Greece's boutique hotel scene has grown fast in recent years, and some of the most exciting properties aren't on Santorini or Mykonos. They're on the smaller Cycladic and Saronic islands, where hoteliers are building places that respect traditional Greek design and still feel like a treat.
What are the best boutique hotels on Greece's quieter islands? My favorite is Parīlio on Paros, followed by Milos Breeze on Milos, Anemi on Folegandros, Cosme on Paros and the Poseidonion Grand on Spetses. Most have 10 to 30 rooms, so book several months ahead for July and August, or go in the shoulder season for better rates.
Key facts
- Best months: May to June and September to October, with better rates, fewer crowds and warm-enough swimming.
- Booking window: several months ahead for July and August, since most of these hotels are small.
- Top pick: Parīlio on Paros (10/10).
- A first trip: Parīlio (3 nights), Anemi on Folegandros (2 nights) and Milos Breeze (3 nights), linked by ferry.
Cycladic Islands
1. Parīlio, Paros
Rating: 10/10
My favorite example of new Greek luxury. Whitewashed suites with private pools, a restaurant cooking with Parian produce, and calm, sculptural common areas.
2. Milos Breeze, Milos
Rating: 9/10
Set above the fishing village of Pollonia, with suites looking out over the sea toward Kimolos. The design balances Cycladic tradition (curved walls, blue accents) with modern minimalism.
3. Anemi Hotel, Folegandros
Rating: 9/10
One of very few upscale hotels on Folegandros, and a lovely one. There's a pool terrace overlooking the Aegean, suites with private outdoor jacuzzis, and a restaurant that sources from the island's tiny farms. The sunset from the pool bar is a quiet joy.
4. Cosme, Paros
Rating: 9/10
Part of Marriott's Luxury Collection, Cosme brings big-brand polish to Paros with local design. It sits just above the beach in Naoussa, a short walk into the village.
Saronic Islands
Photo: Nick Moshoviths / Unsplash
5. Hydrea, Hydra
Rating: 8/10
A mansion built in the early 1800s, restored as a small hotel right on Hydra's harbor. Suites look over the port or the sea, some with private terraces, and there's a pool for the hot afternoons. The car-free island pace makes every stay feel like a retreat.
6. Poseidonion Grand Hotel, Spetses
Rating: 9/10
A grand hotel opened in 1914 and beautifully restored. Spetses is another Saronic island, with private cars banned in town, and it has a more refined, aristocratic character. The beachfront restaurant and rooftop bar are excellent.
Dodecanese & Others
Photo: Dimitris Kiriakakis / Unsplash
7. Lindos Blu, Rhodes
Rating: 8/10
Adults-only luxury overlooking Vlicha Bay, near the ancient acropolis of Lindos, with an infinity pool and rooms with sea-view terraces. Rhodes has a historical depth the Cyclades can't match.
8. Grace Hotel, Santorini (Yes, Santorini)
Rating: 9/10
If you want Santorini, Grace is how I'd do it. It's tucked into Imerovigli on the caldera, with about 20 suites, a bubbles lounge and a beautiful infinity pool, away from Oia's crowds. Wondering if the island is worth it? Read my honest take on Santorini sunsets.
Booking Strategy
Greek island boutique hotels are small (often 10 to 30 rooms), so for July and August it pays to book several months ahead. The shoulder season (May-June, September-October) brings better rates, fewer crowds and warm-enough swimming.
Photo: Caviar in the Air
Claire's Recommendation
For a first "secret islands" trip: Parīlio on Paros (3 nights) + Anemi on Folegandros (2 nights) + Milos Breeze (3 nights). Ferry-hop between them for a boutique Greek island trip that usually costs well under a Santorini week.
For the full island route, read my guide to the Greek islands beyond Santorini, and for ferry logistics, what nobody tells you about Greek island hopping. Our Greece Experience is planned privately around your dates, and you deserve a room that feels like it was made for you.
Claire B. Soares, 6X Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist
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