Greece Holidays 2026/2027

Deals from £139 per person
Greece Holidays 2026/2027

Best hotels in Greece

Book holidays to Greece with Thomas Cook and get ATOL & ABTA-protected packages with flights from the UK from £139pp. Whether you're planning a family beach break in Crete, an all inclusive holiday to Greece in Rhodes, or a romantic island escape to Santorini, we've got you covered, with packages departing from airports across the UK throughout the 2026 and 2027 season. Search, compare and book your perfect Greece holiday below.

Holidays in Greece:  what’s included in a Thomas Cook package?

Greece holidays at a glance:

  • Best for: Families, couples, All Inclusive breaks, and island hopping adventures.
  • Flight time: Around 3-5 hours from the UK.
  • Best months: May-June and September-October bring warmth and fewer crowds. July-August is hottest and liveliest.
  • Top places: Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Kos, Zakynthos (Zante), Santorini and Athens.

 

Types of Greece holidays

Beach holidays

Greece has a beach for everyone. You’ll find sandy bays, sheltered coves, and cliff-backed coastlines.

Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who wants relaxed beach days with beautiful scenery.

Top areas:

  • Crete: long, family-friendly beaches and plenty of variety
  • Zakynthos (Zante): sheltered bays and clear water
  • Rhodes: wide beaches backed by history


Explore: Crete | Zante | Rhodes

 

Island holidays

How do you choose your island when there are thousands? Some feel quiet and scenic. Others are lively and social.

Best for: Couples, families, and travellers who want beach time with the option to explore.

Top areas:

  • Santorini: iconic sunsets, blue-domed rooftops, dramatic scenery
  • Corfu: green landscapes, beaches, and laid-back charm
  • Kos: compact, easy to explore, ideal for shorter stays
  • Kefalonia: calm beaches, turquoise water, and a quieter island feel


Explore: Santorini | Corfu | Kos | Kefalonia

 

All Inclusive & package holidays

Book an all inclusive holiday to Greece and everything is taken care of in advance: flights, hotel and meals, leaving you free to relax once you arrive. Thomas Cook all inclusive packages are ATOL & ABTA protected, with prices from £139pp.

Best for: Families, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants clear costs and easy planning.

Top areas:

  • Skiathos: small island, golden beaches, and easy logistics
  • Thassos: quiet beaches, natural scenery, and family-friendly resorts
  • Lefkada: stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and easy island access


Explore: Skiathos | Thassos | Lefkada

 

Mainland & culture breaks

Beyond the islands, mainland Greece holidays offer some of the most rewarding experiences in the Mediterranean. Athens is the obvious draw, ancient landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon sit alongside thriving neighbourhoods, rooftop bars and excellent tavernas. It’s a destination that suits couples, solo travellers and culture lovers alike.
For beach holidays on the mainland, Halkidiki is one of Greece’s best-kept secrets, three peninsulas of pine-backed coastline, clear water and far fewer crowds than the Greek islands. Flights from the UK to Thessaloniki make it easy to reach. Holidays to mainland Greece are typically best from May through September.

Best for: Couples, culture lovers, and travellers who want history alongside food and city life.

Top areas:

  • Athens: ancient landmarks, museums, and buzzing neighbourhoods
  • Halkidiki: beaches with easy access from the mainland

 

Cheap & shoulder-season holidays

Cheap holidays to Greece are best in May, June, September, and October.

  • Weather in Greece in May and June: warm and comfortable, ideal for sightseeing
  • Weather in Greece in September and October: still sunny, often warm enough to swim

Bigger islands, such as Crete and Rhodes, usually offer better value because there’s a wider selection of hotels and flights.

When to book your holiday to Greece in 2026
The Greek season runs from late April through to October, with peak demand in July and August. If you’re flexible, cheap holidays to Greece are easiest to find in May, June, September and early October, shoulder months that still offer warm weather, lower prices and shorter queues at the major sights.
July and August are the hottest months, ideal for beach holidays in Rhodes, Crete and Zante. If you’re visiting Athens or exploring the mainland, late spring and early autumn are more comfortable for sightseeing. Last minute holidays to Greece in September can offer particularly strong value as hotels look to fill late availability.
For 2026 and 2027 holidays to Greece, availability in peak months is limited: it’s worth booking early to secure the best rooms and prices.
 

5 reasons to choose Greece for your next holiday

1. A choice of islands to suit any mood

With so many islands on offer, how do you decide where to go? Some islands are quiet and scenic. Others are lively and social.

Tip: Crete is great if you want one base with lots of variety.

2. Beaches for every taste

From sandy family beaches to hidden coves and cliff-backed coastlines, Greece has a beach for everyone.

Want ideas? Check out our guide to Greece’s top 5 beaches.

Tip: For long, family‑friendly beaches, head to Kefalonia.

3. Long, sunny season

Greece stays warm later than many Mediterranean destinations. Which means more choice outside peak summer.

Tip: Rhodes often stays warm into October. Our team soaked up plenty of sunshine and even had a swim at Kallithea Springs.

4. Short flights and easy access

Most Greek destinations are 3-5 hours from the UK, with direct flights to many islands - ideal for families or shorter breaks.

Tip: Kos is compact, easy to reach, and ideal for shorter stays.

5. Options for every budget

Not every holiday has to cost a fortune. Greece suits every pocket, from simple, family‑run hotels to luxury villas.

Tip: Larger islands like Crete and Rhodes often offer better value thanks to the sheer choice of accommodation and flights.

Not sure which island suits you? Compare them in our Greek Islands guide.

Where to go in Greece?

With its diverse landscapes and endless possibilities, choosing where to go in Greece can be a delightful dilemma. From the mythical mainland to the idyllic Greek islands, each destination offers its own unique charm.

Best Destinations for Couples:

While Santorini is synonymous with romance, Greece's islands are replete with enchanting sights waiting to be explored. From the pink sands of Crete to the romantic Canal D'Amour in Corfu, love is always in the air in Greece. Treat yourselves to a luxurious stay at the Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa for an unforgettable romantic escape.

Best Destinations for Families:

For families seeking fun and adventure, Hersonissos, Corfu, and Crete are top choices. Dive into the excitement at the 5-star Corfu Holiday Palace, featuring child-friendly waterparks, or make a splash at the Mitsis Blue Domes with its impressive array of pools. Don't miss out on the thrills of Star Beach water park, voted one of Europe's best.

Best Beach Destinations:

Crete reigns supreme as the ultimate beach destination in Greece, with its 650 miles of pristine coastline. From golden stretches to secluded coves, you'll find paradise on the shores of Balos Beach Lagoon, where turquoise waters meet white sands in a breathtaking display of natural beauty.

Best Party Destinations:

For those craving non-stop excitement, Mykonos, Crete, and Kos offer an electrifying nightlife scene. Dance the night away at world-class beach parties, mingle with A-list revellers, and immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan atmosphere. From Faliraki to Laganas, Greece's lively hotspots promise unforgettable experiences for party-goers.

Best Destinations for Sightseeing:

Immerse yourself in history and culture in Rhodes, home to a medieval Old Town and ancient ruins waiting to be explored. Indulge in a stay at The Ixian Grand for convenient access to the island's most iconic sights. Athens, with its ancient wonders, is also a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Best Destinations for Adventure:

Get off the beaten path and explore the rugged beauty of Corfu's olive groves and pine-clad forests on a thrilling hiking adventure. Seek out secluded bliss in the hidden gems of Skiathos, Kefalonia, Lefkas, and Thassos, where unspoiled nature awaits at every turn.

More Greece travel guides

Mainland Greece

Athens holidays

Halkidiki holidays

Olympus Riviera

Greek Islands

Crete holidays

Corfu holidays

Kefalonia holidays

Zante holidays

Mykonos holidays

Santorini holidays

Rhodes holidays

Kos holidays

Lesbos holidays

Skopelos holidays

Parga holidays

Kalamata holidays

Faliraki holidays

Our Greece holidays guide was last revised and updated in May 2026.

 

Map of Greece

world_map
20°C–35°C

Spring and autumn suit sightseeing and walking. Summer suits beach holidays. Southern islands stay warmer into October.

View live forecast

Approximately four hours
Athens is Greece’s main international hub. Major islands also have well-served airports.
Types of holidays in Greece

Greece is best for

History buffs: In Greece, history appears everywhere. You’ll see ruins in towns, cities, and landscapes.

Sunseekers: Summers are hot and skies stay clear from spring to autumn.

Food lovers: If meals are a highlight of your holiday, Greece won’t disappoint. Greeks love good food and eating out together is part of daily life.

Fast facts for Greece

Language: Greek is the official language. English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

Currency: Euro (€)

Local time: Greece is 2 hours ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to:

  • Aktion (Preveza) Airport for Lefkas and Parga
  • Corfu International Airport for Corfu
  • Heraklion Airport for Crete
  • Rhodes International Airport for Rhodes
  • Transfer times are 20 minutes to 2.5 hours


Flight duration from the UK: Around 4 hours.

Tourist Information: Find further information about various Greece destinations at the official Greece tourism website.

Getting around Greece

By hire car: Greek roads are well maintained and come with plenty of signage, with hire car venues in most of its towns and cities. Do remember that the locals drive on the right and overtake on the left!

By scooter: Scooters are a popular method of transport among locals and tourists alike, offering a quick and convenient way to see the sights.

By boat: There are plenty of boat trips on offer from Greece’s many beaches and harbours. This is a great way to explore the country’s idyllic islands, or gain access to those secret, sheltered coves for a peaceful day’s sunbathing.

Events in Greece

Greek Orthodox Easter (spring) - A major cultural celebration, with candlelit processions, local traditions and evening festivities.

Feast of the Dormition (15 August) - One of Greece’s biggest public holidays, bringing church services and village festivals, especially on the islands.

Local saints’ days - Many towns and villages celebrate their patron saint each year, often with food, music and traditional dancing.

Greece safety and security

Passport and visa requirements

UK citizens need a valid passport; visas aren’t usually required for short stays, but check government travel advice for updates.

Travel insurance

Travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Make sure your policy covers activities like diving or hiking.

Things that can catch first-time visitors out

  1. Tap water is safe in most cities; on some islands desalinated water can taste salty and locals prefer bottled.
  2. Smoking is banned indoors.
  3. The legal drinking age is 18.
  4. Dress modestly in churches. Cover shoulders and knees.
  5. Popular hiking routes like Santorini’s caldera walk are hot, exposed and uneven, so wear sturdy shoes and carry water.
  6. The emergency number is 112 (works across Europe).

Greece weather

Best time to visit Greece

May, June, September and October are the best months to visit Greece, offering warm weather, fewer crowds and better value than peak summer.

July and August are hotter and busier, making them better for beach and nightlife-focused holidays.

For detailed monthly temperatures and sea conditions, see our Greece weather guide.

More hotels in Greece

Discover the best destinations to visit in Greece

Popular Greece holiday resorts

Greece holiday FAQs

FAQs

When is the best time to book holidays to Greece?

The best time to book Greece holidays is 3–6 months before you travel, particularly for July and August departures when popular resorts and hotel rooms sell out quickly. For 2026 holidays to Greece, peak-summer availability is already moving fast, booking now secures the best rooms and prices. If you’re more flexible, last minute Greece holidays in September and October regularly offer strong deals.

Is Greece safe for holidays?

Yes — Greece is widely considered one of the safest holiday destinations in Europe and consistently ranks among the most visited Mediterranean countries for UK tourists. All Thomas Cook holidays to Greece are ATOL and ABTA protected, meaning your money is secure from the moment you book.

Which is the best Greek island for a holiday?

The best Greek island depends on what you’re looking for. Crete suits families wanting variety. Zante (Zakynthos) is ideal for beach lovers and lively resorts. Rhodes combines history with wide sandy beaches. Corfu is popular for its lush scenery. Santorini is best for couples and dramatic views. Thomas Cook offers package holidays to Greece across all of these islands, with flights from multiple UK airports.

What's included in a Thomas Cook Greece holiday package?

All Thomas Cook holidays to Greece include return flights from the UK and hotel accommodation. Most packages offer room only, bed and breakfast, half board or all inclusive board basis. Packages are ATOL and ABTA protected and your money is held in a secure trust account. Transfers, airport parking and travel insurance can be added at checkout.

Which part of Greece has the best beaches?

Crete and Rhodes are top for long sandy beaches. Zakynthos and Lefkas are famous for dramatic turquoise coves. Mykonos is better for beach clubs and lively atmospheres.

How do you get between islands in Greece?

Most Greek islands are connected by ferry, with more routes available during summer.

Do shops close in the afternoon in Greece?

Some shops in smaller towns close mid-afternoon, usually between 2pm and 5pm.

Is Greece expensive compared to other Mediterranean destinations?

Greece can be affordable or expensive depending on where and when you travel. Large islands usually have more choice and better value. Visiting outside July-August often cuts costs without losing the sunshine.

What’s the best way to get around Greece?

Getting around Greece is simple. Hire cars are popular. Roads are well maintained. Driving is on the right. Scooters are common in towns and on islands for short trips. Ferries and boat trips connect the islands and reach beaches and coves that aren’t accessible by road.

Are there vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Greece?

Yes. Many Greek dishes are plant‑based and use olive oil, vegetables and pulses. Ask for Ladera dishes (slow‑cooked vegetables) and check HappyCow for vegan‑friendly spots.

Do note that feta cheese is often added by default - you can request dishes without it.

When is the cheapest time to visit Greece?

April, early May and October often offer warm weather, lower prices, and better availability at popular hotels.

For the best deals, look out for:

  1. Early‑season offers (April-May)
  2. Late‑season discounts (October)
  3. Last‑minute Greece holidays
  4. All Inclusive packages that bundle flights, hotels, and transfers

November to March is generally the cheapest overall.
However, many businesses close in winter.

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