How to Save Money on a Week-long Holiday to the Greek Islands with Kids

Here’s how to enjoy a family holiday in the Greek Islands without overspending, with tips on transportation, accommodation, and family-friendly activities.

How to Get There

Traveling to the Greek Islands from the UK can be affordable if you plan ahead and choose the right time to go. The Greek Islands are served by a mix of direct flights and connecting flights via Athens, with many UK airports offering routes to popular islands like Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and Zakynthos.

• Flights:
  
  Peak Season (June-August): Direct flights to the Greek Islands in the summer tend to be the most expensive, with return fares ranging from £200-£400 per person. School holidays also increase demand, pushing prices higher.
  
  Off-Peak Season (April-May, September-October): You can find significantly cheaper flights during the shoulder seasons, often around £100-£200 return. The weather remains pleasant, and many family-friendly attractions are still open.
  
  Winter (November-March): While flights may be as low as £50-£100 return, the downside is that many resorts close, and some ferry services become less frequent. Bad weather, especially on islands like Corfu, can also be a drawback.
  
  For families, if yu can swing the time away from school, it’s best to target the shoulder seasons to save on flights while still enjoying good weather. Budget airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair frequently offer deals, particularly if you book early. It’s also worth considering flights to Athens with onward domestic connections to the islands, which can sometimes be cheaper than direct routes.
  
  
• Ferries:
  
  If you are visiting multiple islands, ferries are a common mode of transportation. Ferry tickets range from £30-£70 per person for inter-island trips, depending on the distance and type of ferry. Booking in advance can often save money, particularly in peak season.

Typical Weather per Season

The Greek Islands generally enjoy a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:

• Spring (April-May): This is a great time to visit for families looking to save money. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, and the crowds are smaller than in peak summer. Prices for flights and accommodation are also lower.
  
• Summer (June-August): The busiest and most expensive time to visit, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. School holidays make this the most popular time for families, but the cost of flights, accommodation, and attractions will be higher.
  
• Autumn (September-October): Another excellent time to visit. Temperatures remain pleasant, between 20-28°C, and the sea is still warm enough for swimming. Flights and accommodation are more affordable, and many attractions are still open.
  
• Winter (November-March): While the islands are much quieter, with many hotels and attractions closed, this is the most affordable time to visit. However, the weather can be rainy, particularly in the northern islands like Corfu.

For families, May or September offers the best balance between cost and weather, with warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

How to Save Money on Accommodation

The Greek Islands have a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are someexamples that cater to different price points:

1. Budget:
   Maria’s Studios, Zakynthos: Located a short walk from the beach, this family-friendly accommodation offers basic self-catering facilities, which can help cut food costs. Prices start from £45 per night for a family room during off-peak periods and rise to £75 during peak season.
   
2. Mid-Level:
   Folia Apartments, Crete: These mid-range apartments come with a kitchenette, allowing you to prepare meals for the family. They also have a pool and are close to local shops and restaurants. Prices start at £80 per night in the off-peak season and £130 during peak summer.
   
3. Luxury:
   MarBella Corfu Hotel, Corfu: A luxury option that caters well to families, with a kids’ club, pools, and all-inclusive packages. Off-peak prices start at £180 per night, but this can rise to £350 per night in peak summer.

To save on accommodation, consider booking well in advance or looking for last-minute deals. Choosing self-catering apartments can also cut down on dining expenses, especially for families.

Five Must-See Attractions for Children

The Greek Islands are rich in history and natural beauty, offering plenty of family-friendly attractions:

1. Palace of Knossos, Crete: This ancient archaeological site is a great way to introduce kids to history, with ruins dating back thousands of years. Entrance costs around €15 (£13) for adults, with free entry for children under 18.
   
   
2. Samaria Gorge, Crete: For families with older children who enjoy hiking, the Samaria Gorge offers stunning scenery. Entry to the national park costs €5 (£4.30), and it’s free for children under 18.
   
   
3. Aquaworld Aquarium, Crete: A small, family-friendly aquarium where kids can interact with reptiles and marine life. Entry is €6 (£5) for adults and €4 (£3.50) for children.
   
   
4. Butterfly Valley, Rhodes: This natural park is a magical spot for children to see thousands of butterflies. Entry is €5 (£4.30) for adults, and free for children under 12.
   
   
5. Corfu Donkey Rescue, Corfu: A unique and heartwarming attraction, where children can meet and feed rescued donkeys. Donations are welcomed instead of set entrance fees.

Money-Saving Tips

1. Book Flights Early: The earlier you book, the better the deal. Use fare comparison websites like Skyscanner and set up price alerts. Families can particularly benefit from group discounts on budget airlines.
   
   
2. Travel in Shoulder Season: May and September offer the best value, with cheaper flights and accommodation, good weather, and fewer crowds.
   
   
3. Self-Catering Accommodation: Opt for an apartment or villa with a kitchen. Preparing some meals at home will significantly reduce food costs, especially with children.
   
   
4. Use Public Transport: Taxis on the islands can be expensive, so make use of local buses, which are frequent and affordable. For example, a bus ride from Heraklion to Knossos costs around €2 (£1.70) per person.
   
   
5. Family Passes for Attractions: Some attractions, like the Palace of Knossos, offer free or reduced entry for children. Always check before paying full price.
   
   
6. Free Beach Days: Many of the best beaches on the Greek Islands are free. Pack a picnic and enjoy a cost-free day by the sea, avoiding pricey beachside cafes and restaurants.
   
   
7. Eat Where the Locals Eat: Avoid tourist hotspots for meals. Local tavernas often serve better food at lower prices, with family-style dishes like souvlaki or moussaka costing around €7-€10 (£6-£9) per person.
   
   
8. Use Ferry Deals: If you plan to visit multiple islands, look for family discount fares on ferries, which can reduce costs by up to 50%.
   
   
9. Bring Snacks for the Kids: Avoid buying expensive snacks at tourist attractions. Bringing your own snacks from the UK or buying them from local supermarkets will help keep costs down.
   
   
10. Pack Light: Airlines charge hefty fees for extra luggage. Pack efficiently, especially for kids, to avoid these costs.
    
    

A family holiday to the Greek Islands can be affordable with the right planning. By traveling during the shoulder seasons, booking self-catering accommodation, and taking advantage of free or discounted activities, families can enjoy a memorable Greek adventure without breaking the bank.