Destinations In Greece

Few destinations mix beauty, history and atmosphere quite like Greece. Between the Balkans and the Mediterranean, Greece combines mainland mountains with over 6,000 islands. Expect olive groves, whitewashed villages and deep-blue seas. On the mainland, ancient ruins and lively cities contrast with calm days spent at the beach.

For travellers from England and the wider UK, Greece is accessible for a long weekend but varied enough for longer stays. The best time to visit is May to October, when temperatures rise, the sea is warm and ferries run frequently. Early spring and late autumn bring fewer crowds, but still pleasant weather.

Greece at glance:

Flight duration (from London): 3,5 to 4 hours
Main airport: Athens International Airport (ATH)
Population: 10,5 million
Language: Greek, English
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time zone: GMT +2

Top places to visit in Greece

Santorini is fantastic choice for Greece holidays on the beach. It’s an island of whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, volcanic sands and dramatic sea cliffs. Formed by a volcanic eruption more than 3,000 years ago, Santorini’s cliffs form part of one of the largest volcanic calderas in the world. Expect unforgettable scenery and a great mix of 5 star hotels in Greece, as well as quiet villa escapes. Stroll through villages like Oia and Fira for postcard-perfect views. Then, head to the black-sand beaches of Perissa or Kamari. The island’s wineries are among Greece’s oldest, producing crisp Assyrtiko wine.

Crete, Greece’s largest island, has a landscape that ranges from snow-topped mountains to sandy beaches and Venetian harbors. Archaeological highlights include the Palace of Knossos and the lesser-known Kato Zakros. The Minoan civilization flourished here over 4,000 years ago – centuries before classical Athens was built. Visitors can stroll through the old towns of Chania and Rethymno, or hike the Samaria Gorge. Along the coast, you’ll find some of the best hotels in Greece as well as quiet villages with family-run tavernas.

Rhodes is closer to Turkey than mainland Greece and combines sunshine, beaches and medieval charm. It’s perfect for Greek package holidays as well as last-minute holidays to Greece. Steeped in history, Rhodes’ UNESCO-listed Old Town is still enclosed by fortifications built by the Knights of St John in the 14th century. Beyond the city, the island’s east coast is also home to fabulous resorts and Greece hotels designed for families. Many offer all-inclusive holidays to Greece with easy access to beaches. If you’re exploring the area’s stunning interior, the Valley of the Butterflies, a unique nature reserve, is a peaceful summer escape.

For a relaxed Greek holiday, Naxos is one of the most authentic islands to visit. As a lesser-known island, it’s great for cheap holidays to Greece, without sacrificing quality or service. Expect long sandy beaches and traditional mountain villages. Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach are calm and family-friendly. Inland villages like Apiranthos (the “jewel of Naxos”) and Halki (the island’s former capital) offer charming cobbled streets and courtyard cafes. The island’s Venetian castle and marble gateway, the Portara, overlook the port—particularly beautiful at sunset. As a fun fact, Naxos marble has been used in sculptures and temples since antiquity. Even parts of the Acropolis were built with it.

For Greece city breaks, there’s one top choice – Athens. The country’s capital blends 3,000 years of history with a creative modern scene and a welcoming atmosphere. Its ancient Acropolis (literally meaning “high city”) rises above the city skyline, with a fantastic linked museum. You’ll also find lively neighbourhoods like Plaka and Koukaki filled with street cafés and small galleries. The city is compact enough for walking, with excellent public transport and a growing cycle network. It’s also the ideal starting point for Greek island holidays, with ferries to the Cyclades leaving from nearby Piraeus Port.