Most Idyllic Mediterranean Islands and Their Must-Stay Spots
The Mediterranean has no shortage of island contenders, but only a few manage to hit that perfect mix of setting, style, and substance. Here are the spots that deliver, with exactly where to stay once you get there.
Sardinia, Italy
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Sardinia spans over 24,000 km², which makes it the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Its interior regions are far removed from the celebrity-frequented Costa Smeralda. Just outside Palau, Le Ville Le Saline offers private villas with gardens and terraces, minutes from the Maddalena Archipelago ferry. It’s an ideal base for exploring Sardinia’s northeastern beaches without giving up comfort or quiet. Sardinia also boasts over 7,000 Nuragic archaeological sites, many of which date back to before 1000 BCE.
Vis, Croatia
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Vis was off-limits to foreigners until the late 1980s due to its Yugoslav naval base, a legacy that helped preserve its traditional architecture and laid-back atmosphere. The region spans about 90 square kilometers and remains one of Croatia’s least developed islands, favored for its authenticity. In the Kut district, Hotel San Giorgio offers refined rooms and a serene courtyard restaurant, all within walking distance of Grandovac Beach and the harbor. Its location makes it easy to explore cobbled lanes, upmarket eateries, and nearby boat tours to the famous Blue and Green Caves.
Crete, Greece
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Crete doesn’t compete with its Cycladic cousins because it doesn’t need to. It’s where Bronze Age palaces, Venetian ports, and highland villages all coexist on one island. On the northeastern coast, Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa in Elounda offers private pools, refined architecture, and menus curated by Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou—all with views of Spinalonga’s turquoise bay. Crete itself is the largest Greek island and home to a mix of ancient Minoan sites and rugged interior.
Hvar, Croatia
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After being abandoned in the 1960s when a vine disease devastated local crops, Malo Grablje has slowly returned to life through the restoration of its stone villas. This inland location avoids the summer crowds while staying within reach of Hvar Town. For those drawn to the coastline, Palace Elisabeth in Hvar Town offers refined heritage interiors, sea views, and immediate access to the port, nightlife, and historic destinations just 20 minutes away by car.
Corsica, France
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On Corsica’s northwest coast near Calvi, Hotel La Signoria is a refined 18th-century estate set between the sea and the mountains. The property has family-home warmth and Relais & Châteaux elegance, and it is surrounded by lush gardens and tropical maquis. Speaking of the region itself, while it’s technically part of France, it maintains its distinct identity. Its landscape is mountainous and crisscrossed with over 1,000 kilometers of marked trails, including sections of the legendary GR20.
Mallorca, Spain
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The mountain village of Deià has long drawn artists and writers seeking peace and inspiration. The region also has a a 17th-century manor, where La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel blends local stone architecture with gardens, pools, and shaded terraces that overlook the sea. Its setting near olive groves and walking trails offers a peaceful contrast to the island’s busier coastal resorts. The in-house art studio, donkey-led picnics, and access to Cala Deià via private shuttle provide a deeply rooted, immersive base for exploring Mallorca.
Santorini, Greece
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Santorini gets photographed more than most celebrities, but you can still escape the crowds. Imerovigli is quieter than busy Oia, yet still offers amazing views. The Vasilicos is a small, peaceful hotel here with just seven suites. Many of the suites have private plunge pools, a private terrace, and sunset views. The hotel was once a family home, so it feels warm and welcoming. You can eat breakfast on your balcony, explore local food and wine, or hike nearby trails.
Hydra, Greece
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With no motor vehicles allowed, Hydra moves at pedestrian speed. Mandraki Beach Resort is the island’s only five-star hotel, set on its only sandy beach. You get there by a short boat ride, then stay in quiet suites with sea views and private plunge pools. The hotel is peaceful, stylish, and great for relaxing, with tasty food and beautiful sunsets. The island has fewer than 2,000 permanent residents and maintains strict architectural conservation rules.
Ibiza, Spain
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Beyond the party beaches and clubs, Ibiza’s north is all about peace and nature. In the fragrant orange groves near Santa Eulalia, Atzaró Agroturismo Hotel is one of the island’s most beloved countryside retreats. It’s set on a centuries-old family estate. Apart from private pools, you will also find organic gardens and a renowned spa.
Capri, Italy
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Capri is no stranger to grandeur, but its best trick is how quickly it empties out after sunset. After the last ferry leaves, Capri’s tone shifts. As for the best staying experience, check out J.K. Place Capri. It offers unbeatable sea views, yacht-inspired luxury, and top-tier service in an intimate 22-room setting. With a full spa, fine dining, and curated island experiences, it’s the island’s most exclusive stay and is named one of the best hotels in Italy in 2025.
Ischia, Italy
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Ischia, larger and more relaxed than nearby Capri, is known for its geothermal features. The island’s hot springs stem from volcanic activity tied to nearby Mount Epomeo. For the region of Ischia, the standout stay is Terme Manzi Hotel & Spa in Casamicciola Terme. It offers an exceptional mix of world-class spa and thermal-water facilities, gourmet dining across multiple venues, and beautifully designed rooms with balconies and stunning sea vistas.
Mykonos, Greece
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Sure, the beach clubs are part of the deal at Mykonos, but the island has another face if you look past the gloss. The village of Ano Mera gives you a glimpse of the region’s quiet life. Still, for access to both worlds, Boheme Mykonos Hotel in town hits the mark with airy suites and a pool that keeps pace with the sunset.
Paros, Greece
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Parikia offers easier ferry access and a more consistent travel pace. Oasis Hotel, located near the old port, includes balconies with sea views and is within walking distance of the Archaeological Museum of Paros. The island has over 120 kilometers of coastline, but few inland roads, preserving much of its terrain.
Menorca, Spain
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Since it’s protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993, Menorca’s growth is tightly regulated. In Ciutadella, Marosi Boutique Hotel retains original 19th-century architecture with updated interiors. For rural stays, Menorca Experimental provides a working-farm setting with guest suites. The island also contains 119 beaches and coves.
Malta
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Malta’s capital, Valletta, was meticulously planned by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century. It’s one of Europe’s most walkable cities. The Barrister Hotel offers an ideal base, just steps from places like the Grandmaster’s Palace and Upper Barrakka Gardens. Convenient ferry links to Gozo and the Three Cities make day trips to these destinations easy and efficient.