Your perfect GREEK ISLAND ESCAPE

Whether you're after beautiful beaches or historical wonders, there's a jewel of an island to suit everyone

- HELENA CARTWRIGHT

Santorini

Best for BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

From the island's summit, the pretty village capital of Fira, you'll look down on an inspiring sight - the boats look like mere specks against the inky blue sea. Fira is where you'll find most of the shops, cool bars, and tavernas, with music ranging from traditional bouzouki to modern jazz and rock. But Oia should also be on your list - this cluster of whitewashed buildings hugging the clifftop at the northern tip of the island is the place to be at sunset. Other impressive resorts include Perissa, with its black sand beach, and the shingled Kamari, both with a range of water sports - plus other sleepy, snoozy villages where you can witness Greek life at its best.

Rhodes

Best for HISTORY BUFFS

Rhodes is the biggest island of the Dodecanese archipelago. A massive statue of the god Helios once straddled Rhodes' harbour, and was one of the world's ancient wonders. There's no trace of it today but there's still plenty for history lovers to enjoy. The ruins of 3,000-year-old Kamiros, the walls and cobbled streets of Rhodes Town (one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe), and the acropolis at Lindos are just a handful of reminders of the island's colorful past.

Ithaca

Best for GORGEOUS BEACHES