Island character, beach days and easy evenings
Greek islands share a country, not a single holiday style. Crete has scale and variety, Rhodes combines resort coasts with historic places, and Corfu brings greener scenery and distinct resort pockets.
Start here
Island, airport and resort belong in the same decision. A short transfer to a lively town and a remote bay on the same island can create completely different trips.
Where to stay
AREA 01Best for: Choice, longer stays and varied interests
Greece’s largest island supports family resorts, lively towns and quieter bases. Heraklion and Chania sides serve different areas.
The quote should use Heraklion or Chania according to the resort, not whichever fare looks lowest.
Plan a holiday to CreteAREA 02Best for: Beaches, history and reliable resort choice
Rhodes Town, Faliraki, Lindos and quieter coasts suit different parties. Check gradients and distance from the old town or beach.
Rhodes Airport serves the island; transfer times lengthen towards Lindos and the south.
Plan a holiday to RhodesAREA 03Best for: Green scenery, coves and mixed-age trips
Resorts range from lively to low-key. Roads and coastal geography mean map distance does not always equal a quick transfer.
Corfu Airport is the island gateway; confirm hotel access and transfer time.
Plan a holiday to Corfu| Holiday area | Best for | Arrival plan |
|---|---|---|
| Crete | Choice, longer stays and varied interests | The quote should use Heraklion or Chania according to the resort, not whichever fare looks lowest. |
| Rhodes | Beaches, history and reliable resort choice | Rhodes Airport serves the island; transfer times lengthen towards Lindos and the south. |
| Corfu | Green scenery, coves and mixed-age trips | Corfu Airport is the island gateway; confirm hotel access and transfer time. |
The island season builds with warm days and generally lighter crowds than peak summer. Sea and pool temperatures vary early on.
Expect heat, high demand and busy resorts. Popular family rooms and suitable flight times often sell first.
Warm late-season trips can offer a slower atmosphere, though some services reduce towards the end of October.
Most package-resort programmes are limited. A city or mainland trip requires a different brief.
Airport plan: Seasonal flights from regional UK airports can be useful, but operating days vary. We match the island airport and resort, then show baggage and transfer inclusions.
Apartments, family hotels and all-inclusive resorts offer choice, but beach access and room occupancy need checking.
Harbour towns, smaller hotels and adults-focused resorts support both exploring and rest.
Villas and resort hotels can work when airport, room plan and local transport are agreed early.
| Duration | Works well for |
|---|---|
| 5 to 7 nights | One resort with beach time and a small number of outings. |
| 10 nights | A slower island stay or a larger island such as Crete. |
| 14 nights | Families, villas or travellers planning to explore several parts of one island. |
| Board | Can suit | Check before booking |
|---|---|---|
| Self-catering or breakfast | Towns and resorts with local tavernas in easy reach. | Walking route, kitchen facilities and late-arrival food. |
| Half board | A hotel base with dinners covered and free days. | Drinks, dining times and restaurant variety. |
| All-inclusive | Family resorts and simpler daily budgeting. | Beach services, snacks, drinks and entertainment dates. |
Straight answers
Crete suits travellers who want maximum choice, Rhodes balances beaches and historic sights, and Corfu suits greener scenery and varied coves. Flight access and resort style can decide it.
Many regional airports operate seasonal Greece routes, but not every island flies every day. We compare your preferred airport and realistic alternatives.
Yes, especially in larger resort areas. Travellers who enjoy local tavernas may prefer breakfast, self-catering or half board.
The main package season is generally from spring into October, with the broadest schedules in summer. Exact hotel and flight dates vary.
Yes. The written quote will state the organiser, balance deadline and cancellation conditions.
Content reviewed 16/07/2026. Sources: Visit Greece islands, Visit Greece: Crete, FCDO travel advice for Greece
Your cookie choice
We use optional analytics to understand which pages and enquiries work. Analytics stays off unless you accept. Cookie policy
