Greek Islands Holidays

Things to do in the Greek Islands

No two Greek Islands are the same. Each island has its own unique charm to offer visitors. You can relax among ancient ruins then head to Ios or Zante for a non-stop party, head to Kavos on Corfu for hedonistic nights, and for beautiful Blue Flag beaches and sunshine, you'll love Crete. Greek holidays can be completely different, depending on which island you visit.

Picking an island can be tricky. The Greek Islands are known for their party vibes, and if it isn't Ios or Zante, then Mykonos could tempt you. Other popular islands include Kefalonia with lovely beaches, and Skiathos, the quiet but glitzy charmer of the Greek Islands. These Greek gems are a great hotspot for a September holiday, where the weather is mild yet warm. 

Some great spots include:

• Knossos
• Imerovigli
• Colossus of Rhodes
• Delos
• Navagio Beach
• Tree of Hippocrates

Best Greek Island for beaches

If you're travelling to the Greek Islands, you're likely doing so for sun, sand and surf! Beaches are central to a Greek Islands holiday in 2020.

Santorini - If you're looking for upmarket beaches, the island of Santorini is the place to go. Santorini has numerous dark sandy shores, lined with palm-thatched parasols and sun loungers. Kamari Beach and Perissa Beach are two of the most popular choices, with beach bars and restaurants close by.

Corfu - Alternatively, Corfu is the best Greek Island destination if you're looking for family-friendly shorelines. The warm, shallow waters and soft sands on Agios Georgios and Agios Ioannis will please any group. 

Zante - Zakynthos (known as Zante) offers water sports, scuba diving and boat trips, plus heaving nightlife. Sandy beaches such as Banana and Agios allow visitors to try water skiing and paragliding, while rocky bays like Porto Koukla and Keri Caves have their own unique features to offer. 

Skiathos - One of the first Greek Islands to cater to tourists, its glitzy beachfronts are paired with protected areas of coves and beaches. 

Greek Islands family holidays

Family holidays to the Greek Islands are sure to be fun and even educational! From exploring ancient ruins to discovering the crystal-clear beaches, there’s plenty to entertain the little ones. Naxos is known to be a great family-friendly island but other cheap holidays include:

Crete - The largest island in Greece has a variety of things to do with the whole family. Its beautiful beaches provide clear and shallow waters, head to the north coastline for developed beaches which are perfect for the little ones. On the other hand, Crete's history museums offer opportunities to learn about Greece's history. The Natural History Museum or Cretaquarium in Iraklio are educational experiences all on their own.

Rhodes - The islands have a great number of historical sites that are not only beautiful to look at but are educational, and most importantly – fun to explore!  A trip to Rhodes will give kids a view into the past, and once you’ve explored the history that surrounds them, they can investigate the island's beaches. Pack a picnic for the beach or head to one of the beach tavernas for a traditional meal

Skitathos - Located in the Sporades Archipelago, it has a long history of tourism and caters perfectly for families. Why not a little bit of mainland Greece as a family day trip? Halkidiki's three peninsulas are reachable from Kavala which is a 2hr drive from the Kassandra peninsula in Halkidiki and is where the ferry from Thassos arrives.

Luxury family holidays

If you wish to make the most of your time during your Greek holiday, then perhaps you’re looking for the ultimate 5-star or luxury hotel:

• MarBella Corfu Hotel
• Daios Cove Luxury Resort and Villas
• Rimondi Grand Resort & Spa Hotel
• Grecotel Lux Me White Palace
• Grecotel Mykonos Blu

Greek Island holidays for couples

The Greek islands are perhaps one of the most romantic places to visit with your loved one. (Find out the most romantic Greek places here!). But which are the best islands to visit?

Kefalonia - Home to awesome beachfront hotels that are perfect for a romantic holiday, plus you'll enjoy exploring the picture-perfect beaches.

Rhodes - You'll find the charming medieval Rhodes Town to be quite a stunning affair, plus there are numerous romantic spots along Rhodes' many beaches.

Crete - Couples that are foodies can find the best in Greek cuisine on Crete. Fresh meats, local ingredients and spirits will are perfect dining options when you head to Crete with a loved one

Kos - You’ll find the perfect blend of sandy shorelines and historic marvels, making it a great choice for a couples holiday.

Mykonos - Whitewashed buildings, beautiful sunsets and amazing views. What more could you ask for when combining romance and a holiday abroad?

Luxury Greek Island holidays

Why not really treat yourselves with a romantic getaway to one of the Greek Island’s luxury resorts? From 5-star hotels to infinity pools teetering over the edge of picturesque bays, you can’t go wrong!

• Mitsis Blue Domes Resort & Spa
• Corfu Imperial, Grecotel Exclusive Resort
• Stella Palace Resort
• Gennadi Grand Resort
• Saint John Mykonos Hotel

Best Greek Island for culture

One of the main attractions to Greece’s islands is its place in history and the traces of it left behind.  You’re sure to find something interesting on every Greek Island but if you’re wondering what the best Greek Island is for culture, you’ll be glad to find out there are a few!

Mykonos - History lovers will enjoy love Greek holidays, especially the ancient churches and monuments of Mykonos. Although it is also well-known for it is nightlife, Mykonos provides visitors with an incredible glimpse into the past. The 15th century Church of Panagia Paraportiani is one of the crown jewels of the island. 

Corfu - There are a fair share of historic monuments here, for example, the Old Fortress and Aggelokastro. The imposing medieval castle situated on the top of a tall cliff offers tourists unique views of Corfu. 

Crete - Home to Minoan ruins, Crete is ideal if you want to explore and discover ancient history. 

Greek traditions

Smashing plates - This is perhaps the most famous Greek tradition which often happens in celebration of music and joy at parties. Although it has since been banned, it still happens in private functions.

Easter - Easter is the most important religious celebration for Greeks. They have a carnival know as Tsiknopempti, and other traditions take place like dying eggs red as a symbol of Christ's sacrifice.  

Evil Eye - This tradition is shared with many other cultures, it's the idea that evil eye is a curse caused by those with envy. In order to protect yourself against this curse, it is believed that a charm included a blue glass eye must be worn. 

Best Greek Island for food

Every region in Greece has slight variations on Greek food traditions and recipes. You will certainly find this on holidays to the Greek Islands. Crete is often considered one of the best islands for it's cuisine as it has a range of Cretan variations.

Fresh salads are a great way to start, so satisfy your hunger with olives and feta-covered greens. Follow up your salad with a moussaka,or try something completely new with Bourdeto. The fish recipe is a Corfu tradition. Wash it all down with a Greek red or white wine. Ouzo is an aperitif that is a favourite drink throughout Greece. Enjoy a glass of ouzo at a small café as you dine on mezze or appetizers. Find out more about Greek cuisine in our blog!

Greek Islands nightlife

While the Greek Islands may be calm, sunshine-filled havens in the daytime, come nightfall most islands hum with music. Whether you’re drawn to loud and lively nights on Zante, or calm and candlelit strolls overlooking the Ionian Sea, there’s plenty of choice in the Greek Islands. 

You can enjoy fantastic nightlife on your Greece holidays in 2020. Mykonos, Corfu, Ios and Zakynthos are all great options for a heady nightlife, whereas one of the quieter islands such as Santorini, Rhodes and Crete would suit families and couples looking to avoid the noisy clubs and pubs. If you're looking for a Greek Island completely off the Ionian path, the little-known island of Lefkas is a beauty. Try Skiathos for upmarket peace, or Kefalonia for a beautiful stay in the island capital of Argostoli.