Greece

Greece is a destination of legendary beauty and extraordinary depth. Begin in Athens, where the Acropolis stands as one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks and the vibrant Plaka neighbourhood buzzes with tavernas and local life below the ancient citadel. From there, the Greek islands beckon in every direction.

Santorini captivates with its volcanic caldera, iconic blue-domed churches and dramatic clifftop villages — Oia at sunset is one of the world’s great travel moments. Mykonos combines cosmopolitan energy with beautiful beaches and a vivid nightlife scene. Corfu offers lush Venetian architecture, greenery and a more relaxed pace, while Crete — covered in its own entry — deserves a holiday in its own right.

For those seeking something quieter and more authentic, the lesser-visited islands deliver: Naxos has magnificent beaches and excellent local cheese and spirits; Paros offers charming villages and reliable summer winds for windsurfers; Kefalonia is among the greenest and most dramatically beautiful of the Ionian islands.

Greek cuisine is another compelling reason to visit — fresh seafood straight from the boat, shared mezedes of grilled octopus, spanakopita and tzatziki, slow-roasted lamb and cold local wine on a shaded terrace. The combination of food, warmth and genuine Greek hospitality is something travellers consistently describe as life-changing.

Best visited May to June or September to October, though summer remains spectacular on the islands. Greece suits couples, families, solo travellers and groups — a destination with something genuinely different to offer every visitor.