Greece has long been a favourite destination for UK travellers, with its sun-soaked beaches, rich history and welcoming hospitality. While popular hotspots like Athens and Santorini continue to draw crowds, more and more British holidaymakers are seeking out authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail. Among the many Greek islands, Crete and Corfu are emerging as standout favourites—not just for their beauty, but for the diverse, enriching experiences they offer. Let’s take a closer look at why holidays to Crete and Corfu are capturing the imagination of UK visitors in 2025.
A Tale of Two Islands: Crete vs Corfu
Although both islands are Greek, Crete and Corfu offer very different experiences. Crete is Greece’s largest island, known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient ruins, and traditional villages. Corfu, on the other hand, is greener and more cosmopolitan, heavily influenced by Venetian, French and British rule, which is evident in its architecture and cuisine.
UK travellers often find it hard to choose between the two, and understandably so. If you’re after ancient legends, vast hiking trails, and hearty island culture, Crete is ideal. If you’re drawn to elegant seaside towns, lush scenery and a mix of cultures, Corfu will suit you perfectly.
Why More UK Tourists are Opting for Holidays to Crete
Holidays to Crete are appealing to Brits who are looking for more than just a beach break. While Crete does offer fantastic beaches like Elafonissi and Vai, it also boasts some of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. The Palace of Knossos, considered Europe’s oldest city, is a must-see for history lovers.
UK families and older travellers are particularly drawn to Crete’s diversity. You can explore the rugged Samaria Gorge in the morning, relax in a traditional mountain taverna by lunch, and sip raki on the coast by evening. British tour operators are also increasingly offering bespoke packages to Crete that combine cultural excursions with beach stays.
Moreover, direct flights from multiple UK airports to Heraklion or Chania make it an easily accessible destination, even for a weeklong getaway.
The Charm and Sophistication of Corfu Holidays
Corfu holidays are gaining popularity among UK couples and solo travellers looking for a mix of beach, history, and sophistication. Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often compared to Italian cities due to its pastel-coloured buildings and cobbled alleys. The island’s blend of cultures over the centuries has left it with a rich heritage that is quite distinct from other Greek destinations.
One of the main draws for UK holidaymakers is the island’s verdant landscape. The British introduced cricket to Corfu during their occupation, and the cricket pitch in the centre of Corfu Town remains a curious legacy. With its olive groves, cypress trees and rolling hills, Corfu offers excellent hiking and cycling routes—an increasingly popular holiday choice for active Brits.
Many UK-based travel companies now cater to the growing interest in Corfu holidays, offering boutique accommodations and villa rentals alongside curated experiences like cooking classes and wine tasting tours.
Food, Culture and Local Encounters
One of the strongest reasons UK tourists are choosing these islands is the growing appetite for immersive, local experiences. Whether it’s dining at a family-run seaside restaurant in Crete or shopping at a local artisan market in Corfu, there is an authenticity to be found on both islands that’s often lacking in more commercial destinations.
Cretan cuisine, for example, is considered one of the healthiest in the world, with its emphasis on olive oil, fresh vegetables and wild herbs. In Corfu, you’ll find Italian-influenced dishes like pastitsada (spiced meat stew with pasta) and sofrito (beef in wine and garlic sauce), which are seldom found elsewhere in Greece.
UK tourists are also increasingly interested in supporting sustainable tourism, and both islands offer eco-friendly stays, agritourism experiences and guided nature tours that benefit local communities.
Travel Trends for 2025 and Beyond
Post-pandemic, UK travellers have become more discerning. Flexibility, value for money and meaningful experiences now outweigh the lure of all-inclusive resorts. As a result, destinations like Crete and Corfu, which offer both relaxation and depth, are seeing a surge in bookings.
The rise of remote work has also opened up new possibilities. Many Britons are now extending their stays abroad, working remotely from picturesque locations. With excellent internet connectivity and a laid-back pace of life, both Crete and Corfu are becoming attractive for “workations”.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a family break, a romantic escape or a cultural adventure, holidays to Crete and Corfu offer something for everyone. These islands are not just about pretty beaches and sunshine—they’re about connection, discovery and memory-making. As more UK travellers seek out destinations with heart, Crete and Corfu continue to prove why they are among the best Greece has to offer.
So if you’re dreaming of your next great getaway, maybe it’s time to look beyond the brochure and explore the authentic wonders of Crete and Corfu. Your ideal Greek holiday might be just a short flight away.
