We're planning a trip with our 3 adults sons and one daughter-in-law (ages 26 to 32) for a week in early September (fingers crossed). We're looking to rent a villa with a swimming pool since they would like a lot of relaxing time, but would probably also like to go to the beach (and hike and do cultural activities). Which Greek island should we choose (and what part of it)? We need an island that can be flown to directly from somewhere in Europe (so they only make one connection from the US). We've already been to Crete, Naxos, and Santorini (as well as the mainland). I'm thinking of Corfu right now. Thanks for your advice!
Posted by
Camarillo, California
3148 posts
Consider Paros and Antiparos.
Posted by
OP
Lausanne, Switzerland
30 posts
No direct flights this summer to those islands....
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15781 posts
I'd start by trying to find flights since that appears to be your number one criterion. I usually start by going to the wiki page for a given airport. Each one has a table with all the destinations and airlines. I haven't tried it but there's probably a way to see which islands have airports. Or maybe look at the wiki page for Athens airport to get a list of islands with airports. I'd assume that there wouldn't be flights from anywhere else if there aren't any from Athens.
Then come back with a specific list of possible destinations to get opinions and advice.
Posted by
OP
Lausanne, Switzerland
30 posts
Oops, sorry I didn't include that info. It's already been published which airports they are opening to international tourists (Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Chania, Rhodes, Kos, Mykonos, Santorini and Corfu). So for us, the choice would be between Rhodes, Kos, and Corfu. (Mykonos probably too much of a party island and the others we've been to).
Any opinions between those 3 islands, and if so, what part of the island to go to?
Thanks!
Posted by
Corinth, Greece
39 posts
Hi Diana, all of these three destinations are similar between them. They are family friendly and have places of natural beauty, historical sites, modern tourist facilities etc. I believe one week is good time to explore them. Just keep in your mind that the islands of Rhodes and Kos are close to each other and have daily boat connection. Ideally for 2 destinations in one holiday. Have a good time there whatever you will choose!
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1441 posts
When we brought our adult Children to Greece we wanted to take them to places we had already visited. That way we know where the highlights are, the best way to get around, where to eat and hotels that would suit us. It seems to me that going to a place you already know may make the trip a richer experience for the newcomers.
While you say you have been to Crete, it is huge. It will take a month to see all of it in a superficial way. Have you seen all of Crete?
If not and you want a brand new experience then I suspect you can probably finds an areas of Crete that you have not seen before.
I see Chania is on the list where direct international flights go.
Posted by
OP
Lausanne, Switzerland
30 posts
I agree that there is more to see in Crete but one of the sons already came with us there and asked for a new destination. Since they like ancient history so much, it seems like Rhodes might be a good choice. Does anyone know the best area to stay in Rhodes (with a pretty beach near by)? Thanks.