Compare cheap Greece holidays

Discover Greece’s best bits – besides the beaches, that is. Ancient archaeology, wonderful wildlife and idyllic islands await.

The Acropolis of Athens

Greece’s iconic Acropolis should be top of any must-see list. A combination of ancient history and the myths and legends of Greek gods, it sits high above the city.

Learn more about the UNESCO site in the modern – blissfully cool – Acropolis Museum, a highlight of which is the Parthenon Gallery on the top floor with views of the Acropolis. Early morning is a great time to visit, before the heat and the crowds become too much.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Crete

For a Greek history lesson on your next Crete holiday, visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It is one of Greece's oldest and most important museums, with artefacts spanning more than 5,000 years, including a Minoan collection and frescoes from the ancient sites of Knossos, Tylissos, Amnissos and Agia Triada.

The Sanctuary of Delphi

At the foot of Mount Parnassos on the mainland, the UNESCO-listed Sanctuary of Delphi was dedicated to the Greek god Apollo and lauded as a sacred site by ancient Greeks.

Its highlight is the mystical Temple of Apollo, the amphitheatre dedicated to the priestess and oracle of Apollo, Pythia. Learn more next door at the Delphi Archeological Museum and see the Charioteer, a 2,500-year-old bronze sculpture.

Sail around the Ionian Islands

To experience the real beauty of the Greek islands, hire a boat for a day or two and bob between the islands, stopping off for a dip on a secluded beach or a traditional mezé lunch at a waterside taverna.

The Ionian Sea is one of the best sailing spots in Greece, with beach after beautiful beach to discover. Lefkada, Antipaxos, and Ithaca should make it onto your itinerary.

Palace of Knossos, Crete

On the outskirts of Heraklion, the Minoan Palace of Knossos is Crete's most mesmerising ancient site. Built around 2000 BCE, when it was the capital of Minoan Crete, this Bronze Age archaeological wonder still features spectacular Byzantine frescoes. Recognise the name? In Greek mythology, this is where King Minos kept the half-human, half-bull creature, the Minotaur.

The flamingos of Lefkada

Greece is not only about ancient archaeological sites. The Ionian island of Lefkada has one of the largest natural wetlands in Greece, attracting seabirds from across the continent. October is flamingo season, a spectacular sight when its sparkling waters play host to flocks of pink flamingos.

Olympia, Peloponnese

The very first Olympic Games were held in the western Peloponnese in 776 BCE. Now called Ancient Olympia, it features the ruins of the original Olympic stadium. The Archaeological Museum of Olympia is the place to go to see statues of Hermes and Nike of Paionios, the Greek goddess of strength, speed and victory. 

With over 13,000km (8,000 miles) of coastline to play with, it’s no surprise Greece beach holidays are up there with the best in the world. Planning your next escape? Here are some of the best beaches.

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos

Sparkling white cliffs, turquoise waters, soft sands and even a shipwreck. Navagio – aka Shipwreck Beach – on Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Koukounaries Beach, Skiathos

Between rugged headlands, a heavily scented pine forest frames the white sands of Koukounaries Beach. Skiathos’ longest beach, you’ll find plenty of action, with beach bars, watersports centres and lines of parasols and sun-loungers.

Elafonisi Beach, Crete

Famous for its pink sand and clear waters, Elafonisi Beach on Crete's southwest tip is a natural beauty. Once a magical secret, its popularity has grown. But you can still find a secluded spot to close your eyes and enjoy a quiet moment to yourself. Pure bliss.

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Thanks to its starring role in the film adaptation of Captain Corelli's Mandolin, Myrtos Beach may be one of Greece's best-known beaches, yet it remains remarkably unspoilt. Pine-topped cliffs descend to the smooth white-pebble beach where beach bars serve cold drinks and catamarans bob in the super clear water.

With around 300 days of sunshine a year, Greece has some of the best weather in Europe. While it can get blisteringly hot in July and August, especially in Athens, the high temperatures are perfect for the breezier islands.

Greek Orthodox Easter (usually April) is a highlight of the calendar especially across the islands, when week-long celebrations with symbolic events, parades and festivities mean hotels book up fast. If you’re looking to travel at this time, search and compare well in advance for the best prices.

When is the cheapest time to visit?

Room rates drop as fast as the temperatures in the low season from November to March (expect average highs between 13C and 19C). While the cooler days are pleasant, many resort facilities close out of season.

When should I go for the best weather?

The shoulder seasons of May, June, September and October are the best times to visit Greece. Temperatures still reach a balmy 25C, but the bars, restaurants and beaches are much quieter. During peak summer (July and August) expect temperatures in the 30s.

Is it safe to go to Greece?

Greece is safe, but it’s recommended that you carry travel insurance and don't leave bags unattended. For the most up-to-date travel advice for Greece, check the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Do I need to have a visa to go to Greece?

You can visit Greece for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. That means if you’re travelling to Greece and other Schengen countries without a visa, the entire trip must be within the 90-day limit.

What vaccinations do I need to go to Greece?

You don’t need any vaccinations to visit Greece. For the most up-to-date advice, consult the NHS website before you travel.

Are there any local customs I need to be aware of?

Be respectful when visiting religious sites (covered shoulders and legs). Tipping is not mandatory but will be well received where the service was particularly good. Haggling and bartering are not common – the price is usually the price. Avoid the “OK” (forefinger and thumb pinched in a circle with the other three fingers up) as this is offensive.

Getting around Greece

The Greek ferry network is extensive, fairly priced and includes high-speed car ferries, catamarans and hydrofoils. Between November and April services are limited, though domestic airlines fly between the islands. A mainland train service connects Athens to Thessaloniki and beyond.