A peaceful, car-free island with stacks of old-school charm, Spetses is a wonderful destination for a relaxed holiday as a couple or with family and friends. Just a couple of hours by ferry from Athens, it’s also more easily accessible than many of the more remote Greek islands, which makes it hugely appealing for a short break. Whether you’re on the island for the weekend or able to linger a little longer, you can expect a warm welcome at the best places to stay in Spetses.

Most travellers will alight on the quay at Dapia, where lovely heritage mansions line the harbour, and buzzy tavernas spill out on the streets. Behind Dapia sits the old harbour, where you can spot everything from traditional fishing boats to luxury yachts at anchor. Pick a perch for a coffee and a game of backgammon before popping in to shops and galleries, or soak up the sunshine at one of the benches on the quay. Step into the magnificent Museum of Spetses, housed in a colonnaded 200-year-old mansion, for a sense of the island’s rich history.

Although cars are banned on Spetses, you can hop on the bus, hire a scooter or cycle to lovely little beaches and scenic coves. Follow hiking trails, swim in warm turquoise waters, or take boat trips along the coast. For a small island, Spetses boasts a surprisingly lively evening scene. Head out to hip bars, or gather around the table to savour island-grown fare at one of the best places to stay in Spetses.

The Best Places to Stay in Spetses

For Families or Groups

• Orloff Resort offers attractive rooms in a charming historic house, as well as two private villas — each of which sleep up to ten guests. Fresh, airy spaces are understated yet comfortable, with pops of warm red and yellow, polished concrete floors and verdant garden views. Gather at the pool, unwind at the spa or kick back with family and friends on your own private villa. Great fun.

For Seaside Luxury

• Poseidonion Grand Hotel is a glittering five-star property overlooking Dapia Port and the island's famous turquoise seas. White-on-white guest rooms and suites ooze contemporary elegance, with private balconies, atmospheric lighting and all the mod-cons. With three superb restaurants, an inviting swimming pool and a serene spa, this is a seriously indulgent hotel choice. For sophisticated glamour.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens' Piraeus port to Spetses in around three hours.
• There's plenty to see in Spetses, but private cars are banned. All the more reason to cycle, take the bus, hire scooters or zip along the coast by boat.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 25 - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Hydra.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Greece.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.