A striking archipelago set between the Cyclades and Turkey, Greece’s Dodecanese Islands are perfect for sun seekers and heritage aficionados alike. Translated as the ’Twelve Islands’, this group has been fought over for thousands of years by the Minoans, Persians, Crusaders, Ottomans, Brits and Germans, amongst others. Strategically situated, these rugged islands have also come to be beloved by hikers, wind surfers and scuba divers — as well as the inevitable archaeologists. The best places to stay in the Dodecanese are as varied as the islands themselves, and our list of highlights include charming guesthouses, chic boutique boltholes and seaside resorts alike.
Rhodes, the most famous of the group, is nothing short of spectacular. Favoured by history buffs and romantics, the island’s beautifully preserved Old Town is a maze of winding cobbled streets, surrounded by medieval walls and brilliant for day or evening strolls. Expect archaeological museums, imposing landmarks, chic boutiques and top restaurants to sample and savour. Many of Rhodes’ most charming hotels are within the Old Town itself.
Kos, on the other hand, is a gorgeous choice for contemporary seaside resorts — ideal for unwinding after touring ancient ruins. There are ruins and restored landmarks on Pátmos, too, best-known as the site of the cave where St John experienced the visions which led to the Book of Revelations. Now a major site of pilgrimage, the island is also a favourite amongst keen hikers, who will also love discovering Astypalaia. Lovely Leros will delight divers and snorkelers, whilst Symi is sure to impress sailors and relaxed amblers with one of Greece's most spectacular harbours. We have a soft spot for Kastellorizo, too — this often-overlooked island is just off the Turkish coast. Utterly enchanting, the island is also home to one of the very best places to stay in the Dodecanese.
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Symi (Symi)
A chic small hotel situated in a quaint village on the picturesque island of Symi. Uniformly styled rooms are cleanly designed and contemporary with soft hues, designer lights and luxurious bathrooms. Serving indulgent breakfasts and with easy access to the island's many attractions.
Symi
Tranquil oasis, simple attractive rooms and apartments, two minutes walk up the hill from the harbour. Relaxed and charming, with views of the village and a small courtyard bar for hanging out. Well positioned and reasonably priced.
Patmos
A serene small resort with stunning views over the Aegean. Bungalow suites are named after the Muses and simply yet stylishly furnished. Lovely pool area, where you can dine under the stars. Perfect for those who want the Greek Island experience without the crowds.
Leros
A charming 1895 country house, set in lovely grounds filled with red, pink and white geraniums. This stunning villa is walking distance to the island's best beaches. Charming rooms with traditional tiled floors and antique furniture and an honesty bar in the garden. A wonderful Grecian rural escape.
Kos (Kos Island)
A chic beachside hotel set in Kardamaina. Spacious, bright rooms are chic and contemporary and come in various sizes making this ideal for families. Large private terraces offer spectacular sea views. Just a stroll from the beach, this is a perfect base for a family holiday - it's great value too!
Rhodes
A traditional hotel in Rhodes Town centre, set in an 800-year-old building. Simple and homely accommodation with cosy traditional rooms and a roof terrace overlooking the city and the bay. Perfect to keep costs low while exploring the lovely Old City.
Rhodes (Rhodes)
A brilliant little hotel, right in the heart of Old Town Rhodes. Modern minimalist decor throughout, white on white with soft neutral tones and a heavy use of wood, glass, metal and stone. The suites offer every comfort and the staff are helpful and friendly. Quiet but close to all the action.
Rhodes
Live like an Ottoman pasha in this stylish townhouse in the heart of the old town. There's an elegant homely feel with large, high-ceilinged rooms featuring prettily draped four poster beds. With a popular restaurant and friendly staff, this is a lovely place to explore the city from.
Rhodes
A gorgeous and historic boutique hotel with all its original features in the old town of Rhodes. Rooms and suites are all individually styled and set around the central courtyard. Period in design, expect warm hues, antiques, and some have a mezzanine. A characterful base to explore from.
Astypalaia
Lovely white washed property with a great vantage point of the island. Chic light and airy rooms are a haven of tranquility and many feature great sea views. Modern Mediterranean cuisine and great Greek wines. A small spa and two gorgeous pools. A stylish option on a rugged and unspoilt island.
Rhodes
This newly-renovated hotel sits opposite the Acropolis of Lindos in the heart of Rhodes. Interiors are airy, bright and minimalist, with a breezy palette of grey and white broken up by wooden beams and pretty wall sketches. Head to the hotel's roof terrace for romantic sunset views.
Rhodes (Lindos )
A relaxed and elegant boutique in the picturesque town of Lindos, Rhodes. The simple chic rooms offer white on white decor, comfortable beds, original artworks, and splashes of local craft design. The on-site breakfast is flavoursome and delicious and you are a short walk from Lindos' best eateries.
Rhodes
A charming small owner-managed hotel set in central Rhodes. Beautifully styled rooms blend the building's original features with contemporary art and simple modern furniture. There's a lovely courtyard terrace and delicious breakfasts. Great value, romantic, and walking distance to the beach.
Astypalaia (Astypalea, 85 900)
Stylish accommodation in the centre of Astypalaia boasting views over the Aegean sea and the town's Venetian castle. Classically styled rooms are simply dressed with blue and white hues, private terraces and crisp white linen. A relaxing island stay just minutes from a pristine beach.
Kos (Psalidi Beach)
A sprawling modern resort, offering a pantheon of choices in both gourmet and casual dining, beach and watersports activities, and wellness and relaxation treatments. Interiors have a cool Mediterranean style and feel more intimate than your usual resort. Perfect for a family beach break.
Rhodes
An atmospheric and glamourous boutique hideaway set within the Old Town. Vibrant brightly painted rooms with prettily draped four-poster beds and Indian wall hangings. Terraces offer lovely city views. Full of character and well positioned for city exploring.
Kastellorizo
A colourful boutique hotel in a less visited corner of The Dodecanese. The seven rooms are uniquely styled. The garden rooms boast Ottoman-style platform beds while the suite's terrace is just steps from the sea. Meditteranean breakfasts are served and dinners can be arranged. A tranquil hideaway.
Kos ( Agios Fokas, Psalidi)
With breathtaking sea views from the rooms, luscious gardens and indulgent spa packages and treatments, as well as excellent service and dining, The Michelangelo Resort and Spa offers holidaymakers a wonderful all round family experience just 10 minutes away from the town of Kos.
Rhodes (Faliraki)
A contemporary five-star hotel set on the beach with a fantastic spa. Rooms and suites, all with private sea-facing balconies, have pastel furnishings and a beachy ambience. Expect tropical gardens, a lagoon-style swimming pool, and multiple restaurants - you really needn't leave your hotel!
Kos (Lambi )
Luxury adult-only hotel boasting sumptuous relaxation facilities, with a fantastic spa, indoor and outdoor pools and two restaurants. Rooms & suites offer contemporary, clean and polished design; there are swim-up options, and Diamond Suites have their own pool. Perfect for a grown-up beach break.
Rhodes
A delightful family-run hotel in a charming 14th-century building. Individually decorated rooms are awash with heritage and emblems of the rich history of Rhodes. Breakfasts are served in the sun-dappled courtyard. Conveniently located in the heart of the cobbled old town.
Rhodes (Rhodes)
A good value guesthouse combining Greek-rustic style, with quirky traditional decor and excellent home-cooked food. The property is crammed with antiques, and coco-mat bedding ensures comfort. Stay here for a fun holiday within easy walking distance of sandy beaches and Rhodes’ Old Town.
Rhodes (Dodecanese )
A historic boutique hotel in the heart of Rhodes Old Town. Rooms have simple interior design, allowing the building's original features to shine through. There are exposed stone walls throughout and the best suites have a freestanding tub. Enjoy breakfast in the pretty courtyard; an elegant hotel.
Rhodes
A chic boutique with plenty of character. Individually decorated rooms and suites (some of which sleep up to five) keep the building's original features but feel fresh, bold, and modern. Enjoy epic views from the terrace which is complete with a hot tub. A stylish base in the Old Town.
Rhodes (Rhodes)
A chic retreat on Faliraki's private beach with eclectic decor and marble finishes, plus 11 restaurants, 6 bars, and a luxe spa. From Greek delights to Pan-Asian fusion, culinary wonders await. Enjoy a world of fun with waterslides, beachside pizza, and nightly entertainment. Luxury by the Aegean.
Rhodes
A wonderfully restored 19th-century listed Rhodes mansion on a quiet pedestrian street in the centre of the town. The multi-room suites offer designer Italian furnishings, high beam ceilings, private terraces and large bathrooms. An excellent breakfast is served in the charming central courtyard.
Rhodes (Dodecanese )
This boutique hotel sits in a renovated 14th-century building in Rhodes old town. The four individually styled rooms are spacious and boast antique furnishings; the hotel's heritage shines through with stone walls left bare and wooden beams. A pretty walled garden completes this charming guesthouse.
Kos (Kefalos)
The White Rock offers panoramic sea views and spacious rooms with luxury interiors on the island of Kos. Off the beaten track on the quieter side of the island, this adults-only hotel offers excellent spa facilities, in-room hot tubs and some of the finest views the island has to offer.
Kos (Kos)
This luxury lifestyle resort hugs the southwest coast of Kos. Sleek, almost all-white suites boast sea views from panoramic windows, while a collection of Michelin-starred chefs whet your appetite in the resort's eight restaurants. Unwind on the beach or stay active with the resort's watersports.
Rhodes (Dodecanese)
Located in Kallithea, this stylish adults-only beach resort blends modern design with traditional Rhodian touches. The chic decor pairs clean lines with natural tones, creating a serene atmosphere. With four restaurants, a street food hub, and poolside bars, it's a foodie’s paradise. Pure bliss.
Kos (Kos)
The last word in luxury. Expect contemporary and minimalist design. There's an indulgent spa and gourmet Mediterranean dining. The spacious rooms are designed with aplomb and the best have private pools. With direct beach access, this is a luxury Kos retreat for discerning adult guests
Kos (Kos Town Center)
An exclusive boutique bolthole contained within one of Kos town's most beloved landmarks. The Albergo Gelsomino welcomes guests into the 1928 property to enjoy a supremely comfortable stay in luxuriously designed suites with access to a private beach-front and impressive Mediterranean restaurant.
Astypalaia (Dodecanese )
This luxury villa complex is situated on the Greek island of Astypalaia. The individually styled villas have simple and elegant interiors featuring natural accents; the best offer a terrace with sea views and a hot tub. Villas have self-catering facilities plus a helpful concierge. A charming stay.
Rhodes (Dodecanese )
A charming boutique hotel in the heart of Rhodes Old Town. Set within a heritage building, the modern suites offer comfortable beds with rich linens; the best boast a private terrace and hot tub. Enjoy breakfast in your room or order a breakfast box to go if you're headed out early. A historic stay.
Symi (Simi)
Effortlessly elegant, Hotel Emporio is a wondrous place to stay on Symi. The charming rooms are beautifully decorated with traditional Greek artwork and tasteful furnishings. With lovely views out over the Aegean, it's a great place to relax and enjoy the local island culture.
Patmos
A romantic, chic spot without pretence. Classically elegant rooms and suites with luxurious furnishings, all the mod cons, and private balconies. A lovely cafe restaurant, spectacular sea views, and sprawling terraces. An understated, but still luxurious choice.
Symi
A gorgeous romantic hotel in the heart of Old Symi. Romantic pastel rooms in creams and light blues. Private balconies and elegant furnishings. Wonderful table d'hote and close to beaches and sights. A great choice for couples.
Rhodes (Dodecanese)
A charming bohemian hangout nestled among olive groves. Paired back effortlessly stylish suites adorned with ethnic-chic furnishings boast serene sea or garden vistas. Guests can escape the bustle, unwind by the pool, feast on Greek breakfasts and enjoy Lindos's timeless beauty. An idyllic escape.
Kos (Dikeo )
Modern and laidback luxury awaits guests at the D'Andrea Lagoon, ideal for couples looking for a holiday in the sun. Equipped with a private beach, attractive and spacious minimalist rooms and private patios set in a quieter, more unspoiled region of the island.
Astypalaia
For a big slice of luxurious tranquility with lashings of sustainable style on Greece’s butterfly-shaped island, you can’t do better than this boho chic family-run beauty with spectacular views over to main town Chora’s magnificent mediaeval castle.
Rhodes (Kiotari)
A really swanky Five Star hotel & spa resort on the beach front. Contemporary rooms and suites offer all the mod cons, private balconies, some even have private pools. Top of the range spa, Mediterranean restaurant, beach front terraces, and private beach. Looking to be pampered? This is the place!
Kos
An idyllic hotel on the sea front. Gorgeous rooms and suites in contemporary chic style with private balconies, some with private pools. Fantastic restaurants, luxurious spa, and sun trap pool area. A romantic choice for glamourous sun seekers.
Kos (Dodecanese )
Tucked away in a serene corner of Kos, this all-suite retreat blends modern luxury with natural beauty. Interiors are sleek and minimalist, with warm wood, soft neutrals, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sea views. With a top-notch spa, stylish restaurants, and infinity pools, it's a chic stay.
Rhodes (Rhodes)
A spectacular boutique in the craggy hills of Rhodes. Chic interiors are a mix of traditional crafts, elegant local furnishings, driftwood features and luxury touches. With a central pool area and hot tub, rejuvenating open-air spa, wonderful botanical gardens and two farm to fork restaurants.
Rhodes
A classy and luxurious boutique refuge with spectacular views over the Aegean. Large rooms decorated in a Moorish style with enormous raised beds and lovely sea views. A romantic rooftop restaurant is one of the best on the island. Just minutes from the beach. A lovely romantic escape.
Rhodes
A chic contemporary hotel surrounded by greenery, yet near the city centre. Large, light rooms have calming muted tones and great views. Enjoy the Mediterranean restaurant, trendy rooftop bar and spoiling spa. A relaxing hideaway yet within close proximity to the city's major sights.
Rhodes
A superbly chic and luxurious hotel on a cliff top with stunning views over turquoise waters and a short walk from Lindos. Designer rooms and suites are sleek and modern with private balconies. Two fantastic restaurants, a spa, and a private beach below. Romantic beach life in luxury.
Kos (Marmari)
Choose to stray away from the beaten track. A dreamy sea-front resort, with exclusive access to unspoiled beaches, a blissful spa and a more sustainable way of doing things. Chic minimalist interiors use natural materials. Unwind with guided meditations or yoga and enjoy organic local produce.
Symi (Dodecanese)
A lovingly restored 19th-century neoclassical mansion in Symi’s old town. The interiors feature original stone walls, high painted ceilings, and handcrafted vintage furnishings, blending history with understated luxury. A stylish escape with a serene courtyard, rooftop terrace, and cosy lounge.
Kos (Kos)
A little further from the hustle and bustle of Kos town centre than most, this smaller establishment boasting ten detached and semi-detached suites is an attractively designed base to explore the island. Featuring a stretch of private beach, great views, and organically grown cuisine.
Rhodes (Dodecanese )
This boutique hotel occupies a heritage building in Rhodes' old town. The individually styled suites have a rustic feel, with exposed stone walls and hand-selected antique furnishings; the best have terrace doors that open onto the hotel courtyard. Enjoy al fresco mezé dining at this historic hotel.
