Best Greek Islands for Couples: Top 10 Romantic Destinations and Luxury Accommodations

Greece has long been considered one of the most romantic holiday destinations in the world, with its beautiful islands offering a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The mainland may be the birthplace of Western civilization, but it’s the Greek islands that steal the hearts of countless couples every year.

From the iconic landscapes of Santorini and Mykonos to the lesser-known gems of all the Greek islands and the wonderful beaches of Folegandros and Milos, the islands of Greece have something for everyone. In this article, we will explore ten picturesque islands perfect for a couple’s holiday, showcasing the best of what Greece has to offer.

1. Santorini: A Timeless Love Story

Santorini, one of the world’s favourite Greek islands for couples, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, stunning sunsets, and iconic architecture. The island’s whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches create a romantic atmosphere that has made it a popular destination for couples.

The charming villages of Oia and Fira, perched on the edge of the caldera, offer amazing views and a range of romantic open-air restaurants and lively bars. Couples can also enjoy a sunset sail around the west coast of the caldera or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment. If you are into scuba diving Santorini is one of the best locations to do so. A very popular destination with lots to see and do making it one of the best Greek islands for couples.

Best Place to Stay: Grace Santorini, Imerovigli

Grace Hotel Santorini is an exclusive boutique hotel offering luxury accommodations, exquisite dining, and breathtaking views of the caldera and the famous Santorini sunsets. With its infinity pool, elegant suites, and attentive service, it’s the perfect choice for a romantic getaway.

2. Mykonos: Romance Meets Glamour

Mykonos, known as the “Island of the Winds,” offers couples a mix of romance and cosmopolitan charm. The island’s vibrant nightlife, upscale dining, and stylish boutiques provide a glamorous backdrop for lovebirds seeking excitement and sophistication.

Couples can explore the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Psarou, Ornos, and Elia, or visit the charming old town of Mykonos (Chora), with its narrow streets adorned with bougainvillaea and traditional Cycladic architecture. Visit Greece in the 16th-century with windmills and the romantic Little Venice neighbourhood offer historical sites and plenty of opportunities for idyllic moments.

Best Place to Stay: Cavo Tagoo Mykonos, Tagoo

Cavo Tagoo is a luxurious design hotel located near Mykonos Town, offering stunning sea views, elegant accommodations, and a range of amenities, including an infinity pool, a spa, and a world-class restaurant. It’s an ideal base for exploring the island’s vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.

3. Crete: A Journey Through Time and Nature

Crete, Greece’s largest island, is a fascinating blend of ancient history, natural wonders, and diverse landscapes, the perfect destination for couples seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

Visit the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos or stroll the Venetian-era streets of the charming cities of Chania and Rethymnon.

The island’s stunning beaches, such as Elafonisi, Balos, and Falassarna, are perfect for sun-soaked relaxation, while the majestic Samaria Gorge offers invigorating hikes through one of Europe’s longest canyons. Couples can indulge in traditional Greek cuisine at a seaside taverna or the picturesque village of Kafeneio. very good choice for one of the best Greek islands especially in the peak season.

Best Place to Stay: Elounda Gulf Villas & Suites, Elounda

Elounda Gulf Villa is a family-owned luxury resort nestled on a hillside overlooking the beautiful Mirabello Bay. The resort offers elegant suites and villas with private pools, a spa, and fine dining options, providing an ideal setting for a romantic escape on Crete.

4. Rhodes: A Tale of Knights and Romance

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rhodes Old Town, with its imposing fortress, narrow streets, and Byzantine churches, transports couples to a time of knights and chivalry.

Visit the romantic village of Lindos, nestled beneath the imposing Acropolis, or explore the tranquil beaches and verdant forests of the island’s southern region.

The Valley of the Butterflies offers a unique and serene natural setting, perfect for couples seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. Rhodes is considered one of the best romantic Greek islands for young couples.

Best Place to Stay: Lindos Blu, Lindos

Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites is a luxurious adults-only hotel situated on a hillside overlooking the beautiful Vlicha Bay.

The hotel offers elegant accommodations, personalised service, and a range of amenities, including a spa, private beach, and fine dining options. It’s a perfect base for exploring the island’s rich history and beautiful landscapes.

5. Corfu: A Lush Paradise in the Ionian Sea

Corfu, known as the “Emerald Isle” of the Ionian Sea, enchants couples with its verdant landscapes, diverse architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The

island’s Venetian, French, and British influences can be seen in the elegant buildings and lush gardens of Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Couples can explore the enchanting villages of Paleokastritsa and Kassiopi, take a romantic stroll through the idyllic scenic hiking trails of the Corfu Trail, or discover hidden coves and sandy beaches along the island’s rugged coastline. A visit to the Achilleion Palace offers panoramic views of the island and the sparkling Ionian Sea.

Best Place to Stay: Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa, Kontokali

Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa is a luxurious 5-star beachfront hotel set amidst lush gardens on the picturesque east coast of Corfu. The resort offers elegant accommodations, a range of dining options, and a wealth of amenities, including a spa, private beach, and water sports facilities. It’s an ideal base for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes, amazing beaches and rich cultural heritage.

6. Zakynthos: A Symphony of Azure and Emerald

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a haven for couples seeking pristine sandy beaches, lush vegetation, and azure waters. The island’s most famous sight, Navagio Beach or Shipwreck Beach, is an unforgettable experience, where a rusted shipwreck lies on a white-sand cove surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

Take a boat trip to the enchanting Blue Caves, where the crystal-clear waters reflect dazzling shades of blue and green, or explore the island’s lush interior and traditional mountain villages.

Couples can also enjoy a leisurely swim in the calm waters of the Keri Sea Caves or watch endangered loggerhead turtles nesting on the golden sands of Gerakas Beach. This popular Greek island is a beautiful choice for couples to enjoy the sun, turquoise waters and relax.

Best Place to Stay: Lesante Blu, Tragaki

Lesante Blu is a luxurious adults-only beachfront hotel offering stunning views, elegant accommodations, and a range of amenities, including a spa, private beach, and fine dining options. It’s the perfect choice for couples seeking a romantic escape on the beautiful island of Zakynthos.

7. Naxos: A Romantic Odyssey through Greek Mythology

Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, offers a fascinating journey through Greek mythology and history, making it an ideal romantic destination for couples who appreciate ancient legends and cultural exploration. According to myth, Naxos is where the Greek god Zeus was raised, and the island is home to the Cave of Zeus, a sacred site that invites visitors to explore its mysterious depths.

The island’s most iconic landmark, the Portara, is a marble doorway that stands on a promontory overlooking the sea, providing a perfect backdrop for romantic photographs.

Couples can wander through the winding streets of Naxos Town, visit ancient ruins, and sample local culinary delights, such as Naxian cheese, honey, and Kitron, a citrus liqueur.

Best Place to Stay: Naxian Collection, Stelida

Naxian Collection is a boutique hotel offering luxurious villas and suites with private pools, panoramic sea views, and personalized service. The hotel’s tranquil setting and elegant accommodations make it the perfect choice for a romantic getaway on the enchanting island of Naxos.

8. Hydra: A Timeless Escape from the Modern World

The picturesque island of Hydra is a dream destination for couples seeking a slower pace and a step back in time. Motor vehicles are not allowed on the island, so visitors must navigate the cobblestone streets on foot or by donkey, adding to the island’s old-world charm. Hydra is only 20 minutes on a boat trip to mainland Greece.

Hydra’s port, with its elegant mansions, art galleries, and waterfront cafes, is perfect for leisurely strolls and people-watching. Couples can also explore the island’s rugged coastline, discovering secluded coves and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

As the sun sets, relax at a waterfront taverna, enjoying fresh seafood and local wine as the golden light dances on the water. Take a helicopter ride from Hydra to other islands or Athens.

Best Place to Stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel, Hydra Town

Orloff Boutique Hotel is a charming and historic hotel located in a quiet area of Hydra Town, offering elegant accommodations, personalized service, and a relaxing atmosphere. The hotel’s close proximity to the harbour, museums, and galleries makes it an ideal perfect greek island base for exploring the island’s timeless beauty.

9. Milos: A Geological Wonderland

Milos, known as the “Island of Colors,” is a geological marvel that offers couples a unique and unforgettable experience. The island’s volcanic origin has created a dramatic landscape of multicoloured cliffs, lunar-like rock formations, and more than 70 stunning beaches with diverse sand colours and textures.

Visit the otherworldly Sarakiniko Beach, where white volcanic rock formations contrast with pristine sandy beaches and the azure sea, or explore the fascinating Kleftiko Caves by boat, where pirates once sought refuge.

Couples can immerse themselves in history at the ancient Roman catacombs and the early Christian settlement of Trypiti, or take a romantic evening stroll through the charming streets of the fishing village of Klima, with its colourful boathouse.

Best Place to Stay: Milos Cove, Agkali

Milos Cove is a luxurious beachfront resort offering contemporary accommodations, stunning sea views, and a range of amenities, including a spa, private beach, and fine dining options.

The resort’s tranquil setting and elegant design make it the perfect choice for a romantic island escape on the captivating island of Milos.

10. Folegandros: Serenity and Seclusion in the Cyclades

Folegandros, a lesser-known hidden gem of the Cyclades, is the ideal destination for couples seeking serenity, seclusion, and unspoiled beauty. The island’s remote location and limited tourist infrastructure make it perfect for those who appreciate tranquillity and the opportunity to connect with nature.

The island’s main village, Chora, is perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, providing panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the shimmering Aegean.

Couples can explore the island’s wild beauty on foot, discovering secluded beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic landscapes. Enjoy a meal at a local taverna, where the slow pace of island life and the flavours of traditional Greek cuisine create an unforgettable dining experience.

Best Place to Stay: Anemi Hotel, Karavostasis

Anemi Hotel is a boutique design hotel located in the picturesque port of Karavostasis, offering stylish accommodations, a swimming pool, and a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness centre, and gourmet restaurant.

The hotel’s serene atmosphere and personalized service make it the perfect choice for couples seeking tranquillity and seclusion on the enchanting island of Folegandros.

Each of these beautiful islands offers unique experiences and romantic settings for couples. Whether you’re seeking dramatic landscapes, vibrant nightlife, rich history, delicious greek food, or unspoiled nature, the Greek islands have something for every couple.

These luxurious accommodations provide the perfect base for exploring and enjoying the diverse charms and allure of Greece’s most romantic destinations.

Top 5 Best Greek Island For Older Couples

The Greek islands offer a diverse range of experiences catering to couples of all ages. Older couples who seek a more peaceful, relaxing, and culturally enriching experience can find several idyllic destinations that cater to their preferences.

Here, we explore five of the best Greek islands for couples who are older, each offering a unique charm and a blend of natural beauty, history, and tranquillity.

1. Paros: A Blend of Tradition and Serenity

Paros, located in the heart of the Cyclades, is known for its picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, and rich history. Older couples can explore the island’s charming settlements, such as Naoussa, a traditional fishing village with a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, and Lefkes, a serene mountain village with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Visitors can also admire the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, one of the oldest and most important Byzantine monuments in Greece, or relax on the golden sands of Santa Maria and Kolymbithres beaches.

Best Place to Stay: Paros Agnanti Hotel, Krotiri

Paros Agnanti Hotel offers elegant accommodations, excellent service, and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The tranquil setting and comfortable amenities make it perfect for older couples seeking relaxation and a taste of traditional Greece.

2. Kefalonia: A Treasure Trove of Natural Beauty and Culture

Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, is a paradise for older couples seeking natural beauty, culture, and relaxation. The island is home to breathtaking landscapes, including the azure waters of Myrtos Beach, the underground lake of Melissani Cave, and the towering Mount Ainos.

Couples can explore the charming towns of Argostoli and Fiscardo, visit the ancient ruins of Sami, or sample local culinary delights such as Robola wine and Kefalonian meat pie.

Best Place to Stay: Emelisse Nature Resort, Fiskardo

Emelisse Nature Resort is a luxurious eco-friendly hotel set amidst lush gardens, offering stylish accommodations, fine dining, and a range of amenities, including a spa and outdoor pools. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for older couples looking to unwind and explore Kefalonia’s natural beauty.

3. Symi: A Step Back in Time

The small island of Symi, located in the Dodecanese, is a haven of tranquillity and charm. The island’s neoclassical architecture, vibrant fishing boats, and crystal-clear waters create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for older couples seeking a romantic escape.

Explore the island’s rich history at the Monastery of Panormitis, visit the picturesque harbour of Gialos, or take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade, enjoying the views and the slow pace of island life.

Best Place to Stay: The Old Markets, Symi Town

The Old Markets is a boutique hotel located in a restored historic building in Symi Town. It offers elegant accommodations, personalized service, and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for older couples seeking a romantic escape in a tranquil setting.

4. Sifnos: A Culinary and Cultural Delight

Sifnos, a lesser-known gem of the Cyclades, is a favourite among older couples for its traditional charm, beautiful landscapes, and rich culinary heritage. The tiny island is home to over 300 churches, many dating back to the Byzantine period, and a network of ancient walking trails that offer stunning views of the Aegean.

Couples can explore the beautiful village of Kastro, with its narrow streets and impressive Venetian architecture, or indulge in the island’s famous cuisine, such as chickpea soup, honey pie, and almond-based sweets.

Best Place to Stay: Verina Astra, Artemonas

Verina Astra is a charming boutique hotel offering luxurious accommodations, breathtaking views, and warm hospitality. Its tranquil location and easy access to the island’s attractions make it an ideal choice for older couples looking to explore Sifnos’ rich culture and culinary traditions.

5. Leros: Tranquility and Authenticity in the Dodecanese

Leros, a tranquil and authentic island in the Dodecanese, is the perfect destination for older couples who appreciate unspoiled nature and a rich cultural experience. The island’s lush green landscapes, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Explore the island’s fascinating history at the Byzantine Castle of Panteli, visit the traditional village of Agia Marina, or enjoy a leisurely meal at a local taverna, savouring the island’s delicious seafood and warm hospitality.

Best Place to Stay: Nefeli Hotel, Alinda

Nefeli Hotel is a cosy beachfront hotel offering comfortable accommodations, personalized service, and a relaxing atmosphere. The hotel’s close proximity to Leros’ cultural attractions and natural beauty makes it a perfect choice for older couples seeking an authentic Greek island experience.

Conclusion

The Greek islands offer a diverse range of romantic experiences for couples, whether they seek adventure, relaxation, culture, or natural beauty.

From the iconic landscape beach resorts of Santorini and Mykonos to the lesser-known charms of Folegandros and Milos, each island invites visitors to create lasting memories and celebrate their love amidst the enchanting backdrop of the Mediterranean.

Discover the magic of these alluring destinations and let the gorgeous beaches of the Greek islands sweep you off your feet, one romantic vacation moment at a time.