Cheap Holidays to Greece

Ioanian Islands

You won't be disappointed with a Greek island holiday especially to the Ionian islands. The most popular islands like Corfu, Zante and Kefalonia enjoy lush, green scenery that contrasts dramatically with the turquoise sea. You've got traditional family holiday resorts all over the Ionian islands as well as clubbing resorts like Kavos in Corfu and some party hotspots in Zante such as Laganas. Corfu offers over 30 blue-flag beaches, the best are Achavari, Agios Stefanos and Messonghi. Overall, if you plan on having your next holidays in Greece you can’t go wrong by going the Ionian island way.

South Aegean Islands

Rhodes is one of the most popular South Aegean islands and is great for family holidays and great for party animals too. You'll find a mix of animated resorts that draw young crowds and resorts more geared towards couples and families. Pair that with stunning natural settings of white sand beaches, wild vegetation and lots of activities and you get one of the most versatile holiday destinations the Aegean has to offer. Kos is also another popular Greek destination in the South Aegean again having two different sides to its personality. Party on down in Kardamena or keep it low-key in Kefalos. Whatever you choose rest assured that your holidays in Greece will be memorable.

Crete

Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands and offers a mix of tradition with some first-class clubbing too. If you're into nature, then you shouldn't miss the chance to see Samaria gorge. As well as the big all inclusive resorts, you'll also find pretty little villages dotting the landscape. Have a swim in the picturesque Elounda bay, party wild in Malia or visit the stunning palm tree forest in Lasithi. A Greece holiday is a holiday full of opportunities.

Nature

Just because you stay on one island doesn't mean you can't visit more. Many of Greece's islands are easily connected to each other so you can get a taste of different settings. Some islands are also so close to Turkey it is possible to take trips there, just jump on one of the boats in Kos and visit. The Greek landscape is also full of ancient caves awaiting for the explorers amongst us. Visit Kefalonia to see Drogarati Cave which is one million years old or head to Zante to the Blue Caves to experience the colour-changing water. Spot whales, dolphins and sea turtles in Crete or ride on donkeys in Santorini, it’s all part of the charm of a holiday in Greece.

Family Attractions

You'll find some waterparks all over the Greek Islands. Aqualand on Corfu is one of Europe's largest and most impressive. For some history head to Rhodes Town to see the medieval castle or Crete for ancient palaces. The world renowned Acropolis awaits for your next city break to Athens and lots of ancient and byzantine remains are scattered throughout the country with their imposing presence crowned by stunning natural surroundings. Most of the well known beaches are organised too, offering anything you might need for your family holidays in Greece.

Nightlife

Partying on the Greek Islands really has it all, sun, sea, beaches and boat parties. Laze on the beach by day or try your hand at some watersports. Partying isn't really considered nightlife though in some resorts as some boat parties and bar crawls start just after midday. One of Europe's largest bar crawls happens in Corfu. Malia, one of the most well-known party destinations in Greece attracts some of the biggest names in music around. If, however you fancy something more low key, the multitude of stylized bars and beach clubs will make up for some of the best laidback seaside vibes to be had on your holidays in Greece and arguably in the Mediterranean in general.

Food & Drink

The Greek Islands are the best place to sample the Greek cuisine. You'll love the quality and freshness of the ingredients used. Fill up on dolmades (Vine-leaves filled with pine nuts and rice), Gemista (peppers and tomatoes stuffed with rice and minced meat) accompanied by feta cheese crumbled on top of a traditional Greek salad. If you are a fan of fish and seafood, the local cuisine will have you licking your fingers and if you happen to get hungry on a day out in Athens or any major city, the Gyros restaurants will fill you up with some of the best tasting street food around. Let's not forget the drinks; try local spirits such as ouzo - an aniseed favoured spirit and Greek wines, which are often underrated. If you are in for a stronger experience, the traditional raki and tsipouro spirits pack a strong kick and should be tasted responsibly.

You're practically guaranteed good weather on holiday in Greece and the great news is that it starts warming up in May so you don't have to wait for the summer to take your holiday. In the height of summer, temperatures often reach their 30s. If you're into walking or sightseeing, it's better to visit outside July and August when things are a little cooler and less crowded.

Easter Week

Easter is a great time for holidays in Greece as you can experience all of the wonderful celebrations that take place here. The processions fill the streets up with cheerful people and Easter Sunday is a staple of Greek culture as spits with roasted lamb and delicious Kokoretsi along with lots of wine take centre stage for the lucky ones around to taste.

Carnival

Pre-Lent festivities are the chance to indulge before Lent and many main cities and towns are filled with a carnival atmosphere especially on the Sunday before Lent begins.

Saint's Days

Each Greek island also has its own religious celebrations in honour of the island's patron saint. You'll see traditional music and dances as well as more celebratory eating and drinking.

Read more: Purple 10 Best Clubbing Holidays