These Are the 12 Most Expensive Destinations in Greece, and They’re Worth Every Penny

With the promise of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, authentic cuisine, and breathtaking ancient wonders, it’s no surprise that Greece remains one of the world’s most highly sought-after tourist destinations. However, this popularity doesn’t come without its issues.

Unfortunately, many destinations across Greece are expensive, which isn’t ideal if you’re a budget backpacker. While we still receive excellent value for money, we can’t all afford 5-star resorts and untold luxury. Therefore, knowing what to expect before you plan your trip is crucial. That said, here are 12 of the most expensive destinations in Greece. These destinations were selected because they have a high average daily cost.

Table of Contents

Crete

Most Expensive Cities To Live in Greece Chania — © proslgn / Adobe Stock

Let’s kickstart this list with one of Greece’s most spectacular islands. If you’re looking for beautiful white sand beaches, historic towns, vibrant architecture, and world-class hiking trails, Crete is perfect. However, you’ll need a relatively large budget to maximize your visit. Crete’s average daily travel cost is $299.

For context, Kos’s average daily travel cost is only $146 daily. However, the extra costs are worth it. When you’re not getting lost in the 14th-century Venetian harbor in Chania, relax on Balos Beach, hike the Samaria Gorge trail, and visit Knossos Palace. Regarding accommodation, the 5-star Kiani Beach Resort offers families a luxurious experience with private pools and an all-inclusive restaurant.

Mykonos

Things You Should Know Before Going to the Greek Islands Budgeting — © pkazmierczak / Adobe Stock

One of Greece’s most famous islands, Mykonos, is well-known for its lively nightlife, traditional Greek architecture, picture-perfect coastline, and luxurious resorts. As such, millions of tourists visit the island yearly to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy Greece’s epic sunshine. Unfortunately, this comes with a cost. If you visit Mykonos, you’ll spend approximately $259 daily.

During your vacation, you’ll spend most of your time swimming in the turquoise waters, partying in Mykonos Town, and exploring the most iconic landmarks. Notable points of interest on the island include Matoyianni Street, Paralia Choras Mikonou, the Windmills of Mykonos, and the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos. At Alissachni Mykonos, you’ll be treated to panoramic sea views, private pool areas, stunning bedrooms, and delicious Greek cuisine.

Santorini

If you know anything about Greece and its islands, you’re probably not surprised to find Santorini on our list. Undoubtedly, you’ll have seen the island’s traditional whitewashed buildings with blue roofs on Instagram and TV. One of Greece’s most iconic islands, Santorini is renowned for its authentic architecture, photograph spots, and luxury vacation rentals. Unsurprisingly, that also makes it one of the most expensive destinations in Greece.

The average daily travel cost for one person in Santorini is $229. However, in our opinion, the island’s stunning scenery and exciting attractions are worth it. Don’t miss Oia, Fira, or Red Beach. Secret View Hotel is one of the best 5-star accommodation options in Oia. It has a private pool, epic views, and gorgeous traditional-style bedrooms.

Zakynthos

According to Georgia Konidari, founder of World Wild Schooling, who recently visited Zakynthos, the cost is about $200 per day, which is on par with other islands in the Ionian. While Zakynthos is undoubtedly beautiful, the prices can still be steep for some travelers. However, the island’s charm continues to draw thousands of visitors despite the costs.

Offering something for everyone except budget backpackers, this island features pristine beaches, charming towns, and world-famous attractions. However, most of the action centers around Zakynthos City. You’ll find a beautiful waterfront, traditional Greek buildings, luxury hotels, and picturesque beaches here. Stay at the mesmerizing Lesante Blu Hotel for celebrity treatment and unparalleled luxury.

Rhodes

Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, is known for combining modern luxuries with impressive natural beauty and rich history. Elissa Adults-Only Lifestyle Beach Resort perfectly sums up the island. This magical modern resort has a luxurious appearance, beautiful bedrooms, and a private pool. Its surroundings are jam-packed with natural beauty, including gorgeous sea views.

Meanwhile, in Rhodes Old Town, travelers are treated to some of Greece’s most historic landmarks, such as the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. Popular places to stay on the island include Rhodes City, Pefkos, Lindos, and Faliraki. Regarding travel costs, Rhodes’ average daily cost is $147, much less than Crete but more than many Greek islands.

Athens

Although the average daily travel cost in Athens is only $139, it’s still one of mainland Greece’s most expensive places to visit. For context, Volos’ average daily travel cost is only $106. Athen’s is Greece’s capital city. It’s recognized worldwide for its historic ancient architecture, which includes the iconic Acropolis of Athens.

While visiting, you’ll likely spend most of your time discovering the ancient sites and exploring the winding, narrow streets. Unsurprisingly, Athens also serves as a convenient gateway to the rest of mainland Greece and the Greek islands. If you stay in the 5-star Electra Metropolis, you’ll be treated to extraordinary views of the Acropolis from your bedroom.

Naxos

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Naxos is a Greek island in the South Aegean Sea best known for its picturesque mountain villages, postcard-perfect beaches, and ancient ruins. As the largest of the Cyclades island group, you’ll never be short of things to do in Naxos. Most of the action can be found in Chora, the island’s main port town.

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You’ll find many fascinating attractions here, including Kastro, a 13th-century hilltop castle, an archaeological museum, and medieval Venetian houses. Several 5-star hotels, including Nissaki Beach Hotel, are also located in Naxos. A stone’s throw from Agios Georgios, this gorgeous hotel features luxury suites, private pools, and a Mediterranean restaurant. Naxos’ average daily travel cost is $192.

Lemnos

The next expensive Greek destination on our list is Lemnos, also called Limnos. This beautiful Greek island in the Northern Aegean Sea offers travelers an escape from the busier Greek islands. You can expect fewer crowds and a much more tranquil atmosphere. However, you’ll have to spend almost $300 daily per person for the privilege.

Although the sunny skies, long sandy beaches, and charming coastal towns are well worth your hard-earned cash, in Lemnos, you’ll spend most of your time sunbathing, wandering around the small towns, swimming in the sea, and tucking into Greek cuisine. Noteworthy locations include Myrina, Mount Skopia, Thanos Beach, and Mikro Fanaraki Beach. There are no 5-star hotels on Lemnos, but the 4-star Grand Patelli offers a luxury getaway.

Samos

Another hugely underrated destination in Greece is Samos, a breathtaking Greek island in the Eastern Aegean Sea. Like Lemnos, this island is best known for its stunning natural landscapes, sandy beaches, and vibrant coastal towns. However, Samos is also home to many historical landmarks, such as the 6th-century B.C. Eupalinian aqueduct.

Samos is an excellent place to unwind, relax, recharge your batteries, and experience authentic Greek charm. It will cost you approximately $257 daily to visit the island. One of the best hotels on the island is Casa Cook Samos. This 5-star adult-only hotel offers celebrity treatment and world-class service in a beautiful beachfront location. It features a swimming pool, sun terrace, fitness center, and Mediterranean restaurant. What’s not to like?

Lesbos

Beaches in Greece Mithymna, Lesvos — Gatsi / Adobe Stock

Located off the coast of Turkey in the Northern Aegean Sea, Lesbos, or Lesvos, is a vibrant Greek island known for being the birthplace of Sappho, an ancient Greek poet. However, tourists appreciate the island more for its lush landscapes, picturesque coastline, luxury resorts, and authentic Greek charm.

Mitilini, the island capital, is a great place to base yourself if you want to easily access the island’s best attractions and beaches. Noteworthy attractions include the Teriade Museum, the Castle of Mytilene, and Mytilene Beach. The average daily travel cost to visit Lesbos is $247. Meanwhile, Mythical Coast Wellness Retreat is one of the island’s most luxurious 5-star hotels. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, three restaurants, and a spa.

Kefalonia

The penultimate destination on our list is Kefalonia, one of my all-time favorite Greek islands. This colorful island west of mainland Greece features rugged mountain landscapes, historic landmarks, charming coastal towns, and some of Greece’s best beaches. The iconic Myrtos Beach is often considered the best beach in Greece, and we tend to agree!

In Kefalonia, you should hire a car and drive along the coast in search of the best places, including Asos, Sami, and Argostoli. Don’t forget to visit the Sacred Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, Melissani Cave, Myrtos Beach, and Saint Theodore Lighthouse. For accommodation, check out the 5-star Electra Kefalonia Hotel & Spa. Meanwhile, Kefalonia’s average daily travel cost is $257.

Syros

The final expensive Greek destination on our list is Syros, a Greek island in the Cyclades, in the Northern Aegean Sea. Home to less than 22,000 people, this is a top choice if you seek peace, tranquility, and good vibes. You’ll find vibrant coastal towns and villages, long beaches, turquoise waters, and historic architecture in abundance across the island.

Regarding travel costs, you can expect to spend approximately $239 daily per person. Some of the best places to stay on Syros, also called Syra, include Ermoupolis, Ana Syros, Galissas, and Vari. If you’re looking for somewhere incredible to stay, check out Apollonion Palace. This 19th-century 5-star hotel is a sight to behold, and it sits on the waterfront.