The Greek Islands – Sun drenched pearls of the Aegean

Away from the mainland, Greece becomes a nation of islands which dot the glistening blue waters of the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Greece has as many as 6,000 islands and islets of differing sizes, although many remain uninhabited. Each island offers something unique to its visitors, whether that be sun-soaked beach resorts, peaceful forests, or ancient ruins to explore. Experience buzzing nightlife and stunning views on the islands of Santorini and Mykonos, or delve into Greece's ancient past in the ruins and museums of Crete and Rhodes. The Greek islands are famed for their beaches where visitors can bask in the Mediterranean sun, or explore the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, home to some of the best snorkelling the Mediterranean has to offer. You may also wish to take the path less explored and experience traditional island life on islands such as Hydra and Karpathos.

Top Attractions in Greek Islands

Rhodes – The historic heart of the Dodecanese

Step back in time with a visit to historic Rhodes. The island is an explorer's paradise, offering history and culture in abundance in the streets of Rhodes' Old Town. The city was the base of the Knights of St John during the crusades and still maintains its distinctive medieval charm among the cobbled streets and ancient buildings. Make your way down the Avenue of the Knights towards the Grand Master's Palace, an imposing fortress that today houses a museum on the island's history. Rhodes also offers some excellent beaches, with the popular tourist resort of Faliraki only a short drive away from Rhodes town.

Amoudi Bay – Serenity on Santorini

Enjoy a slice of Cycladic paradise with a visit to Amoudi Bay. Accessible by a rambling stairway, Amoudi sits at the water's edge below the tourist hotspot of Oia, famed for its blue domed churches and excellent views. Amoudi Bay is a quieter reflection of its famous neighbour and offers an authentic Greek atmosphere in its small waterfront tavernas, backed by Santorini's whitewashed buildings spilling down the cliff face. Visitors can stroll along the jetties here and admire the colourful fishing boats, swim in the azure water, or find a quiet spot to watch Santorini's famous sunset away from the crowds.

Spinalonga – Crete's Island Fortress

The tiny island of Spinalonga lies a short distance off the Cretan mainland with a long and turbulent history. The island was used as a fortress by the Venetians and the Ottomans, as well as a leper colony in the 20th century. Because of this turbulent past, Spinalonga nestles behind imposing fortress walls that protected the island in days gone by.Today, Spinalonga is uninhabited, but can be accessed by boat from the mainland. Spend some time walking the historic streets and discover the island's rich history through its many remaining buildings, or take a swim in the turquoise waters surrounding the island.

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