If you are looking for a luxurious holiday, but also want privacy and freedom, villa holidays in Greece would be perfect for you. Greece has a combination of a slow-living Mediterranean lifestyle, ancient history, turquoise waters, and value for money, as well as high-end villa rentals. It is the ideal place to visit, whether you are looking for relaxation or if you want to explore.
Private villas in Greece blend into the rugged landscape, and many have infinity pools where sun and sea seamlessly meet. Most offer stunning sea or mountain views, so you can relax on your private terrace, enjoying a cocktail in beautiful surroundings.
There are over 300 days of sunshine each year in Greece, which promotes outdoor living. Life in Greece is relaxed, and where better to take it easy than at your private villa? Have breakfast when you want, dine on your secluded terrace, savouring a meal prepared by your private chef, or enjoy swimming in your own pool. You won't be tied to the rigid schedule of a hotel, nor be in a crowded resort.
A luxury villa in Greece is the superior choice for families and groups. It is value for money as you don't have to book multiple hotel rooms. Villa prices are based on the property, not the number of guests, so the more people in your group, the better value it becomes. Villas are also a good choice for a honeymoon, as you get ultimate privacy.
Anyone looking for a bespoke holiday combining traditional, slow-paced Mediterranean life with modern luxury will find what they are looking for in a Greek villa rental. With the option of a private chef on many of our villas, your health and well-being will be looked after. Food focuses on seasonal, local, and organic ingredients. Villas often feature natural stone and woodwork, as well as artisanal textures, giving an authentic feel.
This Greece travel guide is a comprehensive resource designed to help you decide the perfect island for you, as well as to work out the timing and logistics of booking your perfect Greek break.
Why Choose a Villa Holiday in Greece?
A holiday villa in Greece gives you complete privacy and plenty of space. Unlike a hotel, you have secluded terraces, with nobody peering over the wall to see what you are up to. Villas in Greece with a private pool are another plus, and you also get home-away-from-home comforts, which can include a washing machine, a barbecue area, and high-end technology, including air conditioning and an entertainment system.
Bnbstay handpicks luxury villas in Greece that offer traditional and local character, together with high-end amenities such as fully-equipped kitchens, private gardens, and panoramic views.
Villas are cost-effective for groups in comparison to hotels. It is cheaper to book a villa than multiple hotel rooms. In addition, it can save money on dining out as you have the option of self-catering villas in Greece. You can therefore set your own pace and eat when you want, not at times dictated by your hotel. Have a long, lazy breakfast or dinner as late as you want.
Bnbstay villas give you the option of a private chef for all or part of your stay on many of our properties. You can enjoy traditional dishes, your favourite foods, and diet requirements can be catered for.
Private villas in Greece are usually located in quiet, residential areas, not in busy resorts, allowing you to get involved in Greek culture. Eat at a traditional village taverna and shop at the local market. For the finest properties in our collection, our Luxe Collection is worth a look.
Choosing Your Perfect Greek Destination for a Villa Holiday
For its size, Greece has remarkable geographical diversity. About 80% of the mainland is mountainous, with alpine peaks and deep gorges, such as the Samaria Gorge in Crete. The highest peak is Mount Olympus at 2,918 m (9,574 feet) high.
Greece has the longest coastline in Europe due to its 6,000 plus islands, 227 of which are inhabited. It has many beaches, most of which are sandy.
There has been volcanic activity in parts of Greece, which has shaped islands such as Santorini and Milos. Santorini has a massive caldera, and there are caves and red and black volcanic sand beaches.
The Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Andros and Paros)
The Cyclades are a group of around 220 islands in the Aegean Sea, the main ones being Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Andros, and Paros. They are particularly suitable for honeymooners and nightlife enthusiasts. For a full guide, read our guide to villa holidays in Santorini and our guide to villa holidays in Mykonos.
These islands offer classic whitewashed villages, with blue-domed churches and stunning views of the turquoise blue waters of the Aegean. From June until September, these islands offer a mixture of busy hotspots, such as Mykonos and Santorini, suitable for the young and trendy, while other islands, such as Naxos, are quiet and great for family holidays.
The islands are close to each other, so they are perfect for island hopping by ferry. Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, and Naxos are easily connected to quieter islands, such as Sifnos and Amorgos. If you are interested in archaeology, take the short trip from Mykonos to the uninhabited island of Delos, where there is an ancient archaeological site, one of the most important in Greece.
The Cyclades are also ideal for sailing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, especially on Paros. Hiking is popular along ancient paths on Tinos and Amorgos, and snorkelling and scuba diving can be experienced off many beaches.
The Ionian Islands (Kefalonia, Corfu, Zakynthos, Lefkada)
If you have a family, head to the Ionian Islands, which have some of the best beaches in the world, featuring white sand and neon-blue waters. These include Porto Katsiki in Lefkada and Myrtos in Kefalonia. Away from the beaches, the landscape is green and lush, with cypress trees, olive groves, and vineyards. The towns have a beautiful Venetian charm, particularly Kerkyra, the capital of Corfu, which was occupied by the Venetians for four centuries.
Corfu and Zakynthos are cosmopolitan with a lively atmosphere and good nightlife. Kefalonia is famous for its underground cave, Melissani, and gorgeous beaches.
The Ionian Islands are surrounded by calm waters and excellent wind conditions, which are perfect for yachting and watersports.
Crete
Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands, is diverse and beautiful. Whether you are a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will find something here to interest you, as well as a luxury villa to rent in Crete. Read our full guide to villa holidays in Crete for everything you need to know.
The island is steeped in ancient history, and the Minoan Palace of Knossos is well worth visiting. The cities buzz with life, inviting you to enter the tavernas serving exceptional local food. Chania has a stunning Venetian Old Town and harbour, while Rethymnon gives more of an impression of Ottoman rule. For a full comparison, read our guide to Chania vs Rethymno.
Crete is a country within a country. It has a diverse landscape, including rugged mountain ranges running through the centre of the island, deep gorges, such as the 10-mile (16 km) Samaria Gorge and 621 miles (1,000 km) of coastline, with some of the best beaches in the world. These include the pink sands of Elafonisi and the palm forest-backed Vai Beach.
As if this isn't enough, Crete boasts world-class food and wine. Food focuses on wild herbs, olive oil, seasonal vegetables, and slow-cooked meat. Visit a winery for a wine tasting or an olive oil factory to sample the famous Cretan extra-virgin olive oil. Our guide to the Archanes wine region is worth reading before you go. For timing your Crete trip, see our guide on the best time to visit Crete.
The Dodecanese (Rhodes, Patmos)
The Dodecanese Islands are perfect for both history buffs and sun worshippers alike. They are a fascinating blend of Medieval history and Ottoman influence. Close to Turkey, they, together with Crete, are amongst the sunniest areas in Greece, with around 320 days of sunshine each year. For a full guide, read our guide to villa holidays in Rhodes.
The islands are diverse, from bustling and historic Rhodes and Kos to quiet and charming Symi. Tilos is a hidden gem and offers sandy beaches, turquoise waters, Venetian castles, and hilltop villages with stunning views.
These islands were influenced by many occupiers, including the Romans, the Byzantines, the Crusaders, and the Ottomans. Rhodes Town is a Medieval city and is UNESCO-listed. By day, visit the historic sites and, by night, enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Kos is a mix of sandy beaches and archaeological sites, while Patmos is a sacred island with a mystical atmosphere. Symi has a stunning neoclassical harbour, while Nisyros has an active volcanic landscape.
The Dodecanese Islands are perfect for island-hopping by ferry. In that way, you can get a mixture of history, hiking, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Skiathos and Andros
For those looking for something a little different, Skiathos and Andros are both well worth considering. Skiathos is famous for its golden sandy beaches and was one of the filming locations for Mamma Mia. Andros, the northernmost of the Cyclades, is lush, green, and far quieter than its more famous neighbours, making it an excellent choice for those who want a more peaceful Greek island villa holiday.
When is the Best Time for a Greek Villa Holiday?
Peak Season (July – August)
The peak time for villa holidays in Greece is July and August. The atmosphere is vibrant, with nightlife at its best. Clubs on islands like Mykonos and Santorini stay open until the early hours of the morning. However, beaches get crowded at this time of year, making the option of renting a Greek villa with a pool even more appealing. Because of the popularity of villas at this time of year, you need to book your villa 12 months in advance. This is the most expensive time to book a holiday villa in Greece. If you decide to come at this time of year, you should like the heat. Daytime temperatures rarely go below 30°C (86°F) and can reach 40°C (104°F).
Shoulder Season (May – June & September – October)
The shoulder seasons are the perfect time to visit. It is not as hot as the summer season, but it is pleasantly warm, with daytime temperatures ranging from 22°C (71°F) to 30°C (86°F). The sea is at its warmest once you get to September. It isn't as crowded on the beaches nor in the cities, and it is a good time to visit archaeological sites. Prices of private villas in Greece are lower than in the summer months, as are air and ferry fares. Still, you need to book 6 to 10 months in advance to ensure you get the time slot and villa that you want.
Winter in Greece
The beachside resorts shut down from the end of October until early April. However, the cities on the larger islands, in particular Crete and Rhodes, are still lively as they have larger local populations. The southern islands don't get too cold, with temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 18°C (64°F). However, there can be a lot of rain, particularly in January and February. Holiday villas in Greece are at their lowest price, and while you may not want to go to the beach, museums and art galleries beckon. On a sunny day, visit an archaeological site. It is the perfect time to go as there won't be any crowds.
Essential Planning Tips for Your Greek Villa Holiday
- Book Early. Aim to book about 6 to 10 months in advance, 12 months in advance if you want to stay during the summer season. Larger villas tend to get booked quicker, so keep this in mind if you plan to come in a big group.
- Transport Logistics. Greek travel isn't difficult. Some of the larger islands have international airports, and from April until October you can fly direct from many European cities. In the off-season, you have to change planes in Athens. An alternative is to get a ferry. Ferries are generally cheaper than planes, but planes are obviously much quicker. It can take over 10 hours to get to the furthest islands from Athens, such as Crete. However, there aren't strict luggage regulations on ferries, while there are on planes. If you want to get to some of the smaller islands, such as Hydra, Paros, Antiparos, and Paxos, you will have to take a ferry as there aren't any airports on these islands. Most private villas in Greece are off the beaten track, so you will need to hire a car to get around. If you don't fancy trying to park in town, park outside and get the bus in. The bigger islands have regular buses, and the price is reasonable. Drink and drive regulations are strict, so if you want to take advantage of the vibrant nightlife, get a taxi. They, too, are reasonably priced.
- Villa Amenities to Look For. Check that your luxury Greek island villa has air conditioning. This is particularly important in the peak season. Check that the villa has an EOT licence, which is an official operating permit issued by the Greek National Tourism Organisation. This is required legally for short-term renting to ensure that the properties meet strict quality and safety standards, for example, structural and pool safety.
- Local Markets vs Supermarkets. When you are travelling to Greece, try to shop at the farmers' markets for fresh produce. Called 'laiki' in Greek, they are considered better than supermarkets, offering higher quality and cheaper prices. Laiki are important parts of local life. As well as the fantastic produce on offer, you will see locals meeting and passing the time together. Besides vegetables and fruit, you will find mountain tea on offer, olive oil, fresh nuts, fresh herbs, and honey. By purchasing products at the laiki, you will be supporting local farmers. Prices are generally highest first thing in the morning. Many vendors reduce their prices around 1 p.m. Bring cash with you, as most vendors won't have a card machine.
- Concierge Services. Most villas have a local host or concierge who will welcome you when you arrive, give you advice on what to do during your stay, book boat and historical trips, and make taverna reservations.
Curating the Experience: Food, Culture & Activities
Gastronomy
Greek food is delicious and is heavily rooted in the Mediterranean diet. Olive oil is used both in cooking and as a dressing. The Greeks call it 'liquid gold'. It is accompanied by fragrant herbs, such as bay leaves, dill, rosemary, thyme, and oregano.
Fresh, seasonal produce is very important to the Greeks. Vegetables are abundant, in particular tomatoes, courgettes, and aubergines. Fresh fruit is also eaten profusely, as are nuts and yoghurt. Greek salad with feta cheese is one of the most popular dishes. Meat and fish are generally grilled. Fish and seafood are enjoyed in coastal areas, usually caught and eaten on the same day.
Communal dining is common. Mezes are popular and feature small plates, usually served with ouzo or tsipouro.
Classic dishes, such as moussaka, calamari, souvlaki, gemista (stuffed tomatoes and peppers), gyros, and spanakopita (spinach pies) are popular, but each region has its specialities. For example, Santorini is known for tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters), and Crete is famous for snails and dakos (a barley rusk with smashed tomatoes and feta).
There are different options for dining. They range from small tavernas off the beaten track, which can be very cheap, to seaside tavernas in the resorts, which will be a little more expensive. There are also upmarket restaurants on offer. While staying at your Greek island villa, you have the option of hiring a private chef for all or part of your stay on many of our properties.
Experiences
While staying at your holiday villa in Greece, Bnbstay can coordinate experiences to make your stay even more enjoyable. Boat trips are especially popular. You can charter a boat for a private trip or join an excursion with others. Sunset sailing in the caldera around Santorini is particularly spectacular. Take the glass-bottom boat from Chania, Crete, around Thodorou Island, the sanctuary for the kri kri, the Cretan wild goat. From the boat, you can go snorkelling.
Ancient site tours can also be arranged to sites such as Delos, a short boat ride from Mykonos, and Knossos, near Heraklion, Crete.
Other trips include quad/ATV tours, food tours, and visits to wineries and olive oil factories.
Ready to Find Your Dream Greek Villa?
A villa holiday in Greece is a magical experience. Immerse yourself in authentic Mediterranean culture, staying off the beaten track and mixing with the locals. While you can also get luxury in a hotel, what you can't get is the space, privacy, and 'slow-living' vibe that you get in a villa. Greece villa rentals allow you to do what you want, when you want.
Why not browse the Bnbstay collection of Greek villas? The collection of properties is vast, with options for different budgets and group sizes. If you're travelling as a group of friends, as a family, or as a couple, there will be a villa to suit.
FAQ
Is it better to stay in a hotel or villa in Greece? A villa has the advantage over a hotel in that it gives you privacy and space. You can do what you want when you want. Take a swim in the moonlight or eat dinner at midnight. It's totally up to you.
Do I need a car when renting a villa in Greece? Usually, yes, unless you are in the town centre. Most villas aren't that close to a bus stop, but there is the option of a taxi. Your host will probably have the number of a good taxi firm.
What is the average price of a villa holiday in Greece? A villa holiday in Greece can cost anything from £500 to well over £10,000 per week. The price is influenced by location, the size of the villa, and the season. Crete and Corfu are generally more affordable, while peak season rentals in Mykonos and Santorini can reach significantly higher prices. At the top end of our collection, some ultra-luxury properties are available at £7,000 or more per night. A villa becomes more cost-effective the larger the group size is. Private pools and sea views raise the price, while inland villas are cheaper.
Are Greek villas child-friendly? Yes, many Greek villas are child-friendly. Look for properties with fenced pools and plenty of outdoor space. Our family villas in Greece are a good place to start.
What is the best Greek island for a villa holiday? It depends on what you are looking for. Santorini and Mykonos are best for romance and luxury. Crete suits families, history lovers, and those who want a larger, more diverse island. The Ionian Islands, particularly Kefalonia and Corfu, are ideal for those who want lush green landscapes and calmer beaches. Read our guides to villa holidays in Santorini, villa holidays in Mykonos, villa holidays in Crete, and villa holidays in Rhodes for more detail on each destination.
Ready to start planning? Browse our collection of luxury villas in Greece and find the perfect property for your group. Not sure where to start? Get in touch and our team will help you choose.
