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Travel
A Jonathon Hawes Guide to Greece
Greece is a place that gets under your skin in the best possible way. Every time I visit, I find myself lingering a little longer, eating a little slower, and appreciating the beauty of simplicity. This itinerary is about more than just seeing Greece—it’s about feeling it. So swim in the Aegean, drink the Assyrtiko, and let yourself fall for the magic of it all. Because in Greece, life isn’t just lived—it’s celebrated.

Three Weeks of Luxury, Slow Living & the Magic of the Mediterranean

There are few places in the world that steal your heart a little more with each visit, and for me, Greece is one of them. Every time I return, I find myself falling deeper for its effortless beauty, its warmth, its perfect chaos, and, of course, its food—because there’s nothing quite like eating saganaki, sizzling and golden, with the Aegean shimmering in the background.

Greece is not a place you rush through. It’s a place to savor, to slow down, to let the rhythm of the waves and the scent of the sea dictate your days. This three-week itinerary is about luxury without pretensewaking up to endless blue, eating meals that stretch on for hours, swimming in hidden coves, and sipping wine under the stars.

While Santorini and Mykonos are dazzling, I believe the real magic lies elsewhere. That’s why this guide gives them just a few nights—enough time to experience their beauty, but not so long that you’re overwhelmed by the crowds. The heart of this trip? Crete—an island so rich in history, food, and landscapes that you could stay forever and still discover something new.And because the true luxury of Greece isn’t just in the hotels—it’s in the way of life, I’ve made sure to leave space for lazy beach days, long lunches, and, of course, plenty of time on a boat.

Where to Stay: The Best Luxury Hotels in Greece

Athens: A Quick but Glamorous Stop

  1. Hotel Grande BretagneThe epitome of old-world elegance. Stay here for the rooftop views of the Acropolis and impeccable service.
  2. Four Seasons Astir PalaceFor those who prefer to start their trip with a seaside escape just outside the city.

Santorini: A Few Nights in the Picture-Perfect Dream

  1. Canaves Oia SuitesCliffside luxury, private plunge pools, and the best sunset views.
  2. Katikies HotelEffortless whitewashed elegance with impeccable service.

Mykonos: Chic but Not Overdone

  1. Kalesma MykonosA beautifully designed, intimate boutique hotel that feels exclusive without the Mykonos chaos.
  2. Bill & Coo Coast SuitesStylish, serene, and right on the water.

Crete: Where the Real Greek Magic Happens

  1. Domes Zeen ChaniaMinimalist design meets beachfront luxury.
  2. Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa (Elounda)A quiet retreat with insane ocean views and private pools.
  3. Blue Palace EloundaUnparalleled luxury with direct access to the water.
A Three-Week Luxury Itinerary in Greece

Day 1: Arrive in Athens – A Taste of the Ancient World

  • Check into Hotel Grande Bretagne & freshen up.
  • Explore the Acropolis & its museum – It’s breathtaking in person, even more so than you imagine.
  • Lunch at NolanA chic, modern Greek bistro with dishes that feel both comforting and elevated.
  • Stroll through Plaka & sip espresso at a caféBecause Athens is best enjoyed slowly.
  • Dinner at SpondiA Michelin-starred gem in a quiet corner of the city.
  • Cocktails at Galaxy BarRooftop drinks with the best nighttime views of the Acropolis.

Days 2-4: Santorini – The Postcard Come to Life

  • Fly to Santorini & check into Canaves Oia Suites.
  • Spend the afternoon at Amoudi Bay, eating grilled fish by the water.
  • Watch the sunset from your private terrace with a glass of Assyrtiko wine.
  • Dinner at Lycabettus RestaurantOne of the most scenic dining spots in Greece.

Day 3: Wine & Boat Day

  • Morning wine tasting at Domaine Sigalas.
  • Afternoon catamaran cruise around the calderaBecause seeing Santorini from the water is essential.
  • Dinner at SeleneOne of the island’s most refined restaurants, rooted in Cycladic tradition.

Day 4: Slow Morning & Off to Mykonos

  • Breakfast with a view at your hotel.
  • One last swim before flying to Mykonos.

Days 4-7: Mykonos – A Balance of Chic & Relaxed

  • Check into Kalesma Mykonos.
  • Afternoon at Scorpios Beach ClubA Mykonos staple, perfect for cocktails and sunset views.
  • Dinner at NoemaA stunning modern Greek restaurant with an incredible atmosphere.

Day 5: Relax & Explore

  • Beach day at Agios SostisOne of the island’s quieter, more beautiful beaches.
  • Lunch at Kiki’s TavernNo reservations, no electricity, just the best grilled food you’ll ever have.
  • Dinner at Nobu Mykonos (Matsuhisa).

Day 6: Private Boat Day

  • Charter a boat & spend the day exploring hidden beaches & nearby islands.
  • Seafood lunch on board.
  • Dinner at RemezzoAn iconic spot with beautiful harbor views.

Days 7-21: Crete – The Heart of the Trip

  • Fly to Crete & check into Domes Zeen Chania.
  • First dinner at Pallas in ChaniaOne of Crete’s best fine dining spots.

Days 8-10: Chania & Western Crete

  • Beach days at Balos Lagoon & Seitan Limania.
  • Dinner at Tamam (Chania)A cozy, family-run spot serving incredible Cretan dishes.
  • Visit the Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete.

Days 11-15: Elounda & Relaxation

  • Check into Blue Palace Elounda.
  • Slow mornings by the infinity pool.
  • Day trip to Spinalonga Island.
  • Dinner at Ferryman Taverna – an unmissable seafood spot.
  • Private boat charter to find hidden coves.

Days 16-21: Southern Crete & Open Days

  • Spend time at Elafonissi Beach.
  • Wine tasting at Douloufakis Winery.
  • Cooking class in a small mountain village.
  • Dinner at Peskesi in HeraklionOne of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Greece.
What to Eat: The Must-Try Greek Dishes
  • SaganakiFried cheese that is crispy, gooey, and utterly perfect.
  • DakosA Cretan specialty of tomatoes, olive oil, and barley rusks.
  • Grilled OctopusSimple, tender, and served with just a squeeze of lemon.
  • LoukoumadesGreek doughnuts, drizzled in honey.