Have you ever asked yourself how many Greek islands are there? The actual figure is around 6,000, although only 227 are inhabited. When it comes to deciding which Greek island to visit, looking beyond the usual whitewashed crowds of the Cyclades reveals where true, effortless Greek luxury actually hides. For those who prefer their indulgence served with authentic heritage, dramatic landscapes, and a quiet sense of space, two clear heavyweights emerge: Crete and Zakynthos.
Here is our insider’s guide to unlocking the sophisticated, ultra-exclusive side of these iconic island destinations.
Crete: The Quiet Hero of Hidden Luxury
Crete is less an island and more a self-contained universe. The ancient cradle of Minoan civilisation, it mixes soaring limestone peaks with deep gorges, endless olive groves, and a food culture that takes local produce very seriously.
What to Visit in Crete?
When mapping out what to visit in Crete, slip past the standard resort strips and steer your compass toward the island’s refined north-east coast and historic western quarters:
- The Mirabello Bay & Elounda Coast: Long favoured by royalty, Elounda remains the undisputed benchmark for quiet Cretan luxury.
- Spinalonga Island: Rent a private wooden schooner from Plaka to explore this enigmatic Venetian island fortress at your own pace before the day-trippers arrive.
- Chania’s Venetian Quarter: A romantic web of 16th-century mansions, boutique perfumeries, and sun-dappled courtyard restaurants.
What to Do in Crete?
If you’re deciding what to do in Crete beyond perfecting the art of lounging by a private pool, the island serves up incredible depth for curious travellers:
- Private After-Hours Access to Knossos: Skip the midday sun and crowds by arranging an exclusive private tour through the labyrinth of the Minotaur as the evening cool sets in.
- Farm-to-Table Dining in the White Mountains: Escape into the foothills to sample small-batch olive oils, mountain thyme honey, and slow-roasted antikristo lamb cooked over open wood fires.
- Helicopter Charter over Balos Lagoon: Balos is iconic for a reason, but the dusty road there is anything but glamorous. Arrive via private helicopter charter for an early morning swim in the turquoise waters before flying straight to a boutique vineyard for lunch.
Where to Stay in Crete?
Deciding where to stay in Crete comes down to your personal travel aesthetic: ultra-modern cliffside wellness retreats or historic estate living.
- Nana Princess (Hersonissos): an incredible five-star beachfront hotel fast becoming one of Crete’s swankiest addresses for its ultra-modern decor, sheltered private beach and top-notch service.
- Acro Suites (Agia Pelagia): An adults-only cave suite sanctuary perched over the Aegean, ideal for striking modern architecture and complete peace.
Crete at a Glance
- Best For: Gourmands, history lovers, landscape enthusiasts, and travellers seeking space and solitude.
- Secret Tip: Head into the countryside near Rethymno to find Kapsaliana, an 18th-century restored olive-press hamlet subtly transformed into an exquisite boutique retreat.
Zakynthos: An Emerald in the Ionian
Rising dramatically from the electric-blue Ionian Sea, Zakynthos is an island of sheer limestone cliffs, pine-scented hills, and sea caves that look illuminated from within.
Why is Zakynthos Called Zante?
You’ll frequently hear locals and frequent visitors refer to the island as Zante. So, why is Zakynthos called Zante? The name is a romantic legacy from the Venetians, who ruled the island from the 14th to the late 18th century. Struck by its lush landscape and aristocratic charm, the Italian rulers dubbed it “Fiore di Levante” (Flower of the East) and Italianised the name Zakynthos to “Zante”. Today, both names are used interchangeably, retaining that distinct Venetian flair.
What to Do in Zakynthos?
Beyond the classic postcard shots of Shipwreck Beach, there is an array of elevated experiences when considering what to do in Zakynthos:
- Private RIB Boat Charters to the Keri Caves: Charter a sleek, crewed vessel to navigate the natural sea arches and swimmable emerald caverns at the island’s southern tip.
- Cliffside Dining in Kampi: Perched high on the sheer western cliffs, Kampi offers front-row seats to the best sunset in the Ionian, accompanied by fresh seafood and cold, crisp local wine.
- Artisan Mountain Villages: Drive up to Volimes to browse hand-woven textiles, organic olive oils, and local ceramics directly from family workshops.
Where to Find Secluded Private Beaches in Zakynthos?
While the main bays attract the crowds, knowing where to find secluded private beaches in Zakynthos completely transforms your stay:
- Plakaki Bay: Hidden near the village of Agalas, Plakaki is reached via a path carved into the rock face. It’s not a sand beach, but rather a smooth, flat white rock slab dropping directly into impossibly clear water.
- Porto Stenitis: A tranquil, fjord-like inlet on the rugged west coast. Best accessed via private boat, this narrow cove offers incredible snorkelling in near-total isolation.
- The Secret Cove near Xigia: Skip the main sulphur beach and head 500 metres north to a tiny, lesser-known pebble cove tucked between sheer cliffs, bathed in therapeutic subterranean mineral waters.
Where to Stay in Zakynthos?
When choosing where to stay in Zakynthos, avoid the commercial resort hubs and book into exclusive coastal sanctuaries:
- Porto Zante Villas & Spa: The benchmark for Greek island luxury, featuring private beachfront villas with personal manicured gardens, private pools, and bespoke butler service.
- Lesante Cape Resort & Villa: A chic luxury haven styled after a traditional Venetian estate, set quietly on the Akrotiri peninsula.
Zakynthos at a Glance
- Best For: Beach lovers, yachting enthusiasts, couples, and seekers of striking coastal views.
- Secret Tip: Seek out the Korakonisi peninsula on the west coast for wild sea-cave swimming off smooth limestone shelves.
The Ultimate Comparison: Which Greek Island Has the Best Beaches?
| Beach Feature | Crete | Zakynthos |
| Sand & Shoreline | Pink coral sands (Elafonisi), sweeping golden dunes, and quiet pebble coves | Sugar-white sand beaches and dramatic limestone pebbles |
| Water Shades | Luminous turquoise and deep Libyan Sea navy blue | Electric neon blue and crystal emerald green |
| Accessibility | Endless variety easily reached by car or private transfer | The best hidden spots are best unlocked via private yacht charter |
| Vibe | Wild, spacious, and framed by rugged mountain backdrops | Dramatic cliffside coves, intimate sea fjords, and marine park reserves |
If your heart is set on sheer visual drama, where vertical chalk cliffs plummet into impossibly blue waters, then Zakynthos takes the crown. However, if you prefer sprawling, exotic stretches of coast with soft pink sands, palm groves, and unlimited room to find your own patch of sand, Crete is unbeatable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crete or Zakynthos better for a luxury honeymoon?
Both islands excel at luxury, but cater to different honeymoon moods:
- Choose Crete if you want an expansive, multi-faceted getaway packed with fine dining, vineyard tours, ancient history, and spacious private pool villas.
- Choose Zakynthos if you envision a classic, coastal escape focused on private yacht charters, cliffside sunsets, and quiet days spent swimming in hidden coves.
What is the best time of year for a luxury retreat in Greece?
The best time of year for a luxury retreat in Greece is during the shoulder months: May to June or September to October. During these windows, the weather is warm, the sea is perfect for swimming, and the summer crowds have dispersed, allowing you to experience the finest hotels and island culture without the rush.
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