Greece Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Greece - it's one for the beach-lovers, the foodies, the night owls and even the Instagrammers. #dreamy

🎉 Holidays to Greece

🤩 Fun fact: where are all the feta-natics? Because Greece whacks it in just about everything and it hits. Every. Single. Time.
🏖️ Best beach: we rate Navagio Beach for all things crystal waters, secluded coves, Insta-worthy spots, and, of course, the iconic shipwreck that it's sometimes known as.
🍺 Price of a pint: you're looking at €4.50 (£3.90) as an average price, although this could vary depending on where you are.

🏝️ Island vs Mainland Greece – What's the Vibe?

🌴 Greek Islands: Beachy, Bougie & Blissed-Out - picture-perfect beaches? Tick. Sunset cocktails? Tick. From Crete’s family-friendly resorts to Mykonos' iconic beach clubs, there’s an island for every kind of holidaymaker. Go for soft sands, sea views and a slower, sun-soaked pace of life.
🏛️ Mainland Greece: Culture, Cities & Hidden Gems - the mainland's where ancient legends meet modern city breaks. Think ruins in Athens, secluded beaches in Halkidiki, and foodie spots hidden down side streets in Thessaloniki that'll have you planning your return before dessert hits. It’s often cheaper, less touristy and a culture-lover's dream.

✨ Hot tip: Can’t decide? Fly into Athens, soak up the sights, then island-hop your way through paradise. It's the ultimate Greek combo deal.

Best place to stay on your Greece holidays?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best Places to Stay for Families - Crete is the MVP for families. You’ll find everything from beachfront resorts with splash-happy waterparks to kid-friendly food and loads of space for little ones to let loose. Rhodes also comes in strong with soft beaches, ancient castles to explore and a bunch of all-inclusive hotels that make feeding the whole crew a breeze.
🥳 Best Places to Stay for Groups - got the gang together? Mykonos is the place if you’re chasing beach clubs, boat parties and bougie brunches. For something a little more budget but still bangin’, Zante (Zakynthos) delivers with epic nightlife in Laganas, cheap eats and stunning beaches for the morning after. Win-win.
❤️ Best Places to Stay for Couples - if it’s romance you’re after, it’s hard to beat Santorini. We're talking clifftop sunsets, infinity pools, and candlelit dinners with a side of jaw-dropping views. Fancy a quieter spot? Kefalonia is ideal for beachy strolls, secret coves and local tavernas where you can wine and dine like you’re the only two people on the planet.

Still can’t choose? No stress – Greece is built for multiple moods. Mix it up, switch it up, and let the Greek good times roll. 🇬🇷

🏖️ Best Beaches to visit in Greece

With 15,000km of coastline and more islands than you can shake a snorkel at, Greece is a beach-lover’s paradise. From pink sands to dramatic cliffs, there is a stretch of coast to suit every kind of beach bum.

Elafonisi (Crete) - famous pink-tinged sands and shallow lagoons that look like the Caribbean but with better feta.
Shipwreck Beach (Zante) - a dramatic white cove framed by towering cliffs, featuring a rusty smuggler’s wreck right on the sand.
Super Paradise (Mykonos) - the ultimate party spot where the music is loud, the drinks are flowing, and the vibe is buzzing.
Red Beach (Santorini) - a Mars-like backdrop of soaring red lava cliffs that makes for a totally unique swimming spot.
Lindos (Rhodes) - two sheltered bays with calm, crystal-clear waters sitting right underneath a massive ancient Acropolis.
Paleokastritsa (Corfu) - lush green hills meeting turquoise waters, perfect for a paddle or a cheeky beach picnic.

🏨 What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Greece 2026?

Whether you're in the mood for non-stop fun or laidback island vibes (i.e. if you're channelling your inner Donna from Mamma Mia), our cheap holidays to Greece won't disappoint. If these top Greece hotels aren't already on your radar, put it this way - they should be...

☀ Staff pick: Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa in Crete ☀

One thing to know about this luxury adults-only hotel? They'll treat you like royalty. You can expect a lagoon-style pool, food for every occasion and even golf buggies to help you get from A to B (which you'll need, because the resort is HUGE). How do we know? We stayed there! All in the name of research, of course. Can confirm, it's a dream.

Lyttos Beach (Crete) - a vibrant complex with an action-packed waterpark and high-end facilities - who said you can’t have the best of both worlds?
Sani Beach (Halkidiki) - a five-star hotel set along the beachfront with a stunning pool area and activities for the kids
Aeolos Beach (Corfu) - a laidback resort along the beachfront, with a family pool and an infinity pool serving up some pretty fab views
Blue Sea Olivia - Adults Only (Rhodes) - proofs in the name folks, this is the perfect pick for an adults only escape, complete with five swimming pools, two bars and a swanky on-site spa!
Mitsis Blue Domes Resort & Spa (Kos) - an Ultra All Inclusive resort with 11 restaurants, 6 bars and a whopping 10 pools. Wowzer.
Messonghi Beach (Corfu) - a beachfront beaut with two pools to dunk into, a super-chilled spa centre, a playground for the kiddos and a choice of food and drink venues (including a pizza station with your name all over it)
Lindos Royal Hotel (Rhodes) - a medieval village-style hotel with activities for the whole fam
The Ixian Grand & All Suites (Rhodes) - top-tier adult-only vibes (sorry kiddos), with super swanky suites, private pools, a cosy lounge and a bunch of bars and restaurants to pick from
Hotel Sunshine Rhodes (Rhodes) - and the award for cutest hotel name goes toooo... Aside from the name, this place is decked out with a whopper of a lagoon pool, kids' waterslides, nightly entertainment and a delish Italian restaurant

Fancy everything included?

With all those platters full of olives and feta, we can't really blame you. Our range of all-inclusive Greece holidays might just seal the deal. Think activities, cocktails and the best grub - all included. Plus, thanks to our flexible payments scheme, you can book with confidence and start getting excited for your break now. Hassle-free. That's how we roll baby.

Greece holidays 2026 travel guide

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Greece for families

Greece is a top pick for family holidays, packed with family-friendly resorts, short flights, and sunshine-soaked fun for all ages.
Explore marine life at Cretaquarium in Crete or hit the slides at Aqualand in Corfu.
Spend the day at Rhodes’ Kathara Bay, with toddler-friendly shallows and plenty of chill-out spots.
Tuck into family meals at cosy tavernas serving up top-tier mezze that even picky eaters will love.

❤️ Things to do in Greece for couples

Greece is Insta-famous for romance – think Santorini sunsets, candlelit dinners and beach strolls on your couples' holidays.
Enjoy wine-tasting tours, take a boat party around Mykonos, or dive into Athens’ ancient ruins.
Ditch the itinerary and opt for some laidback beach time before settling in for a waterfront date night.

🥳 Things to do in Greece for groups

Whether it's hens, stags or the whole gang off on a group holiday, Greece knows how to throw a good time.
Zante brings the party with its iconic strip full of clubs, bars and beachside beats.
Book a group booze cruise from Athens or go hiking in Crete for something a bit more adventurous.
From beach clubs to island tours, there’s something to keep every member of the group buzzing.

⛵️ Living the Mamma Mia Life (Boat Trips)

Since Greece is made up of thousands of islands, it would be rude not to get out on the water. It’s the best way to feel boujee without spending a fortune, and the views of the coastline are absolutely stun.

Sunset Cruises (Santorini) - watch the sun dip into the Aegean with a glass of fizz in hand - totally romantic and 10/10.
Shipwreck Beach (Zakynthos) - take a boat to the most photographed beach in the world and see the rusty smuggler’s wreck up close.
Glass Bottom Boats - perfect for kiddos who want to see the fish and turtles without getting their hair wet.
Party Boats (Zante/Malia) - if you've planned a mad one with your mates, these floating clubs are where the real action happens.

🚗 Getting around Greece

🛳 Ferries - Greece’s vast ferry network is your go-to for island-hopping, with routes covering all the major hotspots like Mykonos and Crete. High-speed ferries are quicker but pricier, while the slower ones are easier on the budget and offer fab views. Tickets are available online or at the port – just make sure to book early in summer.
🚌 Buses (KTEL) - for mainland travel, KTEL buses are comfy, reliable, and wallet-friendly - and you know we're all about the cheap holidays, so score. They connect key cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras, with air-con and reclining seats making longer trips a breeze. Tickets can be bought at terminals, though it’s smart to pre-book on busy routes.
🚆 Trains - trains aren’t everywhere, but the high-speed InterCity service between Athens and Thessaloniki is a standout. It’s fast, scenic, and affordable – a cracking way to see the mainland. You can grab tickets on the day, but for longer journeys, booking ahead is best.

More places to stay in Greece:

Popular Greece hotels

More Greece hotels

Weather in Greece

JAN

12^°C

FEB

12^°C

MAR

14^°C

APR

19^°C

MAY

23^°C

JUN

26^°C

JUL

30^°C

AUG

30^°C

SEP

24^°C

OCT

20^°C

NOV

16^°C

DEC

12^°C

When we're talking where's hot for Summer, Greece is always tip of the tongue, it's a sun-worshipper's dream come true. From May to October, you can expect the mercury to play around the toasty 30s Celsius. It's the kind of place where you can soak up the sun on a sandy beach, dip your toes in proper blue waters and still have time for a lazy alfresco lunch.

But hey, Greece isn't just a one-season wonder! Its mild, wet winters have their own charm. Imagine strolling through ancient ruins under a cool, grey sky, sipping hot coffee in a cosy Athenian café, or watching a winter sunset over Santorini's caldera - we know that got your attention.

Come spring and autumn, Greece weather plays the perfect host to those who prefer a little less heat. It's warm enough to explore but cool enough to enjoy the great outdoors without melting.

Reviews

Over 1.5 million happy customers find their perfect beach break with On the Beach every year. Here's what some of them have to say!

FAQs

It takes about 4 hours to fly to Greece from the UK/Ireland, which is enough time to watch a few eps of your fave show... or, y'know, take a cheeky nap. Whatever suits...

The local time in Greece is 2 hours ahead of the UK/Ireland, so lunchtime is really 2PM... which is basically happy hour. It's never too early for poolside tipples.

The official currency of Greece is the Euro.

The official language spoken in Greece is Greek, which you might have guessed.

When it comes to value for money, Crete is always a popular choice thanks to its huge range of hotels and facilities, with Rhodes coming in at a close second. You'll find loads of family-friendly resorts on these islands, too. In terms of smaller islands, Kefalonia and Lefkada are also known for providing more beach for your buck, which we're all for.

Greece is blessed with a sizzler of a Mediterranean climate, meaning the summer season typically stretches from June to September, with July peaking as the hottest month. The weather back home could never.

Temperatures in Greece stay mild for most of the year (can you even imagine), but they will start to drop slightly in the winter season, with January being the coldest month. It's never too cold to eat feta though, right?

Mamma Mia! was filmed on the Greek island of Skopelos, which stood as the fictional island of Kalokairi in the film. Cheers to finding your Sophie or Sky while you're out there 🥂

Sample the local vino

We hear you loud and clear, sampling wine is a bit of a cop-out thing to do. Except it's not, because all of the Greek islands and regions have a delish selection of wine that it'd be rude not to taste. Ideally after a leisurely stroll through the vineyards. Ideally at sunset. You get the idea. Wherever you choose, wine-tasting is something you can always tick off your list.

Hike to the gods at Mount Olympus

Don't worry - we don't mean you'll be hiking so high that you actually meet the gods. Although, this peak does reach a mega 9,500 feet, so do with that what you will. It's just because this was the legendary home of the Olympian gods in Greek mythology, but these days it just makes for an epic hiking spot. There are a few ways to tackle it depending on your comfort levels, but the main trail starts from Priónia, and believe us when we say you're in for some incredible views.

Go cliff-jumping at Hydra island

This quaint little island can be reached most easily by boat from either the mainland or the island of Mykonos, and it's considered one of the best things to do on your holidays in Greece. The island as a whole scores a perfect 10 for pretty and peaceful vibes, but the granite cliffs are the real star of the show, overlooking the shimmering water for a cliff-jumping experience like no other.

Dive into Chania’s Underwater Park

Tucked away in Ombros-Gialos Bay, this epic underwater park in Crete is a must for sea lovers who like slapping their oxygen tank and flippers on for some exploring. Complete with artificial reefs, sunken ships and crystal-clear waters, it’s perfect for snorkellers and scuba divers alike. Expect marine life, mad visibility and a side of adventure you won’t get lounging on a lilo on your holidays to Greece.

Kayak to the caves

Looking for that chef’s kiss mix of chill and thrill? Book a kayak tour. They’re dotted all over Greece, but the Lefkada sea kayak tour to the Blue Caves is a real scene-stealer. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, explore hidden sea caves and snorkel in spots that’ll ruin your local swimming pool forever. Guides keep things fun and safe, and it’s active enough to count as exercise...but not so hard that you’ll regret that second gyros.

What events can I go to in Greece?
When it comes to Greece holidays, the events calendar's always bangin'. Doesn't matter if you're looking to get down to some traditional tunes or party with the best of 'em, this place has you covered. Mark these corkers in your diary:
- Carnival (February-March) - also known as 'Apokries' to the locals, this celebration is 3 whole weeks of parades, marching bands, vibrant costumes, dancing and feasting. That's us sold.
- Greek Independence Day (March) - fire up your patriotic spirit as military parades take over the whole country in a celebration of the day the Revolutionary War was officially declared
- Matala Beach Festival (June) - a Crete-based festival where the beach turns into a concert, the streets come to life and live music keeps you boogying all day (and night) long
- Colour Day Festival (June) - one of Athens’ most Insta-worthy festivals – think big tunes, bigger crowds, and bursts of coloured powder flying through the air. It’s part rave, part rainbow, and 100% worth packing your oldest white T-shirt for... Trust us!
- Athens and Epidaurus Festival (June–August) - this is not one to miss, we're talking an explosion of culture including opera, music, theatre and contemporary performances held at historic venues throughout Athens - theatre nerds, this ones kinda got your names written all over it.
- Rockwave Festival (July) - get ready to rock out to a mega line-up of rock, metal and indie bands in Athens - it's been going since 1995, so you know it's a good'un
- Santorini Wine Festival (August) - exactly what it says on the tin, this is your chance to sip on some local vino and celebrate the beauty of Santorini's grapes in a gorge setting
- Feast of St. Nikolaos (December) - a celebration of the patron saint of sailors, where crowds head down to the sea and the local chapels dedicated to him
Where's the best nightlife in Greece?
Late-night parties, beachfront cocktails and open-air theatres - holidays to Greece have something for everyone. Whether you're up for something wild or chilled, check out these top-notch spots for some fun after sunset:
- Lohan Beach House (Mykonos) - owned by Lindsay Lohan herself(!!!), this open-air club is the talk of the town, with sets from international DJs, free-flowing cocktails and a bit of glitz and glam for your beach vibes
- Cavo Paradiso (Mykonos) - Perched on a cliff above Paradise Beach, this iconic club is renowned for its poolside dance floor and international DJ lineups. It's a staple in the Mykonos party scene.
- Baba Au Rum (Athens) - right in the heart of Athens, this is the place to be for the finest rum in the region. Expect experimental cocktails with modern twists, and a retro atmosphere
- Montecristo Club (Corfu) - foam parties, DJ sets, cocktails the size of your head – Montecristo’s got it all going on. Right in the heart of Kavos, this two-level club is a certified party palace. Expect packed dancefloors, themed nights and good vibes that'll keep you out 'til sunrise. You came to Corfu to party, right? Thought so.
What’s the food like in Greece?
Feasting in Greece isn't just about filling up, it's a whole celebration of flavour. We've done our research and pulled together some delish foodie recommendations for you (with lots of drooling in the process), so pull up a chair and gather 'round for a spot of this tasty grub:
- Tzatziki - a fresh yoghurt dip made with cucumber, garlic, salt, olive oil and fresh herbs - the perfect partner in crime for toasted pitta!
- Souvlaki - small pieces of meat or vegetables grilled on a skewer for that tasty, charcoal flavour
- Moussaka - a traditional Greek bake with layers of beef or lamb mince in a rich tomato sauce, layered with aubergine and potatoes, and topped with a creamy sauce
- Greek salad - diced cucumber, tomato and onion with olives and feta cheese, coated in a glossy oil dressing
- Spanakopita - much easier to eat than it is to pronounce, this pie is a delish blend of spinach, feta, onions and herbs wrapped up in a filo parcel
- Loukomadies - Greek doughnuts with cinnamon and honey (we'll take 10, please)
Looking for places to eat? Check out these top dining spots:
- Tudor Hall (Athens) - signature cocktails, modern Greek food and stunning views of the Acropolis from the seventh floor of King George Hotel
- The Venetian Well (Corfu) - set in a charming square in Corfu Town, this restaurant combines romantic ambiance with a menu that highlights local ingredients, offering a modern twist on classic Greek dishes.
- Metaxy Mas Tavern (Santorini) - a proper Santorini staple, known for its hearty portions with a side of sunset views. Don't miss their signature lamb in lemon sauce!

Places to visit

Acropolis of Athens
Standing tall in the rocky hilltops of Athens (who'd have guessed?), the Acropolis of Athens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's well worth a visit when you're in the area (and, to be honest, even when you're not. It's just that iconic). Acropolis translates to 'high city' (remember that for your next pub quiz), and that's exactly what this place is, with multiple monuments to explore - including temples, sculptures and an open-air theatre. Oh, and don't even get us started on the views from up here. Absolute 10/10. You'll need to book tickets online to guarantee your slot (and to make sure it doesn't get too crowded - don't say we don't look out for ya), but it's super simple to do and it means you can take the whole place in at your leisure. The attraction's open daily from 8AM 'til 6PM (apart from on public holidays), so you can choose a time as early or late as you fancy. Although, visiting at sunset is a whole experience in itself, so make sure this is on the bucket list!
National Garden in Athens
Need a break from the buzz of Athens? The National Garden of Athens is your leafy escape. Spanning over 16 hectares and home to more than 500 species of plants and trees, this lush green space is perfect for a chilled-out afternoon. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly activity in Athens or just fancy a bit of peace and quiet, this hidden gem ticks all the boxes.
Wander the winding, maze-like paths and you’ll stumble across tranquil lakes, duck ponds, shaded benches, and even a mini zoo – yep, we’re talking wild goats, strutting peacocks and chickens doing their thing. There’s also a handy coffee shop if you need a mid-stroll caffeine fix (don’t we all).
Thanks to its central location near Syntagma Square, the National Garden is super easy to reach via metro, bus or a quick taxi hop. Best bit? It’s completely FREE to enter, which makes it a no-brainer for a budget-friendly day out in Athens.
The lakeside town of Ioannina
Looking for a scenic day trip from Athens or a peaceful spot to unwind on your Greek holidays? Pop Ioannina on your list. This stunning lakeside town in northwestern Greece is basically the country’s answer to the Lake District – all calm waters, charming streets and cosy café culture. And yes, it's as photogenic as it sounds.
While it's not exactly a tiny village, Ioannina feels like a well-kept secret. Daily buses make it easy to reach, and once you're there, you’ll be surrounded by lakeside walks, medieval architecture and views worth writing home (or posting on Insta) about. There’s a clock tower, a fairytale-esque fortress, leafy parks and even a little island in the middle of Lake Pamvotida – reachable by boat, obvs.
But honestly? You could skip the sightseeing and still fall in love with Ioannina just by wandering its cobbled streets and stopping off for a Greek coffee (or three) by the water. It’s low-key, scenic, and a total vibe – a proper must if you're into off-the-beaten-path places in Greece.

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

From December 2024, the Greek Govt. are increasing the Climate Resilience Tax on all overnight stays which will be payable by customers directly at the hotel. This tax replaces the previous sustainable tourism tax:

April to October

5-star hotels: €15 per room, per night
4-star hotels: €10 per room, per night
3-star hotels: €5 per room, per night
1-star & 2-star hotels: €2 per room, per night
Furnished rooms/apartments: €2 per room, per night

November to March

5-star hotels: €4 per room, per night
4-star hotels: €3 per room, per night
3-star hotels: €1.50 per room, per night
1-star & 2-star hotels: €0.50 per room, per night
Furnished rooms/apartments: €0.50 per room, per night

You do not need a visa to enter Greece if you are a citizen of the UK or Ireland. For more information check out the FCDO website and the Greece Tourist Board.

Greece Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

🎉 Holidays to Greece

🏝️ Island vs Mainland Greece – What's the Vibe?

Best place to stay on your Greece holidays?

🏖️ Best Beaches to visit in Greece

🏨 What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Greece 2026?

Fancy everything included?

Greece holidays 2026 travel guide

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Greece for families

❤️ Things to do in Greece for couples

🥳 Things to do in Greece for groups

⛵️ Living the Mamma Mia Life (Boat Trips)

🚗 Getting around Greece

More places to stay in Greece:

Popular Greece hotels

Stunning Greece resorts

Popular Athens destinations

Weather in Greece

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

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Reviews

FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Greece?

What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Greece?

What currency do they use in Greece?

What language do they speak in Greece?

Which is the cheapest Greek island to visit?

What's the hottest month in Greece?

What's the coldest month in Greece?

Which Greek island is Mamma Mia filmed on?

Sample the local vino

Hike to the gods at Mount Olympus

Go cliff-jumping at Hydra island

Dive into Chania’s Underwater Park

Kayak to the caves

What events can I go to in Greece?

Where's the best nightlife in Greece?

What’s the food like in Greece?

Places to visit

Acropolis of Athens

National Garden in Athens

The lakeside town of Ioannina

Key facts about Greece

Flight Time

4 hrs

Time Difference

+2 hrs

Currency

Euro

Language

Greek

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Greece?

Do I need to pay tourist tax on my holiday to Greece?

Are there any entry requirements into Greece?