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Martina & Jürgen

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We're Martina and Jürgen, the founders of PlacesofJuma. We've been traveling the world together for over 20 years, and since 2017 we've been writing on PlacesofJuma about our experiences – with a focus on Croatia, Thailand, Italy and Greece. Everything we share, we've experienced and tested ourselves. Croatia is the country we know best: we've been going there since childhood and still spend at least two months there every year.

Where to Stay in Split: 7 Excellent Areas & Hotels

The many fabulous places for where to stay in Split guarantee a great time in Croatia! The combination of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beautiful beaches and offshore islands attracts visitors from all over the world every year. Whether for a city break or a beach vacation, you’ll find plenty of accommodation options in this charming coastal metropolis. We’ve been to Split more times than we can count at this point. Staying in a different neighborhood almost every visit, which gives us a pretty good sense of what each part of the city actually feels like to wake up in.

In this travel guide, we’ll give you all the important tips and information about where to stay in Split, backed by what we’ve actually experienced ourselves in each neighborhood.

Staying in Split – Good to know!

Split is a popular travel destination in Croatia. Especially for the high season, it is worth booking your personal favorite accommodation in advance!

Not only the old town, but also the beaches in Split and its surroundings are really beautiful! Perfect if you want to combine sightseeing and shopping with sun, beach and sea.

If you are looking for a campsite in Split, we can recommend Camping Stobreč Split with a beautiful beach and good facilities in the Split suburb of Stobrec.

From the port city you can go on really ingenious excursions. You can find unforgettable tours, like to Brac Island, to Hvar Island or to the Blue Grotto online at GetYourGuide.

 

Split Old Town

Split Old Town is the easiest choice if you’re not arriving by car, and it’s also where we’ve stayed most often ourselves over the years. The streets are narrow and winding enough that you genuinely lose track of direction, which sounds annoying but somehow never gets old, you just end up somewhere unexpected instead. Restaurants, bars, and small boutiques fill the center, and the waterfront promenade is where everyone ends up eventually, whether for a walk, a coffee, or just to watch the boats.

What makes the old town different from a typical European city center is that you’re actually staying inside a former Roman palace complex, Diocletian’s Palace isn’t a separate attraction you visit, it’s the neighborhood itself. That history is part of what makes wandering the streets here feel different from anywhere else in Split.

Prices run higher than elsewhere in the city, but you’re paying for the privilege of stepping outside your door straight into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a short city break, we wouldn’t stay anywhere else.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Split Old Town:

  • Boutique Hotel: The Riva Palace impresses with its prime location in the old town and directly on the waterfront. The rooms are tastefully and uniquely furnished!
  • Wonderful Apartment: The Apartment Diocletian Pearl is a wonderfully spacious and tastefully furnished apartment directly in the historic center.
  • Backpacker Hostel: The chic Ćiri Biri Bela Boutique Hostel convinces backpackers with the best facilities and brilliant location in the old town.

Bacvice

Bačvice sits just a few hundred meters from the bus station, close enough to walk into the old town in about ten minutes. We’ve spent plenty of evenings here over the years, and if you want a feel for how locals actually spend a summer evening, this is the beach to visit. The shallow sandy bay fills up fast on hot days, sun loungers everywhere, beach bars doing steady business well into the night.

This isn’t the neighborhood for a quiet stay. Bačvice has always had a bit of a reputation as the place where Split goes out, and that hasn’t changed. If nightlife matters to you, or you just want to be close enough to the action to walk home afterward, this is the area we’d point you toward.

Accommodation here is a mix, mostly private apartments, but there’s also one of the better hotels in Split right in the neighborhood. You’re close to the beach and close to the old town at the same time, which is harder to find than you’d think in this city.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Bacvice:

  • Stunning 4-Star Hotel: The Hotel Park Split delights with a great breakfast, a wonderful pool and the fabulous location to the beach and near the city center!
  • Apartment by the Sea: The Apartments Sand Beach scores with fabulous equipment and is tastefully decorated. Plus, it’s just a few steps from the beach!
  • Charming Guesthouse: The Green Park Luxury Rooms offer very nicely furnished double rooms with many extras such as capsule coffee machine, capsules and various teas.

Varos (Marjan Forest Park & Kasjuni Beach)

The area around Marjan Forest Park is one of our favorite parts of Split, quiet, green, and still only a short walk or bus ride from the old town. We’ve hiked several of the trails through the park over the years, and the viewpoints along the way are worth the climb, on a clear day you can see most of the city laid out below you.

Down at the coast sits Kasjuni Beach, one of the nicer bays in the city, with a beach club that stays lively without ever feeling overrun. It’s the kind of place where you could spend a full afternoon without checking the time.

If you’d rather wake up somewhere calmer than the old town but still want the city within easy reach, this is where we’d point you. Most accommodations here are apartments and holiday homes, quiet, well-kept, and often just a short walk from both the forest trails and the sea.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Varos:

  • Vacation Apartment Sea View: The Apartment Sun Place is a beautiful, high quality equipped vacation apartment in a quiet location. Also the view from the terrace is fantastic.
  • Vacation Home: The Unique House Split is a real insider tip. Guests love the cute little house, with the romantic garden and the fabulous view of the sea.
  • Large Vacation Home: The Holiday Home Marjan is perfect for large families or smaller groups. Guests love the tasteful decor and great views.

Trstenik

Trstenik sits about 3 kilometers from the historic center, a stretch of coast where one small bay follows another. We walked and photographed this whole stretch of coastline while exploring Split’s beaches, and it’s popular in summer with families and older travelers looking for a relaxed few days by the sea. The long promenade running alongside it is well suited for a morning walk or an evening jog once the heat has faded.

You won’t be walking into the old town from here, a bus, taxi, or car is the more realistic option. What you get instead is a quieter stretch of coast and easy access to the water without the crowds closer to the center. Accommodation ranges from private apartments to one of Split’s better 5-star hotels, which sits right on the water, good if you’re planning mostly beach days with the occasional trip into town.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Trstenik:

  • 5-Star Hotel: The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa is among the best accommodations in Split. Here, guests are pampered to the hilt, and the location directly on the sea is also fantastic!
  • Apartment by the Sea: The Apartman Spalatum inspires with 1-A location directly on the sea, with great views from the balcony and with free parking.
  • 3-Star Hotel: The Hotel Elu Iris is a real insider tip. A wonderful little hotel with modern furnishings, friendly staff, delicious breakfast and parking is also available.

Znjan

Žnjan, in the southern part of the city, is one of Split’s newer neighborhoods. New apartment buildings and hotels line a long stretch of beach here, the water noticeably clearer than what you’ll find closer to the center. We spent a good amount of time here on one of our stays, and it felt removed from the old town’s crowds without actually being far away, about 4 kilometers, easy enough by bus or car. Weekends bring a solid crowd to the beach clubs along the shore, though it never got as loud or chaotic as Bačvice did on the nights we compared the two.

Parking tends to be less of a headache here than in the older parts of the city, most apartments and hotels have their own spaces, which matters if you’re arriving with a rental car. This is where we’d send you if the beach itself matters more than staying somewhere historic.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Znjan:

  • Apartment with Pool: The Eol Apartments Split are only 2 minutes away from the beach, beautifully furnished and the pool with sea view is also a highlight!
  • 4-Star Hotel: The Hotel Fanat scores with excellent price-performance ratio. The restaurant is excellent, the breakfast delicious and also the location at the sea is terrific.
  • Apartments with View: The Apartments Deja Views offer different sized apartments in a great location and with fabulous furnishings!

Stobrec

Stobreč, about 10 kilometers from central Split, was once a small fishing village before it grew into a popular spot for a beach-focused stay. It’s where we stayed on our most recent trip, and the shift in pace was noticeable almost as soon as we arrived. Quieter streets, a small promenade with a handful of restaurants, and a proper stretch of beach without the crowds you’d find closer to the center.

You’ll want a car here, or at least be comfortable relying on buses to reach the old town. There’s also one of the larger campsites near Split right on the water, alongside apartments and holiday homes for those who’d rather not camp. If a slower pace matters more to you than being in the middle of things, this is where we’d send you.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Stobrec:

  • Vacation home with Pool: The Villa Sweet Home Marija is a beautiful, modern vacation home with pool, which is ideal for families and small groups.
  • Apartment at the Beach: The Apartment Sun & Sea is a modern, bright apartment with a great view of the main beach and the turquoise sea.
  • Mobile Homes: The Camping Stobrec is a popular choice among campers. The facility offers plots for caravans and tents as well as cozy mobile homes!!

Podstrana

Podstrana sits further out from the center, but it’s one of our favorites when a beach vacation is the actual priority, not just a nice-to-have alongside sightseeing. The coastline here is genuinely one of the better ones near Split, bay after bay with calm, clear water and mountains rising up behind them. From the old town, it’s about 20 minutes by bus or taxi, and the coastal town of Omiš isn’t much further either, worth the detour if you’re already out this way.

You’ll find everything from beachfront apartments to small hotels with their own pool along this stretch of coast, most of it built right along the water. If you’re choosing where to stay in Split mainly for the beach, this is the area we’d point you toward first.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Podstrana:

  • Luxury 5-Star Hotel: The Le Meridien Lav Split is a great hotel right on the dream beach, with pretty pool area, beach club and good restaurant. Perfect for that special vacation.
  • Fantastic 4-Star Hotel: The Hotel Beach Split is a great option! This small, pretty hotel scores with beach location and with great facilities.
  • Pension by the Sea: The Pansion Martin inspires as a family business, offers a great breakfast, and also the location directly on the beach is fabulous!

Conclusion: Where Should You Stay in Split?

After all these visits, Split Old Town is still where we end up staying most often, nothing quite matches waking up inside Diocletian’s Palace and stepping straight into the middle of everything. It’s also the most expensive part of the city by a clear margin, you’re paying for that location.

If nightlife is what you’re after, Bačvice puts you close to both the beach and the old town without the premium prices of staying right in the historic center. Varoš works well if you want some quiet without giving up easy access to the city, and it’s one of our favorite areas for exactly that reason.

For a beach-first stay, the coast south of the center is where your money goes furthest. Trstenik and Žnjan both offer newer, well-equipped places without old-town prices. Stobreč and Podstrana take that a step further still, cheaper and noticeably quieter, but you’ll want a car, or at least patience with the bus schedule, to make the most of either one.


More info about Croatia:

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Read more about Croatia

Pula | Zagreb | Krk | Rovinj | DalmatiaHvar | Brac | Porec | Sibenik | Korcula | Crikvenica | Rijeka | Opatija | Rab | Murter | Primosten | Umag | Medulin | Vodice | Vir | Nin | Biograd | Novigrad | Vrsar | Ugljan | Pasman | SenjRabac | Dugi Otok | Solta | Cavtat | Croatia

Where to stay in Croatia

Where to stay in Zagreb | Where to stay in Dubrovnik | Where to stay in ZadarWhere to stay in Rovinj | Where to stay in Pula | Where to stay in Hvar | Where to stay in Korcula | Where to stay in Makarska


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Hvar: The Complete Guide (2026)

Hvar Island is a very popular holiday destination in Croatia, and also the terrific selection of where to stay in Hvar is phenomenal. No wonder, as this island boasts the most spectacular beaches, charming fishing villages, vibrant nightlife, delicious wine, and wonderful historic old towns. With more than 300 kilometers of coastline, the island offers many fantastic places to stay, so the range of accommodation, apartments, and hotels on Hvar is absolutely unique. Almost a guarantee for an unforgettable vacation on Hvar. But what are the best places to stay on the island of Hvar, and what are the best tips for recommended hotels and accommodations?

In this travel guide, we have summarized our recommendation for the top accommodations, hotels, and apartments on Hvar Island in Croatia. In addition, we will give useful information and show which places in Hvar are the best spots for spending a perfect holiday on the island.

 

Hvar Town

Hvar Town is the capital of the island, with a population of 4,200, and boasts a picturesque old town, beautiful beaches and the Pakleni Islands off the coast. The so-called Hell Islands are a popular place for swimming, as this group of islands offers some stunning bays. The range of amazing accommodation in Hvar Town is phenomenal for just that reason. But there are also numerous excellent places to swim directly in and around the town of Hvar, such as the popular town beaches of Bonj Beach and Lučica Beach. In addition, the dream beach Pokonji Dol is only a short distance from the center. However, the highlight of Hvar Town is the historic center with its iconic fortress, fabulously scenic alleys, the vibrant nightlife and picturesque waterfront.

If we were traveling to the island without a car, Hvar Town is where we’d choose to stay, everything from the old town to the beaches to the ferry is within walking distance, which matters a lot if you don’t have wheels. In Hvar Town you will also find many of the best hotels on Hvar Island and some really nice accommodations for an unforgettable vacation. Especially if you want to combine sightseeing and nightlife with beach-time, then a charming apartment or hotel right in the historic center is highly recommended.

Best Places to Stay in Hvar Town

  • Luxury Hotel with Pool: The Palace Elisabeth is the only 5-star hotel on Hvar Island. This heritage hotel offers beautiful rooms and a gorgeous pool.
  • Hotel with Spa: The Adriana Spa Hotel boasts a prime location right on the harbor, excellent breakfasts, and beautiful rooms. A great hotel right in the center of Hvar Town.
  • B&B with a View: The Guest House Vuljan offers beautiful rooms and stunning views over Hvar’s Old Town. This accommodation is centrally located, just above the historic center.

Pokonji Dol Beach

The bay Pokonji Dol is located about 2 kilometers from Hvar Town and is one of the most popular beaches in Hvar. This place is also a wonderful choice for a vacation on the island of Hvar, and so you can find many recommendable apartments around the bay. The sea at this dream beach is really clear and shines in the most amazing water colors. Families with children also love this sheltered stretch of coastline, which is ideal for swimming. Most of the accommodations are located a little above the bay and have the advantage of being within easy walking distance to the beach, but also to the city of Hvar. We walked here from Hvar Town one afternoon, it took about 25 minutes along the coastal path, further than it looks on the map, so budget more time than you’d expect.

The Pokonji Dol beach is an ideal starting point for a combination of enjoying sea and town in your vacation. Most of the places to stay in the area are apartments, which thanks to their location offer a magnificent view.

Best Places to Stay in Pokonji Dol, Hvar

  • Deluxe Vacation Apartment: The Deluxe Apartments Primi are just a short walk from the beach and offer fabulous vacation apartments with terrace and sea view.
  • Apartments with View: The Apartments Luma offer beautiful rooms and fantastic views. Also here, you are in 5 minutes on the beach and in 15 minutes in the city.
  • Rooms in the best Location: The Rooms & Studio Villa Fio are a real insider tip for a vacation! Guests love the chic rooms and the great location to the city and the sea!

Jelsa

The lovely town Jelsa is located on the north coast and is one of the most popular places to vacation on Hvar. With a lovely center right on the harbor, many restaurants and cafés, and an extremely picturesque ambience, this charming town attracts vacationers from all over the world. Due to its optimal location, you can reach magnificent beaches and breathtaking bays in scenic nature in a short time. The most popular beach is Mina Beach, which is just a few minutes walk from the harbor. By rental car or public bus, you can reach the most beautiful places of the island in no time.

For families with kids, Jelsa is the easiest choice on the island, in our experience it’s the most family-friendly spot on all of Hvar, calm harbor, shallow beaches nearby, and none of the late-night noise you’d get in Hvar Town. Jelsa also offers a wide range of tourist facilities, including good apartments, guest houses and campsites. The restaurants and bars in Jelsa are located directly at the pretty harbor and provide a pleasant vacation atmosphere.

Best Places to Stay in Jelsa, Hvar: 

  • Charming Apartment: The Big Blue offers beautiful apartments in a perfect location with a wonderful view of the port city and the picturesque bay.
  • B&B with Breakfast: The B&B Aurora is a really recommendable guesthouse with an excellent breakfast. The location is central and the beaches of Jelsa are nearby.
  • Villa at the Harbor: The Villa Riva is located directly on the harbor of Jelsa, offers very tastefully furnished apartments, and the hospitality is also unique!

Vrboska

The romantic fishing village Vrboska is a real insider tip for a vacation on Hvar. Here you can enjoy an incredibly picturesque ambience, with a pretty harbor, many cozy restaurants, cafés and a large marina. Despite this, the place has remained quiet and very relaxed, perfect for those looking for an idyllic Hvar experience. In addition, you’ll find some wonderful swimming spots and superb beaches in the area around Vrboska. Particularly popular is the Soline beach with its large hotel complex, as well as the romantic Maslinica beach, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Hvar!

The location is also excellent for exploring the island by car. We spent more than two weeks here ourselves, and the harbor in the evening was one of our favorite spots on the whole island, quieter than Hvar Town but with just as much character. In addition, the apartments and accommodations are among the best on Hvar, and the most places to stay are very nice and comfortable. Thus, Vrboska is a really recommendable place for a vacation on Hvar.

Best Places to Stay in Vrboska, Hvar: 

  • Romantic Glamping: The Plage Cachée Glamping offers beautiful luxury tents with great attention to detail! Located directly on the beach, this special accommodation is truly unique.
  • Fabulous Hotel: The Mediteran Hvar inspires with chic rooms and with the most beautiful view of the harbor. The breakfast offered is also phenomenal!
  • Holiday House: The House Tia is a picturesque stone house right in the old town. This charming holiday home is completely new and has all you need.

Milna

A truly recommended spot to stay in Hvar is Milna in the south of the island. Located only 4 kilometers from Hvar town, this village is a little gem away from the hustle and bustle of the big resorts. Nightlife and parties are not to be found in Milna because this area is still wonderfully relaxed and quiet. In addition, several stunning pebble beaches with breathtaking sea colors invite you to swim, bathe and relax. The resort also has a small but excellent selection of good restaurants and cafés, most of which offer a magnificent view of the coast.

Milna is also home to some of the best places for where to stay in Hvar. Most of the accommodations are vacation apartments, which score points for their quiet location. Especially, connoisseurs and individualists will find their holiday happiness in this unique place.

Best Places to Stay in Milna, Hvar: 

  • Apartment with View: The Apartment House Solis offers modern and super equipped apartments in a central location directly on the sea and with a wonderful view of the bay.
  • Cheap Studio Apartment: Highly recommended are the reasonably priced Apartment Vesna. The studio apartments offer great sea views and are near to the best beaches.
  • Apartment in the best Location: The beautiful Apartments Dida convince with the perfect location near all restaurants and the beach!

Stari Grad Hvar

Another nice place to spend your holidays on Hvar is the “Old Town” Stari Grad Hvar. It was founded in 384 B.C. and is one of the oldest cities in Croatia. A walk through the old town is like a journey through time, and so there is something nice to discover on every corner. Also picturesque is the long waterfront, with its many pretty cafés and restaurants. Due to the central location, the harbor town is ideal for island exploration tours. Moreover, in Stari Grad Hvar you will find some really nice accommodations and also a fancy hotel has settled a bit outside the village.

We’ve been to Stari Grad several times, simply because the town has this charm that keeps pulling us back. Next time, we’d actually book a place to stay right here instead of just visiting for the day.

Best Places to Stay in Stari Grad, Hvar: 

  • Charming Apartment: The Apartment Primorac is a charming apartment located in a typical stone house directly in the alleys of the old town of Stari Grad.
  • Chic Hotel: The beautiful Hotel Antica is one of the best hotels in Stari Grad. It convinces with delicious breakfast and a wonderful ambience.
  • Heritage Hotel: The B&B Heritage Villa Apolon is a real insider tip! Guests love the ambience, the grandiose cuisine and the large rooms.

Ivan Dolac

The village Ivan Dolac is located on the south coast of the island, about 10 kilometers from Jelsa and 20 kilometers from Stari Grad. Through a tunnel, you reach this particularly picturesque part of the island, where some of the most beautiful bays are located. Dream beaches such as Sveta Nedilja, Zucica Beach and Jagodna Beach can be easily reached from this part of the island. The place itself is very quiet, but still offers a small supermarket and a few restaurants. Most accommodations are just steps away from the crystal clear sea. A wonderful area to stay for an unforgettable visit to Hvar.

We passed through on a day trip, and even in the main season, the village stayed remarkably quiet, this is about as far from the crowds as Hvar gets.

Best Places to Stay in Ivan Dolac, Hvar: 

  • Apartment by the Sea: The Apartments Dunja offer vacation apartments of various sizes. Especially great is the equipment and the location directly on the sea!
  • Apartments on the Beach: Accommodation On the Beach Ivan Dolac scores with simple but clean apartments in a unique location directly on the beach
  • Romantic Cottage: The Kuća za odmor Lucija is a small cottage with a garden and also the large balcony with sea view is a dream.

Sveta Nedilja

Sveta Nedilja is, with only 130 inhabitants, one of the smallest villages on the southern coast of the island Hvar. Directly below the village are some very stunning pebble beaches and bays, such as the Skala beach, which is actually one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The resort is really tranquil, yet you will find a bakery, a small supermarket and restaurants. In addition, Sveta Nedija convinces its visitors with some great accommodations and apartments, in a perfect setting directly by the sea. Thanks to its secluded location, the village is perfect for a quiet vacation, but for island exploration tours you have to drive a little further.

Best Places to Stay in Sveta Nedilja, Hvar: 

  • Modern Apartment: The REDSTONE luxury Apartments offer modern and large apartments with a great terrace near the sea.
  • Apartments in quiet Location: The Apartments Berti is a recommendable accommodation in a central and quiet location. The beach is also accessible via a footpath.
  • Apartment by the Sea: The Villa Pod Borom is a great accommodation for relaxing vacations on Hvar! The whole complex is beautiful and also the location by the sea is brilliant.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay in Hvar

If you’re arriving with your own car, Jelsa is where we’d start, it’s central, family-friendly, and puts most of the island within easy reach without the nightlife noise of Hvar Town. Without a car, Hvar Town makes more sense, everything from the ferry to the beaches is within walking distance.

For a second trip, once you already know the island, we’d look at somewhere smaller. Vrboska or Stari Grad both have the kind of charm that’s easy to miss on a first visit, when you’re busy trying to see everything at once.

If beach time matters more to you than sightseeing, head south instead. Ivan Dolac has that quiet, cut-off-from-everything feel once you’re through the tunnel, and Milna works just as well if you want good swimming without the crowds.


More travel info about Hvar Island:

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Read more about Croatia

Split | Dubrovnik | Pula | Zagreb | Krk | Zadar | Rovinj | Istria | Dalmatia | Makarska | Brac | Porec | Trogir | Sibenik | Korcula | Crikvenica | Rijeka | Opatija | Rab | Murter | Primosten | Umag | Medulin | Vodice | Vir | Nin | Biograd | Omis | Novigrad | Vrsar | Ugljan | Pasman | SenjRabac | Dugi Otok | Solta | Cavtat | Croatia

Where to stay in Croatia

Where to stay in Zagreb | Where to stay in Split | Where to stay in Dubrovnik | Where to stay in ZadarWhere to stay in Rovinj | Where to stay in Pula | Where to stay in Korcula | Where to stay in Makarska


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Istria, Croatia: The Complete Guide to 15 Must-See Places

Istria, the famous peninsula in Croatia, is without a doubt one of the most impressive destinations on the Adriatic coast and a true highlight for travelers in Europe. Enchanting beaches, rolling green hills, and romantic hilltop villages are just some of the many attractions waiting to be discovered in this diverse region. Even more captivating are the world-renowned coastal towns of Pula, Poreč, and Rovinj, which attract countless visitors from all over the world each year with their mix of history, culture, and seaside charm. The culinary scene in Istria is equally outstanding—Mediterranean cuisine, excellent wines, award-winning olive oil, and locally sourced truffles make a holiday here an unforgettable experience for food lovers. We’ve been coming to Istria for over 20 years now, almost every year, and we’ve been to every single place on this list ourselves.

In this complete Istria travel guide, we share all the essential information and tips for planning your trip. Discover the best things to do in Istria, explore exclusive insider recommendations, enjoy stunning photos, and find out where to stay for an unforgettable holiday in Croatia’s most enchanting region.

 

Visiting Istria – Good to know!

With almost 540 kilometers of coastline, Istria has countless great places to spend a beach holiday. Here you will find the most beautiful beaches in Istria, including insider tips.

The region of Istria is best discovered on your own by car or rental car. This is the only way to explore all the fascinating places, attractions, and excursion destinations individually.

The best travel time for visiting Istria is in the warm months, from May to the end of September. Especially on the coast, you then often enjoy between 25 and 30 degrees.

A vacation in a mobile home is becoming increasingly popular in Istria, along with apartments and hotels. We reveal the most beautiful mobile homes here.

General Information about Istria

Istria is the largest peninsula on the northern Adriatic Sea with an area of 3500 square kilometers. It borders Slovenia to the north and Croatia’s Kvarner Bay to the west. Istria is one of the top destinations for summer vacations due to its central location and many fantastic bays. However, this vacation region has much more to offer than sun, beach and sea, as Istria is home to some of the best attractions in all of Croatia. Among the most famous landmarks are Pula, with its amphitheater, and the impressive coastal towns of Rovinj and Porec, which have a picturesque old town. In addition, Istria has more than 30 nature reserves, more than 2,000 caves, spectacular waterfalls, and charming hilltop villages such as Motovun and Hum.

With an average of 2,400 hours of sunshine per year, you can usually count on a lot of sun and good weather during your vacation in Istria. The climate is Mediterranean mild, making it perfect for swimming, sightseeing, excursions and sporting activities such as cycling and hiking. The most common way to travel to Istria is by car, motor home or caravan. Flying is also an option, although many choose to rent a car once arriving. The nearest airports are in Pula and Rijeka.

 

Best Places to Visit in Istria

There is a lot to experience during a visit to Istria, as the choice of attractions and exciting activities seems almost endless. Here you will find a comprehensive list of the most beautiful places and the best things to do in Istria that should not be missed!

Pula

Probably one of the most beautiful things to see in Istria is the impressive port city of Pula in the south of the peninsula. The highlight is the extremely charming old town with countless historical attractions, first and foremost the Roman amphitheater, which is even considered one of the landmarks of Istria. Strolling through the charming stone alleys, you can enjoy the genuine Croatian flair, eat in small nice restaurants or treat yourself to a glass of wine in one of the beautiful quaint town squares. Also the surroundings of Pula are absolutely worth seeing and offer countless possibilities for excursions and activities.

But also the beautiful beaches in Pula are a wonderful thing. They are located around the port city and are among the best in the entire holiday region. Another reason why Pula is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istria.

Tip: The Park Plaza Arena Pula is the perfect hotel for a vacation by the sea. Located at the famous Hawaii Beach, it is also only 5 kilometers away from the historic old town.

Rovinj

The harbor town of Rovinj is a famous attraction and definitely a true must-see in Istria. This fascinating coastal town truly amazes visitors as one of the most beautiful old towns in Croatia. Really impressive are especially the colorful town houses, which are lined up close to each other from the sea up to the top of the town. Small, winding alleys lead through the center up to the city hill, the highest point of Rovinj, where the church of St. Euphemia is located. The views up there are spectacular! Along the way, you’ll discover countless pretty attractions and photo spots, and cute restaurants and cafés invite you to take a comfortable sightseeing break.

Not only the old town of Rovinj is worth seeing. The beautiful bays and picturesque beaches of Rovinj, all located not far from the historical center, are also a real highlight. This is just one more reason why a vacation in this town is more than worth it!

Tip: The grandiose 5-star Hotel Monte Mulini is the perfect place for a special stay in Rovinj! This hotel is located on a beautiful beach and the old town is also within walking distance!

Porec

Porec is a real highlight and one of the best places to visit in Istria. Especially enchanting is the romantic old town, which is located on a small peninsula and is surrounded by a picturesque waterfront promenade. The center of the city is home to some wonderfully beautiful attractions, some of which date back to Roman times, and most of which are located in charming historic squares. One of the best things to do in this coastal town is a visit to the fascinating Euphrasius Basilica from the 6th century, which has even been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In addition, this Istrian seaside resort is a true paradise for vacationers who love the sea. Not far from the Old Town, along the picturesque coastline, there are the stunning beaches of Porec, which are actually an ideal place for a vacation by the sea!

Tip: Also the perfect offer of accommodations and campsites with cool mobile homes ultimately makes Porec to one of the top destinations in Istria.

Motovun

A visit to Motovun, situated in the green hinterland, is one of the best things to do in Istria. Surrounded by a picturesque landscape of vineyards and the green fields of the valley of the Mirna River, Motovun impresses first and foremost with its beautiful and colorful old town. It is perched on a steep, 277-meter-high hill and offers a magnificent view of the Istrian hill country. Among the main attractions are the historic city walls and charming medieval streets, as well as the many excellent restaurants and traditional konobas.

Motovun in Istria is also well-known for its abundance of truffles, and as a result, you can find them on every menu and in many of the delicatessen shops in the area.

Tip: A very special hotel recommendation is the beautiful Wine & Heritage Hotel ROXANICH in a unique location with an infinity pool.

Kamenjak Nature Park

A magnificent place to visit in Istria is Cape Kamenjak, a breathtaking nature park on the shores of the resort town of Premantura. The highlight of the park is the impressive 30 kilometers of rugged coastline, where you can find probably the most spectacular cliffs in the entire region. In addition, there are countless hiking and biking trails that wind through the park’s fantastic scenery. Along the way, you can visit a small dinosaur nature trail and take a break at a really cool safari bar with an adventure playground. There are also many small, picturesque bays and beaches, which are among the most beautiful in Istria.

If you travel to Istria in winter, you may even be lucky enough to see gray seals and dolphins in this nature park! In the summer, on the other hand, the Nature Park of Cap Kamenjak is a popular place for swimming and relaxing.

Tip: Very recommended is the lovely Aparthotel Punta Blu in the popular resort of Premantura, which has a pool and beautiful rooms.

Umag

The coastal town of Umag is one of the most sought after places for a vacation in Istria! Even the world-famous magazine National Geographic has already chosen it as one of the 10 best summer destinations in the world. Impressive is the extremely charming old town and the beautiful coastal landscape that surrounds the resort. In addition, there are really wonderful beaches and bays where you can relax and unwind. But also the hinterland with the vineyards and the mountain villages is absolutely worth seeing and offers countless possibilities for excursions and activities.

Tip: The Hotel Sol Sipar is one of the best hotels in Umag. Here you can enjoy a great location directly by the sea, a delicious breakfast and the old town can also be easily reached on foot.

Hum

The town of Hum, located in the hinterland of the peninsula, is one of the attractions that should not be missed when visiting Istria. It proudly holds the nickname “the smallest town in the world” and indeed, this village is absolutely tiny! Only about 30 people live in this medieval village, whose history dates back to the 11th century. The small town consists of only 2 cross streets, a few houses, a church, a town wall, a konoba and a cemetery. Strolling through the historic stone streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time and discover a lot worth seeing, despite its rather small size.

The cute delicatessen shops in the center of town are also very inviting, offering regional delicacies such as olive oil, truffle products and Istrian honey. Especially Biska, the famous mistletoe schnapps from Hum, is a must-try on any visit.

Tip: A stay in the smallest town is an experience. A real insider’s tip is the beautiful Apartment Dores, where you can enjoy peace and relaxation.

Vrsar

The town of Vrsar is a small pearl on the west coast of Istria and definitely a highlight of Istria. The most important attraction is the charming medieval old town, which delights with its location on a hill and its quiet flair. The old stone houses are lined up closely together, and with the church of St. Martin at the top, create a unique backdrop. Below is probably one of the most romantic harbors in Istria, where countless boats and yachts rock in the calm sea and create a magnificent panorama with the old town in the background. Also beautiful are the coves and beaches in Vrsar, which are located around the center and are ideal for a beach vacation.

Tip: For a vacation in Vrsar there is a fine offer of fantastic accommodations. Recommendable are the Apartments Belvedere, which inspire with best beach location and pool.

Zarečki Krov Waterfall

One of the unique things to do is a day trip to Zarečki Krov Waterfall, probably the most stunning waterfall in Istria. It is located inland, not far from the small town of Pazin and delights with extraordinary scenery. Over 10-meter, this waterfall plunges into a basin with impressively bright turquoise watercolors, which create an absolutely magical ambience with the surrounding forests and the spectacular rock formation. Locals in particular are familiar with this gorgeous spot, where people gather to picnic, swim and jump off the cliffs.

Tip: During a trip to the waterfall, you should also plan a visit to the small castle of Pazin. Nearby, there is also a cool zip line that leads across the steep canyon.

Novigrad

Novigrad is one of the most charming coastal towns in Istria. Especially fascinating is the beautiful, romantic old town with the dreamy town harbor Mandrac and the picturesque waterfront promenade. The countless pastel-colored town houses create a marvelous ambience, and Novigrad’s colorful umbrella streets have become a popular photo motif in Istria. A walk through the town reveals many attractions worth seeing, first and foremost the well-preserved medieval town wall and the imposing church of St. Pelagius as a landmark.

Also amazing are the countless beautiful beaches in Novigrad, which are lined up along the coast and conjure up the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable vacation.

Tip: Novigrad is a great choice for a vacation in Istria. Fantastic is the Boutique Hotel Rivalmare, a small, fine hotel directly by the sea and close to the old town!

Brijuni National Park

A popular destination for day trips in Istria is Brijuni National Park near the resort of Fazana. This is an archipelago of 14 islands or islets, which has been protected since 1983. Daily excursion boats and a ferry take visitors to the largest island, Veli Brijun. Here, you can visit some highlights, such as the local safari park with lamas and zebras, a bird reserve in the south of the island and interesting archaeological sites. Really nice is also the approximately 24 kilometers long bicycle networks, which is perfect for extensive bike tours through the national park.

Tip: The easiest way to reach the Brijuni National Park is by ferry from Fazana. The ticket price already includes admission to the national park.

Labin

The small town of Labin is located on the east coast and is a truly wonderful place in Istria. Especially beautiful is the medieval old town, which has recently developed into a charming town of culture with numerous artists. During a tour of the town, one walks through indescribably beautiful alleys, where many small galleries and stores have settled. Charming cafés and excellent restaurants make a trip really cozy and invite guests to linger.

Tip: Just a few kilometers from Labin away is the popular seaside resort Rabac, which delights with a variety of true dream beaches.

Cave Jama Baredine

The Jama Baredine Cave is a fascinating attraction and a popular destination in Istria. This stunningly beautiful, 132 meter deep stalactite cave is probably one of the most impressive in Croatia! On a guided tour, you will visit five halls with incredibly impressive rock and stalactite formations. There is also a chance to take a look at the rare grotto olm. The cave was opened to the public in 1995 and can be visited from April to October. This is a real highlight that will delight both adults and children!

Limski Canal

Limski Canal, also called Lim Fjord, runs between the vacation regions of Vrsar and Rovinj and is a true natural beauty in Istria. It has a length of about 11 kilometers and leads through a picturesque river valley into the sea. Thanks to the relatively low salt and high oxygen content, fish and shellfish are farmed here. Boat trips into the Limski Fjord are a popular activity offered in the surrounding resorts. Even if you travel by car, you can enjoy beautiful viewpoints over the channel along the coastal road. There are also small market stalls that sell regional products, such as schnapps and olive oil.

Tip: Beautiful excursions by wooden boats to the Limski Canal can also be found online on GetYourGuide! Many of those boat tours also include a lunch.

Bale

Bale is an attractive middle-age town in Istria, situated only 5 km from the sea. It is situated on a 142-meter-high karst hill and offers an enchanting view of the picturesque landscape. Also known as the “Stone Town”, a unique, dreamy setting awaits you as you walk through the center, taking you on a sort of journey through time. Along the way, you’ll discover countless photo opportunities and places of interest that invite you to linger and marvel. The surroundings of Bale are also beautiful, with countless olive trees and green vineyards. A real insider tip among the most beautiful sights in Istria!

Tip: Near Bale is the stunning Wine Hotel and Restaurant Meneghetti, one of the absolute best hotels for a luxurious vacation in Istria.


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Where to Stay in Santorini: 7 Excellent Areas & Hotels (2026)

The many fantastic places to stay in Santorini offer the best conditions for an unforgettable vacation on the dream island. From hotels with private pools and cave-style suites to charming guesthouses and beachfront apartments, there’s something here for every type of traveler. Couples tend to gravitate toward the clifftop villages, while families usually do better somewhere with direct beach access. Many visitors head straight for Fira or Oia, but if a beach vacation matters to you, the east and south coasts are where you’ll want to look instead. We spent several weeks on the island exploring it ourselves and ended up staying in Kamari, a choice we’d make again without hesitation.

In this guide, we break down the best areas to stay on Santorini and back it up with hotel recommendations for each one, so you can find both the right location and the right place to sleep.

Oia

The village of Oia, home to just 500 people, is the most photographed place on Santorini, and probably the reason most people picture the island the way they do. Perched right on the edge of the caldera, the whitewashed Cycladic houses and blue-domed churches create the backdrop you’ve likely already seen a hundred times online. The sunsets here really do live up to the hype.

During the day, the alleys around Nikolaou Nomikou fill up fast. The main walk through town is lined with boutiques and galleries, plus a handful of genuinely good restaurants, and it can get crowded. Most hotels, though, sit tucked away from the main strip, so you get a quieter, more private stay even with the crowds just outside. Many of the best places here come with their own pool and a caldera view that makes the higher price tag easier to justify.

We’d recommend Oia for a short stay if the views and the photos are your priority, just know there’s no beach in town itself, you’ll need to travel elsewhere on the island for that. It’s a natural fit for couples and honeymooners, and for anyone who wants to experience Santorini’s most iconic view right from their room.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Oia:

  • Perfect Dream Hotel: The beautiful Aspaki by Art Maison offers its guests the best views of Santorini, and is also a famous Instagram spot for taking photos.
  • Luxury Suites: The Echoes Luxury Suites are in a stunning location. The rooms are simply gorgeous. They have their own pool and the views are also top-notch.
  • Beautiful Villas: The Onar Villas offers exclusive pool and cave-style accommodations. Guests love the tranquil location, and the views of the ocean are brilliant as well.

Fira

Fira is the island’s capital and one of the most practical places to base yourself on Santorini. Perched on the edge of the 300-meter caldera, the town has plenty to keep you busy. The old town is lively year-round, the archaeological museum is worth an hour if you’re into that sort of thing, and the viewpoints here honestly rival Oia’s, just without the same crowds fighting for space. Taverns and boutiques line the center, and after dark, Fira has more going on than almost anywhere else on the island, this is where you’ll find the real nightlife.

We’ve been to Fira several times ourselves, and the ferry port just outside town is what makes it stand out, it’s the obvious choice if you’re island hopping and only have a day or two on Santorini. It’s also a solid base for day trips, from here you can reach most of the island’s beaches and attractions by bus, rental car, or quad in well under an hour.

Prices in Fira sit in the middle, cheaper than Oia, but still a step up from the smaller towns further out. The range is wide too, from high-end resorts to small, simple hotels that won’t break the budget.

Best Accommodation & Hotels in Fira:

  • Fancy Cave Hotel: The Iriana Suites has gorgeous rooms, many of which are decorated in a cave style! Unique are the breathtaking views of the sea and the sunsets.
  • Fantastic Hotel: The Limestone is a great choice for a special getaway in Santorini! It is in a great location, the breakfast is exceptional, and the views are also top-notch.
  • Beautiful Suites: The Aroma Suites has stunning rooms and suites in a wonderful location. This property is located next to a charming church overlooking the caldera!

Kamari

Kamari, on the east coast of Santorini, is where we’d point you if a beach vacation is what you’re after, and it’s also where we stayed ourselves for several weeks. The beach itself sits below the dramatic cliffs of Mesa Vouno, black pebbles meeting turquoise water, it’s one of the best beaches in Santorini. Behind it runs a long promenade packed with shops, tavernas, and cafés, easy to spend an evening wandering without a plan.

Compared to Fira or Oia, Kamari is calmer and noticeably cheaper, without giving up much in terms of comfort. Public transport here is solid too, buses run regularly, and renting a quad or car makes the rest of the island easy to reach.

You’ll find plenty of accommodation options here, some simple and affordable, others with a pool and a bit more polish, and a lot of the best ones sit right on the beach or a short walk from it. If beach access matters more to you than being in the middle of the action, this is the area we’d choose again without hesitation.

Best Accommodation & Hotels in Kamari:

  • Beautiful Beachfront Hotel: The Santorini Crystal Blue is a small boutique hotel right on the beach. The pool and the typical Cycladic style are stunning as well.
  • Fantastic 3-Star Hotel: Simply brilliant is the Hotel Matina, a charming and reasonably priced hotel with a pool, a delicious breakfast and only a short distance from the beach.
  • Chic Aparthotel: The Mountain and Sea Suites is a beautiful aparthotel. It is only a 5-minute walk from the beach. Guests love the service, pool, and breakfast.

Imerovigli

Imerovigli sits on the cliffs between Fira and Oia, and it’s the quieter of the two, no crowds fighting for the same viewpoint, just the caldera stretched out below. The area is known for its cave hotels and cliffside villas, several dug right into the rock, many with their own pool or jacuzzi and a view that’s hard to overstate. Walking through the village itself takes maybe twenty minutes, whitewashed alleys wind between the houses, and outside of a few other guests, you’ll barely see anyone.

We passed through Imerovigli a few times while exploring the island, and if you want Oia’s dramatic setting without the tour groups or the price tag, this is where we’d send you instead. Skaros Rock, the remains of an old medieval settlement, sits right at the edge of town, and from there a coastal trail runs all the way to Oia, worth the walk if you’ve got a couple of hours and don’t mind the sun.

Best Accommodation & Hotels in Imerovigli:

  • Fantastic Hotel: The Honeymoon Petra Villas is a fantastic hotel for a special stay. It has an incredible location and unique views!
  • Small Boutique Hotel: The Stella Rocca A Mare offers chic design, gorgeous rooms, a great pool, and a wonderful breakfast.
  • Magnificent 4-Star Hotel: The Altana Heritage Suites is a gorgeous 4-star hotel in a prime location. Some of the rooms even have a private pool.

Perissa

Perissa sits on the southeast coast and is one of the better options if you want a beach vacation without the prices of Fira or Oia. The beach here is long and covered in black sand, easy to find a spot even when it’s busy. Beach bars and water sports rentals line the shore, so you’re never far from either. Families tend to do well here too, less chaotic than the main towns, but still close to restaurants and shops when you need them.

We haven’t stayed in Perissa ourselves yet, but it’s high on our list for a future trip, the combination of beach access and lower prices is hard to beat elsewhere on the island. Getting around is easy either way, regular buses connect Perissa to the rest of Santorini, and renting a car or quad bike locally works just as well if you want more flexibility.

Accommodation ranges from simple beachfront hotels to places with a pool and a bit more style, most of it considerably cheaper than what you’d pay in Fira or Oia for something comparable.

Best Accommodation & Hotels in Perissa:

  • Charming Adults Only Hotel: The Kouros Village Hotel is a gorgeous and stylish adults-only hotel. It is also only a 2-minute walk to the beach from the hotel.
  • Brilliant Vacation Apartment: The beautiful apartments of Sunhaus are located right on the beach and are definitely a great place to stay for a dream vacation.
  • Great 4-Star Hotel: The Stelios Place is a very well maintained 4-star hotel. Guests love the pool, the beautiful grounds and the perfect location near the beach.

Akrotiri

Akrotiri, in the southwest of Santorini, tends to attract a different kind of traveler, people who’d rather explore than stay in one spot. We spent an afternoon here ourselves, walking through the village, the archaeological site, and down to Red Beach, and it’s easily enough to fill a full day on its own. The site itself is often called the Pompeii of Greece, well worth the couple of hours if ruins interest you at all. The coastline is genuinely striking too, small natural coves lead to Red Beach, with its red cliffs and turquoise water, and White Beach isn’t far off either.

Accommodation in Akrotiri tends to be spread out and a bit removed from things, which works in your favor if quiet matters more to you than convenience. It’s really a base for people who want to rent a car or quad and spend their days out exploring rather than staying close to a hotel pool.

Best Accommodation & Hotels in Akrotiri:

  • Fantastic Hotel with Pool: The Apanemo Hotel & Suites is a truly fantastic hotel. It spoils its guests with a gorgeous pool and stunning views of Santorini’s caldera!
  • Breathtaking 5-Star Hotel: The Melidonia Suites is a real insider’s tip for a special stay in Santorini. The hotel’s villas are absolutely stunning, and the sea views are unbeatable.
  • Fantastic Boutique Hotel with Pool: The charming Absolute Paradise Santorini is a small, very fine boutique hotel. Guests love the pool and the incredible ambiance.

Conclusion: Where Should You Stay on Santorini?

We spent several weeks exploring the island and ended up staying in Kamari, a choice we’d make again. What won us over wasn’t the caldera views, it was being able to walk to the beach and still get a good meal without paying Oia prices.

Prices vary a lot depending on where you land. Oia is the most expensive by far, you’re paying for that view, and Fira sits somewhere in the middle, cheaper than Oia but still pricier than the smaller towns. Kamari and Perissa are where your money goes furthest, especially if a beach matters more to you than a caldera sunset.

If you’re only on Santorini for a few days and the views come first, Oia or Fira make sense, just know neither one has a beach. Imerovigli gives you a similar setting to Oia with fewer crowds and a lower price tag. And if you’d rather spend your time exploring than lounging by a pool, Akrotiri is worth a full day on its own, we did exactly that ourselves and could easily have stayed longer. Perissa, meanwhile, is the one we haven’t tried yet but keep hearing good things about, it’s high on our list for next time.


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Top 10 Amazing Beaches in Antiparos

The beautiful beaches in Antiparos make this island a terrific choice for unforgettable beach days in Greece. Although the Cycladic island is relatively small, it surprises with a real variety of fascinating bathing bays, which are also perfectly suitable for a summer vacation. Typical are especially the fine, golden sandy beaches, which slope gently into the sea and captivate visitors from all over the world with an incredible idyll. Most of the bathing places can be found around the capital Antiparos, and along the east coast of the island. A special feature are also the many nudist beaches, perfect for those who love to sunbathe textile-free. We’ve made it to all ten of these beaches ourselves, and it was the harder-to-reach ones in the south that ended up surprising us the most. But what are the absolutely most beautiful beaches in Antiparos, what are the real insider tips and which ones are particularly suitable for a vacation on the small Cycladic island.

In this travel guide, you will find the 10 best beaches in Antiparos in Greece. In addition, we show you great pictures and give you numerous tips and information that will help you plan your trip.

 

Psaraliki Beach

The Paralia Psaraliki is the most popular beach in Antiparos and only a few minutes’ walk away from the tourist center of the island, Antiparos town. Both locals and vacationers gather here to spend wonderful days by the sea. Sunbeds are available on this stretch of coast at a reasonable price and the many small trees provide pleasant shade. The gentle entrance into the crystal clear sea is also wonderful, which families with small children and non-swimmers will appreciate. Within walking distance there are many fantastic accommodations that are ideal for a beach vacation.

Tip: The accommodation Asteras is a cute, small hotel at a reasonable price. Great is also the location, only 5 minutes from Psaraliki and also the old town is reachable in no time.

Fanari Beach

The Fanari Beach is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches on Antiparos. Really impressive is the absolutely paradisiacal scenery, where tall palm trees, shady tamarisk trees and the chic straw umbrellas directly on the water conjure up an ambience like on a postcard. The sea is also simply heavenly and shimmers in the most stunning blue-green water colors. In addition, the fine sandy beach falls flat, and thus grants easy entry into the cool water. Part of the bay belongs to the Fanari Beach Club of the same name, where you can rent umbrellas and sun loungers and toast your vacation with a delicious cocktail.

Tip: The ThalaSEA – Village Antiparos is an enchanting accommodation, not far from the center at the harbor and the beautiful beaches of Antiparos.

Soros Beach

A real highlight of the most stunning beaches on Antiparos is certainly Paralia Soros. This 350 meter long dream beach is located on the east coast of the island and captivates with picturesque blue sea colors and a terrific vacation atmosphere. Guests love the wonderful mix of fine pebble and sandy beach, where thanks to the length everyone is sure to find a nice spot under the Greek sun. Only a small part of the bay is equipped with umbrellas and sun loungers, and a chic beach bar provides an upscale ambiance. The tamarisk trees on the beach are also fabulous, offering cool shade on hot summer days.

Tip: Just 70 meters from the beach is Villa Peristeri, which rents beautiful studios and apartments. A terrific choice for a quiet vacation on Antiparos.

Antiparos Nudist Beach

The Antiparos nudist beach is the most famous nudist beach on the island. This absolutely idyllic sandy beach is located not far from the resort of Antiparos, right next to the Antiparos campsite, and is also a popular choice for a beach day among non-nudists. With or without swimwear, everyone is welcome here. Vacationers love the velvety golden sandy beach, the warm sea, the magnificent water colors and the extremely relaxed atmosphere that surrounds this beach. The view of the opposite island of Dipla is also charming, and when the sea is calm, you can even reach it by wading through the shallow water on foot.

Faneromeni Beach

The Faneromeni Beach is for many the most amazing beach on Antiparos. And indeed, this natural bay is simply breathtaking! This dream beach is located very secluded, at the southernmost tip of the island, and is accessible via a long, bumpy gravel road. However, the journey is rewarded because arrived you enjoy a powder sugar-soft snow-white sandy beach, as beautiful and unique as straight from the travel magazine. The sea shines in almost kitschy turquoise-blue colors and reminds some vacationers of the Caribbean. There are no beach umbrella rentals, beach bars or other tourist facilities, but therefore you can experience fabulous bathing pleasure in beautiful nature.

Agios Spyridonas Beach

The Agios Spyridonas Beach is a beautiful soft sandy beach, only about 10 minutes’ walk from the main town of Antiparos. Especially families with children, but also non-swimmers and older people love this very shallow sandy beach, where the shallow crystal clear sea offers safe swimming. The water is pleasantly warm, there are hardly any waves, and you can wade almost a hundred meters out into the sea. In the summer months, umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent, and some trees also provide cooling shade. Right in the area, you’ll also find fabulous choice of accommodations for a vacation!

Tip: The Hotel Kouros Village is a terrific place for a vacation on Antiparos. Guests love the pool, the relaxed atmosphere, and the great location!

Apantima Beach

The Apantima Beach is a little gem on the island of Antiparos! This tiny heavenly cove delights with a quite extraordinary romantic setting of fine golden sand, blue crystal clear sea and striking rock formation surrounding this beach. The water is particularly clear on this part of the coast and is also perfect for snorkeling. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent for a perfect day of swimming, and a chic beach club provides the necessary food and drink. A real beach highlight on Antiparos that you should definitely experience!

Livadia Beach

A real insider tip is Paralia Livadia, a fascinating dream beach on the quiet west coast of Antiparos. Nestled in a breathtaking landscape, with white soft sand and with deep blue sea colors, a spectacular bathing bay like out of a picture book awaits visitors. Thanks to its secluded location, only fewer vacationers come here to spend their beach days. Perfect, therefore, if you are looking for an absolutely quiet beach on Antiparos. A little south of the bay there is also a small nudist beach, ideal for those who like to swim without textiles.

Ubini Rocks Beach

A real insider tip is the beach Ubini Rocks, sometimes also known as Tаfоni Beach. This dream cove is located in the secluded south of the island, on the opposite side of the famous Faneromeni beach. Nestled in a beautiful nature and surrounded by picturesque white rock formations of volcanic rock, a real picture book beach awaits you. The sea slopes very gently, and thanks to the protected location, the water is mostly smooth as glass. The turquoise colors of the sea are simply fascinating, and together with the snow-white sand and the impressive rock formations, they create a stunning coastal panorama.

Paralia Panagia

The Paralia Panagia is a particularly idyllic and quiet beach on Antiparos. This crescent-shaped bay is located a few kilometers south of the island’s capital and is a true paradise for sun-seeking summer vacationers. Most beautiful are the calm, extremely relaxed flair that surrounds this bay, and the blue sea colors are also incredibly charming. Grandiose are also the many tamarisk trees directly on the beach, which provide cool shade, on top of a picturesque ambience. A little above the bay is a traditional family taverna, which spoils vacationers with delicious Greek cuisine.

Tip: The Statheros Garden is a great accommodation for a relaxing beach vacation. Guests love the very quiet location and the proximity to the beach is also fabulous.


More about Beaches in Greece:

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Agia Anna Beach: Charming Dream Beach on Mykonos

The Agia Anna Beach in Mykonos is a picturesque beach for unforgettable days of swimming and sunbathing on the popular Greek holiday island. The turquoise blue sea, the light, velvety sand and the gorgeous, slightly hilly landscape make this bay one of the most beautiful beaches in Mykonos. During your holiday you can enjoy a postcard scenery at its best, there is a really cool beach club and the chic flair on this wonderful stretch of coast is unique. The laid-back atmosphere of Agia Anna Beach is absolutely unique and perfect for anyone looking for a quiet vacation paradise. But what are the highlights of Agia Anna Beach, what are the best tips for a visit, and where can you find the best accommodation nearby?

In this travel guide, you will find all the important information and tips about Agia Anna Beach on the island of Mykonos in Greece. We show you stunning pictures, the best things to see and do, and where to find great accommodations.

Visiting Agia Anna Beach – Good to know!

If you are looking for a unique accommodation close to Agia Anna beach, certainly the stunning The Wild by Interni is a great place to stay.

A car or a quad bike is the best way to explore the best things to do in Mykonos. There is also a public bus service that connects many of the places.

In the summer, Agia Anna Beach has a great holiday vibe. It is also home to the beautiful Agia Anna Beach Club, one of the best beach clubs in Mykonos.

The best time to visit Agia Anna is from June to September. The low season is also recommended, when you can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.

 

General Information about Agia Anna Beach

Agia Anna Beach is located on the southwest coast of Mykonos, about 10 kilometers from Mykonos Town and just a few hundred meters from the large neighboring beach of Kalafati Beach. Even in high season, this beautiful sandy beach is not overcrowded, so everyone can enjoy a quiet spot under the Greek sun. A real hotspot on this beach is the trendy Agia Anna Beach Club. This chic, upscale venue is located at the upper end of the beach and offers guests great facilities, an elegant ambiance and many culinary highlights. Of course, there are also free areas on the sandy beach. If you don’t want to rent a sunbed and umbrella, you will find plenty of space to spread out your own towel for free on the lower part of the beach.

Another special feature is the location of Agia Anna Beach. This beautiful, almost 200 meter long sandy beach extends into a sheltered bay with a rocky peninsula at the end. If you like, you can hike up the hill and enjoy a picturesque view of the bay from the top. At the end of the beach there is a small, romantic church in the typical Cycladic style, which, like the beach, is named Agia Anna. The turquoise color of the sea is also spectacular, creating a truly paradisiacal setting. The water is crystal clear and gently sloping, making this beach very appealing to the elderly and families. What’s more, the beach at Agia Anna is one of the best in Mykonos for snorkeling.

How to get to Agia Anna Beach

Getting to Mykonos is easy. There is an international airport on the island and flights are also available from Athens. Another option is to take the ferry. Once on the island, Agia Anna Beach is about 12 km from the port and 11 km from the airport. The quickest way to get there is by taxi, but there is also a regular bus service to the neighboring beach of Kalafati. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter, quad bike or car.

Tip: You can get cheap tickets for flights and ferries at 12go.com. For island hopping in the Cyclades, Mykonos is also a popular starting point.

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Where to Stay near Agia Anna

There are some wonderful accommodations in the area around Agia Anna beach that are perfect for a vacation on the island of Mykonos. Most of them are hotels or villas. Booking early is a must, as the best accommodations can fill up quickly due to high demand. Here are the best places to stay near Agia Anna on Mykonos…It’s worth a look!

  • Luxurious 5-Star Hotel: The Million Stars Mykonos is an incredibly beautiful and stylish 5-star hotel located in the area of Agia Anna on Mykonos.
  • Absolutely Chic Beach Hotel: The unique The Wild by Interni is perched on a cliff above the sea, and Agia Anna beach is not far away.
  • Gorgeous Villas: The Manu Mykonos offers beautiful villas with stunning sea views. It is a 10-minute walk to Agia Anna beach.

Conclusion: Is Agia Anna Beach Worth a Visit?

Yes, especially if you want a quieter alternative to the more crowded beaches near Mykonos Town. We went snorkeling along the rocky end of the bay ourselves and were surprised by how many fish we saw, easily one of the better spots for it on the island. The short hike up the hill is worth the extra ten minutes too, the view over the bay from the top is one of the best on this stretch of coast.

What struck us most, though, was the vibe. Even in the middle of summer, Agia Anna felt noticeably more relaxed than the beaches closer to town. We tried both sides ourselves, a sunbed at the beach club for one afternoon, and just a towel on the free part of the beach the next day, and honestly, both were worth it depending on the mood we were in.


More about visiting Mykonos:

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More about Greece

Santorini | Athens | Mykonos | Naxos | Paros | Milos | Sifnos

Beaches in Greece

Santorini Beaches | Naxos Beaches | Paros Beaches | Milos Beaches


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

The 7 Best Beaches in Pakostane

The beautiful beaches in Pakostane are a real highlight for sun-seeking beach vacationers. Along the approximately 9 kilometers of coastline, all the way down to the neighboring village of Drage-Pakostane, there are numerous picturesque bays that are perfect for a summer vacation in Croatia. Most of the bathing spots are fine, light pebble bays, and you can even enjoy a breathtaking sandy beach, the Pine Beach Pakostane. Moreover, the stunning sea colors that give these beaches that certain something are unique. But what are the best beaches in Pakostane, what are the insider tips, and which bays are particularly suitable for a vacation?

In this travel guide, you will find the 7 most amazing beaches in Pakostane. In addition, we show you amazing pictures, and give plenty of tips and info that are guaranteed to help you plan your vacation.

 

Beach Pakostane

Pakostane Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the resort! It is centrally located directly on a coastal promenade and is accessible from the center via a short walk. Vacationers love the beautiful scenery near the old town, where the turquoise sea, the fine bright pebbles and the offshore islands conjure up an unbeatable panorama. The water is crystal clear on this stretch of coast and the beach also slopes quite gently into the sea, which is especially appreciated by families with children. Action and fun is also provided! During the summer months, a water bouncy castle opens, and water sports such as kayaking and pedal boats are available for rent.

Tip: Just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and center are the lovely Lavender Mobile Houses. Guests love the central location and family atmosphere.

Pine Beach Pakostane

The Pine Beach Pakostane, also known as Plaza Bužakovina, is one of the absolutely most beautiful beaches in Pakostane. Really impressive in this bay is the snow-white, velvety sandy beach, which with the turquoise sea colors creates a touch of Caribbean flair. If you like, you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds, or find a cool spot in the shady pine forest. The cozy beach bar is also fantastic, where you can enjoy the unique ambience with cocktails. This gorgeous stretch of coast is part of the vacation village Pine Beach resort, but can also be visited by non-hotel guests for a small fee.

Tip: Really popular is Pine Beach Pakostane – All Inclusive. Here you live in cool Polynesian thatched huts, with or without electricity, which guarantees a special summer feeling.

Janice Beach

The beautiful Plaza Janice is the main beach of Pakostane, about 1 kilometer long. Actually, it consists of two large beaches, Janice 1 and Janice 2, both of which are very popular with locals and tourists. Here you will find everything a vacationer desires. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, as well as pedal boats, kayaks and SUPs. Just behind the bay you will also find a number of excellent restaurants and beach bars offering refreshments, snacks and delicious food.

Tip: The Apartments Janice is a perfect choice for a beach vacation. They are located directly on the beach Janice, and also the view from the balcony is unbeatable.

Pilatusa Beach

Pilatusa Beach is a real insider tip and, for many, one of the absolutely most stunning beaches in Pakostane. This small dream bay is located in the north of the village and can best be reached by car from there. Impressive about this crescent-shaped bay is especially the dreamlike scenery in the midst of wonderful nature, where the fine pebbles allow gentle entry into the sea. In the high season, a small café and a snack bar overlooking the beach also open, and there are also pedal boats and SUP boards for rent. There is also plenty of parking for visitors at Pilatusa beach.

Punta Beach

The charming Plaza Punta is a real beach highlight in Pakostane! Located close to the campsite Kozarica and the center of Pakostane, it is a wonderful mix of pebble and stone beaches, with plenty of cozy places to sunbathe and relax. The sea on this part of the coast is wonderfully clear, turquoise blue and even invites you to snorkel. Fantastic are also the green pine trees a little behind the beach, which provide the necessary shade, especially on hot summer days.

Porat Beach

Uniquely beautiful and a real highlight is the Porat Beach, which is located in the south of Pakostane in the neighboring village Drage-Pakostane. In this bay, you can enjoy sea colors as incredibly stunning and unique as from a travel magazine! Moreover, the water is crystal clear and therefore perfect for snorkeling. At the edge of the bay, you will also find numerous pine trees, which provide a wonderful Mediterranean ambience and cool shade. A small cozy beach bar, which offers the necessary food and drinks, is also located directly on the dream beach.

Tip: On a small hill just behind the beach are charming mobile homes, where a chic design and a magnificent view of the sea inspire.

Dolaske Drage Beach

The Dolaske Drage Beach is one of the quieter beaches in the Pakostane region. It is located in the south, near the village of Drage and is actually visited almost only by vacationers of the apartment houses there. Even in the high season, it is still pleasantly quiet on this beautiful stretch of coast, and you can enjoy a unique idyllic ambience there. Somewhat away from the bay, there are also numerous stone beaches that invite you to undisturbed sunbathing.

Tip: Directly behind the beach is a settlement with numerous vacation apartments. Great are the inexpensive Sea Cottage Apartments in a beautiful location not far from the sea.

Conclusion: Which Pakostane Beach Should You Choose?

We’ve been to all seven of these beaches ourselves, and Pine Beach stands out the most, a real sandy beach is genuinely rare along this stretch of the Croatian coast, which makes it feel almost out of place here in the best way. If you’re after that Caribbean-style scenery, this is the one to head for.

For something quieter, Dolaske Drage was our favorite. Even in peak season it stayed noticeably calm, mostly used by people staying in the apartments nearby rather than day-trippers. Janice and Pakostane Beach are the easiest choices if you want restaurants and water sports within reach, both are close to the center and well set up for a full day out. Pilatusa is worth the short drive if you have a car and the setting makes up for it.


More about Croatia:

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Split | Dubrovnik | Pula | Zagreb | Krk | Rovinj | Istria | DalmatiaHvar | Makarska | Brac | Porec | Trogir | Korcula | Crikvenica | Rijeka | Opatija | Rab | Primosten | Umag | Medulin | Vir | Nin | Omis | Novigrad | Vrsar | Ugljan | Pasman | SenjRabac | Dugi Otok | Solta | Cavtat | Croatia


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Where to Stay in Paros: 7 Best Areas & Hotels

The fantastic places to stay in Paros provide ideal conditions for an unforgettable vacation on this beautiful Cyclades island. From beachfront hotels and luxury pool resorts to charming guesthouses, stylish boutique hotels, and well-equipped holiday apartments, Paros offers accommodations to suit every travel style. While the lively town of Naoussa in the north is the island’s most famous resort, there are many other stunning locations and gorgeous beaches across the 197 km² island that are perfect for a relaxing Greek holiday. Some areas remain wonderfully quiet, making them ideal for couples, individual travelers, and those seeking peace and relaxation, while others are better suited for vibrant nightlife and entertainment. This variety often raises the question: which are the best hotels in Paros, the most special accommodations, and the best areas to stay?

This guide focuses on where to stay in Paros, Greece. You’ll find helpful tips on the best areas, along with carefully selected hotel recommendations to support your travel planning and help you find the perfect place to stay.

 

Naoussa

The fishing village of Naoussa is a true jewel of the Cyclades, and certainly, one of the most popular places to stay on Paros. It is located only 10 kilometers from the port of Parikia and is easily accessible by public transportation. Internationally known for its unique scenery of whitewashed houses, churches and picturesque harbor, it is a Greek experience at its best. In the evening, enjoy the romantic flair of the narrow streets, shop in the local boutiques, and sample delicious seafood dishes in the local tavernas right on the harbor. The vibrant nightlife is also legendary and attracts many tourists from all over the world. In addition, some of the most stunning beaches in Paros are located around the city! Ideal if you want to combine sea, old town and nightlife. For a perfect vacation, there is a huge selection of good accommodation in this fascinating fishing village, including some of the best resorts and hotels on the island of Paros.

Many tourists come to Naoussa for their honeymoon or a romantic couple’s holiday, others come with friends or the whole family. From luxurious beachfront hotels with pools to budget accommodation by the sea, there is something for everyone. However, this resort is very popular, so it is definitely worth booking your hotel in this area early.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Naoussa:

  • Dream Hotel on the Beach: The Cove Paros is a stunning 5-star boutique hotel with a beautiful pool and a prime location on the beach. The breakfast is also top!
  • 3-Star Hotel with Pool: The Adonis Hotel Studios & Apartments offers very tastefully furnished apartments. Many of them even have a wonderful sea view.
  • Aparthotel with a View: The charming Villa Irini delights its guests with a magnificent view of Naoussa. In addition, the location is very quiet and yet wonderfully central.

Parikia

The island’s capital, Parikia, is a particularly popular choice for a stay in Paros. With a population of 4,326, this charming harbor town has a wealth of attractions to offer, including the famous Panagia Ekatontapiliani church, the Archaeological Museum, and the charming old town with its white, winding streets. Moreover, the lively center has many excellent taverns and bars to go out to, and some truly fantastic beaches such as Livadia Beach are located around the city. In addition, the ferry port is located right in the center. This makes Parikia a great choice for those who are island hopping and may only be able to spend a day or two in Paros. It is also an ideal starting point for exploring the island. From here you can explore the most beautiful highlights and attractions of Paros by bus, boat, rental car or quad.

The variety of excellent accommodations allows every traveler, whether a family with children, couples or solo travelers, to find the perfect hotel in Paros. In the narrow streets, near the port and on the beautiful beaches, you will find charming small hotels in the charming Cycladic style, many of them at reasonable prices.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Parikia:

  • Great 5-Star Hotel: The Paros Agnanti Hotel is a few minutes’ drive out of town, set in a gorgeous bay, and has a picture-perfect ambience.
  • Small, Charming Hotel: The Onira is a small, charming hotel with a pool near Parikia. The beach and the center are within walking distance.
  • Lovely Apartments: The popular Marioly Studios offer beautiful and tastefully decorated apartments of various sizes in a central location.

Chrissi Akti (Golden Beach)

The resort of Chrissi Akti, also known as Golden Beach, is a paradise for beach lovers, peace seekers and water sports enthusiasts, and definitely one of the best places to spend an unforgettable vacation by the sea in Paros. The relaxed atmosphere is exceptional. In addition, the mountains in the background and the turquoise sea create an absolute postcard scenery. This charming place is just perfect for a seaside vacation because you can spend the whole day sunbathing and water sports like surfing and snorkeling. There are also several windsurfing schools where you can take lessons or rent equipment. Along the long, golden sandy beach there is a wide range of excellent beach hotels, guesthouses and villas, many of which have swimming pools and direct access to the sea.

The tourism offer is also phenomenal. There are many excellent restaurants and beach bars that provide culinary delights and a wonderful vacation atmosphere. Moreover, you can also find some beautiful hotels on the beach, which are particularly suitable for families with children as well as for those seeking peace and quiet.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Chrissi Akti:

  • 5-Star Hotel by the Sea: The Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa is a great place to stay for that special vacation. The hotel complex is beautiful and the location is top!
  • Charming Hotel on the Beach: The Golden Beach Hotel is a beautifully decorated hotel on the gorgeous Golden Beach. A special recommendation are the rooms with sea view.
  • Fantastic Apartments: The Golden Sand Paros is a real insider tip for a stay in Paros. The apartments are very stylish and the location next to the beach is unbeatable.

Piso Livadi

The dreamy fishing village of Piso Livadi is a real insider tip for a relaxing vacation in Paros. Situated off the beaten tourist track on the romantic east coast of the island, it is an absolute paradise for individualists looking for an authentic Greek experience. Guests love the picturesque harbor with excellent restaurants where you can soak up the Mediterranean serenity and idyll. Staying in this area of Paros is simply perfect for getting away from it all and relaxing. Here you will find the most charming accommodations with sea views that promise wonderful peace and relaxation. What is also unique is the hospitality of the village, which you will be able to enjoy in the small guesthouses and family-run hotels as well.

Piso Livadi is a bit more remote, but you can still easily visit the most beautiful attractions of the island by renting a car, scooter or quad bike. In addition, the eastern side of Paros has many romantic highlights to offer, including the charming villages of Marpissa and Lefkes inland, as well as many beautiful beaches along the coast.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Piso Livadi:

  • Fantastic Luxury Hotel: The Summer Senses Luxury Resort is considered one of the best hotels on the island of Paros. It’s somewhat secluded and has a fabulous pool.
  • Lovely Family Run Hotel: The charming Akteon Hotel has a great location on the quiet beach of Logaras. The small harbor of Piso Livadi can be reached by a short walk from the hotel.
  • Fantastic Apartments: The Elena Sudios & Apartments offers excellent vacation rentals at a great price. The beach and the center are within walking distance.

Aliki

The charming little seaside village of Aliki in the south of Paros offers picturesque scenery that looks right out of a travel magazine, as well as a relaxed atmosphere. The seaside resort is still a true oasis of tranquility and offers a unique combination of traditional island flair, stunning beaches and excellent gastronomy. The main attraction of Aliki is undoubtedly the sandy beaches that are spread around the village. They are ideal for families with children as well as for water sports fans. Moreover, during a vacation in this place you can fully enjoy the local way of life. The picturesque promenade is lined with tavernas where you can taste fresh fish and other Greek delicacies. Furthermore, the surrounding area is also charming, and there are many excursions to be made from there.

The stunning places to stay in Aliki ranges from cozy family guesthouses, to beautiful hotels with pools, to stylish boutique hotels in typical Cycladic style. There are also some excellent beachfront hotels close to the village, right on the sea, where you can enjoy an unforgettable beach vacation.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Aliki:

  • Small Boutique Hotel: The Aphrodite Boutique Hotel is an affordable and tastefully decorated small family-run hotel located just 50 meters from the center of town.
  • Cozy Apartments: The Dahlia Apartments and Studios scores points with its beautiful vacation apartments in a quiet location and with a small swimming pool.
  • Apartments by the Sea: The Evita Apartments have an unbeatable location right on the beach. A recommendation is the Deluxe Apartment with a magnificent sea view.

Ambelas

The tiny seaside resort of Ambelas is a hidden gem on the northeastern coast of Paros, just 3.5 kilometers from the famous port town of Naoussa, and offers an absolutely relaxed vacation flair far away from the hustle and bustle of the tourists. Couples, regular guests and those seeking peace and quiet appreciate the unique charm of this small town. You will not find exciting nightlife and parties here! Instead, vacationers can expect a quiet oasis of peace and relaxation. Even in the high season, there is little going on here and you can spend a comfortable vacation. In addition, Ambelas and its surroundings offer several beautiful stretches of coastline for swimming and relaxing. Another advantage is its central location, which makes it a good starting point for exploring the island.

For a vacation, there are several cozy apartments and small resorts right by the sea. There are also very nice beaches for swimming and even a small cool beach club is located in the village. Ambelas is also known for its fish restaurants, where you can taste the freshest seafood in the Aegean.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Ambelas:

  • Beautiful 5-Star Hotel: The PAROCKS Luxury Hotel & Spa is a place to simply fall in love with! Guests can expect beautiful architecture, an infinity pool and a great breakfast.
  • Beautiful Studios: The Eleana Studios offers good and affordable accommodations for a vacation.  The Greek hospitality and cleanliness are also excellent.
  • Small Hotel with Pool: The Margarita Studios Ambelas impresses its guests with a pool and a fantastic breakfast. The sea is only 200 meters away.

Santa Maria

Located in the north of Paros, just 5 kilometers from Naoussa, the picturesque Santa Maria guarantees an unforgettable stay surrounded by beautiful nature and several picturesque beaches. This environment promises a perfect combination of activities, relaxation and nature experience, making it a real insider’s tip for an unforgettable trip to Paros. In addition to the breathtaking coastal scenery, Santa Maria also offers some cool beach bars and hip beach clubs with chill-out music where you can toast your vacation. Sports enthusiasts and active vacationers will find plenty of opportunities for water sports such as surfing, diving and snorkeling. This area is also great for hiking and biking along the coast.

Most of the accommodations in this area of Paros are upscale hotels, but there are also some excellent guesthouses with studios and apartments. Many of the accommodations are luxurious, with private pools, and are often in prime beachfront locations.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Santa Maria:

  • Beautiful Villas: The Sand Collection Villas offer beautiful villas for a relaxing vacation in Paros. Some even have stunning sea views.
  • Fantastic Boutique Hotel: The White Dunes Luxury Suites is a small, stylish boutique hotel on the beach. There’s a great pool and the breakfast is excellent.
  • Fantastic Hotel with Pool: The Blue Amaryllis Villas has a particularly nice design, with a lovely pool, a great breakfast terrace, and lots of privacy.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay on Paros

Naoussa is the obvious choice if you want nightlife, good restaurants and beaches all within reach, just book early since it fills up fast in summer. If you’re only on Paros for a day or two while island hopping, Parikia is the more practical option, the ferry port sits right in the center of town.

We stayed in Piso Livadi ourselves and it was exactly the right call for us, quieter than Naoussa, but still with good food and a pretty little harbor to spend an evening at. If you’re after some distance from the crowds without feeling completely cut off, we’d book it again without hesitation.

If water sports are part of your plan, Chrissi Akti or Santa Maria are the better picks, and Aliki is worth the drive south for the fresh fish along the promenade alone.


More about where to stay in Greece:

Keep Exploring

More about Greece

Santorini | Athens | Mykonos | Naxos | Milos | Sifnos | Folegandros


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Korcula: Top 5 Areas & Hotels

The wide range of fantastic places to stay in Korčula can feel overwhelming. From beautiful beachfront hotels and romantic boutique hotels to charming guesthouses, stylish apartments, vacation homes, and affordable backpacker hostels, there is a perfect accommodation for every type of traveler. But where on Korčula is the best area to stay? This stunning island offers numerous attractive resorts and many gorgeous beaches ideal for swimming and relaxation. Some locations are especially suitable for families with children, while others are better for couples or younger travelers. Every part of Korčula has its own charm and advantages, which makes it challenging to find both the ideal Korčula accommodation and the perfect location.

This guide focuses on where to stay in Korčula. We present the most beautiful resorts and the best areas for a vacation on the island, along with helpful hotel recommendations to support your travel planning.

 

Korcula Town

Korcula Town is definitely one of the most beautiful areas for where to stay in Korcula. The old town of Korcula, in particular, is absolutely charming, and a true paradise for those who want to experience the historical heritage of this island pearl firsthand. The medieval center attracts with unique flair, numerous interesting attractions and many romantic alleys. Impressive is also the historic city wall with the four towers, which characterizes the appearance of the city and reminds many even of the famous coastal metropolis Dubrovnik. With a good hotel in Korcula Town, you have the opportunity to experience the magical ambience of the old town first hand. Moreover, you can find really fabulous restaurants and authentic places to eat, which will make your vacation a perfect experience.

Right in the historic center, but also around the old town, you will find some of the best accommodations and hotels on Korcula. Whether upscale luxury, mid-range or budget, the range of places to stay is phenomenal. A vacation in Korcula city is recommended especially for couples, but also for those who like to stay as central as possible.

Best Hotels & Accommodations in Korcula Town:

  • Wonderful Heritage Hotel: The Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel is one of the best hotels on Korcula Island. It impresses with perfect location, top atmosphere and fabulous breakfast.
  • Charming Hotel by the Sea: The Hotel Korsal is a really recommendable hotel in Korcula, just a short walk from the old town and not far from the beach.
  • Apartment with a View: The Apartment Marina is a real insider tip. This vacation apartment is stylishly submitted and inspires with beautiful views.

Lumbarda

The resort of Lumbarda is for many one of the most amazing places for a wonderful beach vacation on the island of Korcula. Really unique are the numerous picturesque sandy beaches, which are actually rather rare in Croatia. Especially families with children, but also connoisseurs, older people and couples love this absolutely idyllic environment, where are many fantastic accommodations perfectly located directly by the sea. The landscape there with the many vineyards is uniquely beautiful and even if you do not live here, then a trip there is absolutely recommended. The area is also famous for its Grk wine, a delicious white wine that you can taste in the local wine bars.

In Lumbarda are definitely some of the best accommodation in Korcula. Most of the places to stay are vacation rentals, but there are also guesthouses and a few excellent hotels. In addition, you can quickly get to Korcula Old Town by bus or Taxiboat.

Best Hotels & Accommodations in Lumbarda:

  • Stunning Eco-Aparthotel: The ECO Aparthotel The Dreamers’s Club is a brilliant accommodation. Here, the quiet location and the romantic, playful furnishings are inspiring.
  • Apartment with Pool: The apartments Villa Julija are located in a quiet, beautiful bay near Lumbarda. Guests love the enchanting grounds and the great pool.
  • Apartments on the Beach: The Apartments Lumbarda Beach offer accommodation in several sizes. The location is also great, just a few steps from the beautiful beach.

Vela Luka

Beautiful Vela Luka is a charming resort on the western end of the island of Korcula, about 40 kilometers from the island’s capital. This is also where the ferry from Split docks, although most tourists are drawn to the east of the island after their arrival. Probably one reason why this resort has remained absolutely quiet, charming and authentic to this day. Travelers appreciate in Vela Luka primarily the cozy flair that surrounds this resort. Absolutely charming is the marvelous harbor with the promenade, which conjures up a grandiose backdrop with the boats. On top of that, around Vela Luka there are numerous fantastic natural treasures, including gorgeous beaches in picturesque landscapes. You can also reach the famous island of Proizd by cab boat.

Vela Luka has a good offer of accommodation, many of them in the low price segment. In the surroundings of Vela Luka there are also nice vacation houses with pool. Especially for travelers who want to get off the typical tourist track, a charming hotel or a nice accommodation in this area is a fabulous tip!

Best Hotels & Accommodations in Vela Luka:

  • Lovely Boutique Hotel: The Boutique rooms Kastel Ismaeli is a fabulous hotel tip for Korcula. This accommodation scores with beautiful rooms and top location at the harbor.
  • Vacation Home with Pool: The Villa Goga is a beautiful vacation home with pool in a quiet beach location, just outside the town. The perfect place for the family or small groups.
  • Apartments at the Harbor: The Apartments Sunshine Home offer really nice, top equipped vacation apartments, studios and rooms in picturesque location at the harbor.

Račišće & Kneza

The dreamy coastal resorts of Račišće and Kneza are located on the quiet north coast of the island and are a fabulous tip for anyone looking for something special. Here you can experience Korcula from an absolutely idyllic side, because surrounded by olive trees, beautiful bathing spots and quiet villages, this region is truly picturesque. Enchanting are also the many small rustic bays of this coastal section, which invite you to spend relaxing hours by the sea. The tourist center with the old town of Korcula is also only about 10 kilometers away from here. For a perfect vacation, there are some great options for where to stay, mostly charming private run apartments or guesthouses. Along the coast there are also modern vacation homes and villas for rent, and you can also find campsites in this region.

The coast around Račišće and Kneza is a place to stay in Korcula for connoisseurs, individualists, and for those who want to spend a quiet vacation by the sea. Many of the accommodations have something special, are small hideaways with pools or modern apartments by the sea. However, a car is required if you want to explore the rest of the island as well.

Best Hotels & Accommodations in Račišće and Kneza:

  • Apartment Complex with Pool: The Kis Residence is a charming apartment complex with pool, very quietly located with a wonderful view of the sea. The breakfast is also very tasty.
  • Fantastic Apartment: The Captain’s Attic is a chic apartment with a stunning view of the sea. The beautiful furnishings in the apartment and the balcony are also great.
  • Apartments by the Sea: The Marula Apartment has a superb location directly by the sea. Guests love the beautiful furnishings and the fascinating view from the terrace.

Zavalatica (Zitna Bay)

The small island town of Zavalatica is just perfect if you are looking or a calm place to stay in Korcula. Here you will find a fine selection of beautiful accommodations, many also at a reasonable price. The village is somewhat secluded, located in an enchanting bay and so you can always enjoy a fabulous view of the turquoise sea during your vacation. Only a short walk away, there is also the stunning sandy beach Zitna, one of the absolutely most amazing beaches on Korcula, which is ideal for a beach vacation. Fabulous is also the small but fine tourist offer in the charming village, where you can find a few shops, cafes and also good restaurants.

Zavalatica is located on the quiet southern coast of Korcula, and also some dreamy inland villages can be reached from here in no time. It is about 30 kilometers to the island’s capital Korcula, but it is definitely recommended to have your own car for island explorations, as Zavalatica is not connected to the public transport network.

Best Hotels & Accommodations in Zavalatica:

  • Chic Apartments: The MT Residence Apartments offers beautiful vacation homes in various sizes. The view of the bay is also stunning.
  • Accommodation by the Sea: The House Riva is a dreamy little vacation home with a balcony directly on the promenade of the romantic village of Zavalatica.
  • Apartments near the Beach: The Apartments Gita are a great choice for a vacation on Korcula. The beautiful sandy beach is also only a few minutes’ walk away from here.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay on Korcula

We split our time between two areas ourselves, Lumbarda first, then a week in Vela Luka to explore the western half of the island, and that combination worked well if you want to see more than just the old town.

Lumbarda is the better base if a proper sandy beach matters to you, that’s genuinely rare on this island, and Korcula Town is only a short bus or taxi boat ride away. Vela Luka is quieter than anywhere in the east, most tourists don’t make it out that far, which is exactly what makes the harbor and surrounding beaches feel so relaxed. If you’re staying in either area and have a car, Račišće and Kneza are worth a half-day trip, and Zavalatica’s Zitna Beach is one of the best on the island, just budget more driving time than the map suggests.


More travel guides about Korcula:

Keep Exploring

Read more about Croatia

Split | Pula | Zagreb | Krk | Zadar | Rovinj | Istria | DalmatiaHvar | Makarska | Brac | Porec | Trogir | Sibenik | Crikvenica | Rijeka | Opatija | Rab | Murter | Primosten | Umag | Medulin | Vodice | Vir | Nin | Biograd | Omis | Novigrad | Vrsar | Ugljan | Pasman | SenjRabac | Dugi Otok | Solta | Cavtat | Croatia

Where to stay in Croatia

Where to stay in Zagreb | Where to stay in Split | Where to stay in Dubrovnik | Where to stay in ZadarWhere to stay in Rovinj | Where to stay in Pula | Where to stay in Hvar | Where to stay in Makarska


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Athens: Top 7 Areas & Hotels!

The wide range of amazing places to stay in Athens will make your city trip to the Greek capital truly unforgettable. Whether you are traveling as a couple, solo traveler, family with children, or a younger visitor, Athens offers the perfect accommodation for every type of traveler. Most places to stay are hotels, but you will also find a great selection of charming guesthouses, stylish vacation apartments, and budget-friendly hostels throughout the city. As Athens is a large metropolis with 91 different neighborhoods, many travelers wonder which is the best area to stay in Athens. Some districts are ideal for sightseeing, shopping, and nightlife due to their central location, while others offer a quieter and more local atmosphere. Choosing the right area and accommodation can therefore make a big difference for your stay.

This travel guide focuses on where to stay in Athens. You’ll discover the best areas of the city along with helpful hotel and accommodation recommendations to make your travel planning easier and more enjoyable.

 

Monastiraki

Choosing an accommodation in the colorful neighborhood of Monastiraki is a fantastic choice for a city trip to the Greek capital. It is located between the old town Plaka and the famous shopping street Ermou. Many of the most stunning things to do in Athens can be experienced from here in no time. Among them are the Roman Agora, the Ancient Agora as well as Hadrian’s Library and also the Acropolis is within walking distance from Monastiraki Square. The neighborhood is also known for its Monastiraki flea market and the many walking streets, which are ideal for shopping. In addition, there are numerous taverns and restaurants in the lively neighborhood, where guests can watch the hustle and bustle. The rooftop bars are also a really cool feature, offering a magnificent view of the Acropolis.

The lively Monastiraki is especially recommended for those who want to stay close to the main attractions and reach them on foot. You’ll find a great range of accommodation in the neighborhood, including some of the hippest hotels in Athens. You can even enjoy a great view of the Acropolis from some of the best places to stay.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Monastiraki:

  • Hotel with Rooftopbar: The A for Athens is one of the trendiest hotels in Athens. It is in a top location in the center and inspires with a legendary rooftop bar.
  • Stylish Apartments: The Nsplace offers variously sized, modern vacation apartments in the heart of Athens. Guests love the chic style and top location.
  • Apartments with a View: The Auntie’s Home is an insider tip! These apartments are a real dream and the beautiful view of the Acropolis is also unbeatable.

Psiri

Psiri, or often spelled Psyri, is definitely one of the coolest places to stay in Athens. This trendy neighborhood is located northwest of Monastiraki and extends to the Central Market. There is always something going on here, and the atmosphere in the colorful streets is also unique. You can enjoy chic restaurants, there are taverns with live music and a vibrant nightlife with hip bars as well as clubs where you can party until morning. Especially young people, and those who love to go out, will enjoy this hip Athens neighborhood. Moreover, Psiri is home to some of the best boutique hotels in Athens, which score with original design and unique atmosphere. Not far from Monastiraki, the city’s main attractions are also within quick walking distance.

The vibrant Psiri neighborhood is legendary in Athens and a top choice for a unique city break in the Greek capital. This is where Athens lives! On a vacation, you’ll get to know the hip side of the Greek metropolis, enjoy a fabulous range of restaurants and nightlife options, and many of the accommodations in the neighborhood are also truly recommendable.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Psiri:

  • Budget Hotel: The BED in Athens is a nice, inexpensive hotel in the middle of the lively Psiri neighborhood, just a few steps from the many taverns and cool bars.
  • Boutique Hotel: The MiraMe Athens Boutique Hotel-House has a great location in the center and the breakfast on the roof terrace with a view of the Acropolis is brilliant.
  • Beautiful Aparthotel: The Foundry Suites is a beautiful aparthotel and an insider tip for staying in the coolest district of Athens. The roof terrace is also really fabulous!

Syntagma

Syntagma Square is one of the most important public squares in the Greek metropolis. Moreover, in this area there are some of the best hotels in Athens, perfect for an exceptional stay in the city center. Many of the accommodations are 5-star or 4-star hotels, but there are also private apartments. Also known as the Constitution Square, it is located just across the street from the Parliament building and the charming National Garden is also just a few steps away. It is a true oasis of tranquility and the optimal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. In addition, Ermou Street, the city’s most famous shopping street, begins at Syntagma Square. There is also a subway that will take you to other attractions of the city.

In the Syntagma district, you can actually find quite stunning accommodations in Athens. Prices are a bit more expensive there than in the outer districts, but you enjoy the advantage of being in the center and within walking distance of many famous places and attractions. Fabulous is also the selection of good 5-star hotels, which are best suited for a luxurious vacation in Athens.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Syntagma:

  • 5-Star Grand Hotel: The Hotel Grande Bretagne is a stunning, luxurious hotel in the heart of Athens. The view from the rooftop bar is also a real highlight.
  • Chic Design Hotel: The InnAthens is an absolutely stylish design hotel in a brilliant location. Guests also love the delicious breakfast and the relaxed flair in the hotel.
  • Stylish 5-Star Hotel: The Electra Metropolis is one of the popular 5-star hotels in Athens. The chic restaurant on the roof terrace is also a real must-visit!

Plaka

The wonderfully pretty neighborhood of Plaka is one of the oldest parts of Athens and definitely one of the most charming places to stay. This romantic neighborhood is located beneath the Acropolis and is therefore also known as the neighborhood of the gods. Here you can experience the Greek capital from its most beautiful side during a vacation. The colorful old townhouses are absolutely lovely, with some of the buildings even dating back to the 18th century. Pretty are the many adorable cafés and restaurants that invite guests to linger. In addition, you’ll find some of the best accommodations in Athens in the neighborhood, including mainly vacation rentals and small but fine hotels as well as guesthouses. Also worth visiting is the adjacent Anafiotika neighborhood on the outskirts of Plaka, where the snow-white houses remember of the charm of the Greek Cyclades.

Plaka is especially recommended for couples, for individualists and for connoisseurs, or simply for all those who are looking for that very special Athens feeling. The neighborhood is lively without being overcrowded. There are beautiful boutiques for shopping, fabulous restaurants for having a romantic dinner, and really lovely accommodations. It’s also a quick walk to the center of town.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Plaka:

  • Charming Villa: The Tripodon Plaka a modern villa in the heart of Plaka. With 3 bedrooms, it offers plenty of space and is a great choice for families and small groups.
  • Perfect Vacation Rental: The Athens Authentic Elegance is an insider tip. The vacation rental is authentically furnished and located in wonderful right under the Acropolis.
  • Nice 4-Star Hotel: The Ava Hotel and Suites is a stylish hotel. It’s located in a terrific location in the middle of a quiet side street and the breakfast is perfect too!

Makrygianni

A recommendation for a city break to Athens is the neighborhood of Makrygianni. This picturesque area is located around the famous Acropolis Museum, and the Acropolis is also not far from there. This neighborhood delights in many ways right away. Firstly, it is the optimal starting point for sightseeing and exploring Athens. Here you will stay particularly central in the city center and can explore all the important sights over a walk. On the other hand, the neighborhood is really charming, very clean, wonderfully green, and you enjoy a pleasant flair. The car-free avenue is also a dream, with fabulous restaurants and cafés to enjoy in the neoclassical houses.

Makrygianni is one of the upscale neighborhoods in Athens, which is especially appreciated by families with children, but also couples as well as solo travelers. You will find numerous good apartments, some trendy boutiques for shopping as well as good dining options. Moreover, the atmosphere in the neighborhood is very pleasant, relaxed and safe.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Makrygianni:

  • Ingenious Hotel with Pool: The Coco-mat Athens BC is a real insider tip in Athens. Guests love the hip design as well as the rooftop terrace with pool and top views of the Acropolis.
  • Large Vacation Home: The Contemporary Acropolis House is a lovely vacation home and offers enough space for a group or family to spend a few nice days.
  • Fantastic Apartment: The Star Acropolis Apartment is a fabulous choice. Here, the chic decor, a terrific location, and the rooftop terrace with a view score points.

Kolonaki

The charming neighborhood of Kolonaki is one of the finest areas in Athens. It is located near the city’s Mount Lycabettus, which can be reached by cog railroad or hiking trail. In this chic neighborhood are some of the most expensive boutiques in the city, there are local designer stores and numerous galleries. The gastronomic offer with excellent restaurants, wine bars and elegant cocktail bars also invite enjoying yourself in an exclusive ambience. Well known is Tsakalof Street, where many locals meet for coffee or cocktails. Of course, in Kolonaki there are also really chic accommodations that are best suited for a stylish stay in Athens. Many of these are vacation rentals, but there are also excellent hotels for a vacation.

Kolonaki is a great choice for where to stay in Athens, especially if you want to sleep in one of the most attractive neighborhoods in the city. There is something going on here at any time of the day, there are excellent shopping possibilities in the designer stores, or you can enjoy culinary delights. In addition, the neighborhood is very safe and clean. Perfect also if you travel as families.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Kolonaki:

  • Chic Design Hotel: The Project 3 Urban Chic Hotel is a small, cool design hotel in a wonderful location. The delicious breakfast and nice service are also fantastic.
  • Elegant Apartments: The Denise Luxury Apartment-Centre is a nice choice for a vacation. The apartments are tastefully decorated and cozy.
  • Small Apartment with Style: The Cultural Athens is a nice small apartment in a quiet street with orange trees and not far from restaurants and stores.

Koukaki

Koukaki is located in the southeastern part of the city center and is a real insider tip if you want to get to know the authentic Athenian flair off the typical tourist paths. Here you live in an up-and-coming, yet less-touristy neighborhood and thus get to know daily Greek life at its best. Moreover, the culinary offer in Koukaki is really excellent. The small pedestrian streets are lined with fantastic bars, colorfully decorated taverns and excellent snack bars that invite guests to enjoy and linger. In addition, there are traditional bakeries where you can buy the best baked goods in town. The prices are also a hit, so you won’t find any overpriced tourist restaurants here.

Staying in Koukaki is a unique experience, especially if you want to stay where Athenians live. In the neighborhood of Koukaki there are still not any big hotels until today. Most of the accommodations are privately owned apartments. Moreover, many of the parking spaces are free of charge, perfect if you’re getting there by car.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Koukaki:

  • Chic Apartment: The Acropolis Urban Lifestyle Apartment is a definitely great place to stay. It is cozy and chic at the same time, and the quiet location is also top.
  • Modern Aparthotel: The Great Living Koukaki offers different sized, really charming apartments, which have been furnished with great attention to detail.
  • Large Apartment: The Blue Ark Comfort near Acropolis is a top choice. Guests love the beautiful decor, and the location close to local restaurants is also brilliant.

Map of the Best Neighborhoods in Athens

If you want to get an better overview of the best neighborhoods in Athens, you can find them marked on the map below. To help you find your way around, the best neighborhoods are marked with turquoise stars. In addition, we have summarized the advantages of the most popular places to stay in Athens at a glance.

  • Where to Stay for First-Timers: Any of the 7 neighborhoods mentioned above
  • Where to Stay for Nightlife: Psiri, Koukaki
  • Where to Stay for Luxurious Hotels: Syntagma, Makrygianni, Psiri
  • Where to Stay for Shopping: Monastiraki, Syntagma, Plaka, Kolonaki
  • Where to Stay for Local Life: Plaka, Koukaki, Kolonaki
  • Where to Stay for Food & Drinks: Plaka, Psiri, Koukaki, Monastiraki

 

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay in Athens

We stayed in Makrygianni ourselves and barely used anything but our own two feet the entire trip, the Acropolis, the museum, and half the city’s best sights were all within easy walking distance. For a first visit where sightseeing is the priority, we’d choose it again without hesitation.

For a second trip, though, Plaka would be our pick. It has a romantic quality that Makrygianni doesn’t quite match, something about the old townhouses and the quiet streets under the Acropolis just makes you want to slow down and stay longer.

Psiri and Koukaki work better if nightlife matters to you, neither felt like it was built for tourists, which made a real difference. Syntagma is worth the higher price tag if you’d rather have everything within a five-minute walk and don’t mind paying for that convenience.


More about where to stay in Greece:

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More about Greece

Santorini | Mykonos | Naxos | Paros | Milos | Sifnos


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Top 10 Stunning Beaches in Ios

The many beautiful beaches in Ios make the island a perfect choice for an unforgettable summer vacation in Greece. There are reportedly over 35 different bays around the island, some of which have even been awarded the Blue Flag. Velvety white sand, stunning turquoise waters and an incredibly idyllic setting attract sun-seeking tourists from all over the world. Many of the most famous beaches are located in the west of the island, not far from the capital Chora and the popular resort of Mylopotas. However, you can also find incredibly beautiful beaches and often very secluded bays in other parts of the island as well. We’ve made our way to all ten of the beaches in this guide ourselves, and with this many great options, not every one is worth the extra effort to reach. But which are the absolute beach highlights on Ios, which are the real insider tips, and which bay is particularly suitable for a dream vacation by the sea?

In this travel guide, we reveal the 10 best beaches of Ios in Greece. We show you great pictures and give you numerous tips and information to help you plan your next vacation.

 

Paralia Gialos Beach

The Paralia Gialos Beach is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Ios. It is just a short walk from the center of the main port, and the chora is easily reached by bus, scooter or rental car. This long, crescent-shaped bay is a real eye-catcher and delights tourists with its fabulously pretty sea colors. Even in high season, this beach is quiet and never crowded, which guarantees a pleasant vacation feeling. In addition, the crystal clear sea is particularly shallow in this part of the coast, which is appreciated by families with small children, the elderly and non-swimmers.

The tourist offer of Paralia Gialos beach is also optimal. Just behind the bay, there are some good accommodations for a beach vacation on the island of Ios, and several tavernas and bars in the area provide the necessary catering.

Tip: The Petra Holiday Village is a perfect choice for a beach vacation in Ios. Guests love the cute little complex and the proximity to Gialos beach is also excellent!

Milopotas Beach

The stunning Milopotas Beach is not only a really famous beach on Ios, but also one of the most beautiful bays on the island. Especially young people who like to party and celebrate will find their own personal holiday paradise on this velvety sandy beach. There are plenty of cool beach bars and beach clubs, such as the legendary FarOut Beach Club, as well as cute tavernas and a few boutiques for your shopping needs. Moreover, there is a wide range of water sports and a diving school offers dives and courses. Those who wish can also book boat trips to other beaches in the area.

The proximity to Chora, the capital of Ios, which is located on a small hill above the resort, is also fabulous. It is only 2 kilometers from Mylopotas beach and can be easily reached by bus, rental car or scooter.

Tip: The Dionysos Seaside Resort is a really awesome place to stay! Also really great are the free sunbeds at the beach provided for guests.

Koumpara Beach

One of the best beaches in Ios is Koumpara Beach, located just 3 kilometers from the port of Ios. The picturesque scenery with the small peninsula, on which a small chapel is located, is particularly unique and gives a breathtaking ambience to the whole of the coastline. This beach even flies the Blue Flag, an award for the best quality and facilities. During the high season, the luxurious EREGO Beach Club opens its doors, offering beautiful facilities and a lot of flair. Furthermore, there is also a small tavern nearby serving fresh seafood with a fantastic view of the beach.

Koumpara Beach is a fabulous tip for wonderful days of swimming on Ios. Fine, soft sand, gently sloping sea and romantic surroundings make this bay unique. You will also find nice beach bars and watersports are offered.

Tip: There are only a few accommodations around the bay. A good choice is the Ios Seaside House, which has fantastic views and a small pool.

Paralia Papa Beach (Calilo Hotel)

The Paralia Papa beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Ios In this dreamlike bay there is a picturesque sandy beach with crystal clear sea and the most spectacular blue colors of the water. But there is one drawback. Paralia Papa beach is located on the eastern side of the island and is difficult to access. Behind the cove is the world-famous, very exclusive Calilo Hotel, which many may know from Instagram pictures. Access to the beach may be difficult at the moment, but it is not impossible. For non-hotel guests, a hidden and steep path leads down to the bay.

A great alternative nearby is Kalamos Beach. This stretch of coastline boasts a long, golden sandy beach nestled in a picturesque postcard landscape. Thanks to its seclusion, this beach is still a real insider tip!

Tip: The Calilo Hotel is probably the most famous 5-star hotel on Ios. Guests love the artistic, extravagant decor and the individual rooms and suites.

Tzamaria Beach

The Tzamaria Beach is an insider tip among the best hidden bays on Ios. Tucked away under the coastal road between Paralia Gialos and Paralia Koumpara, it is known only to locals. A path leads down to a small cove, where the turquoise blue sea and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery will inspire you. This tiny cove is set in beautiful natural surroundings and is especially recommended for couples and those seeking peace and quiet. Another plus is that the sea is very shallow and there are hardly any waves thanks to the sheltered location of this stretch of coast.

For a swim away from the hustle and bustle of the typical main beaches, Tzamaria beach is a fabulous choice. With no sunbeds or bars, you can enjoy the natural surroundings and relaxed beach atmosphere.

Magganari Beach

A real highlight of the island is the magnificent Magganari Beach, considered by connoisseurs to be the most beautiful beach on Ios. The iconic W-shape of the bay, which offers an incomparable panorama, is particularly unique. The double bay is surrounded by an idyllic landscape and the white sand with the turquoise blue sea create a true postcard scene. Thanks to its secluded location, it is never crowded even in high season, which promises unforgettable days of swimming on Ios. Umbrellas and sun loungers are available for rent and are even free of charge in the off-season.

Thanks to its location, Magganari beach is well protected from the wind and waves. In addition, the crystal clear sea is particularly shallow, which families with children will appreciate. During the season, the Grand Blue Restaurant, a highly recommended tavern, provides the necessary catering.

Tip: Beyond the beach there are a few accommodations for a very quiet vacation on Ios. We recommend the charming Magganari View Village with pool!

Kolitsani Nudist Beach

A particularly beautiful hidden cove is the Kolitsani Nudist Beach, one of the best nudist beaches on Ios. It is located near the Chora and can be reached from the parking lot by a 10-minute walk on a rather rocky path. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Once you arrive, a small, romantic bay straight out of a travel magazine awaits you. The water is very clean and has a beautiful emerald green color. This beach on Ios is also ideal for snorkeling, as you can see lots of fish and even starfish underwater.

Kolitsani beach is a nudist beach on Ios, but nudism is not mandatory and swimwear is tolerated. There are no tavernas or bars nearby, so you should bring some food and drinks with you.

Agia Theodoti Beach

The wonderful Paralia Agia Theodoti is a real gem on Ios and definitely one of the beaches that should not be missed on any vacation. This picturesque, elongated bay is very remote in the northeast of the island, but can be easily reached by scooter or rental car. Already the view from the coastal road all the way down to the dreamy beach is legendary. Once you arrive, you will be greeted by a beautiful, velvety sandy beach with turquoise blue water and a unique tranquility. The whole area is absolutely idyllic and the perfect place for relaxation.

Inexpensive umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent at Agia Theodoti beach during the high season. There’s also plenty of space to spread out your own towel in this bay. Refreshments are available from a small food stall at the lower end of the beach.

Loretzaina Beach

The Loretzaina Beach is located on the secluded west coast of Ios island, about 6 kilometers from Ios town, and is a perfect choice for those looking for a quiet and very natural hidden beach. If you’re lucky, you might even have the whole bay to yourself in the off-season. There are no sunbeds or tavernas, so you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the main beaches. Particularly beautiful is the unique idyll that surrounds this natural cove. The sea is a beautiful turquoise, and thanks to the natural environment there are also excellent snorkeling opportunities.

There are no shady spots on Loretzaina beach, so bring plenty of sunscreen and a small umbrella if necessary. The best way to get there is by rental car or scooter. There are several parking lots behind the bay.

Psathi Beach

One of the highlights of Ios is the magnificent Psathi Beach! It is very secluded on the quiet east coast of the island, but can be easily reached by rental car or scooter. The road to get there is picturesque in itself and the drive there is an unforgettable experience. A first class Cycladic flair awaits you at Psathi beach. The golden sand, the turquoise blue of the sea and the relaxed atmosphere guarantee unforgettable beach days on Ios. The water is beautifully clear and ideal for snorkeling. There are a few tamarisk trees behind the beach, which provide pleasant shade, especially on hot summer days.

At Psathi Beach, the facilities for tourists are good as well. In the high season there are some umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and there is a tavern nearby that serves delicious traditional Greek food.

Tip: The Psathi Beach is a wonderful choice for a very quiet vacation on Ios. The small Psathi Beach Hotel is located right on the beach with a wonderful view of the sea.

Conclusion: Which Beach on Ios Is Right for You?

Ios has something for almost every kind of traveler. Mylopotas is the easy choice if you want beach clubs and water sports within walking distance of Chora. Magganari sits at the other end of the spectrum, that W-shaped double bay stays remarkably empty even in August, which feels almost surprising given how lively the rest of the island gets at night.

We wouldn’t bother with the steep climb down to Paralia Papa Beach, honestly. With this many stunning beaches on Ios that are just as beautiful and far easier to reach, the effort doesn’t pay off the way it might on an island with fewer options. Magganari or Agia Theodoti give you that same secluded feeling without the scramble down a rocky path.

Care about water quality specifically? Koumpara has the Blue Flag for a reason. And if you’re on Ios mainly for the nightlife but still want to swim during the day, Tzamaria sits conveniently between Gialos and Koumpara, quiet enough that you won’t run into the same crowd you saw out the night before.


More Beaches in Greece:

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More about Greece

Santorini | Athens | Mykonos | Naxos | Paros | Milos | Sifnos | Folegandros


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

The 7 Best Beaches in Peschiera del Garda

The many beautiful beaches in Peschiera del Garda are ideal for a beach vacation on Lake Garda. Around the colorful old town, sun seekers will find a whole series of dreamy bays, including pebble, sand beaches and stone beaches, which will inspire visitors with their indescribable idyll. On top, most of the beaches are not far from the city center and can be reached on foot or by bicycle. Fantastic turquoise blue water, perfect cleanliness and a wide range of tourist activities all score extra points. We spent several weeks in the region and visited, tested and photographed every single beach on this list ourselves. But which are the most beautiful beaches in Peschiera del Garda, what are the insider tips, and which bays are particularly suitable for an unforgettable vacation?

In this travel guide, we reveal the top 7 best beaches in Peschiera del Garda in Italy. We also show you great pictures and give you lots of tips and information to help you plan your vacation.

 

Lido Cappuccini Beach

The Spiaggia dei Cappuccini, better known as Lido Cappuccini, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Peschiera del Garda. This enchanting pebble beach is located to the west of the town center and can be reached on foot in just a few minutes along the romantic “Lungolago Mazzini” promenade. Visitors love the enchanting setting with its turquoise water, golden yellow pebbles and Mediterranean flair. The entrance to the lake is quite shallow, and a beach bar provides refreshments, making the Cappuccini Lido beach popular with families with children and senior citizens. Sunbeds and pedal boats are also available for hire.

Tip: For a beach vacation at Spiaggia dei Cappuccini, we recommend the DOLCERIVA – The Lakefront Suite, in a prime location just behind the beach and with a view of the lake.

Braccobaldo Dog Beach

The Braccobaldo Dog Beach is located about 3 kilometers from the center of Peschiera del Garda and is a true vacation paradise for four-legged friends and their owners. Dogs are able to let off steam, play and swim in Lake Garda without a leash on this separate, beautiful stretch of the lake shore. This popular dog beach is also completely fenced in and sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire at a reasonable price. Moreover, this stretch of beach is also very clean and there are good tourist facilities with cafés, toilets and showers.

Tip: There is a good choice of apartments close to the beach. Villa Lori Apartments Garden and Beach is particularly popular with dog owners.

Bergamini Beach

An enchanting place to swim in Peschiera del Garda is the Bergamini Beach. This small pebble cove is located just behind a marina near Cappuccini Beach and is one of the quietest beaches in the area. The turquoise water is also a dream and will definitely make you want to jump into the cool water. During the summer months, a small beach bar opens, offering inexpensive sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. Vacationers at Spiaggia Bergamini can also take advantage of the opportunity to rent a pedal boat or stand-up board to explore the beautiful coastline of Peschiera.

Tip: The wonderful Vision Hotel is an insider’s tip for a beach vacation in Peschiera del Garda. It is located right behind the beach and even has a pool!

Camping Bella Italia Beach

The Camping Bella Italia Beach is located directly at the campsite of the same name, but can also be visited by non-campers free of charge. It is a beautiful, very romantic stretch of coast with reed beds, several pebble beaches and a picturesque Mediterranean atmosphere. Just behind it is the “Passeggiata Clelia Guazzi Leoncini” promenade, an ideal place for cycling, jogging or long walks along the beach to the town center. All in all, a magnificent beach for relaxing days at Peschiera del Garda.

Tip: The popular Camping Bella Italia also offers various accommodation options, such as mobile homes and apartments, in perfect proximity to the beach.

Vecchio Mulino Beach

A little gem in Peschiera del Garda is the Vecchio Mulino Beach. It is located right next to the famous “Vecchio Mulino Beach” restaurant and is connected to the famous Cappuccino Beach and Camping Bella Italia Beach by the promenade. Vacationers love the unique idyll where the fine pebble beach and the turquoise-blue Lake Garda create an enchanting picture-book atmosphere. The adjacent reed lagoon, where you can observe numerous birds, is also extremely scenic. If you like, you can also rent a kayak or pedal boat nearby to explore other beautiful swimming spots in Peschiera.

Lido Campanello Beach

The Lido Campanello Beach is a popular swimming spot for campers in Peschiera. This pebble beach is located directly in front of the “Del Garda Village and Camping” complex, north of the town center, on the border between Castelnuovo del Garda and Peschiera del Garda. It is characterized by its rocky and pebbly shore, along which a charming promenade runs. Long piers provide access to Lake Garda and are ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. There is not much natural shade, but sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented just behind the promenade.

Lido ai Pioppi Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Peschiera del Garda is Lido ai Pioppi. It is located just north of the town center, next to the small Porto Bruno Manfredi marina and the Monkey Beach Bar. This section of the lake shore features a beautifully landscaped pebble beach, ideal for families with children and the elderly. Parasols and sun loungers are available for rent, but these can get booked up quickly in high season. There is also a small area of green grass just behind the beach where you can sunbathe.

Tip: There are campgrounds and several apartments near the beach. Recommended is the Princess Apartment in a quiet location.

Conclusion: Which Peschiera del Garda Beach Should You Choose?

For an easy beach day without needing a car, Lido Cappuccini is hard to beat, it’s the closest to the old town and the shallow entry makes it a safe pick for families. If you’re traveling with your dog, Braccobaldo is really the only sensible choice on this list, being fully fenced and leash-free makes a real difference compared to squeezing onto a regular beach.

Bergamini is the one we’d point you to if the other beaches feel too busy, tucked behind the marina, it stays noticeably quieter than the more central spots. Campers at Camping Bella Italia or Del Garda Village don’t need to go looking elsewhere, Camping Bella Italia Beach and Lido Campanello are both right on site and just as nice as the beaches further into town.

If you’re staying somewhere in between, Vecchio Mulino and Lido ai Pioppi both work well as a stop along the promenade, close enough to reach on foot, with just enough distance from the center to feel less crowded in peak season.


More Beaches at Lake Garda:


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

The 6 Best Beaches in Bardolino

The beautiful beaches in Bardolino make this resort a fantastic choice for a vacation on Lake Garda. Along the picturesque shores of the lake, you will find countless bathing spots with dreamy water colors and a unique atmosphere that invites you to relax and linger. Most of the bays are fine, picturesque pebble beaches, which also offer fantastic tourist facilities and plenty of vacation flair. In addition, the beaches of Bardolino are all connected by a seafront promenade and are therefore easily accessible by bike or on foot. We spent time at every beach on this list ourselves, and Spiaggia di Bardolino with its long green lawns ended up being our favorite for an easy, relaxed day by the water. But which are the absolute best beaches in Bardolino, what are the insider tips and which places are particularly suitable for a beach vacation?

In this travel guide, we will reveal the best beaches in Bardolino at Lake Garda in Italy. We also show you great pictures and give you numerous tips and information to help you plan your trip.

 

Mirabello Beach

The Mirabello beach is definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Bardolino. It is very close to the town center and can be reached in a few minutes walking along the Lungolago Roma promenade. Particularly charming are the many small pebble coves, which, together with the turquoise blue water and the green trees, create a real picture book setting. Furthermore, the lake is beautifully clear, very clean and the beach is gently sloping, which families with children will appreciate. Mirabello beach also has a great lido at the upper end where you can rent sun loungers.

Tip: The MaisonMe Boutique Hotel is an insider’s tip for a beach vacation in Bardolino. It has a prime location right on the beach and the overall design is a highlight.

Spiaggia di Bardolino Beach

The Spiaggia di Bardolino, also known as Passeggiata Rivalunga, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. This absolutely idyllic stretch of beach is located right next to the campsites north of Bardolino in the direction of Garda. The long green lawns with plenty of space for sunbathing and relaxation are truly unique. Furthermore, the pebble beaches are also relatively shallow and offer easy access to the cool water. There is also a promenade just behind the beach, which is ideal for bike rides or long walks to the nearest town of Garda. A wonderful beach for a relaxing day of swimming in Bardolino.

Tip: Behind the beach, there are several campsites with mobile homes and apartments, such as the really cool La Rocca Camping Village or Camping Serenella.

Cisano Center Beach

A truly enchanting place for swimming and sunbathing is the Cisano Center Beach. This pretty little swimming spot is located in the Cisano district, right in the center, about 2.5 kilometers from Bardolino. The romantic ambiance is simply enchanting, with turquoise blue water, Mediterranean trees and pretty buildings that create an absolutely romantic backdrop. The small pebble beach offers easy access to the crystal clear waters of the lake, perfect for cooling off after a long walk. There are also fantastic restaurants nearby to satisfy your culinary needs.

Punta Cornicello Beach

The Punta Cornicello Beach is a wonderful place to walk and unwind. Located north of Bardolino, it is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. The special feature of this section of the lakefront is the romantic promenade, which is adorned with a variety of colorful flowers, trees and comfortable benches. For your culinary needs, there are a number of good restaurants and cafés. At the top of Punta Cornicello beach there is a large Ferris wheel from which you can enjoy a wonderful view of Lake Garda and Bardolino.

Spiaggia Lido di Cisano

The Spiaggia Lido di Cisano is one of the most famous places for swimming in Bardolino. This beach is located on the tree-lined promenade just before Cisano, about 2 kilometers from the center of Bardolino. There are inexpensive parking facilities just behind the beach, which can also be easily reached on foot or by bicycle. It is characterized by a rocky shore with a charming promenade along the coast. A small pebble beach or a few steps over the rocks provide access to Lake Garda. The green lawn for sunbathing at the back of the beach and the cool beach bars are also very charming.

Tip: The area of Cisano offers some good accommodations for a vacation in Bardolino. Recommended is the family-run 3-star Hotel Bel Sito, located right on the lake.

La Cavalla Garda Beach

A real jewel of Lake Garda is the La Cavalla Garda Beach. Located on the edge of the village of Garda, it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches near Bardolino. Vacationers love the unique mix of fine pebble beach, turquoise water and Mediterranean ambience that make this part of the lake the perfect place to swim. Particularly beautiful are the well-kept, tree-lined sunbathing areas, where you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds at reasonable prices during the summer months. There is also a picturesque promenade for strolling and a number of beach bars and restaurants where guests can indulge in culinary delights.

Conclusion: Which Bardolino Beach Should You Choose?

Punta Cornicello is worth a stop, but not really for swimming, it works better as a place to stroll, grab a coffee, and take in the view from the Ferris wheel than as an actual beach day spot. If you want the water and the sunbathing, look elsewhere on this list.

Our favorite was Spiaggia di Bardolino, those long green lawns give you way more room to spread out than the smaller pebble coves closer to town, and it’s an easy walk or bike ride if you’re staying near Garda. For something a bit more central, Mirabello is the better pick, close enough to walk from the center in a few minutes, with a gently sloping entry that works well for families.

If you’re staying around Cisano, both Cisano Center Beach and Spiaggia Lido di Cisano are close enough to reach on foot, so there’s no need to travel far. And La Cavalla Garda Beach rounds things out nicely if you’re heading toward Garda anyway and want one more good spot along the way.


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Where to Stay in Mykonos: 8 Best Areas & Hotels

Choosing where to stay in Mykonos can feel overwhelming. From beachfront hotels and stylish boutique accommodations to pool hotels and private vacation rentals, the island offers a huge range of excellent places to stay. The selection of charming resorts is equally impressive. Many travelers ask themselves which are the best areas and beaches to stay in Mykonos. While Mykonos Town is especially popular, you’ll also find fantastic beaches and resorts in the surrounding areas. Some locations are ideal for partying, while others are perfect for families or travelers looking for peace and relaxation. Every area of Mykonos has its own unique advantages, which can make it challenging to find both the ideal Mykonos accommodation and the perfect location.

In this guide, we break down all 8 areas, what each one is actually good for, and where to stay in each one based on what we saw ourselves.

Mykonos Town & Little Venice

Mykonos Town is definitely one of the most popular places for where to stay in Mykonos. In the beautiful Old Town, in the famous Little Venice, but also in the area around the Old Port you can find some of the best accommodations in Mykonos. Here you will stay very centrally, and also many of the most amazing things to do in Mykonos, such as visiting the iconic Windmills and Little Venice are possible by walking around town. There is also a picturesque town beach for swimming, and many other bays are quite easily accessible by public bus. Truly unique is also the lively nightlife in the center, where people party in the cool clubs until the morning.

In Mykonos Town you will find many wonderful accommodations! Most of them are chic apartments, or small but nice hotels and guesthouses. The area is recommended especially for young people, for single travelers, for couples and for all who want to stay as central as possible.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Mykonos Town:

  • Chic Boutique Hotel: The TownHouse Mykonos is a real insider tip! This boutique hotel inspires with great rooftop bar and with the best location in the city.
  • Charming Apart-Hotel: The Mykonos Town Suites offer charming, with great attention to detail furnished accommodations in the heart of Mykonos old town.
  • Lovely Apartment: The Marietta’s offers some wonderful accommodations, not far from the famous windmills and with great sunset views.

Platis Gialos

One of the most popular places on Mykonos Island is Platis Gialos and the adjacent Psarou Beach. Vacationers love the postcard paradise setting of turquoise sea colors, bright fine sand beaches and the traditional whitewashed houses in the background. Some of the best hotels in Mykonos have also settled in this area. Especially travelers who value an exceptional accommodation, and are happy to pay more for it, will find their vacation paradise on these dream beaches. Also great are the many beach clubs, which are well attended, especially in the high season. There are often parties, good music, numerous excellent restaurants for going out, and various water sports provide action.

In Platis Gialos you will find many stunning hotels in different price ranges. Many of the best accommodations are even located directly by the sea, or not far from the beach. Here meets a mixed, rather young, chic crowd that wants to spend their vacation on one of the most beautiful beaches in Mykonos.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Platis Gialos:

  • Luxurious 5-Star Hotel: The Palladium Hotel is a top choice for a very special vacation in Mykonos. Guests love the facilities, the breakfast and the gorgeous design.
  • Chic Studios with Pool: The Artemoula’s Studios are an insider tip! The price-performance ratio is top, the facility absolutely chic and also the pool invites you to relax.
  • Top Hotel on the Beach: The Acrogiali Beach Hotel is a beautiful accommodation directly on the beach! The sunbeds are free of charge and also the breakfast is very tasty!

Ornos

The Ornos Beach is located on the south coast of the island, and the huge vacation resort Ornos is a really popular choice for a vacation on Mykonos. Here you can find great accommodations like hotels and vacation rentals in every price range, from luxury to moderate, everything is offered. Truly unique in this area is the velvety soft sandy beach, where the turquoise blue sea colors conjure up an incredibly spectacular ambiance. The region around Ornos is especially recommended for couples and families because there are neither wild parties nor loud music. Nevertheless, there is always something going on and in the small village center as well as on the beach you will find numerous taverns, restaurants and cafés that provide for physical well-being.

Staying at Ornos Beach is a great choice for Mykonos if you are looking for super nice beach hotels or accommodations with pool. Moreover, you can reach Mykonos town by bus. It is especially good for families, but also for solo travelers, for couples and honeymooners!

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Ornos:

  • Luxury Hotel by the Sea: The Mykonos Ammos Hotel is one of the best 5-star hotels in Mykonos. This accommodation is located directly on the beach and scores with top facilities.
  • Hotel with private Pool: The Kensho Ornos is a chic hotel near the sea. Really recommendable are the dreamlike rooms with private pool or whirlpool!
  • Apartments with Pool: The Anemos Apartments offer nice apartments for a reasonable price, the pool is fabulous and also the beach is not far away.

Agios Ioannis

In the area of Agios Ioannis you can find many of the best places to stay in Mykonos. In particular, the range of excellent hotels, some of them in the upper luxury class, is simply unbeatable here. The resort is located on the quiet west coast of the island, and is also not far from the famous Ornos beach. In this area you can enjoy several beautiful stretches of coastline, such as the wonderful Agios Ioannis Beach and Kapari Beach, which are wonderful for a relaxing beach vacation. There are also cool beach clubs in Agios Ioannis, most notably the legendary Hippie Fish Beach Club.

Agios Ioannis is a fabulous tip for a relaxing vacation in Mykonos. The sandy beach is absolutely stunning, not overcrowded and also the quiet atmosphere in the resort is fantastic. Nevertheless, you will find beach clubs, good taverns to enjoy, and also a public bus takes you to Mykonos town.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Agios Ioannis:

  • Dream Beach Hotel: The Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort is a dream 5-star hotel. Guests love the stunning private beach, the pool, and the delicious breakfast.
  • 4-Star Hotel with Pool: The Lithos by Spyros & Flora is a charming 4-star hotel just 100 meters from the beach. Also fantastic is the view from the infinity pool!
  • Cottages & Apartments: The Mykonos Moussa offers great cottages as well as apartments with simple design and spacious balconies with great views.

Paradise Beach (The Party Beach)

The Paradise Beach is one of the most famous places in Mykonos, especially for partying. This party beach is a true legend on the island because since the 60s, probably the most spectacular beach parties take place on this stretch of coast. Famous party locations include beach clubs such as the Paradise Beach Club and the Tropicana Beach Club, where international DJs play and happy hour offers also provide a party atmosphere. In addition, you can find some cheap accommodation directly near the beach and also a few of the coolest hotels of Mykonos have settled around the bay. Perfect if you want to make your party vacation a special experience.

Looking for accommodation in the Paradise Beach area is a good idea for those who love to party. The crowd is usually younger than elsewhere on the island, and the atmosphere is also very hilarious. Nevertheless, you can find really excellent hotels with a pool or even by the sea, where you can relax from the party nights.

Best Accommodations & Hotels at Paradise Beach:

  • 4-Star Hotel with Pool: The Tropicana Hotel is a chic 4-star hotel close to the beach, with a great facility and beautiful pool! The rooms are also top.
  • Nice 3-Star Hotel: The Paradise View Hotel is a wonderfully pretty hotel with a pool and a place of tranquility. The beach is a few minutes’ walk away.
  • Budget Campsite: The Paradise Beach Camping Bungalows is a fairly basic accommodation, a budget choice for Mykonos and is often booked for a party vacation.

Agios Stefanos

Agios Stefanos is a real insider tip for a nice and cheap vacation! Here you will find many budget accommodations and great hotels at fair prices. The resort is located on the west coast of Mykonos, not far from the ferry port New Port Mykonos, and is a guarantee for a rather quiet summer on the otherwise lively vacation island. Especially families with children, but also couples and older people, enjoy the beautiful sandy beach and the wonderful vacation flair. The tourist offer with stores, restaurants and bars is also right. On the beach, you can also rent relatively inexpensive sun loungers, and there is enough space to simply make yourself comfortable on your own towel.

In the resort of Agios Stefanos there are numerous accommodations with a good price-performance ratio. The ambience is less posh than elsewhere on the island, and even in high season it is never overly crowded! Also great is the proximity to Mykonos town, which can be reached in no time by public bus.

Best Accommodations & Hotels at Agios Stefanos:

  • Romantic 5-Star Hotel: The beautiful Habitat Mykonos All Suite Hotel is a wonderful choice for a romantic vacation or honeymoon in Mykonos.
  • Aparthotel with Pool: The Paolas Sunset is a really pretty, quietly located hotel with a pool with terrific views of the sea and with delicious breakfasts.
  • Charming Apartments: The Sea Wind Apartments offer tasteful vacation rentals with gorgeous ocean views. The hospitality is also top.

Elia Beach

A beautiful area for a vacation is Elia Beach. This velvety, absolutely paradisiacal beach is located in the south of Mykonos and is also easily accessible by public bus from Mykonos Town. Especially couples, honeymooners and individualists love this long dream beach. This place inspires in many ways. The sandy beach with turquoise sea colors is breathtaking, the tourist offer with beach loungers and beach bars is good, and there are also a variety of fabulous accommodations and hotels in prime locations directly on the sea. For those who like to swim textile-free, there is also the beautiful nudist beach Elia at the southernmost tip.

Elia Beach is a good option for a beach vacation on the island and is well suited for families with children, but also for couples. In addition, a little off the beach you will find cute small boutique hotels, which are located a little away from the sea, but score with a lot of attention to detail.

Best Accommodations & Hotels at Elia Beach:

  • Adults-Only Hotel with Pool: The Maregold Micro-Boutique Suites is a great Adults Only hotel on a hill above the bay and with a magnificent view.
  • Top Beachfront Hotel: The Elia Mykonos Resort is a stunning beachfront hotel right on Elia Beach. Guests love the chic design and charming pool.
  • Chic Boutique Hotel: The ELA Boutique Hotel & Spa is a bit off the beaten path, in a quiet backwater location and is a true oasis of peace and tranquility.

Kalo Livadi & Kalafati

An insider tip for wonderful accommodations on Mykonos, away from the hustle and bustle, are the areas of Kalo Livadi and Kalafati. These two resorts are located on the southeast coast of the island, are not far from each other and moreover, a fabulous choice for a relaxing getaway. Especially those seeking peace and quiet, individualists, water sports enthusiasts, and all those who appreciate a relaxed island feeling will find their personal vacation paradise here. The coast is truly breathtaking; the beaches fascinate with dreamlike sea colors and also the flair is unique. There are water sports as well as a jet-ski rental, small beach clubs and especially the Kalafati is famous in the windsurfing scene!

The beach Kalo Livadi is a great tip for a beach vacation. Kalafati, on the other hand, is especially popular with water sports enthusiasts, as it is a great place for windsurfing. In both resorts, you will find unique accommodations, many also at quite reasonable prices.

Best Accommodations & Hotels at Kalo Livadi and Kalafati:

  • Unique Boutique Hotel: The Nomad Mykonos is an insider tip for a quiet vacation. This boutique hotel inspires with beautiful design and with a lot of flair!
  • B&B near the Beach: The Mykonos4Islands Seaside Apartments captivates with a great atmosphere, with a pool, beautiful apartments and the proximity to the beach.
  • Adults-Only Hotel: The Mykonos Bliss – Cozy Suites is a little dream gem. Guests love the spectacular views, the pool, and the delicious food.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay on Mykonos

We spent several weeks exploring the island and ended up staying in Platis Gialos the longest, it hit the right balance for us, close enough to Mykonos Town for a night out, but calm enough that we weren’t dealing with party noise every night.

If nightlife is the whole point of your trip, Paradise Beach delivers on that, just don’t expect much sleep. Ornos and Agios Stefanos are the better picks for families or anyone traveling with kids, both are quieter and easier to get around on foot. Agios Ioannis and Elia are worth the trip if you don’t mind renting a car, the beaches there are some of the best on the island, just less convenient without your own transport. Kalafati is really for windsurfers specifically, it’s not the beach we’d send someone looking for a calm swim.


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Santorini | Athens | Mykonos | Naxos | Paros | Milos | Sifnos | Folegandros


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Where to Stay in Sifnos: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

Sifnos offers a wide range of fantastic places to stay, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday on this beautiful island gem. From beachfront hotels and charming boutique hotels with pools to cozy bed and breakfasts and stylish vacation rentals, there is accommodation to suit every type of traveler. But which area of the island is the best place to stay in Sifnos? Despite its relatively small size, the island features several highly recommended resorts with beautiful hotels and excellent beaches for a perfect beach vacation. Some areas are especially popular with couples and travelers seeking peace and tranquility, while others are better suited for families with children. Every part of Sifnos has its own charm and advantages, which can make it challenging to choose both the perfect accommodation in Sifnos and the ideal location.

This travel guide focuses on where to stay in Sifnos, Greece. We highlight the most stunning accommodations and the best areas on the island, along with helpful hotel tips and recommendations to support your travel planning.

Apollonia

Apollonia is the fascinating capital of the island and a great tip if you are looking for nice accommodations on Sifnos in the romantic inland. We passed through most evenings on our way somewhere else, the alleys get lively after dinner, worth a wander even if you’re not staying here. Absolutely charming are the traditional Cycladic houses in the center, where a maze of small white alleys with blooming bougainvillea leads through the enchanting old town. In the town center you will find great shopping opportunities, and there are also many fabulous restaurants as well as bars where you can enjoy a vibrant nightlife. In addition, Apollonia is very centrally located and so many of the most beautiful attractions of Sifnos can be reached from there by bus, rental car or quad in no time.

In Apollonia there are actually many beautiful accommodations! Most of them are small boutique hotels, guesthouses or chic apartments. The area is recommended especially for young people, for solo travelers, for couples and for all those who would love to stay in the charming center of the island of Sifnos.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Apollonia:

  • Boutique Hotel with Pool: The Nival Boutique Hotel is a real insider tip. It is within walking distance from the center, has a nice pool and offers a delicious breakfast.
  • Vacation Home: The Dora’s Traditional Houses is located in the stunning heart of Apollonia and inspires with beautiful furnishings and a great view from the terrace.
  • Romantic Holiday Apartment: The Geronti Moscha Apartment is a fantastic vacation apartment. Guests love the hospitality and good value for money.

Platis Gialos

Platis Gialos is one of the most popular resorts on the island and also many of the best hotels on Sifnos can be found there. The stunning sandy beach is one of the most amazing beaches in Sifnos, which makes the place a desirable choice for a beach vacation. The sea is wonderfully clear and shines in the most beautiful blue water colors. On the beach are really great accommodations, some have a pool and a few are even among the best places to stay on the island. Culinary delights are provided by fabulous taverns and restaurants, and water sports are also available. Especially in the high season, there is always something going on, but a vacation in the quiet low season is also highly recommended for individualists.

In the resort of Platis Gialos you will find numerous recommendable hotels in various price ranges. Many of the best accommodations are even located directly by the sea or not far from the beach. The area is especially suitable for families, but also for single travelers, for couples and honeymooners!

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Platis Gialos:

  • Hotel on the Beach: The Platys Gialos Hotel is an adorable little hotel right on the beach. Wonderful is also the breakfast, the pool and the breathtaking view of the bay.
  • Amazing 4-Star Hotel: The Niriedes Hotel is a fantastic 4-star hotel. The design is a hit, the view of the bay is unbeatable and the breakfast is top-notch too!
  • Beautiful Apartments: The Miles Away Luxury Apartments offer brilliant, modern vacation apartments with balconies and only 1-minute walk from the beach.

Kamares

The port town of Kamares is actually a wonderful choice for a vacation on Sifnos. This romantic town is located in the west of the island, nestled between high mountains and with a stunning sandy beach like out of a picture book. The ferry docks at the port, and thanks to the location, it’s a fantastic starting point for exploring the best places of the island. We arrived by ferry here ourselves, and it’s an easy base to start visiting Sifnos. The picturesque center is also gorgeous, where along the harbor promenade wonderful taverns, restaurants and cozy cafés spoil their guests with culinary delights. In addition, there are several car rentals and quad rentals there, perfect if you love to explore the island on your own.

Kamares is a great place for a vacation, even if you only want to stay on Sifnos for a short time. The ferry docks here, you’ll find plenty of good accommodations around and some boutique hotels overlooking the sea. In addition, the tourist offer with taverns and bars is fabulous, and also the beach truly invites to relax and linger.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Kamares:

  • Hotel with Pool: The Villa Frazeska is a brilliant hotel with beautiful rooms as well as apartments and a fabulous pool. The view of the sea is also a dream.
  • B&B with Pool: The Xerolithia is a cute B&B with a wonderful pool, delicious breakfast, a very well-kept facility and a magnificent view to the blue sea.
  • Cute Hotel in the Center: The Margado is a stunning little hotel with fabulous views. Guests love the hospitality, the family ambiance and the small pool.

Faros

An insider tip for a quiet, romantic vacation on Sifnos is the small fishing village of Faros. Especially peace seekers, couples, but also families will find their personal vacation paradise here. Here you can enjoy a particularly idyllic atmosphere, and the typical Cycladic houses together with the amazing beaches conjure up a true picture book setting. We stayed here and it was exactly what we were hoping for, quiet, authentic, and noticeably fewer tourists than the other resorts on the island. No less than 3 enchanting sandy beaches invite guests to swim and relax here. Moreover, there are some really nice accommodations in Faros, most of them are vacation apartments, vacation houses or family-run hotels. Culinary delights are provided by small, traditional taverns right by the sea.

In the resort of Faros, there are excellent accommodations at a reasonable price. The atmosphere is very authentic and relaxed, and even in high season it is never crowded! Great is also the proximity to the capital, which you can also reach by public bus in the high season.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Faros:

  • Stunning Boutique Hotel: The NOS Hotel & Villas is such a charming hotel! Beautiful views, great design, but you can’t beat the fantastic food at the hotel either.
  • Beautiful Apartments: The Sifanto Mare Apartments are a perfect choice for a vacation. They score with great amenities and also a good location near the beach.
  • Small Vacation Cottages: The Erifili House offers small vacation cottages and a vacation apartment for a good price. Picturesque is also the view of the sea.

Kastro

The Kastro is an old castle settlement on the east coast and is one of the most beautiful places to see in Sifnos. Even if you don’t spend the night here, it’s worth the visit. The fortified town was built as early as the 14th century, and walking through it today feels like stepping into a different era, narrow alleys, flower-covered houses and a quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere on the island. In the village, there are a few small taverns and quiet bars for an evening drink.

There’s not really a nice beach here, so Kastro works best as a short stay or day trip rather than your main base. If the setting convinces you to stay anyway, there are a handful of charming guesthouses and boutique hotels right in or around the village.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Kastro:

  • Boutique Hotel with Pool: The Gerofinikas Boutique Hotel is a beautiful, family-run hotel with pool and breathtaking views of Kastro.
  • B&B with a View: The Agnanti Traditional a fabulous small B&B with very tasteful rooms and delicious breakfast. Also the views are majestic.
  • Beautiful Studios: The Aegean Eye Apartments offer tasteful rooms and studios at the foot of Kastro and with brilliant views of the Aegean Sea.

Vathi

The resort of Vathi is one of the most recommended places to stay in Sifnos for a relaxing beach vacation. It is located somewhere secluded in the west of the island and inspires with a sandy beach like from a travel magazine. Embedded in a picturesque landscape, with turquoise blue sea colors and the white-washed houses you can enjoy a wonderful ambience here. Directly on the beach there are numerous fantastic accommodations, and also one of the absolute best 5-star hotels of Sifnos has settled on this coastal strip. Especially people looking for peace and quiet, couples but also families with children love to spend their wonderful vacations in this region.

In Vathi there is an excellent offer of recommended hotels and accommodations. This was one of our favorite spots on the whole island, calm water, a beautiful beach, and still enough good tavernas that you’re not missing out. Many of the hotels are directly on the beach and are therefore ideal for a beach vacation. Also nice are the rustic taverns, which provide for culinary well-being.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Vathi:

  • Fantastic 5-Star Hotel: The Elies Resorts is one of the best hotels of Sifnos. Guests love the great location by the sea, the architecture, the breakfast and the beautiful pool.
  • B&B on the Beach: The Aerides Boutique Rooms is a really wonderful accommodation! The small complex is located directly on the sea and is a paradise for beach vacationers.
  • House with a View: The Sunset Coast House is a charming cottage with really nice furnishings and excellent views of the bay of Vathi.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay in Sifnos

We stayed in Faros ourselves and would choose it again without hesitation, it’s quiet, feels genuinely authentic, and doesn’t get anywhere near as crowded as the more popular resorts on the island. Vathi was the other standout for us, the beach there is one of the best we found on Sifnos, and it works well whether you’re traveling as a couple or with family.

If you want to be near the nightlife and restaurants, Apollonia is the better choice, and Kamares makes sense if you’re arriving by ferry and want an easy first night. Platis Gialos is worth it for the beach itself, just expect more people. Kastro is worth a visit, but we’d treat it as a day trip rather than somewhere to base yourself, there’s no real beach to speak of.
Faros


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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Milos: 7 Best Areas & Hotels

The many amazing places to stay in Milos offer ideal conditions for an unforgettable vacation on this dream island. From beachfront accommodations and hotels with pools to charming bed and breakfasts, stylish boutique hotels, and privately run apartments, the range of places to stay in Milos is truly impressive. Whether you are a couple, a family with children, a peace seeker, or a young traveler, everyone will find the perfect accommodation to suit their needs. But which area is the best place to stay in Milos? The island offers several excellent locations, some ideal for sightseeing and exploring, others better suited for a relaxing beach holiday. This is why it can be challenging to find both the perfect Milos accommodation and the ideal location.

In this guide, we show you the best places to stay in Milos, Greece. You’ll discover the most beautiful resorts and the best areas for an unforgettable stay on the island, along with many helpful hotel tips and recommendations to support your travel planning.

Adamantas

The harbor town of Adamantas, also called Adamas, is the tourist center of the island and thus a popular choice for where to stay on Milos. It’s also where the port is located, perfect if you want to stay near to the ferry. This resort is known for its snow-white houses, charming promenade with quaint taverns and there is a small cute old town center as well as museums. The tourist offer with many restaurants, bars, boutiques, travel agencies for excursions, car rentals and several supermarkets is fantastic and also two beautiful beaches invite guests for swimming there. On top of that, in Adamantas are numerous good accommodations in every price range, and a few of the best hotels of Milos, have settled around the resort.

We stayed here ourselves, and having the port, restaurants and supermarkets all within walking distance made it an easy base for the rest of the island. There are also many good accommodation options. From cheap to expensive, everything is there! A big advantage is also that you will stay very centrally on the island and can easily explore many of the main things to do in Milos by bus, car or quad.

Best Accommodations & Hotels:

  • Great Hotel with Pool: The Santa Maria Village Resort & Spa is an absolutely recommendable 4-star hotel with pool and a magnificent view of Adamantas.
  • Small Cute Hotel: The Milos Inn is a small, pretty hotel, which is just perfect for a short vacation. It is also fantastically centrally located, near the port and center.
  • Lovely Apartments: The Athina Milos Suites offer spacious, high-quality and very stylishly furnished vacation apartments with a terrace and great views.

Apollonia (Pollonia)

The charming resort of Apollonia, also known as Pollonia, is a romantic coastal pearl in the northeast of the island and an excellent choice for a relaxing beach vacation on Milos. The picturesque flair there is simply fantastic. The snow-white houses in Cycladic style, the fishing port with the colorful taverns, and the stunning soft sandy beach, which invites you to swim and relax, conjure up a true vacation feeling. Although Apollonia is rather small, the tourist offer leaves nothing to be desired. Numerous amazing restaurants and bars provide for the culinary well-being, and one finds several small beautiful hotels and guesthouses for a beach vacation. Many of the best accommodations are located directly on the sea or not far from the beach.

Apollonia is a truly charming and definitely one of the best places to stay in Milos. Especially couples, people looking for peace and quiet, families with children and the elderly, will find their personal vacation paradise here. We had a lovely day here, it’s noticeably quieter than Adamantas even in peak season. We loved the extremely authentic flair that invites them to enjoy, slow down and linger.

Best Accommodations & Hotels:

  • Boutique Hotel with Pool: The Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel is a real insider tip. This accommodation delights with a great pool and a fantastic view of the sea.
  • Quiet Resort: The Kostantakis Residence & Winery is located just outside of Pollonia. Guests love the delicious breakfast and the charming grounds.
  • Beautiful Vacation Home: The apartments of Captain Zeppos score with gorgeous furnishings, the brilliant location in the center and the picturesque view.

Plaka, Tripiti & Triovasalos

Plaka is the capital in the interior of Milos and especially the romantic old town is a real gem. It is situated on a hill, with a stunning view over the island, and is only 3 kilometers away from the popular harbor town of Adamantas. Around the town there are other romantic villages, such as Tripiti or Triovasolos, which attract with numerous unique accommodations. So you can find there renovated windmill hotels, absolutely chic boutique hotels with pools and beautiful vacation apartments in every price range. In addition, there are many attractions to explore and things to discover in this area. Because some famous highlights like Klima, Firopotamos and Sarakiniko are not far away from Plaka.

The region around Plaka is wonderful for sightseeing and enjoying. Here you live very central and can reach by car or quad many of the most beautiful beaches in Milos, as well as some of the best attractions, in no time. Moreover, the old town Plaka offers a great nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants. We drove up to Plaka for some sunsets; the view over the island from the old town is worth the trip on its own.

Best Accommodations & Hotels:

  • Apartments with a View: The Halara Studios offer fantastic apartments in Plaka. A real highlight is the view you can enjoy from the balcony.
  • Vacation home in the Windmill: The Drougas’ Windmill is a little gem. This renovated windmill is definitely a perfect choice for a special vacation.
  • Lovely Apartments: The Deluxe Sunrise is a lovely, cozy vacation rental in a grand location. The fantastic sea view is also breathtaking!

Paliochori

Paliochori is a true dream beach in the quiet, mostly wind-protected south of Milos. Especially in the high season, this rather secluded place is wonderful to spend a relaxing beach vacation on the island. The spectacular colorful rocks of the bay are uniquely beautiful, forming an enchanting panorama with the magnificent sea colors. Directly on the beach, charming beach bars and taverns open in the summer, from where you can enjoy local specialties and a great vacation scenery with a magnificent view. Around the bay there are also several accommodations, including luxurious hotels with pool, which promise unforgettable vacations.

The Paralia Paliochori is a wonderful place located a bit off the beaten track and is therefore a great choice for a very quiet vacation on Milos. We spent an afternoon on this beach, the colored rocks really do look more dramatic in person than in photos. The most interesting sights of the island are best explored by rental car. In addition, you will find cute little hotels around the bay, which score with a lot of attention to detail.

Best Accommodations & Hotels:

  • Beautiful Hotel on the Beach: The Artemis Seaside Resort is a great 4-star hotel with a beautiful pool, delicious breakfast and a perfect location on the beach.
  • Fantastic Apartment: The Summer House Paliochori is a clean and beautifully furnished apartment. Absolutely fantastic is also the amazing sea view.
  • Charming Suites: The Armony Suites Milos delights its guests with charming suites in a quiet, private location. Some of the rooms are even equipped with Jacuzzi.

Klima

The colorful fishing village of Klima, also known as Little Venice, is probably the most iconic place on Milos. The picture-book setting of colorful, yellow-red-green-blue fishermen’s houses adorns almost every postcard on the island. These were originally used as boathouses, and while most have since been renovated, many still keep their original character and are now rented out as vacation apartments right on the water. A truly romantic idea for a stay on Milos, and the evening sunsets from here are spectacular. Especially individualists, and those who want to stay in one of the most stunning settings of Milos, will find their personal paradise here.

In Klima, there is only a small but fine offer of accommodation. Almost all places to stay are small apartments, located in the colorful fishermen’s houses. The location is also good too, because the capital Plaka and the village Triviti are only a few minutes away by car.

Best Accommodations & Hotels:

  • Vacation Cottages by the Sea: The Fisherman House is one of the typical boat houses of Klima. It is located directly at the sea and scores with authentic flair.
  • Lovely Hotel: The Panorama Hotel is a hotel in a beautiful location with a view over the bay of Klima. The hospitality and breakfast are also wonderful.
  • Small Boathouse: The Captain’s Boathouse captivates with the extraordinary location directly on the sea, which only makes a stay an unforgettable experience.

Provatas

A good choice for a relaxing beach vacation on Milos is the Paralia Provatas in the south of the island, a dreamlike sandy beach with paradisiacal sea colors. Beautiful is the soft golden sand, which gives optimal entry into the turquoise sea. Quite lonely in the winter months, this small resort turns into a lovely vacation pearl for peace seekers and individualists in the summer months. There are umbrellas and sunbeds for rent, behind the beach Provatas are a few cozy taverns, and also a great beach hotel and guesthouses have settled in a prime location. A bit off the beaten track, you can easily reach the attractions by rental car, just like everywhere else on the island.

Provatas is a great beach for where to stay on Milos and is well suited for those seeking peace and quiet, individualists, but also for families with children. We stopped here on a drive around the south of the island, it felt a lot more remote than Adamantas or Pollonia. Directly on the beach there are wonderful hotels with pools, a few vacation homes and apartments. There is also a public bus from Provatas to Adamas.

Best Accommodations & Hotels:

  • Comfortable Apartments: The Sarantis Apartments inspires guests with warm hospitality, authentic flair, wonderful sea views and a great location.
  • Apartments with Sea View: The Giourgas Studios & Apartments are located just 50 meters above a private sandy beach. The view of the sea is also outstanding.
  • Chic Guesthouse: The Noma Milos is a chicly designed guesthouse on a hill. The secluded location is very relaxing and the breakfast is top notch.

Mandrakia

The small fishing village of Mandrakia is an insider tip for a unforgettable stay in Milos. This romantic coastal village is located in the north of the island, not far from the towns of Plaka and Sarakiniko. The authentic setting is truly to fall in love with. The ambience is absolutely beautiful with the colorful, traditional fishermen’s cottages that conjure up a picturesque backdrop. Vacationers are treated to culinary delights at the quaint Medusa tavern, where they can sample local specialties. Most of the accommodations in Mandrakia are private run vacation apartments and cottages. Especially individualists and couples are attracted to this village to spend some romantic days on Milos.

Mandrakia is really enchanting and a great tip for where to stay off the path on Milos. There is a small but fine range of accommodation to choose from. To explore the highlights of the island, it is best to rent a car or a quad in advance.

Best Accommodations & Hotels:

  • Villa with Pool: The Villa Imperial Milos is an absolutely perfect vacation home with 3 bedrooms. Simply beautiful is also the pool and the stunning view.
  • Cute Holiday Cottage: The Aerides Mandrakia Milos is a very stylish cottage with great views of the sea and has been furnished with great attention to detail.
  • Accommodation by the Sea: The Seashell Mandrakia Sea view is a real insider tip. Guests love the brilliant location directly on the sea and the wonderful ambience.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay in Milos

We stayed in Adamantas ourselves, and for a first visit to Milos, it’s hard to beat as a base. The port, restaurants and supermarkets are all within walking distance, and you can reach most of the island’s highlights by car in well under an hour.

If you’d rather stay somewhere quieter, Apollonia offers the same convenience with a lot less traffic. Plaka is the better choice if you want to be close to the nightlife and don’t mind driving to the beaches. For a real beach vacation, Paliochori and Provatas are both worth considering, just know they’re more remote than staying centrally. And if you want something memorable rather than practical, a night or two in one of the fishermen’s houses in Klima is hard to match anywhere else on the island.


More about where to stay in Greece:

Keep Exploring

Things to do in Greece

Santorini | Athens | Mykonos | Naxos | Paros | Sifnos | Folegandros


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

The 7 Best Beaches in Medulin

The beautiful beaches of Medulin turn it into one of the most popular tourist resorts in Istria. Along the enchanting Riviera you have a wide choice of bathing places, but also in the immediate vicinity there are a number of beautiful bays. Especially popular is Plaza Bijeca, the long sandy beach of Medulin, where the tourist center is also located just behind it. In addition, along the coast, there are countless other great pebble and rocky beaches that invite you to relax and jump into the cool water. But what are the best beaches of Medulin, what are the insider tips and which bays are particularly suitable for a vacation?

In this travel guide, we introduce the 7 best beaches in Medulin. In addition, there are plenty of tips and information, which will help you plan your trip.

 

Sandy Beach Bijeca

Bijeca beach is located in the center of Medulin and is the most popular spot for an enjoyable beach-time in the village. This sandy beach is about 1 kilometer long and falls into the sea very shallowly, which is appreciated especially by families. Natural shade can be found under the trees on the western part of the coast. Parasols and sunbeds are also available for rent. Just behind the beach, the promenade leads towards the small port, where restaurants and souvenir stores are located. At the upper end, the sandy beach Bijeca turns into a pebble beach. Quite special is the headland inside the sea that only rises out of the water during low tide.

We spent a full afternoon here and the shallow water really does make it one of the easiest beaches for kids we saw in the area. Just be prepared for crowds, this is by far the busiest beach in Medulin, especially in July and August, and finding a free spot on the sand by midday can be tricky.

Tip: For a vacation in Medulin we can recommend the beautiful apartments of Jakic House, only 100 meters from the sandy beach Bijeca!

Alba Chiara Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches of Medulin is definitely Alba Chiara Beach. This beautiful bay is located east of the city center and delights both with crystal clear water and fantastic colors. The many blue-striped umbrellas, which can be rented on site for a fee, also add to a particularly charming backdrop. This beach is a coarse pebble beach, where various sports activities such as canoeing and pedal boating are offered and where a small beach bar provides refreshments.

Tip: There are some beautiful accommodations for a beach vacation in Medulin right next to the beach, including Villa Marija with pool and the modern Apartments Jasmin!

Beach Skrape (Arena Camping Medulin)

The Beach Skarpe is located in the complex Arena Camping Medulin and is very popular among campers. Here, a really idyllic rocky coast with crystal clear sea and beautiful watercolors leaves an impression. Thanks to the natural environment, this beach is also perfect for snorkeling as well as marveling at an interesting underwater world. Between the rocky sections, there are always small pebble bays that provide easy access to the sea. The big old pine trees are also beautiful, which give this beach a certain something.

Beach Belvedere

Beach Belvedere is very popular with vacationers. This charming stretch of coast was named after the hotel of the same name Belvedere, which is located just behind it. Visitors love this clean pebble beach, where concrete surfaces also attract tourists to sunbathe and relax. On a length of about 500 meters, you will find enough sunbeds with parasols; also showers and even free Wi-Fi are provided here. Picturesque is also the walk along the promenade, where you can stroll to the center of Medulin. We walked the promenade from here into Medulin center, it’s an easy 15 minutes and a nice way to end the day.

Tip: The Hotel Plaza Belvedere delights its guests with 2 outdoor pools, a spa, and wellness center and, of course, the top location directly by the sea!

Beach Camping Kazela

One of the most beautiful beaches of Medulin is the approximately 2 km long beach Camping Kazela. It is located in the popular Arena Grand Kažela campsite in the east of the resort and has a particularly idyllic atmosphere. Here you can relax comfortably on green lawns. Pine trees offer natural shade and the beautiful blue sea is perfect for swimming pleasure. Along the coast you will find a mix of small pebble coves and stone beaches, part of which is a designated nudist beach. We noticed the nudist section is clearly separated from the rest of the beach, easy to avoid if that’s not what you’re looking for.

Apart from the beautiful beaches, campsite guests enjoy two beautiful outdoor pools, a children’s playground, a restaurant, and a bar with a sea view!

Tip: Really great for a relaxing vacation are the modern mobile homes of Arena Grand Kažela campsite, in the best location by the sea.

Levan Island Sandy Beach

Another beach paradise can be found on Levan Island because not only the beaches in Medulin are beautiful, also the surroundings offer fantastic bays to swim and chill! Unique is the beautiful sandy beach, which makes this small island so popular. This was the one that surprised us the most. We didn’t expect sand this fine and water this turquoise so close to the mainland, it genuinely looks like it belongs somewhere in the Caribbean! Stunning are also the lovely beach bars, where cool drinks are served up to the sunbeds and which amaze with a brilliant view.

Tip: The best way to get to Levan island is by taxi boat. It runs several times a day between Medulin harbor and the island. A cheaper option is the taxi boat directly in front of the island.

Beaches Kamenjak Nature Park (Premantura)

The most amazing beaches near Medulin can be found in the Kamenjak Nature Park in Premantura. The village Premantura in Istria is a popular vacation resort located next to Medulin, where you can also find many nice accommodations. There you can expect a whole variety of fantastic natural bays, embedded in an extremely idyllic natural landscape. The beaches Njive, Penizule, Mala Kolumbarica with its famous high cliffs and beach Skoljic, where a good windsurf school is located, are really recommendable. We took our car to explore this area properly, the bays are spread out enough that walking between them all isn’t realistic.

Tip: A great choice for a vacation in Premantura is the Apartment Bianca Premantura, a wonderfully pretty villa with a large terrace.

 

Conclusion: Which Medulin Beach Should You Choose?

We’ve been to all seven of these beaches ourselves, and if we had to pick just one, it would be Levan Island. The water color and the sand caught us off guard, it’s not what you expect from this part of Croatia, and it’s genuinely one of the more unique beaches we’ve found in Istria.

Bijeca is still the easiest choice for families, the shallow water and short walk into the center make it low-effort in the best way. Alba Chiara works better if you want something quieter without leaving the mainland. And if you’re already staying at Arena Camping Medulin or Camping Kazela, you don’t need to look any further than the beach right in front of you.


More Beach Guides for Istria:


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Red Beach, Santorini: The Famous Beach in Akrotiri

The Red Beach on Santorini in Greece, also known as Kokkini Paralia, is a real highlight of the popular holiday island and a true jewel of the Cyclades. Nestled in an absolutely stunning landscape with majestic red cliffs, Red Beach is certainly one of the most famous beaches in Santorini. The sea along this stretch of coastline also shimmers in the most beautiful shades of blue, and together with the red cliffs, creates a backdrop that is out of this world. This dream beach is truly one of a kind on this volcanic island, and one of the places you don’t want to miss on any vacation. But what are the best tips for visiting Santorini’s Red Beach, what can you expect on a trip there, and what are the best places to stay in the area?

In this travel guide, you will find all the important information and tips about the unique Red Beach in Santorini in Greece. We also show you the gorgeous pictures, the best excursions and where to find great accommodations for your vacation nearby.

Visiting the Red Beach Santorini – Good to know!

Around Red Beach you will find some of the best places for where to stay in Santorini, such as Le Grande Blu Villa, in a wonderful location with a spectacular view of the sea.

The best way to get to Red Beach is by rental car or quad bike. There is also a public bus service, but the nearest bus stop is a 20-minute walk away.

Just 1 kilometer from Red Beach is the famous archaeological site of Akrotiri, and a visit to this place is definitely also one of the best things to do in Santorini.

If you don’t want to explore Santorini on your own, you can take a guided tour of the island. Check out GetYourGuide for some great excursions to Red Beach.

General Information about Red Beach

The Red Beach, sometimes known as Kokkini Paralia, is a beautiful red volcanic beach located on the popular holiday island of Santorini in Greece. This natural gem is located on the southwest coast, just 2 kilometers from the village of Akrotiri, 12 kilometers from the capital Fira and 27 kilometers from the famous town of Oia. A special feature of Red Beach is the huge red rock wall that makes this dream beach one of the most spectacular attractions on the island.

The reddish rock contains a high concentration of iron minerals, giving the area its characteristic red color. Another unique feature of the beach is the mixture of red sand and black pebbles, which together with the blue color of the sea creates an almost surreal scene. This unique scenery makes the beach one of the most photographed places on Santorini. We were surprised how much taller the cliffs feel in person, photos really don’t do the scale justice.

The Red Beach can be reached from the parking lot via a small footpath that leads to a spectacular view point. However, the trail to the beach is very sandy, stony and steep in places, so sturdy shoes are recommended. In the past, landslides have closed the beach for several days. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to the warning signs and to be careful. Once on the beach, however, visitors will be rewarded with an incredible ambience. The Red Beach with the beautiful deep blue sea is also perfect for swimming and snorkeling to explore an interesting underwater world. During the season there is a taverna close to the beach where food and drinks are served. We got there early in the morning and had the beach almost to ourselves, by midday it had completely filled up.

Things to do near Red Beach

Not only the Red Beach is worth a visit, there are also a number of attractions in the surrounding area. The snow-white “Orthodox Church of St. Nikolaos“, which is located right next to the famous Red Beach and has become a popular photo motif, is simply beautiful. You should also visit the famous archaeological site of Akrotiri, which is only a few minutes walk away. Here you can explore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient city, which was buried by a volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC. Another nearby beach highlight is the White Beach, which can be reached by water taxi from Red Beach during the high season.

How to get to Red Beach in Santorini

It is relatively easy to get to Santorini. The island has its own international airport and there are also domestic flights from Athens. Another option is to take the ferry. Red Beach is located in the southwest of Santorini, near the villages of Akrotiri and Perissa. The quickest way to get to the beach is by taxi, scooter, quad bike or rental car. Parking is available on site and at the nearby archaeological site of Akrotiri. There is also a public bus, but the bus stop is about a 20-minute walk from the beach.

Tip: Cheap tickets for flights and ferries are available at 12go.com. Santorini is also a popular starting point for island hopping in the Cyclades.

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Where to Stay near Red Beach

There is no accommodation directly at Red Beach. However, there are some really great places to stay in the area that are perfect for a vacation in Santorini. Booking early is a must, as the best accommodations fill up quickly due to high demand. Here are the best places to stay near Red Beach…It’s worth a look!

  • Lovely Hotel: The Akrotiri Hotel is a small but very nice hotel close to the Red Beach. It is located right next to the sea and the breakfast is excellent as well.
  • Cave Villas: The Sublime Villa & Caves offers a variety of great accommodation options. It is also only 300 meters away from the Red Beach.
  • Enchanting Villa: The Le Grand Blue Villa is a real insider tip near the Red Beach. This small house has a wonderful location, a large garden and a pool.

Conclusion: Is Red Beach Worth the Visit?

Yes, but timing makes a real difference. We arrived in the morning and had the beach almost to ourselves, the red cliffs looked even taller than we expected from photos, and the whole scene felt almost otherworldly with no one else around. By midday, the same beach was packed and much harder to enjoy.

If you can manage an early start, that’s when Red Beach is at its best. Combine it with a visit to Akrotiri right afterward, before the heat and the crowds both pick up.


More about Santorini:

Keep Exploring

More about Greece

Athens | Mykonos | Naxos | Paros | Milos | Sifnos | Folegandros

Beaches in Greece

Mykonos Beaches | Naxos Beaches | Paros Beaches | Milos Beaches


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

The 7 Best Beaches in Jadranovo

The breathtakingly beautiful beaches in Jadranovo make this village a real insider tip for an unforgettable vacation in the Kvarner Bay. Along the picturesque coastline there are true dream beaches, one more special than the other! Really popular is the white sandy beach Plaza Grabrova, but during a vacation in Jadranovo you can discover many more, sometimes even more spectacular bathing places! Whether romantic pebble coves, hidden natural beaches or even picturesque nudist beaches, everyone is sure to find their perfect favorite spot on the Croatian Adriatic. But what are the best beaches in Jadranovo, where are the insider tips and which bays are particularly suitable for a vacation?

In this travel guide, you will find the 7 best beaches in Jadranovo! In addition, we show you great pictures, and give lots of info and tips that are guaranteed to help you plan your trip.

 

Grabrova Beach

Plaza Grabrova is the popular main beach right in the center of the resort and for many one of the most beautiful beaches in Jadranovo. This very fine, snow-white sandy beach fascinates with dreamy turquoise sea colors, which conjure up a touch of Caribbean flair. Especially families with small children love this flat-sloping fine sandy dream beach, which promises safe swimming pleasure. Just behind the elongated bay you will also find a wide range of beach bars, ice cream parlors, restaurants, and cafés that provide delicious drinks and good food.

There is almost no natural shade at Plaza Grabrova, but you can rent umbrellas and comfortable sunbeds for a fee. For action and entertainment, there is a playground for kids and a wide range of water sports such as pedal boats and jet skis!

Tip: The charming Apartments Villa Antonia are located only a few minutes walk from the beach and offer a wonderful view of the sea!

Havisce Beach

The beach Havisce is a real insider tip in Jadranovo! It is located a bit away from the center, under a small pretty vacation settlement, and can be reached via some stairs. Especially impressive is the incredibly idyllic landscape that surrounds this picturesque natural bay. Together with the snow-white shining pebbles and the enchanting turquoise sea you will experience a dream beach like out from a travel magazine. Havisce Beach is a great choice, especially for couples and quiet seekers who are looking for relaxed beach-time away from the typical main beaches. Snorkeling, SUP, and kayaking are also popular in this sheltered bay.

Tip: The vacation home Artistic Beach House with Pool is the perfect choice for a special vacation. Guests love the modern interior, the pool and the breathtaking view of the dream beach!

Lucica Beach

The Lucica Beach borders directly on the main beach and is one of the most popular beaches in Jadranovo. Also on this part of the coast you can enjoy beautiful turquoise water colors, which together with Krk Island in the background create a spectacular backdrop. However, another highlight and why vacationers choose this beach is the swing in the sea. Many tourists come here especially to take their best vacation photos at the Jadranovo Sea Swing. A little behind the beach there are some bars and restaurants, as well as a nice playground.

Furthermore, boats and pedal boats can be rented in the small harbor. Natural shade is provided by a few trees along the promenade, but these can quickly become occupied, especially in high season. Bringing a beach shell is definitely a fantastic idea.

Tip: Just a few steps away is the Apartment Smokva, a beautiful vacation apartment with free parking and a magnificent view of the bay!

Lokvisca Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Jadranovo is the natural bay Plaza Lokvisca, which is hidden about 2 km from the center, nestled in the most beautiful landscape. Right next to a pretty lighthouse, you can experience a wildly romantic stone beach, where small mini-bays guarantee private and, moreover, quiet swimming pleasure in the most beautiful idyll. Parts of this coastline can even be used as a nudist beach. Just opposite is another natural cove, next to a Roman excavation site known for its healing mud. You should bring your own food and drinks because beach bars and other tourist facilities are not to be found on Lokvisca Beach. Therefore, you can enjoy a Robinson Crusoe feeling and relaxed summer days by the sea.

Obala Beach

Gorgeous and a popular spot for swimming is Obala Beach on the Obala street of the same name. This stretch of coastline runs from the harbor to the main beach in the north and delights with various wonderfully pretty little beaches and coves along a picturesque promenade. Simply ingenious is the fabulous mix of pebble beach, concrete beaches and small piers, which are ideal for relaxing hours by the sea. Just behind it is a vacation settlement with numerous great apartments. In addition, the beautiful cafés and restaurants in great locations with sea views guarantee unforgettable vacations.

Tip: Just a few minutes walk away, directly at the harbor, are the apartments Obala 43. Guests love the hospitality and the great terrace overlooking the sea.

Tepla Beach

The Tepla beach is located in the very south of Jadranovo and is dubbed as the most beautiful natural bay in the resort. Surrounded by rocks and dense forests, a real dream beach awaits you here. A narrow hiking trail with about 500 stairs leads through a fairy tale forest down to the dream beach. The many steps down are no joke, we needed a proper break halfway. Worth it for the quiet, but bring water and don’t underestimate the climb back up.

Thanks to the secluded location, you can enjoy unique peace and quiet even in the high season! The sea shines in the most beautiful emerald colors and numerous fish cavort in the crystal clear water. Many tourists come here especially for snorkeling, and to explore an interesting underwater world. Also fantastic are the rocky outcrops that invite you to cliff jumping.

Tip: If you love peace and quiet, the Apartment Perhata Ivice Ricica is a perfect choice. From this beautiful apartment, you can reach 3 great beaches via a walk!

Nudist Beach Trstena

Probably one of the most popular nudist beaches in Jadranovo is the naturist beach Plaza Trstena. This breathtakingly beautiful natural bay is located a bit away from the center and can be reached from there via a picturesque forest path. Here, especially the intact nature with the Mediterranean vegetation inspires, which together with the turquoise sea make this beach a real eye-catcher. Those seeking peace and quiet will find many secluded spots in this bay for sunbathing, relaxing and, of course, for textile-free swimming.

Conclusion: Which Jadranovo Beach Is Right for You?

We’ve visited all seven of these beaches ourselves, and which one fits you really depends on how much effort you’re willing to put in. Grabrova is the easiest choice, it’s right in the center and works well for families, but go early if you want a spot without a reservation.

If you don’t mind a short walk, Havisce and Obala give you a quieter alternative without much extra effort. Lokvisca and Tepla are for those willing to work for it, no bars, no crowds, but also a longer walk or a serious set of stairs. Tepla in particular is only worth it if you’re prepared for the climb back up. And if peace and quiet matter more than convenience, Trstena is the one we’d send you to.


More about Kvaner Bay Region:

 


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Folegandros: Best Hotels & Areas!

The wonderful places to stay in Folegandros are truly unique and ideal for a romantic vacation on one of the most fascinating islands in the Cyclades. Whether you are looking for recommended hotels near the beach, accommodations with a pool, charming boutique hotels or beautiful vacation apartments, everyone will surely find the perfect place to stay on Folegandros Island. But where on the island should you spend your vacation? Although it is relatively small, Folegandros offers several lovely resorts and many stunning beaches with exceptional places to stay. Some locations are well suited for families with children, while others are better for couples and travelers seeking peace and quiet. Every part of the island has its own appeal and distinct atmosphere. For this reason, it is not always easy to choose both the perfect hotel on Folegandros and the ideal area.

This travel guide is all about where to stay in Folegandros in Greece. We show you the most beautiful accommodations as well as the best areas for a stay on the island. In addition, you will find numerous helpful suggestions and hotel tips that are perfect for your travel planning.

 

Chora of Folegandros

The snow-white Chora is the capital of Folegandros and an excellent recommendation if you want to stay in the center of the island. It is one of the most worth seeing places of the Cyclades, and a visit is a must on every trip. A special feature is the spectacular location on the edge of an almost 200-meter-high cliff directly on the sea, which together with the traditional whitewashed houses conjures a backdrop, as if from a storybook. We spent most evenings in Chora just walking around after dinner, the views over the cliff edge are even better once the crowds thin out. In the Chora, but also in the immediate vicinity, you will find some of the best accommodations in Folegandros. Perfect if you want to experience the magical ambience of this island town up close. Moreover, with a rental car, you can reach the most beautiful beaches and places in no time.

A vacation in the Chora is especially recommended for connoisseurs, for couples, honeymooners and for those who would like to stay in one of the most beautiful old towns of the Cyclades. There are really charming vacation apartments and excellent hotels there, with many even featuring a pool.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Folegandros Chora:

  • Fantastic Hotel with Pool: The Polikandia Hotel is a beautiful 3-star hotel with charming grounds as well as a pool, in perfect location just a few minutes from the center.
  • Apartment with Pool: The Folegandros Apartments offer different sized apartments. The pool and the location on the edge of the old town are also fantastic.
  • Hotel with a View: The Mar Inn Hotel is a real insider tip for Folegandros. Here modern ambience, a beautiful pool and a brilliant view of the Chora inspire.

Karavostasis

The fishing village of Karavostasis is a popular choice for a beach vacation on Folegandros. The ferry docks at the port, and thanks to its location, it is a perfect starting point for an excursion on the island. We arrived here by ferry ourselves, and it’s a genuinely easy walk from the port to most of the accommodations. Embedded in an enchanting landscape, with the whitewashed houses and the two stunning beaches, a true vacation paradise awaits you. Really charming is also the small center, where taverns, restaurants and colorfully decorated cafés spoil their guests with culinary delights overlooking the sea. A bus connects Karavostasis with the Chora in the inland. In addition, around the port there are several car rentals and quad rentals, perfect if you want to get to know the island.

In Karavostasis you will find insanely great accommodations, there are gorgeous hotels, chic apartments and privately run guesthouses. Fabulous is that you can optimally combine beach and sightseeing. This place is also a good tip for families with children.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Karavostasis:

  • Dream Hotel with Pool: The Onar Suites & Villas are a great choice for a very special vacation on Folegandros. Guests love the pool and the views of the Aegean Sea!
  • Beautiful Boutique Hotel: The Vrahos Boutique Hotel is a beautiful accommodation in a wonderful location and with fantastic views of the dream bay.
  • Chic Vacation Rentals: The AMO Folegandros offers absolutely chic vacation apartments designed with great attention to detail. The jacuzzi on the terrace is also top.

Ano Meria

The village of Ano Meria is a real insider tip, especially if you want to get to know Folegandros from its most authentic side. We stayed in Ano Meria and it was exactly the kind of quiet we were looking for, no traffic noise, just the occasional rooster in the morning. The small rustic village is located on a plateau with a fantastic view over the deep blue sea and enchants with a unique idyll. Many of the accommodations in the village are vacation apartments or small guesthouses. Most of them have a terrace from which you can admire the magical sunrises of the island. The atmosphere is really unique, very quiet and optimal if you want to decelerate. In the village there is a traditional bakery, a small supermarket and a few highly recommended taverns. The attractions and beaches in the area are best reached by rental car or quad bike.

Ano Meria is the perfect place to stay in Folegandros for connoisseurs, for those seeking peace and quiet and for couples. You can find really good accommodations at a reasonable price. The ambience is very authentic, and even in the high season it is always quiet! Great is also the proximity to the Chora, which you can also reach by public bus.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Ano Meria:

  • Wonderful Vacation Homes: The Lemon Tree Houses offer charming, modern villas and vacation homes in a quiet location, with super breakfast and fabulous pool.
  • Affordable Vacation Rental: An insider tip is the Kipari Apartments in a quiet location in Ano Meria. Guests love the authentic flair and incredible hospitality.
  • Beautiful B&B with a View: The Anerada Sunset is a fabulous guesthouse with pretty rooms and great views of the sea. The hospitality is also top notch.

Agali Bay

Staying at Agali Bay is a beautiful option for a beach vacation on Folegandros. It is located on the west coast of the island, about 4 kilometers from the capital Chora. Simply unique is the ambience, where the white houses in the small village conjure up an enchanting contrast to the turquoise blue sea. Many of the hotels and accommodations here are located directly on the sea. For a vacation, there are several beaches in the area. The most spectacular is the eponymous Paralia Agali, right in the village, which delights with wonderful white sand and turquoise sea colors. The bay is protected from wind and waves, which families with children will appreciate.

In the small Agali bay there are only a few accommodations! Most of them are small boutique hotels, guesthouses or chic apartments. The area is especially recommended for couples, those seeking peace and quiet, and for all those who would love to stay on one of the most beautiful beaches on Folegandros.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Agali Bay:

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay in Folegandros

We stayed in Ano Meria ourselves, and if you’re after real quiet, it’s hard to beat. No cars driving through at night, no bars, just a bakery, a small supermarket and a view that makes the sunrise worth getting up for. The tradeoff is that you’ll want a rental car or quad bike to reach the beaches and get into Chora.

If you’d rather walk everywhere and don’t mind more people around, Chora is the better base, you’re right in the middle of the island’s most beautiful town, and everything is close by. Traveling with kids or want easy ferry access, Karavostasis makes the most sense, it’s flat, walkable, and close to the port. Agali Bay is worth it if the beach is your main priority, just don’t expect much beyond the one bay itself.


More recommended places to stay in Greece:


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Rovinj: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

There are so many great places for where to stay in Rovinj. Whether you want hotels on the beach, lovely bed and breakfasts, beautiful accommodation right by the sea, wonderful vacation homes, stylish apartments, or even boutique hotels, there is certainly a perfect Rovinj place to stay for everyone. But where exactly are the best areas to stay in Rovinj? Most travelers on a city trip are drawn to the old town. Yet the nearby surroundings also offer beautiful vacation spots. Some locations are ideal for families with children, while others are better for couples or younger visitors. Every part of Rovinj has its own charm along with specific benefits. That is why it can be difficult to choose both the perfect Rovinj accommodation and the perfect area.

This guide is all about where to stay in Rovinj, Croatia. We show you the most beautiful neighborhoods as well as the best areas for a vacation in Rovinj and around the old town. In addition, you will find many helpful tips and hotel suggestions that will certainly support your travel planning.

 

Forest Park Zlatni Rt (Mulini Beach & Lone Bay)

The Forest Park Zlatni Rt is a stunning green peninsula, which is considered a recreational area and where some of the most beautiful beaches in Rovinj are located. A special feature is definitely the wonderful pebble bays and natural beaches in the middle of magnificent pine forests, which provide pleasant shade in the summer. Behind the park, as well as around the Mulini Beach and near the Lone Bay, you can also find really fabulous accommodations as well as some of the best hotels in Rovinj! The center of town is only 1 kilometer away, so it can be easily reached on foot. Perfect, even if you don’t have a car available. We’ve walked from here into the old town more than once, it’s an easy 15-minute stroll along the coast.

Choosing a wonderful place to stay near the forest park Zlatni Rt is a good choice, especially if you want to combine strolling in the old town with swimming by the sea. Here you will stay in one of the most charming areas of the coastal city, with the advantage of enjoying great beaches and fabulous proximity to Old Town.

Best Accommodations & Hotels near Forest Park Zlatni Rt:

  • 5-Star Hotel with Pool: The Monte Mulini Hotel is considered one of the best hotels in Rovinj. It is perfectly located, directly on the dream beach Mulini and not far from the center.
  • B&B with Style: The Bed&Breakfast Bohemian is an exceptionally good accommodation in Rovinj. Guests love the delicious breakfast, the decor, and the free bike rental.
  • Chic Apartments: The Apartments Aida offers beautiful, modern vacation rentals in a variety of sizes. The hospitality is fabulous, too.

Old Town of Rovinj

The Old Town of Rovinj is a real gem in Istria and booking a place in the historic center is definitely a fabulous option for a visit. In particular, couples and connoisseurs will appreciate a stay in the romantic downtown. Right in the winding alleys of the old town, but also along the beautiful promenade and around the center, you will find some of the best places for where to stay in Rovinj. The flair of the old town is absolutely magical! In addition, there are interesting attractions, a great offer of good restaurants, chic cafés and a lively nightlife. Also, a pretty city beach invites swimming. With a fantastic place to stay in Rovinj Old Town you have the opportunity to experience all this up close. By 10pm the alleys empty out considerably, which surprised us given how busy it gets during the day.

In and around the old town you will find a wide range of fabulous accommodations. Whether it’s luxury, mid-range or budget, the range of apartments, guesthouses, and hotels is phenomenal. If you want to stay as central as possible, then accommodation in the center of Rovinj is the best choice.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Old Town of Rovinj:

  • Gorgeous Boutique Hotel: The Adriatic Hotel is a gorgeous boutique hotel in the old town of Rovinj. It is perfectly equipped and scores with a lot of class and comfort.
  • Sweet Hotel in the Center: The Spirito Santo Palazzo Storico is an insider tip among Rovinj accommodations. The hotel is outstanding, and the location charming.
  • Beautiful Apartments: The Apartments and Rooms Hey Rovinj is in an unbeatable location in the heart of the old town, and the decor is a dream, too.

Borik

The charming settlement of Borik is a real insider’s tip for a quiet vacation in Rovinj. It is located only 3 kilometers north of the center, and accommodation in this area is just perfect for those who are looking for something special. We rented bikes and rode here from the center, it took about 15 minutes and was worth the trip. Surrounded by pine forests, in the middle of a scenic landscape and with a stunning coastline, this place is a popular destination for a beach vacation. The flair in Borik is absolutely idyllic, there is always something going on without being overcrowded. Also enchanting is the same named Borik Beach, a pebble beach with unique turquoise water colors, which invites travelers to spend relaxing hours by the sea. Moreover, there are some really recommendable accommodations, including mostly vacation apartments or guesthouses.

The neighborhood of Borik is the perfect place for families, but also for those seeking tranquility and those who want to spend a relaxing beach vacation in Rovinj. Many of the accommodations are privately owned vacation rentals. A car or bicycle are an advantage if you want to quickly get to the center.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Borik:

  • Guesthouse with Breakfast: The Bed & Breakfast Blu Locanda is a wonderful guesthouse in a great location directly on the sea. The breakfast with a view of the water is also a hit!
  • Apartment by the Sea: The Figarola Apartments are a real insider tip. These apartments are located directly by the sea and score with fabulous facilities.
  • Chic Apartments: The Buric House offers an apartment and a studio in a fabulous location by the sea. Guests also love the terrace, which invites them to relax.

Vacation Resort Amarin

Fabulous accommodations for a vacation in Rovinj can be found at the Amarin Holiday Resort. This is located in the north of the coastal town, on a green peninsula, and is about 5 kilometers from the center. Here you will find everything that the demanding vacationer’s heart desires. If you’re traveling with kids, we’d pick this area over the old town without hesitation. There are great places to stay for families with children, recommended hotels for couples and also mega chic mobile homes are offered. Depending on the hotel, fabulous restaurants are available, there are spacious pool facilities, wellness area and a wide range of entertainment, which is guaranteed not to get bored. Also beautiful in this area is the coast, lined with pine forests, which delights with some breathtaking bathing bays.

Those who value absolutely wonderful vacation hotels will certainly get their money’s worth in this area. For families with children, the family hotel Amarin is absolutely recommendable. Moreover, the mobile homes from Camping Amarin are nice, and the Select Amarin Resort is also a viable option for a vacation.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Amarin Holiday Resort:

  • Fantastic Family Hotel: The Family Hotel Amarin is one of the best family hotels in Rovinj. Four pools, kids club as well as kids buffet are just a few of the highlights!
  • Beautiful Mobile Homes: The Camping Amarin Mobile Homes are a great choice if you’re looking for a lovely campsite with chic mobile homes as your accommodation in Rovinj!
  • Fabulous Resort: The Select Amarin Resort is a lovely resort for a vacation. Guests love the pool area and the ideal proximity to the sea.

Polari

Polari is located in the south of Rovinj, about 6 kilometers from the old town, and is a charming resort for a beach vacation. Absolutely wonderful is Polari Beach, which offers the best conditions for a bathing vacation with dreamlike sea colors, grandiose facilities and idyllic shady places. In addition, there are some good beach restaurants on site and water sports are also offered. In the area around the beach there are several campsites, where you can also find some of the best mobile homes in Istria. In addition, there are also a few charming vacation apartments and cottages there, which are well suited for a vacation in Rovinj.

Meanwhile, the Polari vacation settlement is very popular for a beach vacation. A car is definitely an advantage here because so you can reach Rovinj and the attractions in the area the fastest. Without a car, this area is inconvenient, we’d only recommend it if you’re renting one anyway. The neighborhood is a good choice for campers, but there are also a few cottages and apartments.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Polari:

  • Boutique Mobile Homes: The Boutique Mobile Homes UlikaRovinj is located on a small but nice campground. Breakfast service is also a cool idea.
  • Mobile Homes with Pool: The Maistra Camping Polari Mobile homes are located in a large camping complex, close to the sea and with pool.
  • Vacation Home with Pool: The beautiful Villa Antica is a great tip for large families or small groups. The accommodation is stylish and lovingly decorated.

Vestar

The resort of Vestar is located in the southernmost part of Rovinj and is a sought-after area for campers and nature lovers. It is situated in a beautiful elongated bay with turquoise sea colors, and the surrounding area with Mediterranean vegetation is also enchanting. Not far away is the Palud Bird Park, a nature reserve where you can find walking paths and secluded natural coves. Especially popular, however, is the same named Vestar Beach, a dreamlike bathing bay, which is also the tourist center. Here you will find several places to stay, mostly excellent campsites, and there are also many beautiful mobile homes on this stretch of coast.

Especially campers will find their personal vacation paradise in this region of Rovinj. The beach is stunning, the offer of water sports, restaurants, and beach bars is fabulous and also the surroundings invite to activities in nature.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Vestar:

  • Vacation Park Mobile Homes: The Veštar Mobile Homes are a great choice for the whole family. In the vacation park you will also find a pool as well as sports facilities.
  • Idyllic Cottage: The Holiday House Val Vidal is a quiet cottage surrounded by olive trees and only 10 minutes’ walk from the beach.
  • Mobile Homes with Pool: The Mobile homes Camp Green Garden are located in a small, family complex with a pool and a beautiful garden to relax.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay in Rovinj

We stayed between the Old Town and Forest Park Zlatni Rt ourselves, and it turned out to be a great middle ground, close enough to walk into town in a few minutes, but quiet enough at night that we weren’t dealing with old town noise. If you want that same balance, look for accommodation in that stretch.

For a first visit focused purely on convenience, the Old Town itself is hard to beat, you’re within walking distance of everything, and the atmosphere at night is part of what makes Rovinj special. Traveling with kids, though, we’d steer you toward Amarin instead, the family hotels and pool setups there make a real difference on a longer stay.

Want it quieter and closer to nature without giving up easy access to town? Forest Park Zlatni Rt is the way to go. Borik and Polari work well if you have a car and don’t mind trading a bit of convenience for calmer beaches. Vestar is really for campers, we wouldn’t recommend it if you’re looking for a hotel stay.


More about Istria:

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Where to stay in Zagreb | Where to stay in Split | Where to stay in Dubrovnik | Where to stay in Zadar | Where to stay in Pula | Where to stay in Hvar | Where to stay in Korcula | Where to stay in Makarska


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Koh Phangan: 8 Best Areas & Hotels

The many wonderful places to stay in Koh Phangan guarantee an unforgettable vacation on this popular Thai dream island. In addition to the many breathtaking beaches and the hip flair, there is a phenomenal range of accommodation options for you to choose from. From cheap hostels to romantic beachfront bungalows, from cute hotels with pools to luxurious 5-star hotels, Koh Phangan has it all. However, there are numerous fabulous resorts and beaches on the island, and so the question quickly arises, where is the best place to stay on Koh Phangan. There are areas that are perfect for nightlife and parties, and other areas that are absolutely peaceful and paradise-like, and therefore better suited for a relaxing vacation. But where is the best place to spend your vacation on Koh Phangan, where can you find the most unique accommodations and the real insider tips?

This guide is all about where to stay in Koh Phangan in Thailand. In addition, we show you the most beautiful tourist resorts and the best areas to stay on the island. There are also plenty of useful recommendations and hotel tips to help you plan your trip!

 

Haad Rin (Full Moon Party)

The resort of Haad Rin is one of the most famous on Koh Phangan. Once a month, it hosts the legendary Full Moon Party, a massive event where up to 30,000 people from all over the world gather to party until the early hours of the morning. Accommodation in and around this area of Koh Phangan is fully booked at this time of year, so be sure to book your room well in advance to avoid disappointment. However, if you are traveling outside the big party, you will always find plenty of free and affordable accommodation in Haad Rin. There is something for every budget, from cool backpacker hostels to trendy beachfront hotels with pools. In addition, there is a wide variety of restaurants and shopping options, and the nightlife in the local bars invites you to go out and have a good time.

The Haad Rin Beach is located on the beautiful southern tip of Koh Phangan, about a 15-minute drive from the main ferry terminal. This sandy beach is truly a paradise, but you can only see and enjoy it when there is no full moon party. Nearby is the uniquely beautiful Leela Beach, which is especially popular with couples.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Haad Rin:

  • Chic 4-Star Hotel: The Explorar Koh Phangan is a mega-stylish adults-only hotel. Guests love the modern ambiance, the beautiful pool, and the cool pool parties!
  • Awesome Hostel: The So Good Haad Rin Hostel is an insider tip for backpackers. It has an unbeatable location right on the beach, is very clean and has a great atmosphere.
  • Excellent 4-Star Hotel: The super beautiful Skymoon Resort offers gorgeous suites and villas in a spectacular location with stunning views of Haad Rin Beach.

Thong Nai Pan

The beautiful area of Thong Nai Pan is located in the northeast of Koh Phangan and consists of two bays, Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai. Both beaches are just to fall in love with! You will find idyllic surroundings with sandy beaches, crystal clear water and lush vegetation. The area is also known for its many upscale resorts, making it ideal for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic getaway. In fact, Thong Nai Pan is home to some of the best hotels on Koh Phangan, perfect if you’re planning a very special stay on the island. Many of the accommodations are in prime locations right on the beach, some even have a pool and pamper guests with excellent restaurants. In addition, there are numerous activities available. You can kayak, snorkel, swim in waterfalls, get a massage on the beach, explore magnificent viewpoints, or practice yoga.

Thong Nai Pan has a more tranquil feel compared to the busier parts of the island. Overall, you’ll find the perfect balance between a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants and plenty of luxurious places to stay.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Thong Nai Pan:

  • 5-Star Luxury Hotel: The Anantara Rasananda is one of the top hotels on the island of Koh Phangan. This luxury accommodation is unique and guarantees a dream vacation.
  • 4-Star Dream Hotel: The Buri Rasa is an insider tip for a relaxing beach vacation. The hotel is located right on the beach, has a beautiful pool and a breakfast you will fall in love with.
  • Wonderful Dream Villas: The Baan View Talay offers wonderful dream villas, some of which even have their own pool. The view overlooking the jungle is also stunning.

Haad Yao

The idyllic resort of Haad Yao is a wonderful choice for a relaxing getaway on Koh Phangan. Located on the gorgeous northwest coast, it is a popular choice for families with children due to its fabulous tourist amenities. Here you can enjoy a stunning white sandy beach that slopes gently into the clear turquoise sea, perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. The vacation atmosphere at Haad Yao Beach is also simply fantastic, and there are several chill-out beach bars with magnificent views of the sea. In the evenings, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets and dine at one of the many restaurants right on the beach. The atmosphere is absolutely idyllic, and it is definitely an invitation for a longer stay.

The area around Haad Yao offers a good selection of mid-range accommodations. From simple beach bungalows to comfortable resorts and boutique hotels with swimming pools, you will find it all here. Many of the places to stay are reasonably priced, and some of the hotels are right on the sea.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Haad Yao:

  • Charming Bungalows: The Beyond The Blue Horizon is a small boutique hotel designed with class and flair. It’s located in a beautiful spot with views of the sea.
  • 3-Star Beach Hotel: The magnificent TropiCoco Beach Resort is an excellent choice for a beach vacation! Guests love the beach location, cleanliness and beautiful rooms.
  • Bungalows with a View: The High Life Bungalow will delight you with its tasteful bungalows, beautiful grounds, and spectacular views of the turquoise blue sea.

Baan Thai

The village of Baan Thai is a popular choice for backpackers and the younger crowd for staying on Koh Phangan. Not only can you find a wide range of cheap accommodation, there are also many inexpensive restaurants, cute cafés, chill bars, scooter rentals and tour agencies. This area is also ideal for those who like to party and enjoy the nightlife. There are bungalow resorts along the coast, as well as several beach bars and some trendy beach clubs. In addition, the legendary Waterfall Parties, Jungle Experience and Half-Moon Festival are regularly held in the jungle of Baan Thai. Another highlight is the Baan Thai Night Market. Here you can try amazing food, from Thai dishes to original Italian pizza. The reasonably priced cocktails are a great way to spend the evening.

Baan Thai is a popular meeting place for backpackers, so you can find some cheap hotels, guesthouses, and simple bungalows by the sea. Many of them are located close to the beach or even in the hinterland, surrounded by dense jungle. To explore the most beautiful beaches in Koh Phangan, we recommend renting a scooter or taking a taxi.

The Best Accommodation & Hotels in Baan Thai:

  • Affordable Hotel by the Sea: The Sarana Bungalows offer bungalows and dormitories at a reasonable price. They are right on the beach and the hotel even has a pool.
  • Small Beach Hotel: The CheeVa Beach Resort is a small but nice hotel located right on the beach. The grounds are well maintained, there’s a pool, and it’s a good value.
  • Fitness Hotel by the Sea: The Wild Wood x Hansa Beach Fitness Resort is a very cozy hotel with a fantastic gym, a swimming pool and a bar right on the beach.

Haad Salad Beach

The Haad Salad Beach is a real gem on Koh Phangan and is known as one of the most stunning beaches on the whole island. Located on the northwest coast, just north of the beach resort of Haad Yao, it has a tranquil yet picturesque setting that looks right out of a travel magazine. The fine, white sandy beach, lined with palm trees, stretches along a curved bay and the clear, turquoise waters invite you to swim and relax. You can rent a kayak for a reasonable price, treat yourself to a massage by the sea, or go snorkeling and see all kinds of fish. The bay is lined with charming beach bars and restaurants serving local delicacies and delicious cocktails. But the surrounding area is also very charming and with a scooter, you can easily reach other wonderful places like Mae Haad, Koh Ma, the fishing village Chaloklum and the waterfall Wang Sai.

Haad Salad is a great place for a beach vacation on Koh Phangan. There are some nice hotels and bungalows around the bay, making it a great place to stay. Most of the accommodations are in the mid-range, although you can find some budget options as well.

Best Accommodations & Hotels near Haad Salad Beach:

  • Bungalows by the Sea: The Salad Hut is a small, well-kept hotel complex. The wooden huts are comfortable and have a large veranda with a hammock.
  • Fantastic Hotel with Pool: The Green Papaya Beach Resort is a charming beach hotel on Haad Salad Beach. The beautiful infinity pool is also a great feature.
  • Good Value Resort: The Haad Salad Resort is a small, inexpensive hotel in a great location almost on the beach. Its value for money is also excellent!

Thong Sala (Main Town & Harbor)

The bustling town of Thong Sala, with a population of 5,000, is the island’s main town and by far the most important transportation hub on Koh Phangan. It is home to the island’s main ferry port with regular departures to Koh Samui, Koh Tao and the mainland. In addition, there are many buses and taxis around the port that will take you to the various resorts on the island. Especially backpackers and those who are only on Koh Phangan for a short time and are looking for cheap accommodation will find many good and cheap places to stay around Thong Sala. The most beautiful attractions and the best beaches can be explored from there on a guided tour or on your own with a scooter. Scooters can be rented at almost every corner for a reasonable price.

Thong Sala is less suitable for a relaxing beach vacation, but rather as a short stopover or a cheap alternative for backpackers. Really cool are the many markets, such as the Koh Phangan Food Court, the Pantip Market and on Saturdays, the famous “Walking Street” , where you can sample a wide variety of Thai delicacies.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Thong Sala:

  • Beautiful Beachfront Resort: The Baan Manali Resort offers a variety of bungalows with hammocks, a pool overlooking the sea and a beautiful garden.
  • Small Eco-Hotel: The Kalulushi Bungalows is a stylish eco-lodge just north of the main town Thong Sala. There’s a lovely pool and jungle-style garden.
  • Seaside Bungalows: The Angkana Bungalows is a truly nice place to stay near Thong Sala with a pool for rest and relaxation, but not far from the action.

 

Mae Haad Beach

The whole area around Mae Haad Beach is a wonderful option for a relaxing beach holiday on Koh Phangan. Here you can enjoy an absolute dream beach! Just off the coast is the famous island of Koh Ma, which gives the resort a spectacular ambience. Unique is a visit at low tide, when you can walk from Mae Haad Beach to Koh Ma Island. The area is popular with a younger crowd and couples. There are some really cool beach bars and great restaurants overlooking the ocean where you can eat delicious food and drink cocktails. The atmosphere is always good and there is always something going on. At sunset, head up to the 420 Club Phangan. You’ll have one of the best views on the island!

At Mae Haad Beach there is a small but good selection of good and cheap hotels. Thanks to their central location around the bay, they are perfect for a budget beach vacation. Most of the accommodations are small, family-run resorts, and a few of them also have swimming pools.

Best Accommodations & Hotels at Mae Haad Beach:

  • Lovely Resort with Pool: The Wang Sai Resort scores with a beautiful setting right on the sea and a fantastic restaurant. All of this is available at a reasonable price.
  • Cheap Accommodation: The Maehaad Garden Inn is a small, inexpensive hotel. It is located about 5 minutes from the beach and impresses with its cleanliness.
  • Cosy Bungalows: The Pim Bungalow is a cozy yet inexpensive place to stay. Guests also love the cleanliness and great value for money.

Chaloklum

The fishing village of Chaloklum is located in the north of the island and is very popular with Koh Phangan connoisseurs. This coastal village is a real insider tip if you are looking for authentic Thai island life. Many dropouts, backpackers and independent travelers gather here, as there are plenty of cheap hotels and accommodations in the area. The place is less touristy than others, but by no means dull or boring. You will find some really quaint bars, cozy cafés, bakeries and an absolutely cool vibe that invites you to linger. Furthermore, at the edge of town, there is the lovely Malibu beach for swimming. There are also excellent diving schools where you can book fabulous dives. Another highlight is the beaches in the area, such as the stunning Bottle Beach, which can be reached by taxi boat from Chaloklum or by hiking.

Chaloklum has a good selection of budget accommodations, including small, cute guesthouses, backpacker hostels and nice bungalows right on the beach. Many are even run by expats. What’s really cool is the slightly remote location in the north of the island, perfect if you are looking for a quiet getaway.

Best Accommodations & Hotels in Chaloklum:

  • Bungalows by the Sea: The Silan Residence offers beautiful bungalows in a great location right on the gorgeous beach. The village is also within walking distance.
  • Family Cottage: The Baan Moonchan House is a beautiful Thai house with two bedrooms and a living room. It is ideal for families with children as well.
  • Small Hotel with Pool: The Baan Bhuwann is a small family-run hotel with a swimming pool. The hospitality is unique and the proximity to the center is top.

Conclusion: Where You Should Stay on Koh Phangan

For the Full Moon Party, there’s no way around Haad Rin. Looking for peace and a bit more comfort instead? Thong Nai Pan is the better choice. And if you’re watching your budget, Chaloklum or Thong Sala will have what you need.

On our last longer stay, we lived in Baan Thai. From there, we explored the whole island by scooter, the waterfalls were quick to reach, and in the evenings we just walked over to the night market. For a pure beach vacation, though, we wouldn’t choose Baan Thai again, Haad Salad Beach and Thong Nai Pan have the nicer, quieter beaches.

If you don’t want to commit to one area: Haad Yao is central enough to reach the rest of the island easily by scooter.


Read More about Koh Phangan:

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Bangkok | Koh Samui | Chiang Mai | Krabi | Koh Lanta | Chiang Rai | Ayutthaya | Sukhotai | Koh Lipe | Khao Sok Nationalpark| Koh Samet | Koh Larn | Koh Similian | Thailand

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

The 7 Best Beaches in Grado (2026)

The beautiful beaches in Grado are a guarantee for a relaxing beach vacation on the Upper Adriatic in Italy. For more than 100 years, this elegant coastal town has been delighting visitors with its long stretches of velvety sandy beaches, providing ideal conditions for a summer vacation for generations. The azure sea is wonderfully clear and shallow, making it ideal for families with little children and the elderly. Moreover, Grado’s 120,000 square meters of beach have been awarded with the Blue Flag, an award for the best quality, cleanliness and facilities. Along the 10 kilometers of coastline there are various beach sections, including paid beach resorts, dog beaches and also free beaches for those who want to spread out their own towel.

In this guide, you will find the 7 best beaches in Grado. We’ll show you stunning pictures and give you plenty of tips and information to help you plan your vacation.

 

GIT Beach

The splendid GIT Beach, also known as “Grado Impianti Turistici Spa” or Spiaggia Principale, is the main beach of Grado and is considered to be a fantastic choice for a beach vacation. Thanks to its central situation in the seaside resort, its sophisticated atmosphere and the crystal clear sea, it has always been the tourist symbol of the coastal town. For almost 2 kilometers, the GIT beach is lined with several bathing establishments, divided into many thematic areas, including “Baby Beach”, “Family Beach” and “Spiaggia di Sissi”. The crystal clear sea slopes very gently and the fine sandy beach, moreover, is characterized by perfect facilities and a wide range of entertainment. Moreover, the choice of hotels close to the sea is also top and offers optimal conditions for a beach vacation in Grado.

A highlight is also the Grado promenade, which has a particularly beautiful historical charm. It runs along the coast and invites you to take long walks. There is also a wide range of beach bars and restaurants overlooking the sea.

Tip: An insider tip is Villa Erica, a charming hotel in a 19th century villa. The beach is also only a 2-minute walk away.

Costa Azzurra Beach

The Costa Azzurra Beach, also called “the old beach” by the locals, is a true jewel of Grado and is considered one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the Upper Adriatic in Italy. Located at the western tip of the resort, its central position offers a magnificent view of the historic city center. Vacationers love this gently sloping, fine sandy beach with its beautiful sea colors and fabulous water quality. The beach is open to everyone free of charge, with umbrellas and sunbeds for rent in one section. There is also a free beach where it is possible to bring a parasol, towels and a sunshade.

The culinary offer of the Costa Azzurra Beach is also excellent. There are several beach bars that serve cool drinks and snacks. For action, there are water sports, pedal boat and SUP rentals and playgrounds for children. A special feature is the “Diga” promenade, which leads to the center and other beaches of the Grado coast.

Tip: We recommend the Sunset Room & Breakfast, a nice, small pension with a delicious breakfast and a great location right on the Costa Azzurra beach.

Grado Pineta Beach

The Grado Pineta Beach is definitely a good choice for a quiet beach vacation. It is located away from the hustle and bustle, about three kilometers from the center. Nevertheless, you can easily reach the old town by bike along the charming seaside promenade. Locals and tourists alike love the romantic setting and idyllic atmosphere of this beautiful sandy beach. There is a good choice of bathing establishments on the beach, and there are also some free sections of beach where you can spread out your own towel in peace. Families with children will also enjoy the beach of Grado Pineta, as there are numerous playgrounds and a wide range of beach activities. In addition, you can find many, often inexpensive accommodations just behind the beach.

The Grado Pineta Beach is very popular not only with beach lovers, but also with kite surfers, as it offers optimal conditions for water sports. The sunny island of Grado is known for its constant and pleasant winds, which provide ideal conditions for kitesurfing. In addition, a long sandbank protects the sea from strong waves.

Tip: The Hotel Ai Pini is a good choice for a vacation at Grado Pineta Beach. Sunbeds and umbrellas are provided free of charge for guests on the beach.

Al Bosco Beach

The Al Bosco Beach in Grado is an enchanting stretch of coastline, almost 1 km long, characterized by its natural environment and relaxing atmosphere. It takes its name from the campsite of the same name, located in a very quiet area just behind the sandy beach. There is also a beautiful pine forest, which not only provides pleasant shade, but also exudes a Mediterranean flair. On this wide stretch of coast there are many free areas where you can spread your own towel on the sandy beach, comfortably and without any constraints. There is also an area with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. The sea at Al Bosco beach is very shallow, which makes it ideal for families with small children and non-swimmers.

The long promenade behind the beach is excellent for long walks and bike rides to Grado Pineta and the old town. Along the way there are many picnic areas and beach bars with a sea view.

Tip: The Camping Al Bosco is a simple, but very comfortable 2-star camping site in Grado. Mobile homes are also available for rent there!

Spiaggia Libera Beach

The Spiaggia Libera Beach is the most popular free beach in Grado and is perfect for vacationers who want to enjoy the sun and sea at no extra cost. This natural sandy beach is located in the central coastal area of the resort and thanks to its size it offers visitors plenty of space to relax, sunbathe and splash around. Just behind the beach is a beautiful lawn with many green trees that provide cool shade on hot days. Moreover, the atmosphere is relaxed and casual. There are also a few beach bars nearby for refreshments and snacks, and free parking for cars and campers.

A special feature of Spiaggia Libera Beach is that it falls into the sea very shallowly. At low tide, it forms a large sandbar that is easy to walk along. Even at high tide, the water in this part of the coast remains very shallow, making it popular with families with very small children. However, this beach is less suitable for swimming.

Punta Spin Beach

A wonderful place for a relaxing beach vacation in Grado is the Punta Spin Beach. It is located at the southern end of the resort and can also be visited by non-campers. It offers plenty of space for sunbathers, even in high season, and there are also some free sections of beach. Compared to the other bathing places, it is a bit quieter, but still has a pleasant, lively vacation atmosphere. Moreover, the magnificent pine forest that gives the beach of Punta Spin a very special Mediterranean atmosphere is simply magnificent. Next to the beach is the Spiaggia Europa, which is also truly recommended and very popular with families.

The Punta Spin Beach is equipped with restaurants, beach bars and entertainment facilities. The clear sea and the well-kept sandy beach make Punta Spin a popular place for families, couples and sun bathers who want to spend unforgettable summer days by the sea.

Tip: Just behind the beach there are two well-equipped holiday resorts, the Residence Punta Spin and the ever-popular Villaggio Turistico Europa.

Lido di Fido Dog Beach

The Lido di Fido Dog Beach is a true vacation paradise for four-legged friends and their owners, as this secluded stretch of coastline allows dogs to romp on the beach, play and swim in the sea. There is a choice of fenced and unfenced areas that you can book for your days by the sea. In addition, this section of the beach will delight you with its perfect cleanliness, the best equipment and friendly service. They have really thought of everything for you here. There are showers for both humans and dogs, special dog beds, dog bowls, dog toilets and separate areas where dogs can roam freely. In addition, the beach has a green area with trees for walking!

A smaller, but no less beautiful dog beach in Grado is La Spiaggia di Snoopy, located a little further north in Grado Pineta. Here too, you can enjoy a fabulous range of services, including the best facilities.


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Koh Phangan Beaches: 12 Stunning Beaches to Visit

The beaches in Koh Phangan are a real highlight and absolutely unique in Thailand! Fine white sand, turquoise blue sea colors, huge coconut trees, spectacular stone formations, and hidden bays make this island a true paradise for sun-seeking beach holidaymakers. Hardly anywhere else you will find a larger selection of dream bays! One beach is more beautiful and idyllic than the other, so you are spoiled for choice on the dream island of Koh Phangan. Whether a party beach, such as the famous Haad Rin Beach where the Full Moon parties take place, or quiet and secluded bays, here everyone will find his perfect place under the Thai sun! But what are the absolutely most beautiful beaches on Koh Phangan, what are the insider tips and which coastal sections are particularly suitable for a beach vacation?

In this guide, you will find the 12 ultimate best beaches of Koh Phangan. We also show stunning pictures, and give you useful tips and information that will definitely help you plan your trip.

 

Leela Beach

The Leela Beach is a beautiful stretch of beach on the southern tip of the islands, just about a 10-minute walk from the popular village of Haad Rin. The snow-white sandy beach lined with palm trees is certainly one of the absolutely most beautiful beaches of Koh Phangan. Here comes to real vacation feeling because velvet-soft, fine white sand, tall palm trees, turquoise blue sea colors and spectacular sunsets conjure up a dream beach in a class of its own. Wonderfully pretty and a small highlight are also the swings that hang between the magnificent palm trees and give this bay that certain something. In addition, you can find really good accommodations at Leela Beach, which are perfect for a beach vacation.

Tip: A true vacation dream for couples is the Cabin Beach Resort, a wonderful beach hotel in a prime location and with a stunning pool.

Haad Rin Beach

The Haad Rin Beach is probably the most famous beach on Koh Phangan because the legendary Full Moon Party takes place here every month. However, few people know that outside this massive event, this dream beach is perfect for swimming and relaxing. After the party nights, it gets really quiet and cozy on this stretch of coast, and the long paradisiacal sandy beach shows itself from its most beautiful side. Far away from the hustle and bustle, you can enjoy a wonderful bathing bay, where white sand with the turquoise sea and the imposing rocks conjure up a picture-perfect backdrop. In addition, you have the opportunity to discover other beautiful beaches and bays in the vicinity by taxi boat.

Tip: At the southern beach section of Haad Rin is the charming Palita Lodge, which enchants with a beautiful pool and perfect location directly on the dream beach.

Haad Salad Beach

Haad Salad Beach, or also known as the Pirate Beach, is a fantastic beach for a vacation on Koh Phangan. You will find this snow-white dream beach on the west coast of the vacation island. Here it is not quite as lonely, but still also not crowded, and visitors enjoy a good tourist offer. The sea is extremely clear and invites you to swim and snorkel. Especially beautiful is the northern section of the beach, where mighty palm trees provide dreamlike photo motifs. Cozy beach bars, restaurants, and hotels directly on the beach create a real vacation feeling.

Tip: Highly recommended are the beautiful bungalows of Cookies Salad Resort in a wonderful location and with a fantastic view over the bay.

Thong Nai Pan Yai & Pan Noi Beach

The two bays of Thong Nai Pan are absolutely gorgeous and a real visitor magnet of the best beaches on Koh Phangan. On a visit, you can expect a wonderfully beautiful, tropical coastline, and moreover, there is a fabulous tourist offer. There are good restaurants, beachfront resorts, and a few bars where you can sip your evening cocktails. Thong Nai Pan Yai is a little bit bigger than Thong Nai Pan Noi beach, but both beaches are not far from each other and actually create one big double bay together. Beautiful and an insider tip is the Thong Nai Pan Yai Viewpoint, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view.

Tip: The Santhiya Koh Phangan Resort and Spa is a beautiful 5-star hotel in a prime location. Perfect for a very special beach vacation on Koh Phangan.

Haad Yuan Beach

The Haad Yuan Beach is for many travelers the most beautiful beach of Koh Phangan. Here you will find the absolutely perfect dream beach, which normally can only be seen in one of those high glossy travel magazines. Especially impressive are the mighty round stone formations, which conjure up a breathtaking backdrop with the velvety soft light sand and the incredibly beautiful sea colors. If you love peace and quiet and want to experience a relaxing stay on Koh Phangan, you should definitely spend a few days on this dream beach. But also a trip there is possible because taxi boats for the journey are offered from Haad Rin!

Tip: Directly on the beach are a few very simple accommodations, such as the inexpensive bungalows Bambu Huts or the Pariya Resort & Villas.

Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat)

Bottle Beach is located in the north of the island and is a true dream beach on Koh Phangan. The ultimate tropical paradise awaits you here, as beautiful and unique as from a picture book! Fine white sand, turquoise blue sea, countless huge palm trees and the seclusion make the beach unique on Koh Phangan. However, this paradise beach can only be reached by taxi boat from Chaloklum, or a strenuous hike. Perhaps that is why this beach has remained so quiet and idyllic. Many come by way of an excursion, but a vacation at Bottle Beach is also worthwhile. Especially, tourists looking for relaxation and tranquility will find their personal paradise here.

Tip: Recommended for a stay is the really quaint and cozy Haad Khuad Resort in a prime location directly on the dream beach Haad Khuat.

Than Sadet Beach

Than Sadet Beach is an absolute picture book beach and an insider tip for all those who want to spend the night on the idyllic east side. Lined with countless palm trees and deep jungle, it is considered by many visitors to be one of the most beautiful beaches of Koh Phangan and on top it is an absolute insider tip among connoisseurs. If you love nature, this is the right place for you! Unique is also the tranquility that surrounds this bay and the relaxed flair that makes Than Sadet a real dream beach. Directly on the beach, there are a few simple beach huts and bungalows, which are perfect for a quiet time out.

Not far away is the Sadet waterfall, which is also an absolute highlight of the island. If you are looking for a tropical paradise, Sadet Beach is the right place for you!

Tip: Really brilliant are the Mai Pen Rai Bungalows. Guests love the spectacular location, fabulous restaurant and views of the beach.

Secret Beach (Haad Son)

The Secret Beach is a quaint beach on the west coast of the resort island. While no longer a secret, you still shouldn’t miss this stunning beach on Koh Phangan. The atmosphere is really cozy and it can be held here already a few days. The small bay, about 200 meters long, is truly paradisiacal, and tall palm trees and the fine light sand create a tropical ambience. Families with small children will also enjoy this very gently sloping beach.

Really unique there is also the Koh Raham Restaurant on a peninsula next to the Haad Son Resort, where numerous swings, hammocks, and colorful lights in the trees conjure up a true fairytale atmosphere.

Mae Beach Haad & Koh Ma Island

The Mae Haad Beach is one of the most famous beaches on Koh Phangan. A real special feature is especially the offshore island Koh Ma, which gives the dream beach a spectacular panorama. Amazing is a visit at low tide, when you can walk from Mae Haad Beach over to Koh Ma Island. Also, if you like snorkeling, this part of the coast is just right because underwater there are numerous fish to discover. Moreover, the atmosphere is great, there is always something going on and yet, you can find a quiet spot if preferred. Another highlights are the fantastic restaurants on the beach, which serve delicious food and good cocktails.

Tip: At Haad Mae Beach you will find a great selection of accommodations. Really fabulous is the Maehaad Bay Resort with gorgeous pool and perfect location.

Haad Yao Beach

Haad Yao Beach is located on the northwest coast and is one of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Phangan. Because of its length of 1 kilometer, this picturesque bay is also often called “Long Beach”. The beach is especially known for its extremely charming ambience, which has been preserved over the years. The sand is wonderfully fine, and the clean sea invites you to swim and snorkel. In addition, you will find several nice restaurants and quaint bars directly on Haad Yao Beach, which are just perfect to enjoy and linger. The sunsets are also spectacular and are considered the best on the islands!

Tip: The Baan Kiao is a family-run resort with a pool, just a 2-minute walk from the beach. Guests love the delicious breakfast and the price is also good!

Haad Thian Beach

The Haad Thian beach, also known as Sanctuary Beach, is a real insider’s tip, as this hidden bay has a real Robinson Cruso feeling! It is located on the east coast of Koh Phangan and the best way to reach this dream bay is by cab boat from Haad Rin. Especially quiet seekers will have their true joy with this tropical bathing bay because Haad Thian East is definitely one of the most idyllic beaches of Koh Phangan. In addition, this quiet sandy beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

There are only a few accommodations here, including the Sanctuary Resort. Haad Thian Beach is also ideal for an excursion. Taxi boats leave from Haad Rin and the trip takes only 15 minutes.

Malibu Beach

Malibu Beach is definitely one of the best beaches in Koh Phangan. This very idyllic white sand beach is an absolute mecca for backpackers, long-term travelers and those seeking peace and quiet. It is located in the north of the island in the resort of Chaloklum, where you can also find great restaurants, bakeries, diving schools and cheap accommodation. The beach section is especially captivating because of its peninsula-shaped sandbank, which is adorned with many small palm trees and trees, which also provide cool shade. The water at this bay is particularly clear, turquoise blue, and the sand is bright white and fine. Malibu Beach is also a good starting point for exploring the beautiful beaches in the northwest of the island.

Tip: A really cool accommodation tip is the Baan Moonchan House, where you can rent small cottages directly in the jungle and only a few steps from the beach.


More about Koh Phangan:


The Best Beaches in Thailand:


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Ornos Beach, Mykonos: The Beach & Vacation Paradise!

The Ornos Beach in Mykonos is an absolute vacation paradise on the popular Greek holiday island. This beach jewel is located on the southwest coast and is one of the most popular coastal resorts for sunseekers and beach vacationers. Known as one of the best beaches in Mykonos, Ornos Beach offers a fascinating postcard backdrop at its finest. Not only the velvety white sand and the almost kitschy turquoise sea are unique, but also the welcoming atmosphere and exuberant vibe. Especially in the summer months, when the beach bars open their doors, it’s a place to see and be seen. But what are the highlights of Ornos Beach, what are the best tips for a visit, and where can you find good accommodations for a vacation?
In this travel guide, you will find all the important tips and information about Ornos Beach in Mykonos in Greece. We show you great pictures, the best things to see and do, and where to find fantastic beachfront hotels for a vacation.

Ornos Beach: Good to know!

Ornos Beach has some of the best places for where to stay in Mykonos. We recommend the Kensho Ornos, a really chic hotel with a pool right by the sea.

A car or a quad bike is the best way to explore the best things to do in Mykonos. There is also a public bus service that connects many of the places.

Ornos Beach has a great vacation feeling during the summer months. Some of the best beach clubs in Mykonos are located here, such as the famous Pasaji Beach Club.

The most popular time to visit Ornos Beach is from June to September. We also recommend the low season, when you can swim and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

 

General Information about Ornos Beach

Ornos Beach is located in the picturesque southwest of Mykonos Island, about 3.5 kilometers from the capital Mykonos and about 4 kilometers from Mykonos Airport. This dream beach stretches along a crescent-shaped coastline and is beautifully surrounded by hills with typical white Cycladic houses, giving it an impressive backdrop. The bay is ideal for swimming and bathing as it is sheltered from strong winds and waves. Ornos Beach is characterized by its fine sand and clear, turquoise sea, offering the best conditions for a summer vacation. Here you can spend hours in the sun, splashing around in the sea. Have a cocktail at one of the beach bars and just relax. What’s more, the sea here is relatively shallow, which is especially appreciated by older people and families with children.

For those looking for a little more action, Ornos Beach offers a variety of water sports, including stand-up paddling, kayaking and jet skiing. The seabed at Ornos Beach is also interesting and in some places, especially along the rocks, you can explore a colorful underwater world while snorkeling. Away from the beach, the area around Ornos Beach is full of fascinating attractions. One of the highlights is the town of Mykonos, which is only a short drive away and can be easily reached by public bus. Here you will find charming alleys, boutiques, restaurants and an exciting nightlife that invites you to party. This is perfect if you want to spend your vacation days on the beach during the day and in the city at night.

How to get to Ornos Beach

Getting to Mykonos is relatively easy. The island has its own airport and there are also domestic flights from Athens. Another option is to take the ferry. Once on the island, Ornos Beach is quickly reached, as the resort is only about 4 kilometers from the port and 4 kilometers from the airport. The fastest way to get there is by taxi, but there are also regular bus services. You can also rent a scooter, quad bike or car. Some accommodations in Ornos Beach also offer a pick-up service from the airport.

Tip: Cheap tickets for flights and ferries are available at 12go.com. Mykonos is also a popular starting point for island hopping in the Cyclades.

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Where to Stay at Ornos Beach

Ornos Beach offers vacationers a truly wide range of fantastic accommodations in every price range. Most of the places to stay are superb hotels and resorts that offer guests a great beach location and a unique vacation experience. Here are our recommendations for good places to stay in Ornos Beach, Mykonos… It’s worth a look!

  • Luxury Hotel by the Sea: The Mykonos Ammos Hotel is a dream hotel in Mykonos. This accommodation is located directly on Ornos Beach and offers top facilities.
  • Hotel with Private Pool: The Kensho Ornos is a really nice hotel close to the sea. The rooms with private pool or jacuzzi are highly recommended!
  • Apartments with Pool: The Anemos Apartments offer beautiful apartments for a very reasonable price. The pool is fabulous, and the beach is not far away.

More about Mykonos:

Keep Exploring

More about Greece

Santorini | Naxos | Paros | Milos | Sifnos | Folegandros

Beaches in Greece

Santorini Beaches | Naxos Beaches | Paros Beaches


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

The 7 Best Beaches in Calpe, Spain

The beaches of Calpe are among the most beautiful ones on the picturesque Costa Blanca in Spain. Especially famous is the city for its mighty rock, the Peñón de Ifach, which rises up about 320 meters and shapes the landscape. From the two long and bright sandy beaches of Calpe city you can always enjoy a spectacular view of the gigantic rock formation, but also the small secluded and hidden bays in the area are interesting to see. The sea on the coast around Calpe is crystal clear, clean and partly turquoise blue, perfect for an unforgettable vacation on the Mediterranean Sea. But where are the best beaches in Calpe, where are the quiet bays, and what are the real beach highlights?

This beach guide summarizes the 7 most beautiful beaches of Calpe in Spain at a glance. Additionally, you will get useful tips and recommendations for accommodations that should help you plan your trip.

 

Playa del Arenal-Bol Beach

The Playa del Arenal Bol is a fine light sandy beach and is, with a size of 1.5 kilometers, the longest beach in Calpe. It belongs to the two main beaches in the city and is therefore a very popular spot for sunbathers and swimmers. Although it is quite popular, and especially in summer the beach attracts many visitors, Playa del Arenal-Bol is due to its size, never packed.

What makes this beach so unique? The sea shines here in the most beautiful colors, and in the background you can always enjoy a breathtaking view of the huge rock of Calpe, the Penon de Ifach. Picture-perfect, like out of the travel magazine! Also the beautiful beach promenade, where restaurants, cafés and bars invite you to relax, is unique.

Tip: There are some really good accommodations behind the Playa del Arenal-Bol. We can recommend the phenomenal Gran Hotel Sol y Mar with a fantastic infinity pool.

Playa de Cantal Roig Beach

In the middle of the two main beaches, Playa de la Fossa and Playa de Arenal-Bol, lies the small and beautiful bay of Playa de Cantal Roig. It is just around the corner of the tranquil fishing port and in the background there is the mighty Peñón de Ifach rock. This beautiful fine sandy beach slopes very gently and the bay functions as a shelter against big waves. This beach is a popular spot for families, but also for those who enjoy swimming in the calm waters.

Above the beach Cantal Roig runs a lively promenade, where there are numerous restaurants, bars and stores. A little further down are the “Baños de la Reina”, the Queen’s Baths, which are archaeological remains.

Tip: Just a few steps from the sea is the Apartamento Paradero de Ifach, which scores with the perfect location and a beautiful pool.

Playa de la Fossa Beach

The Playa de la Fossa, also known as Playa Levante, is the second main beach of the popular resort. It is located north of the city center, and many travelers consider it to be the most beautiful beach in Calpe. In particular, families with children, but also older people and couples appreciate this gently sloping and very clean sandy beach. The touristic offer is also perfect here: restaurants, shops and bars are lined up along the beach promenade and sunbeds with umbrellas can be rented on the beach. The long bay is sheltered by trees, so you can always swim in the calm, crystal clear and clean sea.

Due to the incredibly beautiful backdrop, the Calpe rock, this beach is a popular motif for photographers, and so Playa de la Fossa adorns many postcards of the city.

Tip: There are mainly apartment complexes at Playa de la Fossa. Perfect for a holiday are, for example, the Apartamento en Calpe and the Apartamento Topacio 14C.

Cala El Raco Beach

A real insider tip among the most beautiful beaches in Calpe is Cala El Raco Beach. This hidden bay lies between the harbor and the foot of the mighty rock Ifach and is part of the nature reserve. The mighty rock and the turquoise blue sea create a uniquely spectacular panorama. This beach is a rough white pebble beach with round stones. If you visit this beach, you should definitely wear bathing shoes. Even those who love snorkeling are definitely right here at Cala El Raco Beach, because here in the crystal-clear sea you can marvel at an interesting underwater world. So you can discover different types of fish, crabs, and even starfish!

Tip: Parking is available on site and a beach bar provides cool drinks for your beach days.

Cala La Calalga Beach

The picturesque bay of Cala La Calalga is located around 3 kilometers from the city center and enchants with a wonderful idyll. Surrounded by rocks, you can reach this beach via a footpath down to the sea. The beach is made of pebbles, but it turns into fine sand in the sea. During your bathing adventure, you can enjoy a secluded surrounding, far away from the hustle and bustle of the large main beaches.

If you fancy taking a walk, you can take the “Benissa Coastal Walk” from the beach and explore the beautiful coast of Calpe. Or you can stroll along the promenade towards the long main beaches of the region. A wonderful beach for a few relaxing hours at the sea.

Tip: The wonderful Apartamentos Santa Clara are perfect for a holiday in Calpe. They are located in the immediate vicinity of the gorgeous bay and score with chic design.

Platja Mascarat & Cala El Collao

Another beach highlight near Calpe is the beautiful Platja Mascarat beach and the neighboring bay, Cala el Collao. Both are located in the south of the city, around 5 kilometers from the center. Here too you can enjoy a picturesque beach atmosphere with gigantic rock cliffs and unique sea colors. Due to the natural environment you can snorkel there especially well and enjoy, especially in the low season, a really lonely dream beach.

Playa La Fustera Beach

Unique and a real tip for a quiet holiday in Calpe is the beautiful Playa La Fustera Beach. You will find this rough-grained sandy beach around 6 kilometers north of the city. Particularly fantastic is the relaxed and familiar atmosphere and the idyllic beach setting. There are a few beautiful holiday homes and restaurants around the bay, but there is hardly any sign of mass tourism here at Playa La Fustera. Only a small beach bar spoils visitors with good food and delicious cocktails. Also here, especially along the rocks, are some good spots for snorkeling. A wonderful beach for a relaxing vacation by the sea.

Tip: The Villa La Mar is a fabulous choice for families or small groups. Guests love the great amenities, pool, and proximity to the beach!


More about the Costa Blanca:


Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Koh Lipe: Best Beaches & Hotels

The many wonderful options for where to stay in Koh Lipe guarantee an unforgettable vacation on this small but stunning Thai island. Even though the island is very compact, Koh Lipe offers an impressive range of places to stay, including beautiful hotels right on the beach, boutique accommodations, resorts with pools, spacious villas and budget friendly hostels for backpackers. But where is actually the best place to stay in Koh Lipe? Some areas and beaches are perfect for families with children, while others are ideal for couples, honeymoon trips or travelers who want a lively nightlife scene. Every part of the island is charming in its own way and has special advantages. That is why it can sometimes be difficult to choose the perfect accommodation in Koh Lipe and the ideal beach for your stay.

This guide is all about where to stay in Koh Lipe in Thailand. You will also find many useful tips and hotel recommendations that will help you plan your trip with ease.

Pattaya Beach

The Pattaya Beach is probably the most famous place for where to stay in Koh Lipe. Directly on the beach, but also a few meters behind it, are some of the best accommodations and hotels of Koh Lipe. The price level is varied, from cheap to expensive, everything is represented. Pattaya Beach is where most boats and ferries dock, so it can get a bit busy during the day. Also in the evening, there is more going on than anywhere else. Especially in the northern section there are really cool beach bars and clubs to party, and at night there is music and spectacular fire shows right by the sea. In the south, the beach is very quiet and great for relaxing and swimming. Also cool is the adjacent Walking Street, perfect if you like shopping and dining.

Choosing an accommodation on Pattaya Beach is a great choice for a vacation. Here you can find wonderful hotels right by the sea, you live very centrally, and you can walk to many of the most beautiful spots on the island. In addition, there is a wide tourist offer with diving schools, restaurants, nightlife, and stores for shopping.

Best Hotels & Accommodations at Pattaya Beach:

  • 4-Star Hotel with Pool: The Ananya Lipe Resort is one of the best hotels on Koh Lipe. Guests love the pool, location by the sea, chic rooms, and delicious breakfast.
  • Resort by the Sea: The Bundhaya Villas are a great choice for a beach vacation. They are located in the northernmost section and wow with charming rooms and perfect location.
  • Lovely Apartments: Located about 150 meters from the beach, the Lipe Banyan Apartments are a great option if you’re looking for a nice apartment on Koh Lipe.

Walking Street

The Walking Street is Koh Lipe’s famous promenade that runs across part of the island, connecting the famous Pattaya Beach in the southwest with the legendary Sunrise Beach in the east. Around the Walking Street there are many cheap accommodation options and especially backpackers, but also all those who do not necessarily want to stay directly by the sea, will certainly find here a cheap accommodation on Koh Lipe. The range of small hotels is diverse, although in this area there are also many cool hostels to choose from. In addition, you really stay very centrally, and all beaches are accessible via a walk. Another plus is the many good restaurants, and also the nightlife with the cool bars is unbeatable.

Booking an accommodation in or near Walking Street has several advantages. Most places to stay are cheap, there are many excellent hostels for backpackers and also the central location on the island is a hit. In addition, you can go out for having delicious food and for shopping.

Best Hotels & Accommodations around Walking Street:

  • 3-Star Hotel with Style: The Reef Hotel is a cute 3-star hotel on Koh Lipe. Here, a pretty design, the fair reasonable price and the delicious breakfast scores.
  • Chic Backpacker Hotel: The Chic Lipe is a super chic and charming hostel on Koh Lipe. Really great is the value for money, cleanliness, and facilities.
  • Fantastic Hostel in the Center: The Bloom Cafe & Hostel with the nice rooms and the lovely café is definitely one of the best backpacker hostels on Koh Lipe.

Sunrise Beach

The Sunrise Beach, also known as Haad Chao Ley, is for many the most beautiful beach on the island and, moreover, a perfect choice for a beach vacation on Koh Lipe. This white dream beach is located on the east side of the island, a bit away from the hustle and bustle, and the accommodations there are a great tip for a quiet getaway. The 2 kilometer long, snow-white coastline is beautiful, the sea colors are turquoise blue and coral reefs invite for snorkeling. Right on the beach, you’ll also find Koh Lipe’s best hotels. Some of these resorts have pools, other accommodations even provide a small private beach section. There are also diving schools, restaurants, and cool beach bars as well as really wonderful places for swimming and snorkeling.

The area around Sunrise Beach is the perfect place for quiet seekers, individualists, and honeymooners. If you are looking for a really spectacular hotel on Koh Lipe, then you will surely find your perfect accommodation at this dream beach. The beach is one of the best on the island and is perfect for relaxing.

Best Hotels & Accommodations at Sunrise Beach:

  • Small Hotel by the Sea: The Ten Moons Lipe Resort is a real insider tip. This charming little hotel is right by the beach and the rooms are often booked out weeks in advance.
  • Resort on a Dream Beach: The Serendipity Beach Resort is a perfect choice for a vacation. The hotel is right by the sea and there is a stunning house reef for snorkeling.
  • 4-Star Hotel on the Beach: The Idyllic Concept Resort is a fabulous hotel tip for Koh Lipe. Guests love the chic rooms, pool, and gorgeous sandy beach.

Karma Beach

Karma Beach is located at the northernmost tip of the island, and this small, snow-white stretch of beach is truly unique! Many even count it among the most beautiful places to stay on Koh Lipe. Especially impressive is the white, fine sand and the impressive sandbank, which stretch like a crescent into the turquoise sea and conjures up a fascinating idyll. Karma Beach is just perfect for swimming, for snorkeling or explore the coast by kayak. The quiet atmosphere also invites to relax. In addition, you can always enjoy a magnificent view of the neighboring island of Koh Adang opposite. Behind the beach, there are only a few accommodations, so you can look forward to quiet vacation days.

Karma Beach is a good choice for a very relaxing stay on Koh Lipe. There are only a few hotels directly on the beach. A short walk away, there is already Sunrise Beach, where you can find good restaurants and bars for delicious food and drinks.

Best Hotels & Accommodations at Karma Beach:

  • Hotel with a View: The Mountain Resort Koh Lipe is a simple hotel but with a stunning view of the sea. A few stairs take you down to Karma Beach.
  • Villas on a Dream Beach: The Bulow Casa Grand View offers beautiful accommodation units directly on the Beach. Recommended are the oceanfront villas with private pool!
  • Resort directly at the Sea: The Zodiac Seesun Resort is in the best location, directly at the spectacular, snow-white dream beach. The sunbeds by the sea are also great.

Sunset Beach

An accommodation at Sunset Beach is an insider tip for a quiet stay in Koh Lipe. This hidden dream beach is located in the west of the island and is well-known for its legendary sunsets. Unique are the numerous palm trees, the round rock formations and the fine sand, which give this place an absolute tropical feeling. Directly at Sunset Beach, there are only a few accommodations, which conjures up a certain Robinson Crusoe atmosphere. During the day it is always quiet, only in the evening at sunset some travelers come to marvel at the magical ambience in one of the quaint beach bars. A real highlight that should not be missed on any trip to Koh Lipe.

The accommodations at Sunset Beach are rather simple. Most of them are bungalows or huts for backpackers. They are located directly on the beach, the prices are cheap, but the equipment is simple. If you like to stay secluded and quiet, Sunset Beach is the perfect place.

Best Hotels & Accommodations at Sunset Beach:

  • Simple Bungalows by the Sea: The Bayview Hill Resort is an adorable place to stay right on the beach. Guests love the quaint wooden bungalows and romantic ambiance.
  • Thai-Style Bungalows: The Bayview Sunset Resort’s bungalows offer pretty Thai-style wooden bungalows. The view of the sea from the terrace is also a dream.
  • Fantastic Resort: The stunning Casa De Lipe is definitely one of the best hotels on Koh Lipe. It is located on a small private beach, just near Sunset Beach.

Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay in Koh Lipe?

For a first visit, Pattaya Beach is hard to beat. On our first trip, we stayed right here, and being close to the boats, the restaurants, and the nightlife made it easy to get a feel for the island without much planning. On our second visit, we wanted to keep costs down, so we stayed at a hostel near Walking Street instead, and it turned out to be a great choice for anyone looking to save money without giving up a central location.

That said, the more we explore Koh Lipe, the more we’re drawn to the quieter side of the island. On our next trip, we’re planning to stay at Sunrise Beach. After two visits full of restaurants, boats, and nightlife, we’re looking forward to trading all that for calm turquoise water and one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the island.
Wherever you choose to stay, Koh Lipe is small enough that you’ll never be far from the water, so it really comes down to how much buzz you want right outside your door.


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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Where to Stay in Ljubljana: Top 7 Areas & Hotels

The many fantastic places for where to stay in Ljubljana make traveling to the Slovenian capital a great experience! Whether you are a couple, a single traveler, a family with children, a senior or a young person, you are sure to find the perfect option to stay. Most accommodations in Ljubljana are vacation rentals, but there is also a good selection of fabulous hotels, small bed and breakfasts, and cheap hostels for backpackers. However, you can find several recommended neighborhoods for a city trip, so the question is where exactly to choose your accommodation in Ljubljana. After all, some areas are especially good for sightseeing, shopping and going out. But which are the absolute best places to stay for a city trip to Ljubljana, where are the best hotels and which accommodations are truly recommended?

In this travel guide, we’ll show you the best places to stay in Ljubljana, as well as the best neighborhoods. Moreover, there are also many useful Ljubljana hotel tips and lots of information, perfect for planning your trip!

 

Ljubljana Old Town (Stari trg)

A stay in the Old Town of Ljubljana is the best choice for vacationers who want to stay right in the vibrant heart of Slovenia’s capital. This part of Ljubljana is a real jewel in the heart of the city, with romantic cobblestone streets, beautiful medieval buildings and picturesque squares. Moreover, the perfect location of the accommodation will allow you to enjoy the most beautiful things to do in Ljubljana. It is therefore an ideal starting point for exploring the magnificent castle, the central market and the cathedral of Ljubljana. This will not only save you time, but will also give you the advantage of being right in the middle of the action. The Old Town also offers some of the best accommodation in Ljubljana, including really hip hotels for that special city break. These are very popular, however, so it pays to book well in advance!

Another plus is the Old Town’s many excellent restaurants, cafés, and bars, which invite you to linger after your sightseeing day. Depending on the time of year, there are various events taking place in the city, as well as a vibrant nightlife.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Ljubljana Old Town:

  • Hip 4-Star Hotel: The Lesar Hotel Angel is a trendy four-star hotel in the historic centre of Ljubljana. Especially recommended are the deluxe double rooms.
  • Nice Small City Hotel: The Bloom Hotel is located in a prime central location in the pedestrian zone and also scores points with a fine breakfast and a hip design.
  • Fantastic Apartments: The Kollmann Rooms and Apartments offers comfortable serviced apartments and rooms. The location is also great for exploring the city!

Center Ljubljana

The center is probably the most popular option for where to stay in Ljubljana. It borders the Old Town and offers the widest range of accommodation. Whether it’s a gorgeous luxury hotel or a budget backpacker hostel, a cozy boutique hotel or a chic business hotel, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Furthermore, many of the city’s major attractions are located in or near the city center. Guests can walk to most of the tourist spots, such as the historic Old Town, the Preseren Square, the Franciscan Church and the Dragon’s Bridge. There are many cultural activities to be enjoyed, including numerous art galleries and museums, as well as great shopping and dining.

Public transportation is excellent, with the main train and bus stations nearby, making it easy to get in and out of the city. There are also plenty of parking options in the city center, such as parking garages. Some accommodations also offer cheap or even free parking.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Ljubljana Center:

  • Beautiful Boutique Hotel: The Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel is a charming boutique hotel. The great location in a historic building is another highlight!
  • Stylish Heritage Hotel: The Heritage Hotel is a real insider tip! This accommodation offers stylish design, delicious breakfast and elegant rooms.
  • Affordable Hotel with Parking: The Atelier Hotel scores with reasonable prices and good facilities. Cheap parking right next to the hotel is another plus.

Poljane

The Poljane neighborhood is located east of Castle Hill and is a great choice for a wonderful stay in Ljubljana. Here you will live in the heart of Ljubljana and yet be a little bit away from the hustle and bustle. You are still within walking distance of the most beautiful spots in the city center. Poljane is also a great starting point for sightseeing tours in Ljubljana, as you will be living close to the castle and the central market. This part of the city is also known for the relaxed atmosphere it offers. If you are looking for a quiet retreat in the middle of the city, this is the place for you. Especially families with children, elderly people and couples will also feel at home in this part of town. There are also a number of good restaurants here where you can have a taste of Slovenian cuisine.

Although Poljane is less touristy than the city center or the Old Town, there are several good places to stay, including some guesthouses and many excellent apartments. These offer a cozy, personal, and homelike atmosphere that ultimately makes a stay in Ljubljana a special experience.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Poljane:

  • Dream Apartments: The Apartments Hiša Pod Gradom offers dreamlike vacation apartments with good facilities and chic flair. The location is great too!
  • Cozy Apartments: The charming and comfortable Cozy apartments score with a fantastic range of facilities and are furnished with a great deal of attention to detail.
  • Cheap Accommodation: The accommodation ATIK ROOMS is a cheap, simple and moreover pleasant accommodation not far from the old town.

Metelkovo

The Metelkova district is a center for alternative arts and culture in Ljubljana. Located in the area around the train station, it houses numerous galleries and venues offering a wide range of creative expressions, from street art to experimental music. One of its most famous landmarks is the squatted barracks building, which has become a popular photo subject with its colorful wall paintings and bizarre sculptures. A little off the beaten path, toward the river, you’ll find plenty of cheap accommodations for those on a small budget, as well as great guesthouses and hotels with solid value for money.

The autonomous cultural district of Metelkova is a recommendation for those who appreciate an alternative lifestyle, love graffiti and enjoy a vibrant nightlife. It’s worth noting, however, that Metelkova is not for everyone. Its alternative character may not appeal to every type of traveler.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Metelkova:

  • Cheap B&B: The B&B Hotel Ljubljana Park is a modern and affordable B&B in a great location about 10 minutes from the center. The rooms are clean and very comfortable.
  • Backpacker Hostel: The Hostel Celica is a popular design hostel in Ljubljana. There is a good breakfast, free parking and the rooms are nice as well.
  • Apartments with Rooftop Pool: The NEU RESIDENCES is a smart place to stay just outside of the neighborhood and has a roof terrace as well as a small swimming pool.

Krakovo

An insider’s tip for a special stay in Ljubljana is Krakovo, a small, picturesque district of Ljubljana that stretches along the left bank of the Ljubljanica River. It has a charming urban flair that makes it an attractive place to stay in the Slovenian capital. Families with children, couples and those seeking peace and quiet appreciate this charming and very safe area. The location on the banks of the Ljubljanica River is also a gorgeous one. A stroll along the river, past old bridges and picturesque promenades, will bring you to the center of town in no time. Here you will find the best places for sightseeing, restaurants and shopping.

Krakovo also has a number of budget accommodation options, including hip hostels and cute guesthouses. These are great choices for travelers who want to stay in a nice, quiet environment without breaking the bank. There are also some recommended vacation rentals in the area.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Krakovo:

  • Chic Aparthotel: The Vila Emona is an aparthotel with very chic apartments and studios. In addition, there is a free parking lot at this accommodation.
  • Popular Backpacker Hostel: The Hostel Vrba has a very family atmosphere. Located just a short walk from downtown, this is a great place to stay on a budget.
  • Apartments with Parking: The accommodation Central Apartments with Parking offers you nice, well-kept apartments in a wonderful location close to the city center.

Trnovo

A good place for where to stay in Ljubljana is Trnovo. This beautiful neighborhood is located on the outskirts of the city center, between Krakovo and the Ljubljanica River. Over the years, this area has changed a lot and now offers a unique blend of history, culture and modern lifestyle. One reason to stay in Trnovo is the attractive residential area, where you can immerse yourself in the life of the locals. It is also home to the former home of world-renowned architect Jože Plečnik, which is now a museum. Furthermore, you can also take a tour of the Trnovo Church and the KUD France Prešeren Gallery.

Although Trnovo is a bit far from the center of Ljubljana, it is an attractive option for a city trip due to its charming surroundings, romantic location by the river, and wide range of accommodations such as apartments and guesthouses. Prices in this area are also affordable.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Trnovo:

  • Fabulous B&B: The charming B&B Pod vrbo is a real insider’s tip for a stay in Ljubljana. The breakfast is great, the location is excellent, and parking is included.
  • Charming Apartments: The Kavon Apartments is a charming accommodation with a classic flair. Plus, cool cafés and restaurants are close by.
  • Nice Aparthotel: The beautiful 4-star Ahotel Ljubljana is located just outside the city center and is a fabulous choice for a stopover in Ljubljana!

Koseze

The Koseze district is located a few kilometers outside the center and is a hidden gem off the tourist trail. Although it is a bit further away from the Old Town, it also has its advantages. Especially during the high season, when many of Ljubljana’s accommodations are fully booked, you can still find good free places to stay in this area. Another advantage of Koseze is its proximity to Tivoli Park, a beautiful green oasis of leisure. Nature lovers, tranquility seekers and sports enthusiasts will feel at home here. It is also possible to visit the nearby Ljubljana Zoo, which is very popular with families with children.

Although Koseze is mainly a residential area, there are also bars, cafés, and restaurants. Accommodation options range from apartments and guesthouses to a few hotels. Most places to stay are much cheaper than in the city center, making Koseze a good choice for travelers on a budget.

Best Hotels and Accommodations in Koseze:

  • Stylish 4-Star Hotel: The ONE66 Hotel is a really cool 4-star hotel that offers excellent value for money. They seem to have taken care of every little detail here!
  • Nice Guesthouse: The OH Apartments & Rooms offers great accommodation for a trip to Ljubljana. The city center is easily accessible by bus.
  • Nice Apartment: The Apartment Malina is a tasteful apartment located in a quiet residential area of Ljubljana. One of the plus points is that parking is free of charge.

Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay in Ljubljana?

We stayed in the Center on our own trip, and it turned out to be a great base, especially since we had a car and needed easy access to parking. If we’d been traveling without a car, the Old Town would have been our first choice, nothing beats being able to walk straight out the door into those cobblestone streets.

Beyond those two options, it really depends on what kind of trip you’re after. Families and quiet seekers will likely feel more at home in Krakovo or Trnovo, both just a short stroll from the river and the center. If nightlife and an alternative vibe matter more to you than convenience, Metelkova is worth considering, just know it’s not for everyone. And if you’re visiting during peak season and struggling to find availability, Koseze is a solid backup with easier access to Tivoli Park.

Wherever you end up staying, Ljubljana is small enough that you’ll never be far from the action, so it’s less about finding the “right” area and more about matching the neighborhood to your travel style.


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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Best Beaches in Benidorm: Top 8 Picks

The beaches in Benidorm are one of the ultimate highlights on the Costa Blanca, for many they are even the most beautiful in Spain. And yes, the choice of beautiful bathing options here is really huge! From the bright long sandy beaches right in the city, to small picturesque bays, secluded nudist beaches and quiet bathing spots just outside Benidorm, this resort really has it all. With around 300 days of sunshine a year, the fantastic beaches of Benidorm will make the hearts of sun-seeking vacationers beat faster. But where are the best beaches in Benidorm, what are the insider tips for hidden bays and the beach highlights for your beach vacation?

In this guide we have listed the 8 most amazing beaches in Benidorm. In addition, there are useful tips and great accommodation recommendations, which will help you with planning your trip.

 

Playa de Levante Beach

The Playa de Levante is one of the main beaches of the city and also one of the busiest beaches of Benidorm. This two-kilometer-long sandy beach has a shallow slope, there are many sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, and the palm-lined promenade is lined with restaurants, bars, pubs, beach clubs and cafés. Playa de Levante is the place to be, especially during the high season, while the low season is more tranquil and relaxed. There is also a wide range of leisure activities on offer. Whether it is jet skiing, parasailing or other water sports activities, you will certainly not get bored here. For children, there are several playgrounds and on the promenade are great free fitness equipment.

Tip: At Playa de Levante you will find great accommodations, such as the Apartamento Ibañez or the Gastrohotel Boutique RH Canfali, from where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the sea.

Playa de Poniente Beach

Playa de Poniente, like Playa de Levante, is located in the center of the city and is another very popular beach in Benidorm. A fine sandy beach awaits you here, where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. But also a few palm trees offer cool shade on hot summer days. This sandy beach is especially popular with older people, and so during the day there is a wide range of senior gymnastics, yoga and various fitness programs. Just behind it, on a length of 3 kilometers, there is a beautiful promenade, along which you can walk to the Mediterranean Balcony, one of the most beautiful attractions of Benidorm, and further to the neighboring beach, Playa de Levante. Of course, there is also a wide tourist offer at this beach, and also a large selection of restaurants and pubs.

Tip: At Playa de Poniente are some great hotels, such as the Hotel Villa Del Mar, which impresses especially with its brilliant location and delicious food.

Platja de la Cala de Finestrat

One of the absolute dream beaches near Benidorm is Cala de Finestrat. It is located about 10 kilometers from the city center, in the resort of the same name Finestrat. This picturesque bay enchants with the most beautiful sea colors, with a wonderfully flat-sloping bright beach, terrific vacation flair and good accommodations. A visit is especially recommended in the low season, like in spring and autumn. At this time, the Platja de La Cala de Finestrat presents itself from its most beautiful side. If you want to spend your vacation in Benidorm and don’t want to stay directly at the big main beaches of the city, then you should look for an accommodation in Finestrat. Here you can also find lovely places to stay, not far from the beach!

Tip: Really recommended is the Hotel La Cala, in a prime location directly on the beach Cala de Finestrat, from which you can also enjoy a magnificent view of the sea.

Racó del Conill Beach

Another beach highlight, not far from Benidorm is the Raco del Conill, a nudist beach as beautiful as out of a travel magazine. This dreamlike bay amazes with wonderful seclusion and relaxation, almost a family-like flair. Located in the midst of untouched nature, fragrant pine forests and picturesque rock formations, you will experience the finest textile-free bathing pleasure. Two small bays with fine pebble sand allow entry to the turquoise blue sea. Due to the rocks at the edge of the bay, Raco del Conill Beach is perfect for snorkeling! For many, the Raco del Conill is one of the most beautiful beaches near Benidorm, and it is a must for all nudists.

Tip: The Raco del Conill beach is located around 13 kilometers from the city of Benidorm. There is free parking on site and a small bar that provides cool drinks.

Playa del Mal Pas Beach

The Playa del Mal Pas is one of the most beautiful beaches in Benidorm and due to its hidden location, between the two main beaches, it is definitely one of the quieter bathing spots in the city. This fabulous cove is located just behind the small port of Benidorm, at the end of Playa de Poniente, and thus not far from the famous Mediterranean Balcony. An extraordinarily picturesque ambience awaits you while bathing, with views of the church Església de Sant Jaume i Santa Anna in the old town. The sandy beach is shallowly sloping, and the protective 120-meter bay guarantees swimming in the calm, crystal clear sea. Snorkeling is also possible here, along the rocks. Especially couples, older people, and those looking for peace and quiet appreciate Playa del Mal Pas, which is certainly one of the best beaches in Benidorm.

Tip: Right nearby is the Hotel Boutique Villa Venecia. Guests love the optimal location, also not far from the beaches Playa del Mal Pas and Playa de Levante.

Cala Almadraba Beach

Absolutely beautiful and a real dream beach of Benidorm is the bay Cala Almadraba. This bay is located not far from the city, on the edge of the Sierra Helada Nature Park, and is a great tip for quiet swimming and relaxing. Due to its hidden location and the relatively steep access, this approximately 100 meter long beach is usually quiet and lonely. Some bathers even use this bay as a nudist beach, although textile-free bathing is not a must here. A really amazing beach with magnificent turquoise blue sea colors, just around the corner from the city of Benidorm!

Playa del Torres Beach

A beautiful beach near Benidorm is also Playa del Torres. This picturesque bay is located a little south of the center, about 14 kilometers from the city. This beach is a mix of fine pebbles and sand. Eucalyptus trees provide wonderfully cool shade here on hot days, and the water is stunningly clear and clean in this region. Even in summer, Playa del Torres is rather uncrowded, so you can always enjoy an unforgettable quiet beach experience. There is a beach bar and a restaurant for catering. Just behind the beach is a beautiful campground, Camping el Torres, which adds a lot of cozy charm to the beach ambience.

Tip: The Colada de la Costa hiking trail is also fantastic there. The route starts in the east of the beach, towards the bay Racó del Conill and then on to the beach Finestrat.

Cala Tío Ximo Beach

The Cala Tio Ximo is also inside the Sierra Helada Nature Park and, like the Cala Almadraba, just a stone’s throw away from the lively city center. The bay is around 60 meters, very small, but a really quiet beach atmosphere awaits you here. Due to the crystal-clear water and the rocky bottom, this beach is a great spot for snorkelers and to explore the underwater world. This is the ideal beach in Benidorm for everyone who wants to enjoy a quiet day at the sea in a beautiful natural setting.

 

Where to Stay in Benidorm

When you plan your holiday, you will find some really great accommodations close to Benidorm’s beaches. These are mostly apartments, but there are also some really good beach-hotels in the city. Here are our recommendations for beautiful places to stay at the best beaches in Benidorm…It’s worth a look!

  • Adults Only Hotel: The Hotel Don Pancho is located around 100 meters from the Playa de Levante beach and convinces with a pool, top equipment and a delicious breakfast.
  • All-Inclusive Hotel: The Hotel Villa del Mar is located on the Poniente Beach in Benidorm and pampers its guests with an all-inclusive program, top location and beautiful rooms.
  • Boutique-Hotel: The Gastrohotel Boutique RH Canfali is beautifully located in the old town of Benidorm and enchants with a picturesque view of the Levante Beach.
  • Top-Apartment: The Apartment Pintor Sorolla at Poniente beach is perfectly equipped and is very close to the sea.

 

Final Thoughts: Which Beach in Benidorm Should You Choose?

Playa de Levante was our favorite of the bunch. Yes, it gets busy, but that’s part of the charm, and having the whole promenade with restaurants and bars right behind you makes it an easy, no-fuss choice for a beach day. If you want a livelier atmosphere with everything within walking distance, this is the one to pick.

What really surprised us, though, was Cala de Finestrat. We didn’t expect the scenery to be quite that stunning. The bay, the colorful houses behind it, and the water color all came together in a way that felt more like a hidden gem than a beach just 10 kilometers from Benidorm’s busy center.

If you’re staying in the city, Levante or Poniente make the most sense for convenience. But if you have a car or don’t mind a short trip, we’d say the beaches near Benidorm are worth it just for the view alone, especially if you visit in the quieter spring or autumn months.


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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.


 

Top 5 Beaches in Altea, Spain

The beautiful beaches in Altea, the romantic coastal town on the coast of Alicante in Spain, are popular spots for visitors from all over the world. Due to the charming old town and the picturesque surroundings, you can combine sun, beach and sea with sightseeing. On a length of around 7 kilometers, you will find beautiful snow-white pebble beaches, breathtaking rocky bays and lonely bathing spots. Some of these dream beaches even have the Blue Flag, the symbol for top water quality. But where are the ultimate best beaches in Altea, what are the insider tips and the best spots for a wonderful holiday by the sea?

In this beach guide, we introduce the 5 most beautiful beaches in Altea. Additionally, we will provide useful tips and information that will help you plan your next trip.

 

Beach Playa la Roda

The 500-meter-long Playa la Roda is the main beach of Altea and, at the same time, one of the most popular beaches in the city. It is located beneath the historic old town and starts right next to the port area. Playa La Roda is a mix of sand and pebble, a beach that drops into the sea very quickly. Sunbeds and parasols can be rented during the season. A beautiful palm-lined promenade runs along the beach. Up there are many fantastic restaurants, cozy cafés and tapas bars. There is also recommended accommodation right on the beach.

Tip: We recommend the MAGNÍFICO APARTAMENTO JUNTO, a lovely apartment in a prime location on the beach with a view of the sea.

Beach Playa del Albir

Playa del Albir is a top-rated beach just 4 kilometers from Altea old town and another popular holiday resort on the Costa Blanca. The long bay captivates with a beautiful bright pebble beach, unique blue sea colors and a great view of the Sierra Helada Natural Park in the north. Here you will also find a good selection of restaurants and cafés, and some fantastic apartments and villas are located close to the beach.

Tip: If you would like to stay in Albir, you will find some charming vacation apartments on the beach, but also nearby, such as Fin Albir Playa.

Beach Nueva Playa De Altea

The Nueva Playa De Altea, which is translated as the “new beach of Altea”, is another popular place for a beach-day in the picturesque coastal town. This beach is a fine pebble beach and the long bay offers enough space to sunbathe and relax. It is connected to the main beach, Playa La Roda, and is easily accessible via the beach promenade. Behind that beach are some good accommodations, such as the beautiful Beach Front Line Penthouse with a fantastic sea view.

Beach Platja Mascarat

The wonderful bays of Mascarat, which are located around 6 kilometers north of Altea town, are beautiful and a real beach highlight. The beach Platja Mascarat, a beautiful bay with fine pebbles and crystal-clear sea, is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Especially in the low season, you will find a secluded dream beach here where you can really unwind.

Beach Cala El Collao

A real eye-catcher is the beach Cala el Collao, a hidden beach near Altea, which captivates with a unique backdrop of steep rocks and fantastically beautiful sea colors. This beach is a stone beach, but it turns into fine, white sand in the sea and that makes the bay shimmer in turquoise blue tones. The water here is also very clear and is therefore ideal for snorkelers.


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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.