Aegean Bliss: Where to Stay & Play in Greece This Summer

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Advisor - Mirjam Shah
Curated By

Mirjam Shah

  • Food & Wine

  • Luxury Travel

  • Greece

  • Relaxation

Advisor - Aegean Bliss: Where to Stay & Play in Greece This Summer
Curator’s statement

There’s something about Greece in summer that stirs the soul — lazy lunches by the sea, cliffside villas glowing in golden light and the scent of thyme on the breeze. While many top villas are already booked, I know where to look for the quiet gems still left. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a friends’ celebration, I’ll help you make it feel effortless — and unforgettable.

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Where to stay in Greece

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Things to do in Greece

Santorini sunset

Sail the Cyclades

Chartering a private boat (with skipper) from Paros or Naxos lets you access secret beaches and hidden coves you won't find on maps. Add a seafood picnic on board and you’re set.

Visit the village markets

My favorite way to start the day: a stroll through the morning market, picking up figs, local cheeses and warm bread to enjoy back at the villa. Some villas offer grocery pre-stocking, so your favorites are already waiting.

Skip the crowds in Santorini

Oia gets crowded at sunset, but I can point you to two secret spots nearby with the same view and none of the selfie sticks.

Paros: luxe without the flash

Paros is where style meets soul. Shallow beaches perfect for kids, stylish villas tucked into olive groves and chic beach bars that feel more barefoot than bottle service.

Evenings under the stars

Ask about villas with outdoor kitchens, or bring in a local chef for a private mezze night. One client told me their evening felt “like Mamma Mia, but with better wine."

Places to eat & drink in Greece

The best evenings come from the simplest settings: plastic chairs, a carafe of house wine and a Greek salad

Scorpios – Mykonos

Yes, it’s a scene. But the sunset ritual, open-flame cooking and live music are unforgettable. Come early for golden hour, stay late for magic.

Barbarossa – Paros

Set by the fishing boats in Naoussa, this is my go-to for a long seafood lunch. Try the grilled octopus with a crisp Assyrtiko.

To Psaraki – Santorini

A favorite with locals and in-the-know travelers. Sit above the harbor and savor taramosalata and grilled fish while watching the boats come in.

Local taverna nights

Sometimes the best evenings come from the simplest settings: plastic chairs, a carafe of house wine and just-caught squid grilled over coals. Ask me for my off-the-beaten-path picks.

Villa dining

Some of the villas I recommend offer chef services, or at least connections to private cooks who can come in for a family-style feast. Bonus: no driving required.

Need to know

Timeless villa ideas

Paros: Stylish 5-bedroom villas tucked into olive groves with sea views, infinity pools and barefoot-chic vibes. Ideal for groups who want both space and style.

Mykonos: Villas near Psarou or Elia Beach with sunset decks, plunge pools and proximity to beach clubs – perfect for friends' trips or milestone birthdays.

Santorini: Romantic hideaways with caldera views, ideal for couples or intimate escapes. Many offer terraces perfect for private dinners under the stars.

Villa availability changes fast, but I can help match your wishlist with what’s still possible. Think: walkable beaches, chef-included or hidden-gem villages.

Notes

When to go: Early June and late September are ideal. July is vibrant and buzzy. August is festive but books fast.

Getting around: Ferries connect the islands; ask me which routes are worth it (and which to skip). Private transfers are easy to arrange.

For whom: Multi-gen families, couples, friend groups, honeymooners – there's a villa for every mood.

Eco-conscious? Several villas now run on solar power or offer low-impact options. Ask me if that’s important to you.

Special celebrations? From birthday dinners to proposal setups, I can help plan the extras – cooking nights, welcome gifts even a surprise fireworks moment (yes, really).

Advisor - Mirjam Shah

Travel Advisor

Mirjam Shah

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Greece page.

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