The 6 Best Greek Islands to Visit in 2026

Featured, Travel

Posted on March 4, 2026

The Greek Islands have always been a popular holiday choice, but they have never been more so than this year. We have been speaking with our travel experts Idle Travel to find out why.

We are all desperate for a holiday after what seems like an endless winter, and if that includes guaranteed sun, crystal clear water, fun and relaxation then let’s get booking! For all things travel we always go to the experts at Idle Travel, and we were thrilled to hear that the Greek Islands are looking a solid option for summer 2026 and with direct flights to the islands from most regional airports, it’s never been easier to indulge in a sunshine break.

So, let’s highlight a few of these beautiful islands and get those holiday juices flowing.

Crete

As the largest of the Greek Islands, it’s no surprise Crete’s got a lot going on, and that’s certainly the case on the eastern side, where adventure-ready mountains sit alongside neon-lit clubs, sleepy towns and ancient Minoan treasures. Mega town Malia is where the party happens, Stalis is the place to while away the days on a sandy beach and Rethymnon has a gorgeous harbour and Old Town to explore. Then there’s Elounda where things get a bit swankier – Crete has it all going on!

Santorini

Out-of-this-world sunsets – tick. Stunning sea views – tick. Pretty whitewashed towns – tick! Filled with chic bars, swanky restaurants and swish boutiques, photogenic Santorini will sweep you straight off your feet. There are two different sides to this superb island. Over on the west, iconic villages like Oia, Fira and Imerovigli overlook an enchanting caldera and the twinkling Aegean. While in the east, in resorts like Kamari and Perissa, it’s all about volcanic shores, where black-sand beaches beckon with turquoise waters. Romantic Greek escapes this way!

Kos

Egyptians, Romans and Venetians were once drawn to these shores. Nowadays, vibrant party people and history buffs flock to check out the clubbing scene and grand ancient architecture, in equal measure. Think days of sheer exploration followed by nights on the town. You’ll be in for a treat with the best of both worlds!

Kefalonia

With its rugged mountains, lush vineyards and golden beaches, Kefalonia is a picture-book island paradise. Lakes and caves will draw you into this oh-so scenic setting of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, while feta-covered foods are the local must-eats. Here, days are all about kicking back on the vine-shaded terrace of a taverna or pitching up on a blissful beach and waiting for sunset. Sounds perfect!

Rhodes

Cosmopolitan but steeped in history and ancient architecture, Rhodes Town is both sides of the coin. Beaches and sun-kissed seas come as standard, but boutiques, bazaars, mazes of cobbled streets and pavement restaurants sit in the centre. The Grand Master of Knights and Mandraki Harbour are the main highlights while sandy coves and a famous spa make Kalithea a family-friendly spot, with staggering over-spilling views to delight in. Arabic-style mosaics scatter the resort, while things err on the traditional side in the glorious Greek tavernas.

Zante

Just off the south-west tip of mainland Greece, Zante is a glimmering Ionian jewel, where families come to relax, clubbers come to dance and sea turtles come to nest. Coves of curving azure water and sun-speckled sand are where you will want to spend all your days. After a resort with a lively vibe? Laganas is a neon-lit playground for party goers. Zante is definitely a party island, but it is also so much more than that!

Whichever island is ticking your holiday boxes, speak with the team at Idle Travel and make sure your holiday is everything you want it to be.