greek island holidays

Samaria Gorge, about one hour's drive from Chania, cuts an impressive swathe through the White Mountains in west Crete and is teeming with flora and fauna. Terms & Conditions The “no” was the rejection of Mussolini ’s request for Italy to occupy Greece and triggered conflict between Greece and Italy. Nestled in the rugged hillside, brilliant white buildings coruscate in golden sunlight, the whitewash often interspersed with electric blues and buttercup yellow. Islands of Greece are experts in tailor-made holidays to the Greek Islands. After all, there are over 6000! Expect snow-white clifftop villages and black sandy beaches with dramatic views of the surrounding Cyclades archipelago. Add a busy little harbour, the quayside lined with tavernas and small shops, but don’t add too many and spoil the taste. When you book with Expedia, you can select from more than 400 partner airlines and 1 000 000 properties across the globe. The difference seems to be that a man-made canal separates the Peloponnese whereas it’s the sea that separates both Lefkas and Evia. What one would you recommend? Historians tell us it was the birthplace of democracy, maths, modern medicine, the Olympic Games and so much more. Famed for being the homeland of Ancient Greek hero Odysseus, Ithaca today is a romantic, rugged island perfect for people who want to find a re…, It seems impossible to pack so much into such a small space. But, no matter what time of the year you plan to go on holidays, some Greek islands are ideal for relaxing holidays. HIDDEN GREECE: Greek island holidays avoiding the crowds: Follow @hiddengreece: the HG Concept destinations choose a holiday getting there contact us make an enquiry car hire: How sad such an imaginative airline no longer serves Greece! Busy tourist areas have comprehensive services and the vehicles are likely to be modern and air-conditioned. Thousands of young people flock there from all over the world knowing they can drink and dance all night, sleep all morning, sunbathe and swim on a gorgeous beach in the afternoon, then start the frantic cycle all over again after…, Ithaca! Some Greeks fast for a fortnight before flocking to their home towns for church services, parades and big family parties. It’s green, beautiful and relaxing and Cycladic down to its white-painted houses, blue-domed churches and pretty blue tables and c…, Just an hour by sea from Corfu is this amazing haven of peace and beauty, Paxos is a tiny island, approximately seven miles long by three miles wide, with over 30 white pebbly beaches and crystal clear blue sea. For more on security, local laws, plus passport and visa information, see https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/. We love holidays to Greece for the easy pace of island life, while mainland Greece is a worthy beauty contender with its treasure trove of Byzantine history and miles of soft sand and island-style vibes around the coastland of Halkidiki. Discover Dubrovnik's Venetian chapels and Split's biggest living palace complex in the world. EXCLUSIVE HOLIDAYS TO THE GREEK ISLANDS. Before Greek islands had airports, Poros was a holiday favourite. Begin your holiday in Patitiri, a delightful town set in a serene bay and…, Waterfalls, rivers, bubbling springs, lush valleys, forests and neo-classical houses with terracotta roofs – ah, the beauty of the Cyclades. And no wonder. Athens has a metro, trolley buses and trams as well as buses, trains and taxis. The discount is included in the final price of your holiday. The truth is nobody knows but there are some encouraging signs as Greece begins to ease lockdown restraints – the beginning of July could see earliest international flights take off to Greece and the opening of tourist accommodation. It’s not just the emerald water and the idyllic beaches that make holidays on the Greek islands a world-famous holiday experience. No, it isn’t considered to be an island even though it is separated from the mainland by water. To a stunning temple older than the Parthenon in Athens. This website will provide you with information on the protection that applies in the case of each holiday and travel service offered before you make your booking. Most businesses close for the day. Stunning white churches with blue domes have become one of the country’s iconic picture postcard images. Greece has some of the best weather in Europe – long, dry summers with poolside-perfect temperatures that kick off as early as April and last all the way to October. Beautiful beaches. Being twice the size of its neighbour, Skiathos, but much more peaceful, Skopelos with its flower filled courtyards, pretty cobbled streets and hillsides blanketed by greenery. We love holidays to Rhodes and it’s no wonder that this is one of the most popular Greek islands. A guide to the best Greek islands to visit including Rhodes, Corfu, Crete and Mykonos. White houses cascade down hillsides, one t…, It’s a tiny island, but Tilos has earned a big reputation for the good things in life. It is one of the biggest and most beautiful islands in Greece, large enough to have an unbelievable wealth of attractions but traditional enough to…, Mykonos is one of the most cosmopolitan of the Greek islands; a favourite among sophisticated travellers and a stunning choice for your next holiday. Towering behind the trees are rugged mountains w…, Pulsating, exhilarating, vibrant, fascinating, dynamic! For further information, please visit our "Travel Aware" information page at http://www.sovereign.com/about/booking-with-sovereign/staying-safe-abroad. Cheap Greek Islands Package Holidays from Ireland . It was designed to hold a huge gold and ivory statue of her. Things can get seriously hot, though, with July and August temperatures peaking in the early 30s – great for beach-lovers, although dedicated sightseers may want to pick the cooler spring or autumn months. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful view of brightly painted neo-classical mansions tumbling down the hillside, traditional fishing boats and…, You can see why Syros is known as the Queen of the Aegean as the ferry sails into Hermoupolis harbour. There are a series of enchanting coves along the…, Poros is separated from the mainland by a 350m strait – so it is barely an island – therefore holidaymakers can enjoy relaxing sunshine days on Poros' beaches and tour the Peloponnese mainland whenever the mood takes them! Use of the patriotic colours was twice banned by tyrannical rulers, but the ban made the defiant Greek people more determined to use them. It is not easy to choose which island to visit in Greece. There is little rainfall in these months. Greece holidays. Our ATOL number is 0285 and our ABTA number is V4068. Its coastline boasts pink sand beaches, azure waters, swaying palm trees and endless swimming spots. Second, planning restrictions prevent high-rise buildings and “modern” designs. An astonishing number of delights are packed into this peaceful Eas…, Take one small, traditional Greek town in a sheltered bay that is sandwiched between tree-covered hills and the deep blue Ionian Sea. Crete is the biggest Greek Island, stretching out through the Aegean Sea. If you have done a flotilla or two before and fancy a little more wind the Saronic Islands is the perfect next step. Greek Island holidays. It is common to round off the amount when paying cash, particularly with wait staff and taxi drivers. Those traditional, family-run studios that were once the main accommodation for holidaymakers are still there. With between 1,200 and 6,000 islands, from tiny uninhabited specks to large rocky land masses, Greece is without parallel when it comes to island variety. Naxos and Paros both have great beaches and are very popular windsurfing islands. Fun and romance in the herb-scented air. Santorini – often called Thira – is an island with volcanic good looks. Sovereign is a trading name of Specialist Holidays (Travel) Limited, a member of the Travelopia Group of companies. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world but great fun today – a fizzing cocktail of history, shops, restaurants, markets, bars, museums, cafes and parks. Because it has a three-legged peninsula that juts into the Aegean Sea creating a wonderful 500-mile coastline and a trio of contrasting oppo…, OK, so Ios is a party island. Boats cross from Poros Town to Galata…, Peep into a kaleidoscope of Greek wonders. It’s not only the bright light that floods the sea and sky, or the elegant architecture and pure nature. And to…, Scattered with forests, orchards and meadows, with a coastline of many delightful coves. Buildings from thousands of years ago have been discovered. Olympic Holidays use ferries to transport clients to islands that don’t have international-quality airports. Kimolos island Greece. But they do, and they do it regularly and reliably and are used by Greeks, tourists and island-hoppers. Traffic on a roundabout should give way to traffic joining the roundabout. It really goes all out, serving up everything from an ancient capital and beach resorts to monastery-crowned mountains and butterfly valleys. So can mopeds and scooters and an A1 “light motorcycle licence” is required for them. Located amidst 21 acres of landscaped gardens between the Al Hajar mountains and the Gulf of Oman, The Chedi Muscat offers a great base from which to explore this exciting region. More than 200 are inhabited, 10 have international airports and many more have domestic flight-only airports. Call to book or speak to one of our experts 01293 762400. And it’s thickly spread across mainland Greece and the Greek islands that are scattered like brilliant gems across two clear blue seas. The island balances beach clubs, boutique hotels and chic cafés with an old-world backdrop of whitewashed windmills and Aegean-blue churches. Kos offers an ever-changing landscape – from medieval harbour cities and longstanding beach resorts to Greco-Roman archaeological digs and forested valleys with peacock colonies. Set upon a clifftop and offering phenomenal views this hotel is a masterpiece. Those taking Alonissos holidays will be bowled over by the charm of this beautiful Greek island. Hi Dave. Mykonos holidays provide some of the best beach days in the Aegean Sea: just one of its many claims to fame. Go there and you can’t miss it. Keep informed of current travel health news by visiting www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk. At Sovereign, we give you complete flexibility to choose your perfect island hopping holiday. A bridge across the Corinth Canal provides a permanent link between the peninsula and mainland. Zante and Kos rule the 24-hour party scene. Greece and its islands have been vigilant during the Coronavirus pandemic and started to lift lockdown restrictions on Monday, May 4. Experience the best of both worlds on a Kefalonia holiday, with sublime beaches, endless natural beauty, and opportunities for infinite adventures on land and sea. See our articles for our best recommended beaches in Corfu, Rhodes, Zante, Andros and Kos. A popular form of transport and widely available. Like many other small Dodecanese Islands it promises a relaxing taste of traditional Greek life. Holidays in Greece are ideal for beach lovers. Modern Slavery Act Statement, Proudly serving holidaymakers for over 50 years. Greece holidays are all about island life. Ultimate serenity can be found in Zakynthos, where pristine shores of cream and cerulean are set against towering cliffs and rustic old town restaurants offer exquisite authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes. More rain is to be expected in April and October, but the wettest months are from November to February. Don't just take our word for it, though - see what our customers have said about their Sovereign experience.. Find out more about Luxury Corfu Holidays, Find out more about Luxury Crete Holidays, Find out more about Luxury Kefalonia Holidays, Find out more about Luxury Mykonos Holidays, Find out more about Luxury Rhodes Holidays, Find out more about Luxury Santorini Holidays, Find out more about Luxury Skiathos Holidays, Find out more about Luxury Zakynthos Holidays, Find out more about Mykonos, Santorini & Crete, Travel with Confidence page for full details, http://www.sovereign.com/about/booking-with-sovereign/staying-safe-abroad, https://www.sovereign.com/about/terms-and-policies/. That’s the hypnotic beauty of remarkable Thassos. And the enchantment starts as your ferry glides into harbour. To the remains of a medieval village laid waste by a notorious pirate. Your unforgettable holiday starts right here, right now! During your Crete family holiday, embrace distinctive traditions, meet…, Exquisite Corfu is said to have been blessed by Mother Nature herself. Start off in the diamond-bright emirate of Dubai, before spending seven nights between the sugar-sand beaches and tropical mountains of Mauritius. Opt for a sophisticated break at Minos Beach Art Hotel, a unique waterfront hotel which boasts manicured gardens and contemporary works of art. It was built as a temple worthy of Athena, goddess of war and wisdom. KTEL has a website with English translation. You won’t just enjoy amazing discounts on your trip — you’ll have a huge amount of choice too. Greece has become cosmopolitan and modern in every respect without ruining the traditional Mamma Mia! At the last count, 380 beaches were awarded a blue flag. Much like the UK, an additional tip is not required, although is appreciated for particularly good service. Holidays in Greece and the Greek Islands are packed with things to do. The green buses of the national KTEL service are the most popular form of public transport on the mainland and many of the islands. Keep reading to find out what they are! The Athens Riviera combines the wonders of a vibrant city with an unbeatable history all just a bus ride from some of Greec…, Crete has the longest summers in Greece so let the sunshine warm your soul as the island reveals its exceptional beauty and diverse landscapes with dream-like villages on green hillsides. Best Greek islands guide and how to choose the right one for your holiday . Expect a combination of chic harbour towns and lively beach resorts. There is another three-day festival in June for the Holiday of the Holy Spirit. My Booking. A fantastic journey through time starts before you get inside the Acropolis Museum. Browse our collection of hand-picked luxury villas, selected for their inspiring locations and exceptional quality. Mykonos is the star of the Cyclades archipelago. English is spoken almost everywhere, and the food just goes on getting better. And that’s on the lovely lush green Greek island of Samos. Extend your stay and try a 'Workation' by combing home-working and holidays in one, with these great packages. I created this site to assist you with your island choice and to help you prepare an unforgettable holiday. Make…, Skiathos boasts more than 50 sun-kissed sandy beaches lapped by Caribbean-blue water which are among the best in Greece – and there’s a chic nightlife – so it's no wonder Olympic Holidays’ passengers return year after year. Why Visit the Greek islands? So this traditional little island, which has a history that str…, Symi is one of Greece’s best kept secrets and sailing into the harbour from Rhodes is an experience visitors never forget. For Lefkas is many different places wrapped up in one delightful island. The government’s plan will unfold in seven phases during May and June and in each phase the effects on the population will be evaluated so timings could change. We will provide you with financial protection for any package holidays you buy from us that do not include travel by air by way of a bond held by ABTA. So much that’s so good. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Enjoy luxuries like large family suites, interconnecting rooms, kid’s clubs and family friendly restaurants to make the most of your family holiday. Giant super-ferries are an iconic Greek sight and visitors marvel at how the huge vessels squeeze into such tiny harbours. The most magnificent is the white marble Parthenon, a temple to the goddess Athena, built 2,500 years ago and still the glittering crown on the Acropolis of Athens. Discount is per booking based on a minimum 2 adults sharing. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: caa.co.uk/home/. Luxury Greek Island Holidays. By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies. Gorgeous little houses cling to steep paths in the historic “old quarter”.…, A wealth of hidden gems and lush trails await you. Not all the facilities will be up and running in April and May and some will be shutting at the end of the season in October. Easter, in March or April, is one of the biggest events on the Greek calendar. Corfu’s a lush, green paradise, while Rhodes comes up trumps in the sun stakes, and Kefalonia’s all about picture-perfect scenery. The enchanting, sun-kissed island of Kefalon…, Kos has got it covered; the third largest island in the Dodecanese has a coastline that stretches over 290 kilometres. For a relaxing and glamorous getaway, the island of Mykonos offers an indulgent experience. Sky blue and brilliant white, the colours of the Greek flag, are widely used across Greece and her islands, but not exclusively. You can expect the temperature to be between 25 and 30 degrees Centigrade although temperatures can soar above 30 degrees inland and in big cities. In 12 days is it … Take a boat trip underground to experience the magical atmosphere of this incredible cave, enclosing a subterranean lake, named after the nymph Melissanthi. I…, There are many things that make stylish Spetses special, but two are extraordinary. charm and legendary hospitality that so many people love. They seek a place where time really has stood still, where what is often described as “authentic Greece” still thrives and where friendly locals welcome visitors like long los…, How can Halkidiki, a sensationally different part of mainland Greece, promise three amazing experiences in one holiday? It’s known as the sponge fishing island because harvesting sponges from the sea once made Kalymnos rich. Opt for a romantic amble through the whitewashed old town before retreating back to a luxurious resort for some well deserved relaxation. Snow falls, too, in the winter – and lots of it in some places. What? There are places where the summer parties start early and go on through the night; resorts for families; places for people who want to sunbathe all day and places to play all day. …where my mission is to help you, the foreigner and tourist, plan your perfect Greek island holidays.. The fares should be cheaper than in the UK. Beaches with hidden sandy coves are excellent sunbathing spots and the crystal clear sea is great for water sports. Aren’t the dry and dusty Cyclades famous for brilliant-white, flat-roofed cube-shaped houses in barren landscape…, Quite simply, Athens is amazing. This is a popular way to explore Greece and the islands and resort areas usually have a wide choice of car hire centres. ABTA and ATOL protected for peace of mind. Normal terms & conditions apply. As well as a haven for relaxation, the beaches of the Greek Islands offer plentiful sports and activities. Drive on the right. There are thousands of beaches across the mainland and Greek islands. Adventure-seekers will find beaches such as…, Zante Star Apartments If you are due to travel to these islands of Greece, a passenger locator form must be completed pre travel. For more information please see our Cookies Policy. One of the most popular is…, The beauty of Lefkas isn’t only the lovely beaches and breathtaking scenery - it’s the amazing mixture of attractions it has for visitors. Agents It has tranquil villages set in lush green hill…, Leros is different in many ways. Close to the village of Karavomilo, on the east coast, it should be high on your list of things to do on a holiday to Kefalonia. However, Lefkas and Evia are called islands although they are also linked by bridges to the mainland. Allow us to help you filter through our best holidays based on your desires and needs. With short flight times and year round sun, Portugal is a fantastic choice for a family holiday. For further information, visit the ABTA website at https://abta.com/. To an olive grove with gnarled trees still alive after 2,000 years. It’s modern, vibrant, and stunningly picturesque. Including "children go free" offers at the best luxury family hotels and welcome gifts, we have the best offers for your family holiday. Stunning white houses clamber up a hill behind a picturesque harbour. The Greek Orthodox Church says that practically every day of the year is a Saints Day and communities throughout Greece celebrate their special day with processions, services and parties which can make be a spectacle for tourists. It’s the very personal relationship you can have with your chosen island that puts a seal of perfection on these little Greek oases. They even play cricket in Corfu! Here’s why you should be one of them: Spectacular scenery, amazing beaches, wonderful weather, friendly people, great food, award winning wine and mind-blowing history. Now, almost 80 years later, the Greeks still celebrate the day with parades, church services and parties. Face coverings must be worn in all enclosed public areas. Looking for a Greek island with nice beaches and windsurfing. No one seems to know for sure, but one source says there are as many as 6,000 islands and islets. It’s been popular for millennia, so you can tour everything from Bronze Age settlements to big beach resorts. Fares, cheaper than in the UK, are set nationally. The world renowned island of Corfu is prefect for families. Package holidays are provided by Olympic Holidays (trading name of Travelworld Vacations Ltd) ATOL 4108. Quad bikes over 150cc can be hired almost everywhere but you will need a full driving licence or motorcycle licence. It’s Greece as it used to be. The very name transports you to an ancient world of mythology and legend. Go beyond the sugar cube houses and blue minaret domes to unravel a rich and inspiring history. ABTA and. From all-inclusive holidays at beach resorts to natural wonders and water parks, family holidays in the Greek Islands offer something for everyone. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that his government is working towards ‘a safety bridge of a new daily reality’ during a TV briefing to the nation. The Greek Islands are made up of an estimated 6,000 islands, of which only around 227 are inhabited. Their arrival, announced by blasts on the ship’s hooters, is a local attraction with people gathering to watch the ferries unload. It has natural springs feeding olive groves and grape vineyards. Ochi Day is on October 28, the day in 1940 when the Prime Minister said “ochi” or “no” to Benito Mussolini, an ally of Adolf Hitler, and brought Greece into World War 2. Lots of islands are also linked by numerous smaller ferries. Beautifully carved friezes of figures on a ceremonial procession or at war once decorated its walls. No matter where you escape to, you will be moments away from areas of cultural and historical importance. We offer packages for 3, 5, 7, 10, 14 days and more. Holidays in Greece are ideal for beach lovers. We’ve done the hard work for you by creating this list of the best Greek islands for families: Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini, Lefkada, Kea, Hydra and Astypalaia. Islands of Greece are experts in tailor-made holidays to the Greek Islands. First, cars are all-but banned. The capital of this Cycladic island is a jewel fit for royalty – and provides an enchanting welcome for visitors. There are thousands of beaches across the mainland and Greek islands. Holidays in the Greek Islands are a firm favourite amongst British holidaymakers. Now Greece has private villas, stylish boutique hotels and superb all-inclusive hotels offering the highest levels of luxury. If you want to sunbathe, swim or take advantage of the vast range of water sports then the sunniest, hottest and driest months are July to September. Santorini is straight from the pages of a magazine. As well as sunshine, Rhodes is blessed…, Renowned for spectacular sunsets and volcanic beauty, incredible Santorini curves around a giant lagoon in the Cyclades Islands. In Greece, a service charge will be included in the bill at restaurants and bars. This volcanic Greek island sits next to Milos and belongs to the Cyclades group of islands. More rural areas and some of the smaller islands will have more reduced services. That’s not hard to believe once you experience the breath-taking beauty of its countryside and stunning beaches. Tour ancient sights and sip cappuccinos in Rome, before retreating to the Amalfi Coast for postcard-pretty towns and spectacular scenery. Currently visas are not required for UK citizens travelling to Greece. English is widely spoken, too, so getting by is easy. Explore Greece on your next luxury escape, North-easterly Corfu is practically within throwing distance of. See our articles for our best recommended beaches in Corfu, Rhodes, Zante, Andros and Kos. We sail in three beautiful areas of the Greek Islands. Greek Island Holiday Packages. Sub-aqua diving is still a big sport there. But tranquil Tilos is also Greek’s greenest island – and the last place in E…, On the northern side of the Cyclades islands, between Mykonos and Andros, Tinos is one of the most captivating Greek islands with beautiful sandy beaches and traditional villages featuring marble white architecture. Kimolos island is arguably one of the hidden gems of Greece! Mountain bikes, city bikes, e-cycles and e-scooters (the ones with electric motors) can all be hired. A QR code generated by completing the form the evening prior to departure, must be shown either on a phone or printed version upon arrival in to Greece. It’s a ro…, Karpathos has a real Greek soul, where islanders proudly retain age-old customs on the second largest island of the Dodecanese. Taking a picnic in the shade of a Greek plane tree is a pleasant enough pastime, but on Kos you could be sitting in the shadow of the man known as the Father of Medicine. Thessaloniki is where the 21st century combines brilliantly with thousands of years of amazing history and culture. Crete’s the biggest of the bunch, and home to some of the most famous archaeological attractions outside Athens. From May 4, the restrictions on the non-essential movement of citizens were eased, along with the obligation to notify authorities on essential movement via permits and text SMS messages for a gradual reopening of social and economic activity. It stands on giant marble blocks and almost 70 massive pillars supported the marble-tiled roof. A Greek Islands holiday package makes travelling cheap and easy for everyone. We offer many private Greek islands hopping packages in order to help you organize your holidays with ease and totally carefree. And a reminder of t…, Have you been torn between visiting the attractions of a major European city and relaxing on sun drenched beaches? Choose from a plethora of hotels and resorts, whether you opt for a seaside stay or a hillside retreat, each is a haven of decadence and tranquillity. Greece is the perfect getaway for so many marvellous reasons and about 25 million tourists will enjoy its delights this year. Holidays in Parga…, The stars of the Cycladic Islands are Mykonos and Santorini, holiday gems that people flock to. The Most Famous Island Package In Greece 5 days / 4 nights – 2 night in Mykonos, 2 nights in Santorini Mykonos and Santorini is the most explosive cocktail of passion, cosmopolitan flair, history and incomparable natural beauty. Crete Aquarium features 60 tanks with more than 100 viewing points to get up-close to Mediterranean marine life in Crete. We are delighted to be celebrating our 19th year of providing you with specialist holidays to the beautiful islands of Greece. And they are definitely worth a gold medal. Save up to an extra £200 per person using promo codes RETURN50, RETURN100 and ISLAND200, plus enjoy exclusive upgrades and £1 coach transfers View Details, Newsletter Choose from a plethora of hotels and resorts, whether you opt for a seaside stay or a hillside retreat, each is a haven of decadence and tranquillity. Rhodes is a king-sized island in the south-easterly Aegean. Bustling Athens dominates the south, and scattered around the mainland are some 6000 islands, each holding its own secrets. If you want to explore the amazing countryside, visit the spectacular historic sites or use some of the many hundreds of miles of marked hiking or cycling routes then the “shoulder seasons” may be best. For more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk. Tavernas and restaurants provide international cuisine alongside wonderful Greek dishes – and over the road locals will be enjoying their ouzo at a kafenion, picking up the children from school or going to church. Please see our booking conditions at https://www.sovereign.com/about/terms-and-policies/. Imagine relaxing on an island of idyllic whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, perfect blue skies and the most incredible sun…, There may be only one place in the world where tourists can walk through a tunnel that was cut in a mountain nearly 3,000 years ago.
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