Overview
Greece has captivated travellers for centuries and continues to be one of Europe's most magical holiday destinations. From the iconic blue-domed churches of Santorini perched above the caldera, to the ancient ruins of Athens, from the lively beach bars of Mykonos to the unspoilt olive groves of Crete, every corner of Greece offers something extraordinary.
The country's greatest asset is its islands — over 6,000 of them, of which around 230 are inhabited. Each has its own distinct character. Santorini is all romance and sunsets; Mykonos is for glamour and nightlife; Crete is the perfect all-rounder with history, beaches and incredible food; Corfu is lush and green; Rhodes and Kos are ideal for families.
Greek food is another highlight — fresh grilled seafood, creamy tzatziki, flaky spanakopita, slow-roasted lamb and the world's finest feta cheese. Combine excellent food, warm sea temperatures, extraordinary history and world-class beaches, and you have one of Europe's ultimate holiday experiences.
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Santorini is arguably the most photographed island in the world. Formed by a massive volcanic eruption, the crescent-shaped caldera drops dramatically to the sea below the cliffside villages of Fira and Oia. Watching the sunset from Oia — with the sky turning shades of amber, pink and violet over the caldera — is one of travel's great bucket-list moments.
The Acropolis of Athens, crowned by the Parthenon, is one of the world's most recognisable landmarks and the defining monument of Western civilisation. The surrounding archaeological sites — the Ancient Agora, Theatre of Dionysus and Temple of Hephaestus — make Athens a must for history lovers. The Acropolis Museum below is world-class.
Greece's largest island is a complete holiday destination in its own right. Crete combines 650km of coastline with extraordinary history (Knossos, the Minoan palace, is 4,000 years old), dramatic gorges like the Samaria — one of Europe's longest — superb local cuisine and some of the warmest sea temperatures in the Mediterranean.
The glamour capital of the Greek islands, Mykonos is a dazzling white cube of windmills, bougainvillea and Cycladic architecture. It attracts a sophisticated international crowd with its superb restaurants, boutique hotels, famous beach clubs and a nightlife scene that runs until sunrise. Little Venice, with its colourful balconies overhanging the sea, is utterly charming.
The medieval Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval settlements in Europe. The Knights' Street (Ippoton), the Palace of the Grand Master and the ancient walls that encircle the old town are extraordinary. Beyond the history, Rhodes has excellent beaches and a vibrant restaurant scene.
The most verdant of all Greek islands, Corfu is covered in olive trees, cypress and vineyards. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town reflects centuries of Venetian, French and British rule with elegant arcaded streets, colourful shuttered buildings and two imposing fortresses. The north of the island has beautiful beaches while the south is more lively and family-friendly.
Plan Your Trip
One of the very best times to visit. Temperatures of 18–24°C, landscapes carpeted with wildflowers, far fewer tourists and significantly lower prices. Athens is excellent in spring before the summer heat. Easter celebrations (often in April) are spectacular in Greece.
Peak season with guaranteed sunshine, sea temperatures of 25–27°C and the islands at their most vibrant. Incredibly busy and expensive, particularly Santorini and Mykonos. The meltemi wind can make the Aegean choppy in July and August but keeps temperatures bearable on the islands.
Many experienced Greece travellers consider September and October the best months. Still warm and sunny (24–27°C), the sea remains beautifully warm from the summer, crowds thin dramatically and prices fall. An ideal time for island-hopping without the peak-season pressure.
Most island resorts close entirely from November to April as the population retreats to the mainland. Athens, however, is excellent in winter — cool and sometimes rainy but far less crowded. The Acropolis and museums can be enjoyed almost to yourself. Crete stays milder than other islands and some resorts remain open.
Top Areas
The quintessential Greek islands — volcanic, arid, brilliantly white with classic Cycladic architecture. Santorini is the ultimate romance destination with its caldera views and sunset dinners. Mykonos offers world-class beach clubs, designer boutiques and a legendary party scene.
Greece's largest island punches above its weight in every category — beaches (Balos, Elafonisi, Vai), history (Knossos, Heraklion), food (the Cretan diet is renowned as some of the world's healthiest) and hiking (Samaria Gorge). Excellent direct flights from most UK airports.
Greener and lusher than the Aegean islands thanks to more rainfall, the Ionians include Corfu, Zante (Zakynthos), Kefalonia and Lefkada. Zante is famous for its shipwreck beach (Navagio) and loggerhead turtles. Kefalonia has dramatic scenery and was the setting for Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Corfu suits families and culture-seekers.
Located close to the Turkish coast, the Dodecanese islands enjoy some of the longest sunshine records in Greece. Rhodes is the group's crown — a superb combination of medieval history, excellent beaches and lively nightlife. Kos is flat, perfect for cycling, and ideal for families with young children.
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