Greece Holidays
Overview
Greece is home to 6,000 islands and islets, with only 227 of them being inhabited. They are grouped into several clusters that are scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas and are all adorned with lavish greenery, crystal clear waters, and sandy beaches. Holidays to Greece are always memorable regardless of their location. Tourists might choose Crete as the largest island in Greece with a great historical heritage, Santorini because of its white-washed houses and volcanic-sand beaches, or Lefkada with its turquoise-coloured waters. The most famous cluster in the Aegean Sea is called the Cyclades. These spots are perfect for luxury Greece holidays, with white and blue colours against the barren cliffs. Some of the most popular islands in the group are Santorini, Mykonos, Ios, Paros, Naxos, etc. The Dodecanese group is the sunniest corner of the country. It comprises 12 islands, among which Rhodes is the largest.
A Greece holiday will take you to the oldest still inhabited medieval town in Europe, built by the order of Rhodes’ knights in the 14th century. Crete was home to the oldest European civilization, the Minoans, who lived here during the 3rd millennium BC. The Knossos Palace near Heraklion, which served as a residence of King Minos, can still be seen today. Head over to Zakynthos, Ithaca, or Corfu as part of the seven Ionian Islands’ group in Greece. The sea colour is even more impressive here when seen against the local white cliffs.
Check out our Greece holiday packages 2025-2026 to get the very best of Greece flights and hotel rates. We are sure to have the perfect deal for you!
Why visit Greece
Greece blends ancient history with sparkling seas and easygoing island life. You can stand among temple columns in the morning and swim in clear water by afternoon, then linger over grilled fish, olives and local wine as the sun goes down. Each island has its own character, from the lively Cyclades to greener Ionian hideaways and larger islands such as Crete. The mainland adds mountain villages, monasteries and the great sites of Athens.
Highlights of Greece
- The Acropolis, Athens: Climb to the Parthenon and enjoy views across the city, then explore the nearby Plaka neighbourhood for tavernas and shops.
- Santorini: Take in the whitewashed clifftop villages and the sunsets over the caldera, then explore the island's vineyards and black sand beaches.
- Crete: Explore Minoan palaces, Venetian harbours and mountain gorges on Greece's largest island, with excellent local food throughout.
- Corfu and the Ionian islands: Wander the old town of Corfu and discover green hillsides, quiet coves and calm, clear water for swimming.
- Island hopping in the Cyclades: Link islands such as Paros, Naxos and Milos by ferry, mixing beaches, villages and long relaxed lunches.
Best time to visit Greece
May, June and September are ideal for most visitors, with warm sea, long days and fewer crowds than midsummer. July and August are hot and busy, though perfect for beach holidays if you enjoy the buzz. Many island hotels and ferries wind down from late October to April, while Athens remains a good city break option in spring and autumn.
Getting there from the UK
Direct flights from London to Athens take around three and a half hours, and many UK airports offer seasonal direct services to popular islands such as Crete, Corfu, Rhodes and Zakynthos. For the Cyclades, you typically fly to Athens or an island airport and connect by a short flight or ferry. Sky Travel can arrange flights and tailor the island route.
Good to know
Greece uses the euro, and cards are widely accepted although small tavernas and ferries may prefer cash. Greek is the national language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Plugs are the continental two-pin type, so bring an adaptor. Ferry timetables can change with the weather. Check the latest GOV.UK foreign travel advice for entry requirements before travelling.
Tours in Greece
