Greece Holidays

Getting to Greece

The easiest way to get to Greece is by air. There are international airports dotted across the mainland, including in hotspots like Athens and Thessaloniki, and the major islands each have one too – think Rhodes, Santorini, Corfu, Mykonos, etc.

You can fly directly from hubs like London, Birmingham and Manchester, with a flight time of 3.5-4.5 hours. The scattered location of the islands also allows you to craft a multi-country holiday by ferry. For example, you can sail from Saranda (Albania) to Corfu or from Bodrum (Turkey) to Kos. Both of these crossings take less than an hour, making them perfect for a day trip.

Getting around in Greece

The train network on Greece’s mainland is limited, but luckily, there’s a comprehensive network of intercity KTEL buses that are faster, more efficient, and cheap, too, costing roughly €4 per 100 kilometres. If you’re on the islands, the classic way of getting around is island-hopping on ferries. Providers include Bluestar Ferries, Anes Ferries, Hellenic Seaways and Dodekanisos Seaways.

The key is to plan in advance and work out a logical route, ideally within one island group at a time, since the distances between the groups can be vast. To get around this, you can also fly internally from Athens or Thessaloniki to islands across the Cyclades, Sporades and more.

When is the best time to travel to Greece?

Greece is synonymous with summer holidays, and it’s easy to see why, with temperatures topping 30 degrees. The heat can be sweltering on the mainland, but the islands enjoy a cooling sea breeze. The months of July and August are the busiest, with droves of international tourists joined by Greeks on a getaway. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, try April-June or September-October instead.

The weather is still extremely pleasant, especially if you’re interested in hiking or sightseeing. The celebrations for Orthodox Easter (April/early May) are a sight to behold, culminating in a huge feast with drinking, singing and dancing. Winter is colder and wetter, with temperatures in Athens topping out at around 15 degrees, but it’s a great time to see the country in relative solitude – just pack an umbrella and some layers.

What else do I need to know?

• Greek is the official language, but in the larger seaside resorts and towns English is also spoken in the service area, and sometimes even German.

• 97% of the population profess Orthodox Christianity.

• When visiting churches, you should choose appropriate clothing and keep your shoulders and knees covered.

• As the socket types C and F are used in Greece, you do not need an adapter.

Explore Popular Holiday Destinations in Greece

Greece is a country with a myriad of holiday options, each offering its own unique blend of scenery, history, and culture. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular holiday areas, ensuring you find the perfect Greek getaway.

Santorini Holidays

Renowned for its breathtaking views, Santorini is the jewel of the Aegean. Known for its dramatic sunsets, stunning cliffside towns like Oia, and unique volcanic beaches, it's perfect for romance and exploration. Experience this spectacular island with our Santorini holidays packages.

Milos Holidays

Milos is celebrated for its otherworldly landscapes and beautiful beaches, such as Sarakiniko with its moon-like surface and turquoise waters. This lesser-known gem provides a quieter alternative to the busier islands, making it ideal for a relaxing retreat. Dive into the natural beauty with Milos holidays.

Crete Holidays

As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete offers a diverse range of activities and attractions. From the historic ruins of Knossos to the majestic Samaria Gorge and the lively streets of Chania, Crete combines adventure with cultural riches. Plan your trip with our Crete holidays for a comprehensive experience.

Corfu Holidays

Corfu blends lush scenery with rich history, featuring Venetian fortresses, sleepy villages, and vibrant beaches. Known for its green hills and diverse coastlines, it offers a picturesque setting perfect for families and history buffs alike. Explore more with Corfu holidays.

Rhodes Holidays

Rhodes is famous for its rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant medieval town. As a cultural hub with beautiful beaches and ancient sites, it's perfect for those who want to combine beach relaxation with historical explorations. Discover the island's charm with Rhodes holidays.

Athens Holidays

The historical heart of Greece, Athens offers an unparalleled journey through ancient monuments like the Acropolis and vibrant neighbourhoods full of contemporary culture and cuisine. For a city break full of historical insights, consider Athens holidays.

Mykonos Holidays

Mykonos is synonymous with cosmopolitan vibes, famous for its lively nightlife, chic boutiques, and luxurious resorts. Alongside its social scene, beautiful beaches like Ornos and Psarou offer sun-soaked relaxation. Experience the vibrant island life with Mykonos holidays.

Each destination in Greece offers a unique holiday experience, from serene beaches and historical excursions to vibrant nightlife and gourmet dining. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an adventurous exploration, Greece has a place that caters to every desire.

What to do in Greece

Greece is home to a plethora of attractions, from ancient palaces to jaw-dropping beaches and world-class museums. For starters, there’s the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, perhaps Greece’s most iconic structures. Towering above Athens on a rocky outcrop, a visit here is an evocative journey back in time.

Another world-famous site is Meteora in Thessaly, where monasteries sit precipitously perched atop lofty pillars of stone. When it comes to the islands, Crete has the Palace of Knossos, an enormous complex where visitors can wander through the sprawling ruins where legend says that King Minos once kept the Minotaur. Over on Rhodes, the village of Lindos is another top-tier attraction, a picture-perfect combination of an enchanting bay and a whitewashed fishing village crowned by a majestic acropolis.

Things to do in Greece for free

A Greece holiday is a wonderful opportunity to simply stroll and soak up the atmosphere in the old towns: Rhodes, Corfu, Hydra, Mykonos, and many more have fine examples of the narrow streets, whitewashed houses and picturesque churches that make the country so distinctive. While in Athens, catch the Changing of the Guard on the hour in Syntagma Square for a perfectly choreographed spectacle.

If you’re there on the first Sunday of the month, admission to sites including the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum is completely free. Beyond that, Greece’s natural beauty makes it the perfect place for hiking in nature or lazing on the innumerable beaches – what more could you want from a budget-friendly holiday?

What to do in Greece with your family

Some of the best areas for a family holiday to Greece include Athens, the Cycladic Islands, Crete and the Peloponnese. Kids will love the beaches with their crystal-clear, shallow waters, perfect for splashing around, exploring the marine life with a snorkel, or trying out a new water sport.

Since the country is such a family-friendly destination, it’s no surprise that it’s also home to epic theme parks, including Water Park Rhodes, Aqualand Corfu and Allou! Fun Park near Athens. Elsewhere, the epic architecture and fascinating history of the country’s countless archaeological sites are sure to get their imagination firing.

Best beaches in Greece

Greece has over 6,000 islands and a whopping 617 Blue Flag beaches, so you’re truly spoilt for choice. Here are some of the finest examples in the main tourist hotspots:

• Elafonisi, Crete: Stunning pinkish sand and crystal-clear water make this small islet a very popular choice in high season.

• Shipwreck Bay, Zakynthos: Surrounded by towering cliffs and with the eponymous shipwreck perched stoically on the sand, this cove is unimaginably beautiful.

• Myrtos, Kefalonia: A semi-circular bay backed by lush green slopes, this beach is featured in the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.

• St Paul’s Bay, Rhodes: An exceptionally sheltered bay set against the stunning backdrop of the village’s imposing acropolis.

• Paleokastritsa, Corfu: A stretch of six small coves great for snorkelling and scuba diving.

• Platys Gialos, Mykonos: Just four kilometres from Mykonos Town, this popular stretch of pristine sand feels a world away.

• Perissa Beach, Santorini: A shallow shore where the black lava sands contrast beautifully with the glimmering aquamarine sea.

• Vourvourou, Sithonia, Halkidiki: An authentic and unpretentious beach that’s perfect for sheltered swimming.

What to eat in Greece

Greece has one of the world’s best-loved cuisines. Here are a few dishes you won’t want to miss:

• Tzatziki: A refreshing yoghurt and cucumber dip/sauce.

• Taramasalata: A creamy and salty fish roe dip.

• Dolmades: Vine leaves stuffed with herby, lemony rice.

• Spanakopita: Spinach pie with crispy filo pastry.

• Stifado: A melt-in-the-mouth meat stew.

• Moussaka: A casserole with layers of aubergine and hearty meat sauce.

• Kleftiko: Slow-roasted lamb cooked in parchment.

• Souvlaki: Skewers of grilled meat.

• Gyros: Grilled meat served in pitta with tzatziki and chips.

• Loukoumades: Greek doughnuts drizzled with honey.

• Baklava: A mouthwatering dessert made with filo pastry, chopped nuts and honey.

Surf areas in Greece

Although Greece is known for its sheltered bays and tranquil seas, you can find some decent surf as well when the conditions are right. Kolimbithra on the island of Tinos is known as a surfer hotspot and an ideal place for beginners to try their hand at the sport.

Messakti Beach on Ikaria is another good option from May to August, while the island of Crete has numerous surf schools on its northern coast – try Chrissi Akti, Paleochora and Falasarna Beach for waves that can reach up to 2 metres.

Hiking in Greece

With mountains, gorges and coastline trails, Greece is perfect for hiking, particularly outside summertime when the heat is less intense. Feel like a god as you reach the summit of Mount Olympus or get epic views from the top of Pelion, nicknamed the Land of the Centaurs.

Traverse the epic gorges of Vikos on the mainland or Samaria on Crete, marvelling at the majestic cliffs that rise around you. In the Peloponnese, the Menalon Trail is a path in eight sections, including the eye-popping Monastery of Prodromos, which clings dramatically to the cliff face.

Popular events in Greece

No month goes by without a festival or event in Greece, some linked to the country’s rich historical heritage and others to its Orthodox tradition. Holy Week, celebrating Orthodox Easter, is the biggest religious celebration, culminating in Easter Saturday, where a candlelit congregation is followed by a sumptuous midnight feast.

When it comes to culture, the Athens Epidaurus Festival takes place from May to October and celebrates all aspects of the performing arts. The Thessaloniki International Film Festival is held every November and attracts stars from around the world, while Ejekt is an Athens-based music festival whose previous headliners have included The Cure, Muse and Red Hot Chili Peppers.