Corfu

Curious about Corfu? This island is part of Greece’s Ionian Islands, sitting off the northwest coast of the mainland in the Ionian Sea. Known for its blend of ancient history, mythology and lush green scenery, Corfu has long been a firm favourite for travellers, and it’s easy to see why. 

It’s one of the best Greek islands for natural beauty, overflowing with verdant hillsides and sparkling beaches. Head to Kaiser’s Throne for sweeping sunset views over the west coast, brave the hike to Porto Timoni for striking coastal scenery, and breathe in the salty air… with a well‑earned paddle, of course.

You couldn’t possibly visit  Corfu without diving into its rich and fascinating history. From Venetian fortresses and neoclassical palaces to Byzantine churches and ancient ruins, the island is layered with stories from every era. Even a simple stroll through its cobbled Old Town feels like a walk-through time (all the way back to the 8th century BC, to be exact), with Venetian architecture and historic fortresses creating a feast for the eyes.

With around 250 days of sunshine a year, there’s truly never a bad time to visit Corfu. Enjoy the calm of spring or dive into the buzz of summer when the island really comes to life. Our villas in Corfu are available from March to November, so it’s always worth bearing in mind if you’re searching for a more affordable escape during the quieter, off‑season months.

Crete 

Crete expectations? This island exceeds them. The largest Greek island, located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, this is one of the best Greek Islands for families and any travellers seeking a melody of culture, history, dining and a dash of mythology. Home to the iconic Knossos Palace, the largest Bronze Age site in Crete, discover ancient frescoes and mosaics that tell the story of the renowned myth of Theseus and the Minotaur.

Visit the Pinterest‑perfect Elafonissi Beach, where light pink sands meet bright turquoise waters. This blissful stretch of coast takes beach walks to a whole new level, and relaxation comes naturally in this dreamy bucket‑list spot.

There’s no denying that Crete has an incredible variety that attracts every kind of traveller. From mountain and gorge walking treks to exploring Lato with its beautiful hilltop views over the ancient Dorian city to the well preserved Aptera Theatre, an impressive Hellenistic and Roman era site near Chania, there is always something new to discover and plenty to keep your days booked and busy.

And the best time to visit this Greek island? Summer and spring bring vibrant colours, bustling streets and long, delicious evenings where hopping between local tavernas and enjoying drinks by the marina feels essential (spoiler, it is) For a little more exploration time without the heat and the crowds, we recommend visiting in the quieter months of April, October or November. These slower months give you the chance to enjoy the island’s wonderful hikes and sink your teeth into as much history as you very well like.

Lefkas

Ready to leave your heart in Lefkas? This Caribbean style island off the western coast of mainland Greece is one of the best Greek Islands for jaw dropping coastlines, crystal clear seas and water sports that bring a burst of energy to every beach day. Find your feet with a peddle boat at Nydri beach before hitting the exhilarating thrills of paragliding, flyboarding and ringo riding. Enough action to stir up quite an appetite at the nearby beach bars lining the coast. I can almost hear the sizzle of freshly cooked white bait in the air.

When you are not basking in the hot sun, head out early while the day is still gentle and see for yourself why everyone raves about Lefkas’ spectacular coast and countryside. Daphni Springs is a perfect place to take it all in. The circular hike takes around one and a half to two hours to complete and leads you along a trail of springs, passing villages, waterfalls and beautifully clear pools along the way. This trail never disappoints those who really want to soak up the scenery.

Best enjoyed in the summer, when weekly plans become standing dates with a beach lounger, long alfresco dinners that drift well into the evening and warm breezes that keep a smile on your face. Autumn is not always the first choice, yet it deserves attention for its calmer days and gentler coastal glow that invites slow exploration of the island. It also often comes with more affordable stays, but you did not hear that from us… always a bonus!

Paxos

Known as one of the smallest Ionian Islands, this tiny spot still packs a big personality. Paxos is made for real DND moments, where your phone stays buried in your bag and the only thing calling for your attention is the smell of tavernas cooking up gyros for the lunchtime rush. It’s easily one of the best Greek islands for couples, feeling secluded, authentic and full of charm with a real island paradise vibe that invites you to enjoy uninterrupted time together in your own little bubble.

While Paxos is perfect for switching off and recharging, there are still plenty of light and easy ways to enjoy your days without interrupting that well-earned rest. Slip on a pair of flippers and snorkel through the Blue Hole Cave, join a relaxed boat trip, spot dolphins along your travels and cool off in some of the island’s most enchanting caves.

Once you step away from the turquoise seas of Erimitis Bay and Voutoumi Beach, you’ll find quaint, traditional towns waiting to be explored. Start your morning with serene views in Lakka, stroll through charming Loggos in the afternoon and finish in lively Gaios, where evening buzz and Mediterranean flavours bring the island to life.

This intimate island hideaway is best visited in the glorious summer months, when life naturally slows and the island feels its brightest. If you are tempted by something a little different, the honeyed tones and crisp leaves of autumn in Paxos have a real magnetic pull.

For even more Paxos perfection, brush up on what else you should do with our Things to do in Paxos blog.

Zakynthos

Despite its party island perception, Zakynthos is a beautiful place that deserves far more attention. A perfect addition to your Ionian Sea island hopping list, this gorgeous Greek island boasts stunning beaches and captivating natural landscapes. And the best part you are going to love… Zakynthos is home to incredible wildlife, including its famous loggerhead turtles. Laganas Bay is the ideal place to see these remarkable creatures. The bay is a natural nesting ground and it’s where the turtles often come to mate. Known as one of the best Greek islands for beaches, you will undoubtedly spend your days choosing which serene shoreline to enjoy next. Picture an energetic Monday cruising over to the hidden haven of Navagio Beach where the famous shipwreck rests on the sand, then a lazy Friday afternoon at Xigia Beach soaking in natural spa waters with spellbinding scenery, giving you the perfect Friday dose of R&R.

It comes as no surprise that visiting during Zakynthos’s radiant summer season is always the firm answer. With beaches like these, how could it not be? Think vibrant nightlife, bustling towns and endless things to do on a sunny Zakynthos day. Because blue skies and sprawling landscapes always go hand in hand. If you are after a cheaper alternative, visiting in the spring months of April or enjoying an autumnal treat in October lets you explore every inch of the island for a more affordable price. Oh, and October is also a great time to spot turtle hatchings scuttling down the beach. You are welcome in advance.

Santorini

Santorini is exactly what you picture when someone mentions Greece. The classic whitewashed buildings with their iconic blue roofs and the viewpoints where the sea’s bright blue hues stretch out into the distance. Based on the southern Aegean sea, this holds the crown for the best Greek island for romantic getaways and those picture-perfect sunsets. A real romantic daydream, you will be swept up by sun glistened afternoons tasting wine at the island’s lush vineyards. Be sure to try their Assyrtiko wine (it is famous for being some of the freshest in the world). Now, where is my glass?

Keep the romance in the air with slow strolls through Oia’s iconic streets, stopping for frequent ice cream and Fanta lemon breaks. Although it’s not always the first island people think of for history, Santorini is actually one of the best Greek islands to visit for rich and intriguing stories from the past. Inject some history into your secluded escape by visiting Akrotiri Archaeological site for a tour around the ‘Pompeii of the Aegean’ a Minoan settlement buried by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE. A great addition to your Santorini exploration era.

The best time to visit this Grecian paradise?

The shoulder seasons from mid-April to June or September to mid-October give you the perfect chance to enjoy this idyllic island when the weather is still warm on your skin, prices are lower for flights, ferries and places to stay, and the crowds… well, what crowds? There are far fewer people than in the height of summer, which makes exploring even sweeter.