Britons swap popular Greek islands for affordable hidden gems with unspoilt beaches and fewer tourists

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 13/12/2025

- 04:00

Holidaymakers are opting for quiet hidden gems for their next getaway

When thinking of Greek holidays, islands like Santorini, Crete and Mykonos are often the first to spring to mind.

According to new research, Britons are swapping the biggest Greek beach destinations in favour of lesser-known spots.


Experts share four stunning islands to consider booking before they become overrun by tourists. Visiting now brings the promise of quieter beaches and affordable prices.

The TUI data shows a surge in bookings to islands including Samos, Preveza, Kefalonia and Halkidiki, with Samos seeing the biggest increase.

Samos Greece boat and water

Samos has seen the biggest increase in searches

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TUI

Preveza Greece

Bookings are up 10 per cent in Preveza, Greece

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TUI

Bookings are up 118 per cent year-on-year, and it has been praised for "relaxing beaches, emerald water and traditional tavernas".

Despite growing in popularity, it still has fewer tourists than other Greek islands, making it great for a quieter getaway.

This is followed by Preveza, where bookings are up 10 per cent. Holidaymakers can discover unspoilt beaches and an authentic Mediterranean atmosphere.

Kefalonia and Halkidiki have also seen growth. TUI states they "offer great value for couples and families - they’re quickly becoming one of TUI’s most reliable summer favourites".

Commercial director at TUI UK & Ireland, Chris Logan, said: “What we are seeing is Britons exploring Greece in a whole new way.

"These picturesque islands offer incredible beaches, amazing food and fantastic value without the crowds, allowing people the chance to truly relax and indulge.

"The demand shows travellers are ready to go beyond the classics and discover Greece’s hidden gems and TUI makes it simple, with flights, transfers, hotels and 24/7 support all sorted."

Looking for more travel inspiration? An expert shared more trending places to explore on your next holiday.

cove in Kefalonia Greece

Kefalonia "offer great value for couples and families"

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TUI

Halkidiki, Greece

Halkidiki is quickly becoming a summer holiday favourite, according to experts

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TUI

The travel pro analysed social media trends to name what could be classed as the "new wonders of the world", and things definitely worth seeing.

A collection of natural wonders and epic man-made creations featured, with locations everywhere from Europe to Asia getting a mention. For Greece, one of the more popular islands, Santorini, was recommended.

"Blue domes, cliffside sunsets and whitewashed villages make Santorini a permanent viral favourite. It consistently ranks among the top 10 most Instagrammable destinations worldwide and remains the blueprint for aesthetic travel," the expert said.

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