Living / 3 February, 2025 / Ellie Thompson
Dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters? The experts at Olympic Holidays have come up with their recommendations of the top Greek islands to visit, and they recommend booking your holiday early to secure your top pick. There’s nothing worse than falling in love with an island and a hotel—only to find it’s already fully booked!
With over 50 years of experience, Olympic Holidays knows exactly which Greek islands sell out fast. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly destinations, hidden gems, or vibrant nightlife, these are the must-book spots for 2025.
Named by sailors in ancient times who were dazzled by its luminous cliffs, Lefkada means ‘white island’. The landscape of this under-the-radar gem is, however, amazingly varied – from craggy mountains cloaked in forests to wildflower-filled meadows and ancient olive groves. This top Greek island is also home to some of the most spectacular, uncrowded beaches in theIonian archipelago. Windsurfers will love Vassiliki, a wide bay at the island’s southern tip that’s famous for its consistent breezes.
Where to Stay: Armonia Boutique Hotel
From £577pp (7 nights, B&B, flights from London Gatwick)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
Crowds may flock to Mykonos and Santorini but Paros is the secret star of the Cyclades. Boasting those iconic white-washed houses and blue-domed churches, it’s also home to over 40 stunning beaches as well as buzzing waterfront towns such as Parikia and Naoussa with winding lanes, chic boutiques and laidback tavernas.
Where to Stay: Polos Hotel
From £874pp (7 nights, room only, flights from London Gatwick)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos is heaven for foodies thanks to its thriving agriculture and outstanding home-grown produce. From family-run tavernas to gastronomic restaurants, you’ll be spoiled for choice with farm-to-fork menus and, of course, the freshest seafood. There are gorgeous beaches galore (including some of the longest in the Aegean) and a rich history to boot – don’t miss the ruins of the unfinished Temple of Apollo with its giant Portara, a massive marble gateway dating back to 530 BC.
Where to Stay: Naxos Palace Hotel
From £899pp (7 nights, B&B, flights from London Gatwick)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
According to ancient mythology, Leros is the sacred island of the goddess Artemis, who liked to hunt deer here. The atmospheric archaeological ruins of her sanctuary are just one of many reasons to visit this sleepy Dodecanese island. The charming capital has three distinct districts, each worth exploring: romantic Agia Marina with its neoclassical mansions, bustling Platanos with its boutiques and cafes, and picturesque Panteli with its traditional windmills and lovely marina. Then there are the turquoise waters, characterful tavernas and an 11th-century Byzantine castle with hypnotic views.
Where to Stay: Anna House
From £1,029pp (7 nights, B&B, flights from London Stansted)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
This dazzling Cycladic island is widely known as Party Central, drawing young people from around the world with its vibrant nightlife from dusk till dawn. Yet you don’t have to travel far from Chora (the hub of the island’s party scene) to find another side to the island, with tranquil butter-coloured beaches and hidden coves, an ancient Bronze Age settlement and a ruined medieval castle.
Where to Stay: Liostasi Hotel & Suites
From £1,611pp (7 nights, B&B, flights from London Gatwick)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
Separated from mainland Greece by a narrow sliver of sea, Poros is perfect for combining relaxed beach time with fascinating day trips to the Peloponnese. It’s easy to see why Poros has been chosen as a top Greek island to visit. Spend some time soaking up the sun on Poros, with its pine-scented coves and sweeping bays. Then catch the boat over to the mainland for an excursion to the spectacular UNESCO-listed ruins of 4th century Epidaurus, or perhaps head to beautiful Nafplio for the day – Greece’s most photogenic town, with a sensational spot on the Argolic Gulf.
Where to Stay: Golden View Hotel
From £957pp (7 nights, B&B, flights from London Gatwick)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
Tiny, tranquil Tilos, midway between bustling Rhodes and Cos, is one of Greece’s greenest islands and part of a protected ecological area, allowing wildlife to flourish – keep a lookout for majestic eagles and falcons along with turtles and seals. The island was even home to the last population of elephants in Europe, with their bones on display in the museum. Don’t miss a stroll on the traffic-free waterfront promenade at the pretty port of Livadia, with the cobalt sea providing a spectacular backdrop.
Where to Stay: Apollo Studios
From £680pp (7 nights, self-catering, flights from London Stansted)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
Just a short boat ride from Athens, the Saronic speck of Agistri is where in-the-know weekenders from the capital come to relax on quiet, pristine beaches such as secluded Chalikiada and sandy, family-friendly Skala. The island’s three postcard-pretty villages are a delightful mix of flower-filled streets, traditional coffee houses and tavernas. Agistri also makes a lovely base for island-hopping adventures, with Poros, Aegina, Spetses and Hydra within easy reach.
Where to Stay: Hotel Agistri
From £910pp (7 nights, self-catering, flights from London Gatwick)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
Halki, a serene gem in the Dodecanese, enchants with its unspoiled charm and tranquil ambiance. With pastel-hued neoclassical homes encircling its picturesque harbor, it’s a haven for those seeking peace. Pristine beaches, like Pondamos, beckon sun-seekers, while crystal-clear waters entice swimmers and snorkelers. Free from mass tourism, Halki offers an authentic Greek experience, blending local traditions, warm hospitality, and breathtaking sunsets that make it an idyllic island retreat.
Where to Stay: Elena Studios
From £623pp (7 nights, self-catering, flights from London Luton)
Travel Date: 3rd May 2025
With so many stunning islands to explore, early booking is the key to securing your dream holiday. Whether you’re after family-friendly beaches, island-hopping adventures, or cultural getaways, Olympic Holidays has exclusive deals and insider tips to make your Greek family holiday unforgettable.
Visit Olympic Holidays to book a trip to one of these top Greek islands now!
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