From the hillsides aglow with lights after sunset to the sprawling beaches offering neat rows of chaise lounges, the Greek Islands offer a perfectly magical summer escape. Plus, with 227 islands to choose from, there is a destination to match every vacation whim, from the clubs and packed social scene of Mykonos to the low-key vibe and unspoiled nature of Naxos.
Here are 10 of our favorite Airbnb rentals to book in the Greek Islands.
Six-Bedroom Stunner in Mykonos
The infinity pool is all “WOW” factor at this Mykonos six-bedroom villa (above). Facing west, it’s the perfect spot for Champagne at sunset before taxiing the seven minutes into Mykonos, home of most of the island’s nightclubs. The inside, sprawling more than 3,700 sq. ft., brings in Cycladic style, including white ceiling beams and rounded archways.
As a bonus, three of the six bedrooms offer king beds. Cute as the interior is, you’ll spend most of your time outside, soaking in the pool or dipping into mezze at the 10-person outdoor dining table. Yes, a beach is close by—Agios Stefanos is a little over a mile away.
Luxe Villa Steps from Ftelia Beach
It’s easy to assume Mykonos is nothing more than a nightclub hotspot, but it’s also rich in history, dating back to 1000 B.C. when the Ionians called it home. At this upscale, six-bedroom villa, the stone-wall backdrop encircling the pool—with sea views—of course doesn’t date that far back, but nods nonetheless to the destination’s undeniably storied past. As for the location, this home is 30 strides from Ftelia Beach, a relaxing spot favored by local windsurfers that is also said to be the burial site of Iliad hero Ajax the Locrian.
When you’re not exploring the island, enjoy the elemental touches in the home, from the grown-up bean bag chaise loungers at poolside to the wooden pergola outdoor dining area. Upgrade and relax further with the services of a private chef, butler, yoga instructor, private driver, and/or a helicopter pilot taking you on an island tour.
Blue Windmill Villa in Santorini
Tucked away from the hustle of Santorini, this unique stay in the town of Oia—famous for its fiery sunsets—offers sanctuary with a twist. You’re sleeping inside a windmill where ample windows showcase sea views (and, yes, this style of dwelling may hold extra appeal for fans of the Bachelorette franchise and Hannah Brown’s season).
The interior also holds a bit of storybook cottage appeal, from the countryside-style kitchen to the makeup table set against a blush-colored wall. We’re also taken with the outside, with its bean-shaped swimming pool, hammock, and built-in dining nook.
Sleek and Modern Cavo Dago Villa
A departure from Greek style, this six-bedroom luxury stay offers indoor-outdoor living flowing toward the infinity pool overlooking the town of Chania, Crete. All six bedrooms feature king beds and en-suite baths, so if traveling in a group, there’s no need to establish a pecking-order hierarchy—everyone experiences the utmost in luxury. What’s more, glass sliding panels in the bedrooms open to the pool deck, allowing for easy access and greater flow.
As an Airbnb Luxe offering, this villa gives you more, from the sauna to the espresso machine. Concierge service and daily housekeeping are included; a private chef, massage therapist, grocery delivery, island excursions, and airport transfers can all be added for a fee.
Aelia Private Cave Villa
Built into the steep hillside of Vourvoulos on the island of Santorini, this one-bedroom villa merges chic style with the unique experience of sleeping in a cave. The rounded, white-walled interior offers a cozy hideaway, opening to a patio with a Jacuzzi, sunbeds, and views of the Aegean Sea.
Five-Bedroom Villa in Aliki
This modern five-bedroom villa delivers clean lines and minimalist style—with just a few quirky touches, including hanging wire lights that are but an outline of a lamp, to the Greek evil eye pillows. Accommodating 10 guests, this property remains a standout on the island of Paros for its style, as its pool overlooks the hillside and its attentive host.
The island itself is one of the lesser touristed of the Greek Islands, yet still offers charming villages, uncrowded beaches, and diversions such as scuba diving and windsurfing.
Perfect Jacuzzi View of Santorini
Set along the hillside of Thira, this three-bedroom gem grants epic views of the Aegean Sea as well as the nearby city—a perfectly magical combination come sunset and beyond. The heated jacuzzi sits at the patio’s edge, letting you enjoy your champagne along with some more bubbles.
We love that daily breakfast is included so you can sleep in without rushing off to find coffee and nourishment before setting off to tour for the day.
New in Naxos
This new construction four-bedroom villa, set on the island of Naxos, feels like it’s been long part of the local scenery thanks to thoughtful design that blends seamlessly with local aesthetics. The pool and patio serve as a property standout, with day beds and sunshade sails the color of sand, creating a neutral, calming palette against the arid Mediterranean landscape.
Plus, the home is a two-minute walk from Plaka Beach, a golden-sand paradise that’s never crowded, yet offers a handful of mom-and-pop eateries. Take Nikos and Maria’s, for example, which serves cold beer plus fresh fare like chicken-and-vegetable kebabs and arugula salads topped with prosciutto.
Tiny and Sweet in Crete
Set inland, this minimalist tiny home brings together modern design with the relaxation and escapism of the Greek countryside—think olive, cyprus, juniper, and oleander trees. The well-thought-out, one-bedroom space packs everything you’d need for a stay in any season on the island of Crete, from the canvas sun lounge chairs on the deck to the compact wood-burning stove inside.
Room-darkening shades help you sleep soundly, and the full kitchen lets you wake to make coffee and breakfast before venturing out for the day.
Sea Views and Simplicity
For those traveling solo or with another couple, this two-bedroom Cycladic home on Paros is a smart choice, setting you up with sweeping sea views, a generous shaded patio and a bright, airy interior heavy on charm. We love the softer touches, from the hanging chair in the living room to the macrame bedside lamps—all at a highly affordable rate.
