Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands. This Mediterranean hotspot is known for both its historic archaeological sites and for its mountainous landscape. Those interested in Greek history will enjoy exploring the Bronze Age ruins that give a glimpse into life in some of Europe’s oldest cities. And those with a love of the great outdoors should head to Imbros Gorge. The family-friendly walking trail through the cypresses, oaks, and maples takes two to three hours to complete.
Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zante are all located in the Ionian Sea, to the west of mainland Greece. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll be able to spot signs of the Ionian Islands’ period of Venetian rule, such as the iconic Lion of St. Mark symbol on Corfu’s fortress. The cuisine here is quite different from that in other parts of Greece. Heavily influenced by Italy, a staple dish is pastitsada, which is a garlic and white wine infused tomato sauce served with meat and pasta.
Rhodes, Santorini, Kos, and Mykonos are just some of the destinations making up the South Aegean Islands. Lying to the east of mainland Greece, the islands combine a lively beach scene with historic acropolises. For history, the island of Rhodes boasts a UNESCO-listed medieval old town where you can stroll around the walls of the fort. For beaches, Kos and Mykonos are great choices. In fact, the coastline of Kos features no less than 290 kilometres of soft sands.