Greece is not one destination. Mykonos, Santorini, Paros and Crete share the Aegean, but the pace of the day, the type of house and the way in all change. This guide sums up what each island offers, when to go and how to book a staffed villa.
Mykonos
The island of large Cycladic villas for groups, celebrations and long summers. The houses are concentrated on the south coast, in Aleomandra, Agios Ioannis and Platis Gialos, with pools, sunset-facing terraces and staff. It has the liveliest nights and the best beach clubs, and it is also the island that needs the most notice for July and August. More in luxury villas to rent in Mykonos.
Santorini
The houses on the caldera, between Oia, Imerovigli and Fira, are chosen for the view: the volcano, the sea and the sunsets. They are smaller houses, suited to couples, honeymoons and small families; inland and on the east coast there are villas with more space and gardens. See villas in Santorini.
Paros
The quiet island of the Cyclades: white villages such as Naoussa and Parikia, sandy beaches and Antiparos a few minutes away by boat. The villas tend to be contemporary designs with pools and Aegean views, and they suit families and groups who want the Cyclades without the pace of Mykonos. See villas in Paros.
Crete and the Athens Riviera
Crete is the largest island and has the longest season, from April to November. The Chania region holds villas with pools above the sea, Venetian villages and mountains close by; it is the best choice for longer stays and families with children. The Athens Riviera combines city and sea and works as a base for the Saronic islands. See villas in Crete and villas in Athens.
When to go
The season runs from May to October. July and August are the months of highest demand and price, and in the Cyclades the meltemi blows, a northerly wind that cools the air and is worth bearing in mind when choosing a house and a beach. June and September bring warm sea, fewer people and more availability. The best villas for July and August are booked many months ahead.
Getting there
Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Chania and Heraklion all have airports, with seasonal direct flights from several European cities or connections through Athens. Between islands you travel by ferry from Piraeus or Rafina, and for groups private boat or helicopter transfers can be arranged.
What we publish and what the service includes
We publish 18 properties in Greece, across Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Crete and the Athens Riviera, sleeping 4 to 24 guests with 2 to 12 bedrooms, with indicative rates from 70,000 € per week for those with a published price.
Every house is rented with daily housekeeping, concierge and continuous attention; chef, transfers, boat and bookings are coordinated through a single point of contact. The published selection is only part of the houses we have access to. For groups of fourteen or more, the guide to large villas for groups explains what to look for and when to book.
How to book
Write to us with your dates, number of guests and the bedrooms you need, and whether there is a celebration. We reply with concrete options, confirmed availability and written terms before any commitment.
Dates in mind for Greece?
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