You want to take a well-deserved vacation but aren’t sure where to go this summer vacation? We’ve got you covered, don’t worry! We’ve compiled a list of our 50 favourite sun destinations, including some classics like the Algarve and Marbella, as well as some more daring destinations on the other side of the globe – so whether you’re an adventurer or a beach bum, prefer short-haul over long-haul, prefer a beach villa or a resort, planning a honeymoon or a girls’ trip, you’ll find the perfect holiday destination here!
Those who wan Low fares, near proximity, and virtually year-round sunshine; here are our top picks for soaking up the Mediterranean sun:
Corfu
Corfu is far more than its stunning cobalt-hued waves and tawny coastline, as one of the largest and greenest of the Ionian Islands. Each summer, it continues to entice visitors with its attractive rural vistas, UNESCO World Heritage status, and blankets of history, providing a unique getaway from tourist traps.
Take a break from the beautiful beaches of Corfu and visit Mount Pantokrator. Corfu’s highest peak, towering at 906 metres and overlooking the islands’ northeast section, is a must-see. At the top, you can also skydive. Take the leap and try skydiving if you enjoyed that. You’ll never look back and be sorry.
Must eat: Seafood is a big part of the Corfiot diet. So go to Maistro Resturant, which has a stunning seaside location and an equally impressive menu. If it were up to me, I’d order the white wine-braised mussels with garlic and crumbled feta cheese, since cheese is life.
Villa Piedra Barbati is a great place to stay.
Crete
The island of Crete is the kind of spot where you can live out all of your Greek vacation fantasies. Greece’s largest island has it all: crystal-clear blue waters, postcard-worthy beachfront towns, plenty of history, and a jaw-dropping environment. There is no Greek island that provides more variety, whether you wish to explore the Samaria Gorge or wander the dramatic twisting alleyways of Chania, take a boat journey to lonely beaches, or master the art of Cretan cookery.
Wanderers are the best fit.
Must see: Tropic like it’s hot on Elafonissi Beach, which earned the nickname “Creta’s Caribbean” for a reason. It’s one of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, with white and pink sand swirling around warm, clear waters.
Must eat: Palazzo Almare, with its spectacular alfresco dining area overlooking Chania’s old harbour, is as well-known for its location as it is for its cuisine.
Sea Queen Villa is the place to stay.
Mykonos
Mykonos ticks all three boxes if you’re looking for a resort with a party-hard attitude, well-heeled A-listers, and hip new stuff. It was one of the first Greek islands to be recognised as a vacation spot, and it has been popular since the 1960s. On Mykonos, there are more than 25 beaches, all but a few of which are well-equipped with loungers, umbrellas, water sports, beach bars, restaurants, and markets. They are great for almost everyone because of the golden sand and shallow, clean water.
Who it’s best for: Trendy vacationers.
The distinctive 16th-century windmills that dominate Mykonos town’s landscape are a must-see. They were previously utilised to give wheat and bread to the inhabitants.
Must try: Buddha Bar Beach serves a delectable array of Pacific Rim cuisine, including ceviche, sushi, dumplings, noodles, and more.
Villa Phi 1 is a great place to stay.
Santorini
The volcanic geology of the island contributes considerably to its drama; the villages is situated on top of steep cliffs and boasts white-washed buildings interspersed with blue church domes with dazzling flashes of candy hues. Swoon.
Romantics are the best fit.
Take in the sunset from Oia, which is a must-see. You’ll fall in love with the maze of cobblestones and, most famously, the blue-domed church, which is often dubbed one of Santorini’s finest towns. It’s the only way to obtain your Grecian.
Must eat: Psaraki has some of the best seafood in Greece (and value for money). The restaurant has a view of the main fishing port on the island. The cuisine includes sea urchin, pig “souvlaki” and classic filo pastry desserts.
Where to stay: Villa Sophia.
Paros
Even though Paros rests in the shadows of the spotlight, it continues to attract a constant stream of summer visitors.
Best for: Experiencing life as a local.
Must see: To get a true sense of Paros, take a stroll through the white-washed streets of Old Town, which lead to the island’s lovely port.
Must eat: Siparos is located on Santa Maria Beach, and believe us when we say it’s delicious.
Mr & Mrs White is a combination of simplicity and laid-back luxury. This modern hotel combines high-end luxury with old-fashioned warmth.
Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest and most visited of the Dodecanese Islands, with a charming ancient Old Town, gleaming beach resorts, and 300 days of sunshine. The town is the most popular, but don’t worry, there are still private locations throughout the island. If anything, it’s worth renting a car and taking some off-the-beaten-path detours, passing by beaches and charming coastal towns along the way. Exhale, sunbathers: the island features a large array of beaches, each one distinct in its own way. Tsambika, Ladiko, and Kallithea are among the best beaches. Prassonisi, on the southern shore, is great for kitesurfing, if that’s something you’re interested in.
Best for: Culture vultures, beach bums, you name it, Rhodes is a fantastic fit for everyone.
Must see: The citadel of Rhodes is one of Europe’s best-preserved mediaeval towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s safe to say it should be at the top of your must-see list!
Must-try: Mavrikos, a family-run restaurant that opened in 1933, is one of the area’s oldest. It’s become somewhat of an institution throughout the years, and you may enjoy traditional cuisine that have been updated and modernised there.
Villa Atavyria is a great place to stay.
