Greece's most unmissable destinations for gastronomy, culture and more

From gastronomic adventures to cultural escapades in the sun, THESE are the Greek destinations to put on your bucket list

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Breathtaking beaches, sensational history, delicious cuisines and beautiful harbour towns, sun-soaked Greece truly is a destination unlike any anywhere else in the world.

With each region of this country, from its magnificent mainland to its idyllic islands, offering an incredible holiday experience, choosing where to escape to can be tricky!

Help is at hand with Jet2holidays, which flies to 19 Greek destinations – more than anyone else – from 10 UK airports, and boasts a range of new islands, including Santorni and Mykonos.

Here’s the lowdown on the six must-visit Greek destinations so you can enjoy Greece your way.

Cultural Crete 

From idyllic Elounda to vibrant Hersonissos, Eastern Crete is rich in both cultural and stunning scenery

Crete is the epitomy of the Greek isles – a picture-perfect island filled with white beaches and pretty villages.

To the east you’ll find an abundance of these gorgeous places, such as Elounda, Stalis and Gouves to name a few. 

But one that really stands out from the crowd is Hersonissos. This harbour town is a holidaymaker’s paradise, with a wealth of tavernas and bars sitting right out on the waterfront, meaning every delicious meal comes with a spectacular view.

But authentic dining and photogenic landscapes aren’t all this little place has to offer. Alongside breathtaking beaches, such as Gefyri, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities like the CretAquarium, home to some of the Med’s coolest marine creatures such as turtles and sharks.

Hersonissos is also home to one of Crete’s largest water parks, WaterCity, where everyone from kids to childish grown-ups can cool off under the Greek sun on some awesome water slides.

Then, after a day of being on the move, spend your evenings here gently strolling through the local shops and markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Piskopiano Village, a tiny community of fewer than 500 people. It may be small, but its local crafts and restaurants are on par with what you’ll find in the bigger towns; a must for shopaholics and foodies alike.  

The Balos Lagoon is a picturesque is a wonderland for adventurers, sunbathers and snorkellers alike

Just over two-hours up the northern coast in Western Crete is stunning Chania, home to impressive canyons, secret coves and picturesque gorges.

Wander the winding maze-like shopping scene to discover maritime museums, busy bars, quaint cafes, and art shops.

Then watch as the jewel of the harbour, the 16th-century lighthouse, twinkles in the distance as the port’s bustling bars and tavernas come alive at sunset.

Relax on the sandy shores of alluring Balos lagoon, Crete’s most photographed beach.

Magical Elafonisi is lined with pink sand, while palm tree-lined Chrissi Akti is one of Chania’s many blue flag beaches, with crystal-clear waters and plenty of restaurants.

Feeling active? The 10-mile-long Samaria Gorge is ideal for trekkers, taking in peaceful lakes, a 1,000-year-old forest and the White Mountains – at the foot is where to find botanical gardens.

Remarkable Rhodes

Sail through the ancient Mandraki harbour, Rhodes, once home to the Colossus of Rhodes

With soft-sand beaches, lush forests, and charming medieval towns, Rhodes has something special to offer every type of holidaymaker.

The capital of the Dodecanese’s charming shores are perfect for soaking up the rays, or unwinding in a Roman bath, before sampling delicious cuisines in traditional tavernas.

For an action-packed break, try watersports including windsurfing, then trek the panoramic coastal paths, taking in rolling hills and pine-filled forests.

Explore the incredible 24 centuries of history and stroll within the Old Town’s magnificent medieval walls, with fortress-like buildings and pretty winding alleyways.

Beach lovers should head to cosy Agathi beach, nestled in a scenic cove, situated below the medieval castle of Faraklos; idyllic Anthony Quinn Bay, considered one of the loveliest on the island; and Faliraki is where to find sunbeds, water skiing and beach bars.

Charming Corfu

Corfu is more than just a party town. Beyond the city, there’s a wealth of history and untouched beaches to discover

This delightful island is popular for good reason, with historic palaces, winding cobblestone streets, and idyllic sun-drenched beaches.

The Old Town of Campiello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where to find the large square of Spianada, and learn about the fascinating history behind the 15th-century Venetian Old Fortress.

Soak up the sun on one of Corfu’s beaches. Famous Paleokastritsa is surrounded by green cliffs and caves; family friendly Agios Georgios boasts watersports; while Marathias with its crystal-clear waters and golden sand is a must.

The 137-mile Corfu Trail is one of Greece’s greatest walks, or bike rides, taking in the quieter parts of the island as it winds past olive groves, gorges, sand dunes and forests.

Spend a wild day at a waterpark, enjoying exhilarating rides down slides of all sizes, or book a boat trip and hop to the nearby islands for a sensational day out.

Knockout Kefalonia

Sitting at the foot of two mountains with views of the brilliant Ionian, Myrtos beach in Kefalonia is a must for sun and sea

Idyllic Kefalonia is one of Greece’s most beautiful islands, with postcard-pretty scenery, movie-worthy beaches, lush vineyards and rugged mountains.

Enjoy its spectacular countryside and discover hidden gems on a horse riding or hiking tour, taking in abandoned villages, historic monuments and wild flowers.

Sample local wines and learn about how they’re produced on an excursion of the island’s stunning landscape – a glass of the popular Kefalonian Robola is a must.

Chic capital Argostoli is brimming with cafes, tavernas and shops, perfect for whiling away an afternoon, before exploring Venetian monuments.

When it comes to beaches, Kefalonia is world-class.

You’ll recognise Hollywood hotspot Antisamos beach from its starring role in Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, with its picturesque mountain backdrop.

Famous for its red sand, Xi is so striking, you’ll think an Instagram filter has been applied to the photos – but it’s all real.

Don’t leave without booking a boat tour to the jaw-dropping Melissani Cave – the 40-metre-wide underwater lake was once worshipped by the Ancient Greeks. Stunning!

Sensational Skiathos

Offering everything from lively nightlife to chilled out, peaceful beaches, Skiathos is an undiscovered Greek gem

Famous thanks to its starring role in Mamma Mia! the island of Skiathos – or ‘the Aegean paradise’ – is loved for its idyllic beaches, teal-tinted waters and luscious leafy landscape.

At just seven miles long – and boasting more than 60 beaches – it’s easy to explore. Head to the chic Old Town, above the old port, for streets lined with tavernas, antique shops and museums.

When it comes to beaches, Skiathos has plenty. Beautiful Koukounaries, with its fine white sand and blue waters, is a sight to behold, offering sunbeds and watersports.

With close-by tavernas, Megali Ammos is walking distance from the town; while Banana beach is surrounded by pine trees, and lively bars.

Hop on a boat to visit nearby sister island Skopelos. See the terracotta-topped whitewashed houses spring into view as you arrive at its charming port.

Then explore the eateries nestled within the narrow alleyways – and don’t leave before trying home cooked dishes with sweet plums grown on the island.

Perfect Preveza

Is this the French Riviera? No! It’s Preveza’s gorgeous waterfront – complete with incredible local restaurants and stunning sea views

Dreamy Caribbean-style beaches, beautiful architecture, French Riviera-esque harbour towns and divine views, the traditional seaside town of Preveza promises an unforgettable getaway.

Whether you want to spend endless days soaking up the sun, or trying windsurfing, paddleboarding, diving or jetskiing, there’s a stretch of white sand perfect for you.

Tranquil Lichnos, nestled into a lush cove, is surrounded by olive groves, and glistening waters, perfect for kayaking and cave exploring.

Breathtaking Ai Sostis is perfect for those who want to escape, with a sandy shore and turquoise ocean – pack a picnic and stay for the day.

While popular Monolithi, one of the longest in Europe, boasts sunbeds and watersports.

The region’s chilled-out harbour town, dating to 290BC, is brimming with Byzantne and Venetian buildings and fascinating museums.

With ouzeries and tavernas dotted around, relax and enjoy Preveza’s famous pita bread and savoury pies.

Spend a day hiking one of the 12 trails that take in the beautiful Acheron River, stopping in the turquoise waters for swimming or kayaking, before visiting the natural wonder that is Aphrodite’s Cave.

For a traditional event, the Parga Kanaria Festival, with singing, dancing and fireworks, is a must – it takes place every summer on August 14th.

It promises to be a holiday you’ll never forget!

Escape to Greece 

Sailing in Zante, shopping in Santorini – there’s an adventure for every kind of holidaymaker in Greece

Jet2holidays offers incredible deals, including one million free child places, for 19 stunning Greek destinations, including Santorini, Mykonos, Lesvos, Kalamata, Skiathos and Preveza to name a few.

You can book your holiday with confidence thanks to Jet2holidays’ refund guarantee. Get the summer you deserve, book an unforgettable holiday today – to experience Greece – your way. 

Jet2holidays cover the full package, looking after you at every step of the way with their fantastic customer service. Hotels, flights, free transfers, 22kg baggage and 10kg hand luggage are all included in your fee. 

Book your holiday today here.

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