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In this guide we have collected the most popular islands in Cyprus and Greece for a beach holiday. You will see how the family-oriented resorts, romantic getaways for two and youth party destinations differ, which beaches are comfortable for children, where you will find complete peace and quiet – and where you will find clubs and nightlife.
The package prices are indicative to help you plan your budget, and the short notes on routes and flight options will make it easier to choose the island that best matches your travel style.
Early beach season in Cyprus and a long summer on the Greek islands – comfortable swimming from May until the end of September.
Formats for every taste: all inclusive family resorts, romantic sunsets, party destinations and quiet green islands.
Convenient flights and transfers: direct and connecting departures from Chișinău, Iași and Bucharest plus organized bus tours.
Postcard landscapes: turquoise bays, white and golden beaches, pine forests, cliffs and panoramic viewpoints.
A 7-night package generally starts from around 250–300 € per person, depending on the island and hotel category.
Rich local cuisine, excursions, yachting, diving, snorkelling and wine festivals turn a beach break into a full travel experience.
Cyprus – the southern treasure of the Mediterranean
Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean with a uniquely warm climate and an early start to the beach season in May. Its calling card is the clean coastline and azure sea. The island is ideal for holidays with children: convenient infrastructure, fast access to free public beaches and very low prices for sunbeds (around 2 €).
We recommend looking at the following resorts:
Ayia Napa is the largest resort with active nightlife for young people. It offers a huge selection of all inclusive hotels which are also convenient for families. Among the main sights are the Lovers’ Bridge and Nissi Beach.
Protaras is a quiet resort for secluded family holidays and romantic trips for couples. Its highlight is Fig Tree Bay, a beach in a bay framed by fig trees with a very gentle entry into the sea and especially warm, clear water.
Paphos is an upscale resort with excellent food and some of the best hotel service on the island.
Accommodation in Cyprus can be quite affordable when booked early. Another important advantage is the budget-friendly transfer from Larnaca airport to Ayia Napa and Protaras. Overall, Cyprus is a great option: you can find a 7-night package for around 250–300 €.
Corfu – the green paradise of the Ionian Sea
Corfu will impress you with its rocky landscape and unique Mediterranean nature with many picturesque bays. The resorts offer a huge number of excursions, and the compact size of the island allows you to see its main sights even without renting a car.
Places of interest:
Paleokastritsa is a beautiful bay on the western side of the island. Along the surrounding hills there are several viewpoints with breathtaking panoramas of the sea and nearby islands – perfect for photos and true relaxation. The bay is framed by green hills, and the beaches are covered with small, pretty pebbles.
Kerkyra, the old town, is steeped in the atmosphere of Venetian forts and grand palaces. Traditional tavernas and historic squares make it the perfect place for an evening stroll after a day at the beach.
Canal d’Amour is a scenic beach in a small bay on the north-west coast of Corfu. It is a narrow arc of coastline between cliffs formed over time by the sea and wind. The secluded atmosphere makes it ideal for romantic dates – hence the name.
Corfu is a true paradise for Mediterranean cuisine lovers, shaped by Greek, Italian and Venetian influences. Meat lovers should try Sofrito – beef stewed in wine with olive oil, garlic and spices. You will also find a wide variety of wines and seafood dishes.
The island meets visitors with the unusual colour of the Ionian Sea, and the long swimming season from June until the end of September lets you plan your vacation flexibly. Most beaches are pebbly or mixed sand-and-pebble, something to keep in mind if you travel with children.
Zakynthos – the pearl of Greece with incredible nature
Zakynthos is one of the main calling cards of Greece and is extremely popular with tourists, so it is not the best choice if you are looking for a completely quiet and secluded holiday. We strongly recommend visiting Navagio Bay with its unique natural phenomenon – sea water of an exceptionally deep blue colour.
Most of the infrastructure is concentrated on the eastern part of the island, with a large selection of restaurants, shops and excursions in different directions.
Sights of Zakynthos:
The Navagio Shipwreck, often called “Shipwreck Beach” in guidebooks, captivates with its beauty, atmosphere and a touch of mystery. On the beach lie the remains of a wrecked cargo ship. It is located on the western coast of the island and is an amazing place for photo shoots.
Bochali Castle towers above the island’s capital, offering spectacular views of the sea. It is a popular excursion site where you can easily find group tours with multilingual guides.
Despite its great popularity with tourists, Zakynthos still has quiet deserted beaches, small villages and other interesting places where you can enjoy peace and privacy away from the crowds.
Thassos – untouched beauty and silence
Thassos is a small paradise island famous for its beautiful beaches, untouched nature and private, secluded atmosphere.
Recommended beaches:
Paradise Beach – ideal for a classic day by the sea.
Marble Beach – a very photogenic spot with an easy entrance into the water and clean, light sand and pebbles.
Golden Beach – fine golden sand and a gentle slope into the sea, perfect for holidays with children.
All beaches on Thassos are framed by pine forests. The combination of turquoise sea, silence and the scent of pine creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
Besides its outstanding beaches, Thassos is rich in cultural attractions. The ancient theatre in the island’s capital allows you to immerse yourself in the history of classical Greece.
Visit Mount Ipsario – the highest point of the island, from where there are stunning views of the coastline and bays.
The Archangel Michael Monastery on the eastern side of the island is a must-see. It is a historic site built in classic Byzantine style.
In Limenas, the island’s capital, and other major settlements you will find traditional markets and shops. Here tourists can buy local products, souvenirs and handmade crafts that reflect the authentic island lifestyle.
Guests should definitely try local dishes prepared from home-grown products. The island’s oil mills produce high-quality olive oil, which gives traditional Greek salads, appetisers and main dishes a special taste and aroma.
There is no airport on Thassos. How to get there:
1. By your own car.
2. By plane to Thessaloniki, then transfer and ferry to the island.
3. By charter bus.
In 2026 a direct bus route from Chișinău to Thassos is planned, with tour prices from about 250 € for 7 days. Do not miss the chance to visit this paradise island!
Lefkada – secluded paradise with white beaches
Lefkada is a Mediterranean island with excellent reviews – a secluded place with white beaches beneath sheer cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise water. Much of the island is covered with beautiful, largely untouched forest.
Lefkada has a rich historical heritage. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Santa Mavra Castle.
The island’s unique cuisine combines Greek and European traditions with local touches. Try feta with honey, classic meze and fresh seafood. Seafront restaurants are the perfect way to enjoy these specialities with a beautiful view.
Various events and celebrations take place on Lefkada, including wine festivals and a sports regatta held for the city day of Lefkas.
Ecotourism is actively promoted. Hiking routes through protected areas allow travellers to enjoy nature while minimising their impact on the environment. The hilly terrain with noticeable elevation changes offers trails of different difficulty levels, suitable both for beginners and experienced hikers.
Lefkada is famous for its romantic atmosphere and is often called “the island of love”. The island is home to the famous Milos beach which, according to ancient Greek myths, is the birthplace of Aphrodite rising from the sea. Lefkada has become a popular choice for weddings and romantic walks.
Route options:
1. Flight to Preveza airport (options from Bucharest, as well as from Chișinău with a connection) and car rental on site.
2. Travelling by your own car.
The price of a 7-night tour with flights starts from around 500 €. Without flights, packages start from about 300 €.
Rhodes – an ideal choice for family holidays
Rhodes is an excellent option for families. It offers sandy beaches with a gentle entry into the sea and short distances between the main sights (around 30–50 minutes by bus).
The island welcomes visitors with comfortable hotel complexes and a wide range of entertainment – from classic beach holidays to nightlife and excursions.
Resorts on Rhodes offer many activities:
jet skis
sailing and yachting
diving
snorkelling
Sights of Rhodes:
The Old Town (also known as the Medina) is the historical centre of the island and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Its main landmark is the palace built in the 14th century – a striking example of late medieval architecture.
Kamiros is an archaeological site with the ruins of an ancient city on the north-west of the island. We recommend visiting the temples of Athena and Apollo and the ancient fountain, which is remarkably well preserved after thousands of years.
For lovers of active fun we recommend the “Water World” water park in Faliraki – a large complex with different slides and attractions for all ages, café areas, shops and exhibitions. It operates during the summer season and is a very popular place for families.
Rhodes’ cuisine offers a wide selection of classic seafood dishes as well as local healthy options based on fruit and vegetables. Desserts made from natural ingredients are particularly popular – for example jams from plum, orange, apricot, chestnut and cherry cooked in thick syrup with almonds and hazelnuts and used to decorate cakes and pastries.
You can reach Rhodes conveniently with a charter flight via Iași, and package prices start from around 350 € with flights included.
Crete – the most popular island in the Mediterranean
Crete is the largest and one of the most popular islands in the Mediterranean. Those who prefer an active holiday will appreciate Hersonissos – a resort with many clubs, bars and restaurants. For family holidays, the village of Bali with convenient beaches and all inclusive hotels is a great option.
The island’s rich history means there is a wide range of excursions, usually with reasonable prices and a good variety of sights.
We also recommend visiting:
Chania is one of the most beautiful cities on Crete. The old harbour, narrow streets, Venetian architecture and countless tavernas serving local cuisine create an atmosphere that stays with you for a long time.
Heraklion is the capital and largest city of the island. Here you will find numerous historical attractions, including palace complexes in and around Heraklion, the frescoes from the Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum. The city is also known for well-organised beaches such as Ammoudara and Gouves.
Rethymno combines majestic Venetian architecture with traditional Greek charm. The old town is filled with narrow streets, tavernas and small shops. Nearby you will find the beautiful Preveli beach with clean water, soft sandy shore and palm trees.
A major advantage of Crete is its airport, with direct flights from Chișinău, Iași and Bucharest. There is usually a wide choice of last-minute deals as well as attractive early booking offers, with tour prices starting from about 350 €.
Santorini – a fashionable Greek island getaway
Santorini is ideal for those who love a relaxed holiday with a special aesthetic and unmistakable Greek character. The island is full of photogenic spots and walking routes, has excellent beaches and a strong choice of luxury hotels with exemplary service – which is why it consistently appears in top-10 island rankings.
Oia is the most popular place to watch the sunset. The view of the sun sinking into the Aegean Sea is truly unique. The restaurants and cafés here create a romantic atmosphere that is perfect for couples.
We also recommend visiting the town of Fira on the western coast. It stands out for its unusual architecture and beautiful views over the island’s rocky bays. You can stroll along cosy streets, visit museums and enjoy authentic restaurants. Fira is easily recognisable by its white houses perched high on the cliffs, and many wedding ceremonies are held here with breathtaking sea views.
The best beaches on Santorini are Kamari and Perissa. They offer comfortable infrastructure for a classic day on the beach as well as equipment rentals for water skiing, diving and surfing. The sand is finely grained, and the water remains clean and warm even at the end of the tourist season.
Beach lovers will appreciate the summer temperatures, which rarely move outside the comfortable 27–30 °C range.
Tour prices for Santorini start from around 500–600 € per person with flights included. There are direct departures from Iași and Bucharest, while from Chișinău you will need at least one connection. Another option is to fly to Crete and book a one-day excursion to Santorini from there.
Skiathos – a new destination for a quiet holiday
We also suggest a newer destination – the Greek island of Skiathos . The island’s compact size makes moving between attractions easy, while the combination of pine forests and clean beaches puts Skiathos among the top-10 most beautiful islands. Travellers who value peace and quiet will appreciate the sense of seclusion here.
We recommend visiting Koukounaries Beach, which in terms of convenience and infrastructure rivals the best-known Greek resorts.
Lalaria Beach is one of the most famous beaches on Skiathos. It can only be reached by boat, which makes it particularly secluded. The beach is known for its white marble pebbles and crystal-clear water.
Agia Eleni Beach is another quiet spot, ideal for a romantic escape for two. Even in high season there are fewer tourists than on other popular beaches, and the water and sand here are especially clean.
Skiathos offers many accommodation options – from luxury resorts with high-end service to cosy apartments. Many hotels are located close to the beaches, providing easy access to the sea.
The infrastructure for active holidays includes diving, windsurfing, yachting and other sports.
Skiathos is a place where modern infrastructure blends with untouched nature, creating excellent conditions for a holiday of almost any style.
You can reach the island by direct flight from Bucharest, and package prices start from around 350–400 €.
Mykonos – the Instagram island of the stars
The island is a favourite holiday spot for many celebrities, and the main highlight of Mykonos is its superb beaches that have been awarded the international “Blue Flag” for cleanliness and quality services. Platis Gialos stands out in particular with well-organised infrastructure and very clear water.
Super Paradise Beach is famous for open-air parties and a dynamic festive atmosphere. Here you can enjoy music, dancing directly on the sand and excellent cocktails. During the day the beach becomes a centre of activity for surfers and divers.
Ornos is an excellent choice for families. The beach has everything you need: tavernas, cafés, shops and good facilities for water sports. Soft sand and clear water make it comfortable even for small children.
Elia is one of the longest beaches on Mykonos, with crystal-clear water and light, soft sand. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented for reasonable prices, and the long seafront helps avoid overcrowding in peak season.
Yachting is particularly popular on Mykonos. The island offers a wide choice of boats for rent – from small motorboats to luxury yachts – as well as exclusive tours with a private crew. This is a great option for those seeking maximum comfort and a touch of glamour. At different times of year, various yachting festivals, regattas and other events take place.
Mykonos is also a starting point for many cruises around nearby Aegean islands such as Santorini, Naxos, Paros and Delos. One of the most memorable options is a romantic sunset cruise including dinner on board with traditional Greek dishes and wines.
The island is perfect for active nightlife thanks to its many parties and youth events. You will find a wide selection of 5-star hotels with some of the best SPA centres in Greece.
There are direct flights from Bucharest to Mykonos, and tour prices start from around 350–450 €.
What to do on the islands of Greece and Cyprus
Start the morning on the beach near your hotel. In Cyprus that might be Ayia Napa or Protaras, while in Greece you could choose Corfu, Zakynthos, Crete, Rhodes or a quieter island like Thassos or Lefkada. Have breakfast with a sea view in a beachfront café or taverna.
Around midday head for a city or cultural excursion: the Old Town of Rhodes, Kerkyra on Corfu, Heraklion or Chania on Crete, Limenas on Thassos or Fira on Santorini. This is a great way to combine architecture, history and strolls through atmospheric streets.
In the afternoon choose a boat trip: a cruise to Navagio Bay, Canal d’Amour, the sheer-cliff beaches of Lefkada, the caldera views of Santorini, or a loop around Mykonos or Skiathos. Many places offer diving, snorkelling and windsurfing.
In the evening sit down in a traditional taverna to try Sofrito on Corfu, fresh seafood on Crete and Lefkada, desserts and jams on Rhodes and local wines almost everywhere. If you like nightlife, finish the day in Ayia Napa, Hersonissos or Mykonos at a club or beach party.
For nature lovers, plan hiking routes on Lefkada, a hike up Mount Ipsario on Thassos or visits to various viewpoints such as Paleokastritsa or the hills above Fira and Oia to catch the best sunsets.
Sample 1-day itinerary
Morning: relax on the beach closest to your hotel – for example Nissi Beach or Fig Tree Bay in Cyprus, or a family-friendly bay on Rhodes, Crete or Thassos. Swim, sunbathe and enjoy a leisurely coffee.
Late morning and early afternoon: go on a city tour. Explore the Old Town of Rhodes, the narrow streets of Kerkyra, the historical layers of Heraklion or Chania, or the white houses of Fira. Combine sightseeing with a light lunch at a taverna.
Afternoon: take a sea excursion – by boat to Navagio Bay, Canal d’Amour, the white beaches of Lefkada, or a caldera cruise around Santorini. On Mykonos or Skiathos you can also opt for a short yacht trip with swimming stops.
Evening: have dinner with local wine in a seafront restaurant, stroll along the promenade and watch the sunset. If you are on a party island, you can continue the evening in bars and clubs; if you prefer peace and quiet, enjoy a calm walk under the stars.
Sample 2-day itinerary
Day 1: focus on your base resort. Explore the beach, nearby cafés and shops, check out possible excursions and enjoy a relaxed first day. In the afternoon, take a short tour to the island’s capital or nearest old town for a first taste of local history and architecture.
Day 2: make it “exploration day”. Rent a car or join an organised tour with transfers. Visit two or three beaches and several viewpoints – for example Paleokastritsa and Canal d’Amour on Corfu, Golden Beach and Marble Beach on Thassos, or Milos and other beaches on Lefkada. Fit in a short hike or a stop in a mountain village if you wish.
This 2-day scenario works both for an extended weekend and in a longer stay, where you simply alternate “beach day” with “excursion day” to keep the holiday varied and interesting.
How to get to the islands
For Cyprus the most convenient arrival point is Larnaca airport, from where it is easy to reach Ayia Napa and Protaras by transfer. It is one of the simplest and most budget-friendly combinations of flight and transfer for families.
Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos and Lefkada are usually reached by flights from Chișinău, Iași and Bucharest – some direct, some with connections. For Lefkada, a popular plan is flying to Preveza and renting a car.
Skiathos and similar islands often appear as charter packages from Bucharest with direct flights or as organised excursion programmes.
Thassos can be reached by your own car or by flying to Thessaloniki and continuing by transfer and ferry. A direct bus route from Chișinău is planned, with 7-night packages starting from around 250 €.
For some destinations, a combined trip works very well: for example, fly to Crete and add a one-day excursion to Santorini, or join a short cruise visiting several islands in the Aegean Sea during one holiday.
Frequently asked questions about the islands of Greece and Cyprus
When is the best time to visit Cyprus and the Greek islands?
The most comfortable period is usually from May to the end of September. May–June and September are a bit cooler and less crowded, while July–August offer the warmest sea.
Which island is best for a family holiday with children?
Cyprus (Ayia Napa, Protaras), Rhodes with its sandy beaches and water park, as well as Thassos and Golden Beach with shallow water are all great family choices.
Where can I find the quietest and most secluded atmosphere?
For peace and nature, choose Thassos, Lefkada or Skiathos. They have many quiet coves, green landscapes and a calmer vibe than the party islands.
Which island has the most impressive views and sunsets?
Santorini is famous for its sunsets (especially in Oia and Fira), but you will also find spectacular viewpoints in Paleokastritsa on Corfu and Navagio Bay on Zakynthos.
Which islands are best for nightlife and clubs?
For nightlife and clubs, look at Ayia Napa in Cyprus, Hersonissos on Crete and Mykonos – the top party destination for young travellers.
Where are the most beautiful white or golden sandy beaches?
Check out Lefkada with its white cliffs and beaches, Golden Beach on Thassos, Elia and Platis Gialos on Mykonos and the Kamari and Perissa beaches on Santorini.
From which cities can I fly to the islands?
It depends on the island and season, but most routes use flights from Chișinău, Iași and Bucharest. Some flights are direct and some involve a connection.
Can I visit several islands in one trip?
Yes. A popular option is “Crete + Santorini”, as well as short cruises with several Aegean island stops or day trips to neighbouring islands.
What is a rough budget for 7 nights on the islands?
On average, packages start from 250–300 € per person for simpler options and from around 350–600 € for more popular or upscale islands with flights included.
Do I really need to rent a car on the islands?
On smaller islands like Corfu or Skiathos you can manage with excursions and public transport. On Lefkada, Crete or Rhodes, a car gives you more freedom and access to remote beaches.
Which island should I choose for my first trip to Greece?
Crete and Rhodes are universal choices with many hotels, beaches and excursions. For romance, choose Santorini; for more nightlife, pick Mykonos or Hersonissos.
Is there more to do than just beaches and the sea?
Absolutely. You will find ancient ruins, castles and monasteries, wine festivals, food tours, hiking trails, yachting and walks through old towns with Venetian-style architecture.
