Greece Under the Radar: A Guide to Your Next Mediterranean Getaway

Ancient Greek sculptors flocked to Paros for its quarries, which produced Greece’s highest quality marble, pure white and semitranslucent, and many of today’s visitors come for the rich artistic history.

Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros, is a Fine Hotels + Resorts property in the soulful village of Naoussa, with thoughtful design touches that channel the beauty of the Aegean Sea beyond. Suites feature private terraces and balconies and in the top categories private pools to take in restorative coastal vistas and the hotel has its own private beach club where you can sunbathe on the pillow-soft sand and drink in views of the crystal-clear waters.

Platinum Cardmembers can use their US$100 credit to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand from the resort’s al fresco Circe Bar – staff mix up inventive cocktails like a Champagne Pina Colada. Feeling hungry?, try Parostià Restaurant, situated right on the beachfront, acting as the ultimate lunch and dinner spot, showcasing the generosity and laidback yet rich epicurean traditions of Paros, Greece and the Mediterranean.

Before heading to bed, pay a visit to the Stargazing Terrace for views of the night sky through the hotel’s high-powered telescope. The Cycladic islands are noted for their exceptionally clear skies due to the region’s minimal air pollution, making for a breathtaking celestial experience.

You can easily spend a day at Paros Park, a lush nature reserve with a network of walking trails, hidden coves, caves, and secluded beaches. While the island’s ancient quarries are no longer operational, visitors can tour select sites to view the fine stone preferred by many of Greece’s most skilled artists. And Platinum Cardmembers can take time to visit one of the many architectural museums or small galleries – with guaranteed 4pm check-out, you’ll be in no rush.

History buffs and active families alike will find much to do in Pylos, a city in the Peloponnese, a peninsula at the southernmost point of Greece’s mainland. The quaint harborside city invites visitors to relax at the cafés that line its winding cobblestone streets. While hard to imagine now, Pylos was once the setting for fearsome battles. A monument to a notable victory stands in the Square of the Three Admirals, Pylos’ main square, and visitors can view memorabilia at the Antonopoulio Museum (also known as the Archaeological Museum of Pylos).

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, a Fine Hotels + Resorts property is tucked among ancient olive groves and uses locally sourced materials in its design. Take a moment to appreciate the view from your suite’s private balcony or spend an afternoon enjoying the unique spa facilities, which includes a heated swimming pool overlooking the bay, exquisite Olive Sauna, Mineral and Floral Steam Room or refresh in the Plunge pool before one of the traditional spa treatments. Alternatively, for those seeking a unique gastronomic experience and enjoy culinary secret-sharing at The Private Kitchen. Book your seat at the 16-seater counter to join other culinary passionists in this immersive experience or have The Private Kitchen privately booked for your exclusive dinner.

Travel back in time at Pylos Castle, an ancient fortress that’s among the most well preserved in Greece. It’s part of a sprawling site that features a museum with expansive views of the ocean. Marvel at the grandeur of the Palace of Nestor, once home to the king who commanded troops in the Trojan War and prominently featured in Homer’s epic works.

Back at the resort, hit the beach with one of the property’s watersports offerings or get a hands-on introduction to Mediterranean cuisine through a cooking class taught by two women inside a traditional stone house; kids can help to make traditional Greek butter cookies. Take a dip in your suite’s private pool or book a decadent treatment at the Mandarin Oriental’s spa. Platinum Cardmembers might use their US$100 credit at the Three Admirals Lounge, where they can raise a glass to the past with a bespoke cocktail while admiring panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.

While you can find fresh, authentic Greek food wherever you find yourself, it’s widely agreed that Crete – the largest of the Greek islands – boasts one of the best dining scenes. There’s a reason many trace the roots of the healthful Mediterranean diet here.

Local tavernas typically serve the catch of the day whole, seasoned simply with olive oil and lemon, alongside local cheeses and mezze. You’ll want to request a Dakos (also known as Koukouvágia) salad, a traditional Cretan plating of tomatoes, feta, and herbs atop a barley rusk. Crete counts Greece’s greatest concentration of vineyards and wine tours abound. There are also ample opportunities to taste local olive oils, another product that flourishes thanks to Crete’s fertile soil.

Book a spacious suite with a terrace or balcony at The Royal Senses Resort & Spa Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton. With any luck, Platinum and Gold Cardmembers can get more time to enjoy the space, thanks to The Hotel Collection benefits of 12pm check-in and late check-in, both when available.

During your stay, experience the flavors of Crete at Mitato, where traditional Cretan Antikristo lamb is slow-cooked over an open fire, taking center stage in culinary creations. Enjoy Cretan wines from small local producers, signature cocktails or wines from the Cretamos Wine Cellar, cheers to unforgettable moments.

Argolida (also known as Argolis) has some of Greece’s most significant and ancient archaeological sites. Of note is Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where visitors can tour the Tomb of Agamemnon. Music buffs should be sure to visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, a remarkably preserved amphitheater known for its acoustics – which are still enjoyed at live performances today.

Book your stay at Amanzoe, a Fine Hotels + Resorts property that sits on a hill encircled by olive groves with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. Inspired by classic Hellenistic architecture, the resort offers a variety of well-appointed suites with private plunge pools and villas with columns and cornices. At The Restaurant, you can enjoy complimentary daily breakfast for two; the menu features fresh Mediterranean dishes and breakfast staples.

After fueling up, visit ancient ruins or catch a ferry to the nearby island of Spetses, which boasts a storied naval history – and some truly stunning beaches. The island doesn’t allow cars, so many visitors opt to tour Spetses by horse-drawn carriage. Grab lunch with a view of the sea at one of the many lively tavernas that line the harbor.

Back at Amanzoe, unwind and recharge at the resort’s spa, where Platinum Cardmembers can put their US$100 credit towards a therapeutic treatment inspired by Hippocrates’ healing practices.