Greece Holidays

From the soft-centred beach resorts dotted along the coastline to the addictive Greek islands of Crete, Rhodes, Kos and Corfu there is something for everyone on Greece holidays. There’s even the option of a city break in the capital, Athens, for those with an appetite for history and shopping!

Our favourite Greece hotels

Phaedra Beach (Crete)

Hotel Oceanis Ixia (Rhodes)

Achilleas Beach (Kos)

Lying between the Ionian and Aegan seas, whether you’re looking for a beach holiday centred around sunbathing and pretty fishing villages – think Santorini - or you want a vivacious break full of beach-side parties and energetic water sports á la Rhodes, even the uppermost beach aficionado couldn’t fail to be impressed by holidays in Greece.

There’s accommodation to tick every box and every budget too, which is why Greece holidays are always high on the list of affordable summer holiday options. For a super-indulgent break, why not choose a palatial five-star hotel, or for something a little more modest, there are two-star self-catering apartments in abundance. Whatever your choice, what will be a given on holidays in Greece is the beautiful blue skies, clear waters and soft sands, making it the perfect setting for romantic retreats, family holidays, singles holidays, honeymoons and groups looking to getaway from the humdrum of everyday life.

Generally, the weather in Greece follows a typical Mediterranean pattern with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Summer peaks in July and August with temperatures averaging somewhere in the 30s on the Greek Islands – ideal for perfecting that golden tan. Luckily, the sea-breeze that blows in from the north and north-west acts as natural air-conditioning, so for the most part, makes the high temperatures bearable.

In comparison, mainland Greece can rocket to above 40Ëš and doesn’t benefit from any coastal winds, so if you’re planning a city break in Athens and don’t want to be uncomfortably hot, it’s advisable to skip the summer period.

If it’s a cooler climate you’re on the lookout for, head to the north and east of mainland Greece or the mountainous regions found on the cluster of Greek Isles, where a higher altitude results in lower temperatures.

Although winters in Greece can mean rain and cold snaps, it is generally mild and the mainland continues to remain a popular holiday destination all year round.

Jan - 12ºC

Feb - 12ºC

Mar - 14ºC

Apr - 19ºC

May - 23ºC

Jun - 26ºC

Jul - 30ºC

Aug - 30ºC

Sep - 24ºC

Oct - 20ºC

Nov - 16ºC

Dec - 12ºC

With its huge smattering of islands and vast expanse of mainland, Greece holidays can vary from beachside breaks to cultural expeditions to two weeks of island-hopping; you can even book a day-trip to the neighbouring gem of Turkey if you fancy a change of scenery.

A fantastic country for families, couples and party people, if you like resorts that aren’t overly-developed but offer enough activities to keep you entertained from dawn ‘til dusk, holidays in Greece will see you all smiles.

For those who like the beach to be at the centre of their trip, there'll be no problem finding a blue-flag beauty to meet your needs on any of the Greek islands, but the crystal clear waters and feather-soft sands don’t just lend themselves to sun-worshippers, and if you’ve ever fancied an underwater adventure, there are plenty of opportunities to give snorkelling and scuba-diving a go.

You’ll find other lively pursuits centred around the volcanic landscape - perfect for mountaineering, horse-riding, canoeing or rafting - and if that’s whet your appetite for being at one with nature, Greece has a mass of wetlands set to rival Menorca and the Algarve for their bird watching credentials, with Prespa Lakes and Nestos Delta the most famed.

For more man-made attractions, history heroes will love Olympia – the site of the first ever Olympic games; the Acropolis in Athens, and the sacred city of Dion which lies at the foot of Mount Olympus. Or, if you’re a sucker for Greek mythology, add a trip to the Temple of Zeus to your agenda, or journey to Delphi – set high up on the cliff-side, the village is said to have been the navel of the Greek Gods. Even the islands lay claim to tales of mythology, with Knossos Royal Palace in Crete heralded as the place that King Minos’ wife gave birth to the legendary Minotaur – born part-man, part-bull.

Customs and traditions are still taken seriously in Greece, although you might have to travel off the beaten track to experience them as the main resorts are geared up to cater for tourists rather than traditions. One thing that does remain unchanged is the nation’s superstitions. From knives to black cats to blessing the bread, don’t be surprised if things aren’t what you're used to! Not to be confused with paganism, though, the majority of inhabitants remain devout Christians.

Most Greek national holidays take place towards the start of the year, but art and music festivals continue throughout the summer so you might be lucky enough to experience a slice of Greek culture firsthand on holidays in Greece.

If not, you can always immerse yourself in the food – something else that’s at the heart of the countries customs. Made up of fresh fruit, vegetables, olive oil and a bounty of dairy products, meat and fish, signature dishes include Greek salads laden with feta cheese, moussaka, Mezedes (similar to Tapas), a fish dish called Burdeta and lobster or shrimp based dishes. You’ll also get the customary helpings of fresh olives, pitta and dips, and for drinks, make sure you choose one of their fine local wines, or for a punchy pick-me-up, a shot of Raki.

Faliraki in Rhodes, Laganas in Zante, Kavos in Corfu, Kos Town and the island of Mykanos (see our clubbing holiday guide) are all hubs suited for the late-night tourist. With bars, clubs, pubs and world-famous DJ’s stopping off at several of the hot-spots, if you want to sleep all day and rave all night, you won’t be disappointed.

Divided into mountainous regions, wetlands, volcanic terrains and beaches, Greek landscape can vary from village-to-village. Jump on horseback to experience it first-hand, be brave and walk the criss-cross maze of paths that cover all of mainland Greece, or hire a car so you can explore the Greek islands in their entirety.

Greece really does have everything for the modern day holiday maker, and provides the ultimate getaway experience. Whether you want self catering or all inclusive, On the Beach has a huge selection of Greece flights and hotels in Greece for you to choose from! Don’t delay - book today for the best prices!

If you need any help at any time please call our experienced sales advisors who will be more than happy to help assist you to find your perfect Greek break!