Greece holidays
Greece holidays deliver fantastic beaches and centuries-old sights. From Crete’s coastlines to the party spirit of Kos and Rhodes’ ancient charm, each island offers something unique. Add in the iconic sights of Athens and you get a sun‑soaked escape packed with culture, relaxation and adventure.
Your perfect Greek escape
Greece is packed with secluded spots for sun, sand and sea, whether you’re planning family holidays in Crete or Rhodes, or a romantic escape. Santorini and Mykonos are favourites for couples’ holidays, blending boutique beaches with a cosmopolitan feel. If you prefer quieter shores, island-hopping opens the door to smaller gems like Symi, Skopelos and Thassos, where laid‑back towns, pine‑fringed bays and footprint‑free beaches steal the show.
Best time to visit Greece
Greece’s hot summers draw millions to its spotless sands, while May and October offer warm, quieter days perfect for exploring. September is a favourite for settled weather and sun‑soaked beaches, and even the country’s mild winters have their appeal. Time a visit for Greek Easter (the same dates as ours) and you’ll experience one of the nation’s most colourful cultural celebrations.
Popular spots and hidden gems
The biggest of the Greek islands is Crete, with 650 miles of coastline and standout historical sights. Corfu – AKA the Emerald Isle – is popular for its green interior, while Kos and Zante deliver top‑tier beaches and lively nightlife. Rhodes boasts the best sunshine record, and mainland favourites like Halkidiki, Parga and the Peloponnese add even more variety. For a change of pace, Athens and Thessaloniki city breaks mix culture with great food. And wherever you go, Greece’s weather stays tempting – even April and November can reach a balmy 19°C.
Getting to Greece
If you want to stay on the mainland, Halkidiki, Kalamata and Parga make great bases for exploring wider Greece, all easily reached on direct flights from the UK. Athens is another top pick, serving up ancient history, charming neighbourhoods and icons like the Acropolis. It’s only a short hop – around a four‑hour flight from the UK – and with just a two‑hour time difference, it’s an easy city break. Plus, Glyfada Beach is only 20 minutes away, so you can pair sightseeing with seaside lounging on an Athens holiday.
Popular hotels in Greece
Facts about Greece
FAQ
Where can I find the latest travel advice?
All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.
What currency do I need for Greece?
You’ll need Euro (EUR) for your holiday spends in Greece. Head to our Greek travel money page for all the info.
How long does it take to fly to Greece?
Flights from the UK to Greece take between three and five hours, depending on which airport you fly from.
What is the time difference between the UK and Greece?
Greece is two hours ahead of the UK – so when it’s 9am here, it’s 11am there.
Which is the best Greek island for a quiet holiday?
The relatively untrodden island of Thassos is your best bet for peace and quiet. Think footprint-free beaches, rustic harbour towns and an inner landscape of olive groves and vineyards.
Which is the best Greek island for beaches?
The island of Zante is best known for its beaches. Crisp white stretches of sand and Facebook-blue waters are the mainstays here, with top beach picks including Navagio and Porto Limnionas.
What is the best month to go to Greece?
For optimum tanning conditions, visit Greece between June and September. If you like things a little cooler, April and May are a great time to go, when temperatures hover around the 10-15°C mark.
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