Visiting Greece in summertime offers the ultimate holiday – sun-drenched shores and bright blue seas that beckon; history so diverse and fascinating that you’ll long to learn more; lavish private villas that make you never want to leave; fresh and delightful food that makes every meal feel special, and the kindness from those who host you radiating warmly from day to day.
Perhaps you’re the type of traveller who falls in love with a place a cannot imagine heading anywhere different in case the new destination falls short, or maybe you’re up for visiting as many different places as possible, well Greece is one of those places that uniquely offers a little of both – many familiarities that tie the country together, but differing islands which hold their own identities, shaped by their past.
With so many fascinating and inviting Greek destinations to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down where to book this year, so we’ll make it simple and highlight some of the more popular places you should consider for 2026.
Rhodes
A south-eastern island in the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes boasts views across to southwestern Türkiye and provides a wonderful mix of history within, and outside of, its walled streets of the city of Rhodes alongside breath-taking ancient historical sites like Lindos’s hilltop Acropolis. Sunseekers will pleased to know that this island boasts the nickname ‘the island of the sun’ and it benefits from a fantastic mix of bustling beaches, secluded coves, and scenic countryside to enjoy.
Visitors to Rhodes shouldn’t miss out on a visit to Lindos Acropolis, which is worth the hike (best undertaken early on or later in the day) up to the top for the views, if not for the history or to marvel at how on earth this was even created in this location. Also be sure to visit the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes and the medieval Street of the Knights in Rhodes’s UNESCO old town.
Corfu
Sitting in the Ionian Islands, close to Albania and southeast Italy, Corfu is one of those islands that’s been shaped from surrounding areas but is still most definitely Greek at its heart. Expect to see a blend of cuisines and specialties on restaurant menus, including Greek favourites of course, and be sure to sample some local wines, too.
Head to the UNESCO old town and wander the winding lanes, stopping off for a coffee before you hit the boutiques, and don’t miss out on a visit to the Old Fortress. Discerning travellers will want to stay in and around the Kommeno Peninsula, Sidari, Kalami, Kassiopi and San Stefano.
Santorini
Popular for its whitewashed hillside buildings with blue roofs, Santorini has that picture-perfect look that attracts travellers from all over looking to get a piece of the good life, if only for a short while. What’s great to know is that the island certainly has enough substance to live up to its image and visitors here can expect more than just good views.
For a touch of luxury while you’re there you can check into a luxe beach club or two, dine on award-winning fare and enjoy private villa holidays that will make your own home seem inadequate upon return.
The epitome of laid back luxury, Santorini excels at offering premium accommodation for visitors seeking to relax and enjoy the unique destination which has been shaped by previous volcanic eruptions in many ways.
Athens
Though Greece’s many islands beckon those seeking secluded shorelines to laze upon, the country’s capital provides a much-needed dose of the past for those wanting to immerse themselves in some fantastic history. Walk among ancient sites like the Parthenon and the Acropolis and see artefacts up close in the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum.
Mykonos
This list wouldn’t be complete without including Mykonos, the party island known for its great beaches, lively atmosphere, and upscale offerings throughout. Hire a boat and explore the shore, relax on the sands, live it up in the world-class beach clubs, dine on fabulous food and party the night away (if you so wish) in the clubs. It’s small but mighty and you can tailor your experiences on Mykonos to ensure you spend your time exactly how you want to – dancing ‘til dawn, escaping on a yacht, a week holed up in your private villa? Whatever you desire!
