The Greek islands have everything you could want for a dreamy holiday; picture-perfect beaches, turquoise ocean waters, amazing food, family-friendly resorts, party towns... the list goes on and on.
The good news for Brits is that Greece holidays are currently on the cards for summer, with the country welcoming both unvaccinated and vaccinated UK holidaymakers. (At the time of writing, Greece is on the amber list meaning you'll need to self-isolate for 10 days back in the UK, unless you're fully vaccinated in which case you're exempt).
But with hundreds of inhabited islands to choose from, trying to choose the best Greek islands for your holidays can seem a pretty daunting task.
We've done the hard work for you, and created a handy guide to the top 10 Greek islands you'll want on your radar, including the holidays they're best suited for, whether that's family breaks, romantic getaways, or adventures. We've also highlighted some of the best places to find cheap holidays in each one.
Check out the guide below - and happy holiday hunting!
1. Rhodes
BEST FOR: Family holidays, all-inclusive resorts, beaches
Not only is Rhodes one of the best beach destinations in Greece, but it's also ideal for Greek island family holidays that are fuss-free thanks to its impressive range of all-inclusive resorts.
Those who want to go exploring will find plenty of historical sites such as the Acropolis, while Rhodes Town has plenty of local boutiques, bars and restaurants to explore - the medieval town is a must-visit for any history buff.
Brits won't struggle to find family-friendly resorts boasting big buffets, pool complexes and the occasional water park, but if you prefer the beach to poolside then Rhodes won't disappoint, with its coast boasting everything from sandy beaches to pebbled coves.
Where to find cheap Rhodes holidays
- First Choice has all-inclusive Rhodes holidays from £461pp
- LoveHolidays has cheap Rhodes holidays from £91pp
2. Crete
BEST FOR: Exploring, food, beaches
The biggest Greek island can cater to a whole host of different holidays from lazy days on the beach to adventures both on land and sea - it's tipped to be one of the best Greek islands for snorkeling.
There's plenty to explore too from fascinating cultural spots and historical sites, from the Knossos ruins to the monasteries.
Then there's its striking natural landscape - Mount Ida stands tall towering above the island, not to mention that the coast is filled with spectacular beaches with everything from turquoise lagoons to eye-catching red sands.
Oh, and foodies won't be disappointed either; Crete is renowned for serving up some seriously delicious local grub. (For some inspiration, Tripadvisor has a guide to Crete's best restaurants based on travellers' reviews).
Where to find cheap Crete holidays
- TUI offers packages on Crete holidays from £234pp
- Jet2holidays has Crete holidays from £269pp which include a £60pp deposit payment option
- Tripadvisor is a good source for cheap Crete hotels
- Mirror Holidays has packages from £372pp in August
3. Mykonos
BEST FOR: Nightlife, luxury holidays
One of the coolest Greek islands, Mykonos is renowned for its epic party season during the summer months, from boat parties to its glamorous bars and clubs.
It's not all 'party party' though - the island is home to some quieter beaches, as well as picturesque historic sites and a museum or two.
There are some great luxury hotels to be found across the island but it is possible to find slightly more budget-friendly accommodation if you consider self-catering and B&B options.
Where to find cheap Mykonos holidays
- TUI has Mykonos holidays from £393pp
- British Airways is offering Mykonos packages from £374pp starting from October 2021
- easyJet Holidays has Mykonos packages from £374pp
4. Corfu
BEST FOR: History, culture, food, beach holidays
Corfu is ideal for those who are looking for a holiday with more of a laidback vibe rather than action-packed itineraries and parties. (Although Sidari is known for its nightlife if that is what you're after).
That's not to say there's not much to do on the island - on the contrary, there's plenty to visit from the awe-inspiring Achilleion to the tiny island of Pontikonisi.
Meanwhile, Corfu Town has plenty going on if you do want bars and restaurants, and also offers up quieter streets with markets and local foodie gems nestled away.
And of course fans of the TV show The Durrells can go and visit all of the show's filming locations for something a little different.
Where to find cheap Corfu holidays
- On the Beach has Corfu holidays from £120pp from September 2021 onwards
- easyJet Holidays has Corfu holidays with £60pp deposit
- Jet2holidays has Corfu holidays with £60pp deposit options
5. Santorini
BEST FOR: Couples, luxury holidays
With its white-washed buildings, iconic blue domes and luxury hotels, it's no wonder Santorini is often hailed as one of the most romantic spots in the world.
Sip on cocktails at sunset and take in the stunning views from one of the waterside tavernas, wander through the picture-perfect streets (seriously, it's an Instagram dream) or go exploring the coves along the coast.
In fact, we've put together a Santorini packages from £127pp highlighting some of the best things to see and do on the island.
There are plenty of incredible hotels on offer, such as the one with secret tunnels leading to infinity pools! Oh, and you may also want to check out Tripadvisor's guide to best romantic hotels in Santorini.
Where to find cheap Santorini holidays
- LoveHolidays has Santorini breaks from £330pp
- Mirror Holidays has Santorini breaks from £462pp in August and £462pp in August
- Lastminute has Santorini holidays from £489pp for 2021
6. Kos
BEST FOR: Family holidays, beaches, all-inclusive resorts
Kos has everything you could want for that classic beach holiday; long stretches of sandy shores, a plethora of family-friendly resorts, archaeological sites for those who want a day out, harbours where there are plenty of boat trips to be found... the list goes on!
It's also quite popular with cyclists thanks to the fairly flat landscape offering up some brilliant cycling trails along the beautiful coast.
During the summer months it can get pretty busy but still offers a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere - of course if you can travel outside of the school holiday dates, you'll get to enjoy the island's resorts and local bars/restaurants without having to face crowds.
Where to find cheap Kos holidays
- LoveHolidays has Kos holidays from £239pp
- TUI has Kos holidays from £239pp including all-inclusive options
- On the Beach has Kos packages from £665pp from September onwards
7. Naxos
BEST FOR: Nature holidays, history and culture
If you get bored quickly just sitting on a beach all day, then you may want to check out Naxos for your next idyllic Greek getaway.
The island is packed with temple ruins, museums, archaeological sites, mountain villages, and long stretches of beach all waiting to be explored.
Meanwhile Naxos town offers up those white-washed cube buildings Greece is renowned for, and it's here that you'll find a vibrant atmosphere thanks to the local bars and restaurants, not to mention the harbour from which you can embark on plenty of boat trips.
Where to find cheap Naxos holidays
- Olympic Holidays offers Naxos holidays from £526pp from September
- Trailfinders can be a great source for bespoke Naxos holidays
8. Skiathos
BEST FOR: Beaches, nightlife
If it's a beach holiday you're after, then Skiathos won't disappoint.
The island is filled with spectacular beaches whether you're after a sandy shore on which to soak up the rays, crystal-clear waters where you can take a dip, or picturesque coves to go and explore.
Meanwhile Skiathos Town offers up a wide array of bars and restaurants - the old harbour is where you'll find most of the action - not to mention its pedestrianised streets boast waterfront clubs for a brilliant nightlife.
Where to find cheap Skiathos holidays
- LoveHolidays offers Skiathos holidays from £226pp
- On the Beach has Skiathos packages from £557pp from September onwards
9. Milos
BEST FOR: Adventure, off the beaten track
Holidaymakers looking to escape the crowds of tourists in the likes of Rhodes and Mykonos can find refuge on this picturesque island, where there's plenty of adventure to be had.
It's a bit more of a traditional Greek offering, with classic white-washed Cycladic villages, a seriously tempting food scene and plenty of historic sites and natural wonders to check out.
If you only do one thing while you visit, make it the glorious thermal springs to be found along the coast.
The best part is because it's not one of the most popular islands, there are some great holiday bargains to be had too.
Where to find cheap Milos holidays
- Lastminute offers Milos holidays from £241pp
- Trailfinders offers bespoke Milos holidays
10. Hydra
BEST FOR: Exploring, day trips
Hydra's close proximity to Athens has made it popular with locals on summer weekends, and it's well worth adding into your itinerary if only for a day trip from the city.
Cars and motor vehicles are banned on the island, so the only way to get around is on foot making it ideal for those who love to hike or go exploring. (Alternatively, you can check out the coastal views on a boat trip!)
Beaches tend to be small coves rather than large stretches of sandy shores, so it can get crowded during peak season.
Feeling tempted? There aren't really resorts on Hydra, but you can find hotels and holiday rentals if you do want to stay there - Vrbo offers up plenty of villas and apartments there, while Expedia also has an impressive range for holidaymakers to choose from.
- Always check the latest Foreign Office advice before booking, planning or going on a trip, as travel restrictions can change quickly during the pandemic.
Which Greek island is top of your travel wishlist? Let us know in the comments below.
