Find your perfect Greek Island: A guide to Greece's top 6 islands
Discover your island in the sun
Greece has more than 200 inhabited islands, each with its own rhythm, flavours and charm.
From summer sunsets in Santorini to snowy mountain peaks in Crete, Greece is a year-round destination that changes its colours with the seasons.
Whether you’re after sunshine in the Kiwi winter, an island cruise through the Aegean, or simply a reason to go, this guide helps you plan the perfect Greek escape.
Why travel to Greece?
Few places mix history, food, and coastline quite like Greece. Picture days spent wandering ancient ruins, swimming in turquoise coves and dining by the sea on grilled octopus and crisp white wine. It’s a destination that’s both romantic and endlessly diverse — from postcard-perfect islands to mountain villages and olive groves.
Top reasons to visit:
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Mediterranean sunshine almost year-round.
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Incredible mix of ancient sites and modern coastal towns.
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Island-hopping and small-ship cruises that make multi-stop holidays easy.
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Welcoming locals, authentic food and great value compared to Western Europe.
Weather in Greece: what to expect all year
Greece’s climate is Mediterranean: long, hot summers and mild winters with plenty of sunshine. Here’s a quick look at what to expect across the seasons.
Summer (June–August):
Hot and sunny, perfect for beach days and sailing. Expect 22–33°C on most islands. Best time for swimming and nightlife.
Autumn (September–November):
Still warm with fewer crowds. Great for hiking, exploring ruins and vineyard visits.
Winter (December–February):
Yes, it does snow in northern Greece and on mountain peaks like Crete’s White Mountains. The islands are quieter, but Athens and Thessaloniki are great for cultural escapes.
Spring (March–May):
Wildflowers bloom, temperatures hover average 19-21°C and ferry schedules resume. Ideal for sightseeing and cooler hikes.
Weather by island:
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Santorini: Warm and dry May–October; cooler but dramatic in winter.
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Mykonos: Best June–September; windy in July (“meltemi” winds).
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Crete: Mild year-round; snow in the mountains in winter
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Rhodes: Hot and dry summers, mild winters.
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Corfu: Lush and green; wettest from November–February.
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Folegandros: Dry, sunny and peaceful May–September.
Best Greek islands by travel style
Folegandros – Best for slow travel
If you dream of lazy mornings, sleepy cafés and clifftop walks, Folegandros is your place. Untouched by mass tourism, it’s the Cyclades at their most authentic.
Getting there: Fast ferry from Santorini (50 mins) or from Athens’ Piraeus port (4.5 hrs).
Stay: 2–3 nights. Pair with nearby islands on a small-ship cruise or ferry hop.
Santorini – Best for romance
All it takes is one sunset over the caldera to fall in love. Whitewashed lanes, volcanic vineyards and golden-hour views make it Greece’s most famous island for couples.
Getting there: Direct flight from Athens (50 minutes) or high-speed ferry from Crete (about 2 hours).
Recommended time: 3–4 nights. Combine it with Folegandros or Mykonos for a classic Cyclades duo.
Crete – Best for culture and adventure
Greece’s largest island has it all: ancient Minoan ruins, gorges, villages and some of the country’s most beautiful beaches.
Getting there: Direct flights from Athens and many European cities; ferry from Santorini (about 2 hours) or overnight from Piraeus (around 9 hours).
Recommended time: At least 5–7 nights to explore both west and east. Stay longer if you’re adding hikes and day trips.
Mykonos – Best for luxury and nightlife
Boutique hotels, beach clubs and a dining scene that sparkles make Mykonos perfect for travellers who like their holidays stylish. Yet beyond the champagne and music are quiet coves and calm villages for downtime.
Getting there: Direct flights from Athens; ferry from Santorini (about 2.5 hours).
Recommended time: 2–3 nights, or longer if you’re hopping to nearby islands such as Tinos or Paros.
Rhodes – Best for history lovers
A living museum ringed by turquoise seas. Explore the medieval Old Town, walk the UNESCO-listed walls and visit ancient ruins and hilltop villages.
Getting there: Direct flights from Athens and major European hubs; ferries connect other Dodecanese islands.
Recommended time: 4–5 nights. Pair with Symi or Kos on a Dodecanese ferry loop or cruise.
Corfu – Best for beaches and nature
Olive-covered hills, Venetian lanes and beaches that stretch for miles. Corfu feels greener and gentler than many Greek islands, making it ideal for walking, sailing or a relaxed family escape.
Getting there: Direct flights from Athens and European cities; ferries from Italy or mainland Greece.
Recommended time: 4–5 nights, or a week if you want to mix hiking, sailing and exploring the Ionian coast.
Planning your Greek island holiday
When to visit: The weather is great from May to October, expect warm seas and sunshine. July and August are peak months so expect some crowds.
Greece is without doubt a winning winter destination, but we advise you to check with House of Travel before you book. Many places operate from Easter until the end of October so you don’t want to rock up in November and find a ‘closed’ sign.
Getting between islands: High-speed ferries connect the Cyclades, Ionian and Dodecanese groups. For stress-free travel, ask our consultants about small-ship cruises.
How long to stay: For a relaxed pace, spend at least 2–4 nights per island.
Greece Frequently asked questions
Greece is perfect. From June to September, it’s sunny, warm and ideal for swimming — right when it’s chilly back home.
No. New Zealand passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Yes. Many islands, like Naxos and Corfu, have calm beaches, family resorts and short ferry connections.
Book an island-hopping itinerary or a small-ship cruise. It’s easy to combine 2–3 islands in one trip.
There are no direct flights from New Zealand, but it’s easy to connect via hubs such as Doha, Dubai or Singapore to Athens.
Flight time from Auckland to Athens: around 24–26 hours including a stopover. Many travellers break their journey in the Middle East or Asia.
Santorini, Mykonos, Crete and Rhodes offer long sunny days, great beaches and plenty of entertainment.
Ready to go? Your Greek odyssey starts here.
Our Greece travel consultants can tailor your ideal itinerary, from flights and cruises to ferry passes, hotels and private tours. Whether it’s your first island hop or your next big Europe trip, we’ll plan every detail.
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Experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and luxury with a two-night stay in Barcelona, where iconic architecture and exquisite Spanish cuisine set the scene. Then, step aboard one of Princess’s newest ships, the sophisticated Sun Princess®, for an indulgent journey through the Mediterranean.
Unwind with sweeping ocean views from the Piazza, savour multi-course meals in the elegant three-story dining room, and enjoy world-class entertainment at The Arena. Delight in traditional Irish fare and live music at O’Malley’s Irish Pub, or be captivated by dazzling performances beneath the glass-enclosed Dome. Stay active at the SkyDeck Sports Court & Track — perfect for pickleball and basketball — or enjoy the jogging track, splash pad, and shaded spaces designed for pure relaxation.
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From the romance of Venice to the legacy of Athens, explore the Adriatic and Ionian seas with calls at Zadar, Split, and the sun-drenched island of Corfu. With extended calls in eight ports—you’ll have ample time to truly experience each destination.
Cruise on Azamara Onward, your boutique hotel at sea, where practically everything is included and the atmosphere is laid-back. You can relax onboard on sun-drenched decks, in the refreshing pool, and revitalizing spa. There's never a dull moment onboard with celebrations, cultural performances, and cocktails!
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Fly into Istanbul for a three-night stay, where the city’s warmth and exotic charm set the tone for your journey. Set sail on an immersive Greek Isles cruise, discovering picture-perfect villages, exquisite cuisine, and fascinating archaeological treasures, before concluding with two unforgettable nights in Athens.
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Explore the ancient city of Athens with a three-night hotel stay before joining Allura, a stunning ship offering exceptional service, with two crew members for every three guests. Embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery — from the Minoan ruins of Crete to the cobblestone lanes of Limnos and the clear blue waters of the Turquoise Coast. Conclude in Istanbul with a three-night hotel stay, making the most of this warmly welcoming and exotic city.
Savour The Finest Cuisine at Sea and enjoy ultimate value with Oceania's Your World Included™ which offers dining at Gourmet Speciality Restaurants, In-Suite Dining, Unlimited Wifi, Gratuities, and more - amenities that are always included.
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Surrender to the rhythm of the Mediterranean on a 28-night voyage of timeless beauty and rich heritage with Cunard Cruises. From the majestic skyline of Istanbul to the sun-kissed shores of the Greek Islands, this extraordinary journey weaves through the heart of southern Europe in iconic Cunard style.
Sail aboard the elegant Queen Victoria, where old-world sophistication meets modern luxury. Discover the ancient wonders of Ephesus, the whitewashed charm of Santorini, the cultural treasures of Athens, and the coastal romance of Amalfi. With ports of call in Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, each day brings a new horizon and unforgettable experiences.
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Windstar Cruises
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Greek Islands from the Corinth Canal to the Bosporus
Embark on a luxurious 11-Night cruise starting in Athens, the historical capital of Greece. Sail through the remarkable Corinth Canal, a feat of engineering that connects the Aegean and Ionian seas. Explore the quaint town of Itea and visit the charming port of Katakolon, getaway to the ancient site of Olympia. Discover the beautiful city of Chania, resplendent with its Venetian harbour and bustling markets, be enchanted by stunning views of Santorini Island and in Turkey, immerse yourself in the ancient history of Kusadasi. Then relax in the seaside town of Kepez, popular for its scenic coastline and delicious seafood. Conclude your adventure in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where east meets west and ancient meets modernity.
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Greek Islands
Set sail with Celestyal Cruises on a fantastic Greek island hoping cruise and explore charming seaside villages, medieval treasures, and iconic sunsets. Whether it's a thrilling 3-night weekend, or a 7-night adventure, with departures from Athens, Crete, Thessaloniki, and Kusadasi, there's a cruise for you.
View Greek Islands 2025 Sailings
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Enjoy ultimate value with Celestyal One fares which include complimentary WiFi, meals and soft drinks throughout the day - amenities that are always included. For beverages from the bar and specialty dining there is CelestyalPay, your dedicated food and drink tab when you're onboard. Plus, when you pre-pay you'll get an extra bonus on Celestyal!
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Sail the Mediterranean onboard the stunning Norwegian Viva®. With ample outdoor deck space, you can stay connected to the sea along the 360º Ocean Boulevard or enjoy a dip in an Infinity Hot Tub. Throughout your journey, you’ll feel prioritized and pampered thanks to the ship’s high staff-to-guest ratio.
From the luxurious Mandara Spa® and the mesmerizing three-story theatre that transforms into a Vegas-style nightclub to the zoomy Viva Speedway and immersive virtual-reality games, this ship is sophisticated and fun—get ready to live it up!
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The Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Discover the timeless charm of the Mediterranean with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Glide past cliff-clinging villages, historic ports, and iconic landmarks, from the blue-domed churches of Santorini to the monumental treasures of Rome and the Vatican. Aboard your luxurious superyacht, unwind as you explore charming harbours, pristine beaches, and centuries-old traditions, all with the signature comfort and service of The Ritz-Carlton experience.
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Cruises from Malta
Sailing from Valletta, Malta’s cultural gem, P&O Cruises UK takes you on an unforgettable Mediterranean journey. Explore the stunning coastlines and vibrant cultures of Italy, Greece, Croatia, France, Spain, and Turkey, where ancient ruins, charming villages, sun-kissed beaches, and delectable cuisine await.
View Cruises from Malta 2026 Sailings
View Cruises from Malta 2027 Sailings
P&O Cruises UK combines British charm with modern cruising comforts. Enjoy elegant dining, West End-style entertainment, and a warm, friendly atmosphere throughout the fleet. Whether you’re relaxing poolside, sampling afternoon tea, or catching live music under the stars, every moment at sea feels effortlessly easy and wonderfully familiar.
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See Europe from two perspectives on this exceptional river and ocean voyage. Start your travels the Uniworld way, exploring Venice and its nearby islands on a river cruise designed for comfort, culture, and connection. Allow Uniworld to reveal the best of the city and its surrounding Veneto region with all-inclusive luxury and guided cultural experiences.
After a short stay in Venice, your holiday continues with Oceania Cruises for an elegant Mediterranean sailing through Croatia, Montenegro, and the Greek Isles. With refined dining and relaxed luxury onboard, this ocean journey expands the view — connecting the romance of river cruising with the adventure of the open sea.
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Italy, Croatia & Greece
Pair the charm of river cruising with the adventure of ocean sailing on this exclusive journey. Begin in Venice with Uniworld, where an all-inclusive week explores palaces, islands, and canals with a boutique level of comfort. The intimate scale of river cruising makes it easy to connect with destinations at a relaxed pace.
Two nights in Venice bridge your voyage before you join Oceania Cruises for a sweeping Mediterranean sailing. With ports in Italy, Montenegro, and Greece, plus the luxury touches Oceania is known for, it’s a chance to discover more of Europe in style.
Together, the two cruises create a rare combination of local immersion and wide-ranging exploration.
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Experience the essence of the Mediterranean on a 28-night cruise sailing between Barcelona to Istanbul with Viking. Explore timeless treasures across Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Turkey while indulging in world-class comfort and service onboard. This grand Mediterranean journey offers the perfect mix of culture, history and discovery.
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Ancient Adriatic Treasures
Book a Viking Ocean Cruise and you can enjoy either COMPANION FREE FLIGHTS up to AU$2500 per booking or SAVE AU$2500 per booking off your cruise. Available on 2026, 2027 or 2028 Sailings. T&C apply.
Trace a path between Istanbul and Venice, discovering ancient ruins, medieval fortresses and timeless coastal cities along the way onboard a Viking award‑winning ship. Enjoy every moment onboard a Viking award‑winning ship, crafted with elegant Scandinavian design.
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From the luxurious Mandara Spa® and the mesmerizing three-story theatre that transforms into a Vegas-style nightclub to the zoomy Viva Speedway and immersive virtual-reality games, this ship is sophisticated and fun—get ready to live it up!
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Mediterranean with Lindblad Expeditions
Cruising the storied coastlines of the Mediterranean with National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions offers an unmatched blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Aboard a small expedition ship, travelers explore ancient ruins, vibrant coastal villages, and idyllic islands, all while guided by expert historians, photographers, and naturalists. Each day brings opportunities for deeper insight—whether walking cobbled streets once trodden by emperors or snorkeling in clear, cerulean waters teeming with marine life. This is exploration refined, where every moment connects you more deeply to the soul of the Mediterranean.
Ancient Mediterranean: Exploring Greece, Croatia and Albania - 7 Nights onboard NG Orion
Athens, Greece to Split, Croatia
04 Aug - 11 Aug 26
Multiple departure dates Jun, Aug & Sep 2026
Ports of call: Athens, Greece, Corinth Canal / Delphi, Kefalonia, Corfu / Butrint, Albania, Dubrovnik, Croatia, Komiža, Vis Island,Split, Croatia
From $12,300 per person share twin Main Deck Stateroom
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Departs 4 Aug 2026
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