folegandros. The apartments, in traditional blue and white, all have terraces, half with sea view—and what a view. Even better, this area of the island offers geographical delights, with cliff-faces to explore, zigzagging roads to travel, and other shimmering white Xanadu-like mansions to make you turn green with envy. 

A 19th-century Neoclassical mansion has been reborn as one of the finest residences in the Cyclades with soaring painted ceilings, trompe l'oeil walls, and hardwood floors. Opened in 2024 and already attracting attention for its intriguing blend of contemporary cool and original character, Argini is truly elegant and memorable. The rooftop bar has unbeatable views over the city and sea and the blue dome of the Orthodox cathedral feels within touching distance. The beautiful barrel-vaulted pool has its own hammam and spa area, an ultimate indulgence. On the ground floor, Elixis has found favor with the Michelin guide and the stone-clad courtyard is a pleasing place to start the day with a noteworthy breakfast.

Among the Neoclassical mansions on a quiet backstreet, this former tax office has been lovingly reimagined as one of the smartest addresses in town. Exquisitely eccentric, it is graced with contemporary references that respect the magnificent tradition of the building. Intense colors, designer furniture, marbled bathrooms, and modern art makes for an irresistibly decadent aesthetic. A romantic walled yard or the airy rooftop are the perfect backdrops for the modern Greek dishes and cocktails conjured up from the hotel's own fruit and vegetable garden.

Santorini's traditional Cycladic style is married with contemporary design through the use of natural materials and textures in this relative newcomer. Rooms are simple, spacious and luxurious and all come with their own pool but it is the location that is spectacular; Armenaki sits between Ia's two blue domed churches and has awe inspiring views. Meticulous attention to detail and flawless service elevate this establishment above its neighbors.

This intimate sanctuary is a special place to stay, with terraced, vaulted-ceilinged cave houses that are sophisticated and full of character—the rooms are filled with beautiful multicolor tiles and plush beds tucked into alcoves, with private Jacuzzis and small pools in some. Romance fills the air at dinner time in the Five Senses restaurant with panoramic views at the top of the property where the food, setting and service combine for memorable meals. 

This is the hotel for those who seek stylish surroundings and hip fellow guests and who like to know that every detail is just right. Replete with Matsuhita Mykonos, an outpost of famed sushi chef Nobu, and designed to the nth degree, the Belvedere has an enviable location, and the outlook over Mykonos Town and harbor ensures this hotel's popularity. The restaurants and bars are top notch but when you want to slip off your Manolos, repair to your effortlessly cool guest room, white-on-white sanctums with sailcloth drapes and wooden accents. The hilltop rooms and suites 250 meters (820 feet) away from the main building, some with magical views, are a welcome addition.

From afar, Bill and Coo may look like any whitewashed Cycladic hotel, but inside a world of polished contemporary design and high-level service awaits—the infinity pool is one of the most photogenic on the island, overlooking the Megali Ammos beach area and sea, just outside Mykonos Town. Rooms have a neutral color palette with multifaceted ceilings and wooden trellises; some have private plunge pools, all have spacious bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms, and sea views. Along with a fancy spa, airy bar, three waterfront villas and one of the best gourmet tables in town, Bill and Coo can’t help but offer what any guest, with the budget, could want out of a Mykonos stay. Sister hotel Bill and Coo Coast at Agios Ioannis is similarly modern, elegant and cool with a famed beach club---Beefbar.

Inspired by Calliope, the ancient Greek muse, Cali drapes dramatically down the hillside to its own private beach and makes a big splash debut on the Mykonos scene. Traditional Cycladic architecture has been updated with sleek, angular lines that give a sleek, contemporary feel. Ultraluxe rooms feature statement marble bathrooms, calm and light interiors, handmade furniture, and private terraces with seawater pools. Avli, the on-site restaurant dazzles with its signature creative Greek cuisine. 

Brand-new in 2022, Cosme boasts a superior position overlooking Naousa with a private beach and a half-moon pool mimicking the bay in front. White painted stone pathways and clean Cycladic lines are complemented by rooms decorated in natural, earthy colors and custom furniture. At the highest point of the resort, Elios spa offers holistic treatments alongside an outdoor wellness and fitness center, while dining options include beachside Parostia, and a laid-back Mediterranean-inspired Vrosi. 

Small, charming, immaculately presented, and set above the beach of Agios Stefanos, the Mykonos Grace is blessed with a truly impressive setting, enjoying an encompassing view of Mykonos harbor. A boutique hotel that deftly combines traditional architectural elements and sleek modern design, a neutral palette prevails brightened by splashes of art. The main pool, poolside bar, and restaurant beckon beautifully and throughout there is an impressive air of calm and, yes, grace.

Atop a rocky cliff with views across to the Portara, the Grotta Hotel has an enviable position on the edge of Naxos town, within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and sights. Handsome and modern rooms are kept spotlessly clean with bathrooms particularly well ordered. Breakfasts are sensational with tables laden with a selection of delicious homemade products. A small spa and indoor pool area is a treat but it is the hospitality and friendliness of the staff that elevates this accommodation to something special.

Once a private 19th-century estate in an upscale district of Ermoupoli, Hotel Ploes has been completely renovated to luxury hotel status. Room decor is a tasteful mix of handwoven carpets, light inviting colors, painted ceilings, Venetian light fixtures, and marble bathrooms—some bathrooms have steam rooms and whirlpool baths. The walls are hung with original paintings from renowned Greek artists of the late 20th century. The rear of the hotel faces the sea where a private paved terrace is accessible to guests for sunbathing or swimming in the Aegean. A small café with views of the Aegean offers snacks and drinks—that's also where the complimentary breakfast is served.

Straddling the spine of a hill overlooking the beaches of Ornos and Agios Ioannis, first impressions are of a pristine Cycladic village. Scratch beneath the surface though, and the meditative and peaceful design shines—Kalesma means invitation and everything here is indeed very inviting. All suites come with plunge pools, dining terraces and outdoor showers; inside stonewashed linens and willow ceilings soothe and relax. As a place to recharge your batteries, there are few better on the island.

Rooms and suites here are arranged around a Zen-like garden, and some have sea views, but all guests are just a stone’s throw away from diving into the sea. Laid out like a Cycladic village, the property is tucked into a large and lush garden behind a private beach at the southernmost end of a 7 km (4.3 miles) strand. Rooms are a homely mix of antique furniture, tiled floors, and modern facilities. Great Mediterranean and Greek dishes are served at the open-air restaurant, La Pergola, while the bar offers eclectic cocktails to end the evening if you, understandably, just don’t feel like going anywhere else.

A landmark on the island and one of the first hotels to be built in the 1960s, Theoxenia is an architectural wonder. Renovated and bought up-to-date, clean scandinavian-inspired decor blends perfectly with the mid-century cool of the original building. A fine location behind the iconic windmills offers prime sunset views and a short stroll to Little Venice and beyond to town. Some rooms have private pools but all are elegantly furnished with cool creams, wooden floors, and marble bathrooms. 

Naxian On The Beach is just what it says it is; 10 adults-only suites next to the sand on an exclusive stretch of Maragkas beach. Every room has its own jet tub and far-reaching sea views, and the suites channel a boho vibe with bamboo furniture and earthy fabrics. Cabanas await on the strand where Tortuga serves a fusion cuisine for an all-day beach bar experience. Grown-up and gorgeous, Naxian on the beach is ideal for those seeking a carefree private escape.

Bringing some much-needed glamour to Tinos, Odera's sleek lines and modern spaces could grace the shores of neighbor Mykonos. Look closely, though, and the contemporary combines with timeless Tinian heritage in this 2024 newcomer. Carved marble, bold stonework, and dovecote inspired details remind that you are in Tinos, and the earthy colors anchor you to the surrounding hillsides. Tasteful and comfortable, many rooms come with shared or private pools and all have seaviews across the Aegean, while the bar and restaurants are a notch above.

A travel magazine favorite, Perivolas lives up to the hype and then some—that infinity pool still makes you gasp and the rest of the hotel is no slouch. The 23 suites and villas have been converted from old wineries and stables in archetypal yposkafta (vaulted cave) fashion, with clever nooks for beds, sculpted walls, and sumptuous bathrooms; all are simply but handsomely furnished with handmade wooden pieces and weavings. Quietly glamorous and very private, you will start to fantasize about living here forever.

Even more exclusive and guaranteed to unleash your inner rockstar is the hideaway from the same owners across the water in Thirasia, only accessible by helicopter or boat. Like the lair of a James Bond baddie, it is utterly stunning.

On the southernmost corner of beautiful Ornos Bay, this exclusive resort is a secluded private whitewashed village perched on a hillside, with balconies offering sweeping sea views, green gardens, and a sandy private beach. The rooms are immaculate, designed in contemporary style and with informal affluence in mind. A helicopter pad, private dock, infinity pools, a chic beach bar and restaurants, and a Zen-like, on-site spa make this luxury choice an option worthy of indulgence.

A unique accommodation in the Southern Aegean, Vaos is a converted windmill in the village of Trypiti. Characterful and romantic, it has a terrace with the best sunset views across the bay. Close enough to the village, but still feeling completely peaceful, this is the perfect island hideaway. The decor is plain but the whole ambience is very special—quirky, quiet, and quite wonderful.

Agali may only be a 10-minute walk north from the center of Fira but it feels like a world apart—a village-style setting with handsomely furnished, arch-roofed houses that tumble down the cliff side on a series of dramatic terraces is a quiet enclave. A large swimming pool is at the center, though all accommodations, some with cozy sleeping lofts, open on to private and generous outdoor spaces, many with shady alcoves and all with spectacular views.

The family that runs this little resort is lucky to own such a valuable piece of property as Akti Aegeou, meaning "Aegean Coast," which is right on the uncrowded and pretty beach at Laouti. Many of the guest rooms come with sea-view balconies, marble floors, and traditional rag rugs. The good restaurant specializes in fresh fish. A fishing caïque is set up next to the saltwater pool, which looks out to Delos. Breakfast is served in the restaurant, but at an extra cost.

These cliff-side apartments are attractive and simple in design and might be one of Santorini's best bargains if you must have a caldera view. The shared balconies are a peaceful place to soak up the generous vista and make for a great people watching spot on the Fira-Ia walking track right below. Rooms are traditionally decorated and kept very clean by the friendly hosts. A supermarket, restaurants, and bus stop are all within a short walk.

Though there's no view of the caldera, a slant of sea view is effulgently wonderful—add in the large freshwater pool, excellent service, and location in central Fira, and the sum total makes these large, bright rooms a very popular option. Accommodation overlooks the soothing expanse of the sea from terraces and balconies. Santorinian-influenced gourmet dishes are served in the attractive dining room, and the spa is considered one of the best on the island.

Caldera views come at an especially good value in either small, white rooms with vaulted ceilings or large cave suites—all are nicely decorated, with warm touches of color and sleek marble fixtures, and share a terrace overlooking the caldera. All rooms have balconies and guests can use the pool at a sister property nearby.