How to use Avios to explore Greece: Flights, islands, and insider tips

Last Updated: 16 May 2025

Avios Destinations

Much has changed since Homer imagined Odysseus setting sail across the Aegean, but let's face it: Greece still doesn't need much selling. Each island has its own flavour, and getting there has never been easier, thanks to British Airways reward flights.

But no two travellers are the same. What makes Greece stand out is that it works for all kinds of trips. Romantic getaway? Family holiday? Reunion with your oldest friends? Solo adventure? There's a version of Greece for that.

In this blog, we explore the best places to visit, how to get there, and how to make the most of your Avios points for flights.

For Couples: Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes

Looking for somewhere built for two? These three islands are tailor-made for romantic breaks, whether you want peace, parties, or a bit of both. Santorini sets the scene with its steep cliffs, sunsets, and volcanic beaches, Mykonos is perfect if you want cobbled alleys by day and beach clubs by night, and Rhodes is all about long walks, medieval towns, and secret coves that feel made just for you.

Here's what we recommend:

Santorini:

Wander through Oia. Sure, it gets busy, but early evening here is magic. Perfect for a proposal or just holding hands in the golden light.
Hike the caldera path from Fira to Oia. It’s one of the most scenic walks in the Med, with postcard views the entire way.
Stay in Pyrgos or Imerovigli. These villages have the same sweeping views as the Caldera but with fewer crowds and better value.
Tour a local vineyard. Santorini's volcanic soil gives its wines a bold, mineral edge. Book a tasting and toast to being away together.
If you’re celebrating something special, sail on a private sunset cruise. See the Red and White Beaches from the water, swim in warm spring pools, and finish with a classic Santorini sunset.

Mykonos:

Catch the sunset by the windmills. Bring a bottle of wine, grab a quiet spot, and soak it all in.
Book a private yacht cruise if you’re up for a little indulgence. Island-hop to Delos, snorkel in hidden bays or sunbathe with the Aegean as your backdrop.
Dine in Little Venice. There's nothing quite like eating fresh seafood with your feet almost touching the water.
Dance the night away. You'll find the spot that fits your mood without looking too hard; the appeal covers sipping cocktails at Scorpios as well as lounging at Principote.
Cook together. Sign up for a cooking class or wine tasting and make it a delicious date.

Rhodes:

Take a romantic walk through Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO-listed maze of cobbled lanes and stone arches.
Climb to the Lindos Acropolis: sweeping views, ancient columns and a feeling of being somewhere truly timeless.
Unwind at St Paul's Bay. Small, quiet and framed by cliffs, it's one of the most romantic spots on the island.
Charter a sailing trip if you want a moment to remember. Visit nearby islands, swim in sapphire waters and have lunch on deck with no one else around.
Dine under the stars. Rhodes Town has plenty of tucked-away tavernas where you can share a mezze platter and drink ouzo until the night winds down.

You can reach each island with an off-peak Economy British Airways reward flight from London for just 27,500 Avios plus £1. That's not a bad answer to the question: How do I use Avios points?

For Families: Crete, Corfu, Halkidiki

Travelling with kids? Greece keeps things simple. Crete has a variety of beaches, ruins, resorts, and farms, Corfu is compact, easy-going, and great for all ages, and Halkidiki, while technically not an island, still doesn't disappoint with its forests, space, and quiet beaches perfect for younger travellers.

Here's what we recommend:

Crete:

Explore the Palace of Knossos. Lots of guided family tours and hands-on activities are available. Then, visit Heraklion's excellent Archaeological Museum.
Visit a water park. Watercity and Acqua Plus are both full of pools, slides, and shaded areas for younger kids, a hit across all age groups.
Stay at a family-friendly beach hotel. Resorts like Porto Elounda provide everything from watersports to arts and crafts, plus wellness programmes designed just for kids.
Enjoy a local cooking or farm experience. Meet goats, make cheese, or try your hand at Cretan pies during one of the many immersive day trips around the island.
Pack the sunscreen and head to family favourites like Elafonissi and Golden Beach. The water’s gentle and there’s lots of room to play.

Corfu:

Spend a day at Aqua. It’s one of Europe's biggest water parks, packed with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones.
Explore Corfu Town, a UNESCO-listed capital that’s mostly car-free and easy to walk in. Great for a meandering afternoon with gelato in hand.
Take a boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos. These nearby islands are known for their turquoise waters and quiet beaches, perfect for a low-key family adventure.
Visit the Achilleion Palace and Mon Repos. Both are cultural but relaxed, with space for kids to explore and gardens to run around.
Try hands-on local experiences. Learn about olive oil at Mavroudis Farm, get up close with sea life at the Corfu Aquarium, or enjoy an interactive history lesson at Casa Parlante.

Halkidiki:

Relax on the beaches of Kassandra and Sithonia. Long, shallow and safe, many are Blue Flag-certified, with sunbeds, beach bars and watersports for all ages.
Take a boat trip to Ammouliani, a tiny island off the Athos coast with some of the most family-friendly beaches in the region.
Be a beekeeper for a day. Holomontas Forest arranges workshops in which children learn how local honey is made and taste the results.
Explore caves, waterfalls and ancient ruins. The Cave of Petralona, the Varvara waterfalls, and the site of Ancient Stagira add a little adventure to your trip.
Visit Aristotle's Park. This green hillside park is great for curious kids, with interactive exhibits and outdoor play areas.

Crete and Corfu both cost 27,500 Avios plus £1 from London, using your Avios points for flights. The island of Halkidiki is just a short drive from Thessaloniki, which is reachable via another off-peak British Airways reward flight at the same rate.

For Friend Groups: Kos, Zante, Skiathos

Post-exams, reunion, big birthday? Greece handles group holidays with ease. Kos has history and party energy, Zante is wild after dark but surprisingly peaceful by day, and Skiathos is smaller but stacked with beaches, bars and boat trips.

Here's what we recommend:

Kos:

Explore the ruins of Asklepion, once a healing centre of ancient Greece that’s still impressive today.
Spend a lazy day on Tigaki Beach or head to Mastichari for something quieter.
Rent bikes and cruise along the beach promenade into town.
Take a boat trip to nearby volcanic islands or hot springs.
Watch the sunset from a rooftop bar in Kos Town with cold beers and good tunes.

Zante:

Visit Navagio Beach by boat. It's remote, iconic, and as photogenic as it gets.
Go turtle spotting in Laganas Bay. Loggerheads nest here, and it's a surreal experience seeing them up close.
Hire a boat and explore Keri Caves or Marathonisi Island.
Grab dinner in Zakynthos Town and hit Cameo Island for drinks under fairy lights.
Party the night away in Laganas. Think foam parties, open-air clubs, and DJ sets until dawn.

Skiathos:

Spend the day at Koukounaries Beach. Golden sand, turquoise water, and a beach bar every few metres.
Take a boat out to Lalaria Beach. You can only get there by sea, but the moment you see those dramatic white cliffs and glowing blue water, you’ll know why it’s worth it.
Go bar-hopping in Skiathos Town and explore chilled sunset spots and late-night clubs.
Explore Bourtzi, a little peninsula fortress with a killer view and a great café.
Hike to hidden monasteries or head up to a hilltop café to catch the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

Off-peak Economy flights to each of these islands are 27,500 Avios plus £1. Book with your Avios points credit card and save the rest for the group tab.

For Active Travellers: Paros, Crete, Kefalonia

If "holiday" to you means hiking boots and salt in your hair, head to one of these. Paros is near Athens, and it’s perfect for windsurfing and coastal treks.

Crete brings big landscapes such as gorges, plateaus, and deep-sea dives, and Kefalonia is lush, mountainous, and a dream for both hikers and divers.

Here's what we recommend:

Paros:

Walk the Byzantine Path. This centuries-old trail connects the Lefkes and Prodromos villages. Stone walkways lead through olive groves and open up to wide Aegean views.
Go kitesurfing or windsurfing. Head to Golden Beach or New Golden Beach, where the summer Meltemi winds create perfect conditions. Lessons and rentals are easy to come by.
Dive or snorkel off Antiparos. The nearby island is a hotspot for underwater caves and clear-as-glass water. Expect colourful sea life and surreal rock formations.
Head to Paros Park for coastal hikes, sea cliffs, and the Lighthouse Trail. It’s one of the best spots to catch the sunset.
Hop on a mountain bike. Ride through villages like Marpissa and Piso Livadi or follow the coast for sea views and a good sweat.

Crete:

Dive into the deep. You'll find underwater caves, sunken ships and even the occasional monk seal. There are dive centres across the island, especially in Chania and Elounda.
Kitesurf at Elafonisi or Falasarna. These beaches combine postcard-perfect scenery with serious wind conditions. Perfect for beginners and pros alike.
Hike the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest and most dramatic gorges. It's a full-day experience and not for the faint-hearted.
Go bungee jumping in Aradena Gorge, Europe's second-highest jump. The views are wild and so is the drop.
Cycle the Lasithi Plateau. Wide open skies, ancient windmills, and challenging terrain await anyone keen to pedal further afield.

Kefalonia:

Hike Mount Ainos. The tallest peak in the Ionian Islands provides sweeping views, rare fir forests, and the occasional wild pony. The trails vary from easy to challenging.
Try SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) yoga and water sports at Skala or jump into jet-skiing and banana boating with friends.
Advanced divers can head to the Blue Canyon or Temple Cave, an underwater wall and cave system off the coast of Lassi. It's as dramatic as it sounds.
Walk the coast from Sami to Antisamos. It’s one of the island's most scenic routes, with clear signage and jaw-dropping views.
Discover Potisti Waterfalls (in season). Hike inland from Poros to this little-known natural spot, best visited in spring or after rains.
Explore caves and ruins. Drogarati Cave's stalactites are mind-blowing, and the Roman Villa in Skala adds a dose of history to your adventure.

Paros is a quick ferry from Athens, which you can fly to for 27,500 Avios plus £1. The same goes for Kefalonia and Crete.

For Fly-and-Floppers: Corfu, Kos, Skiathos

Some holidays are about doing nothing and doing it well. If you're after sand, swims and slow lunches, these three are hard to beat. Corfu gives you variety, Kos provides simplicity and long, sandy shores, and Skiathos is just beach after beach.

Here's what we recommend:

Corfu:

Glyfada: An all-round crowd-pleaser. Golden sand, calm water, and a string of lively beach bars and tavernas, all just a short drive from Corfu Town.
Agios Gordios: Surrounded by green cliffs, it's peaceful but with just enough going on. Ideal for a chilled day with a swim and a seafood lunch.
Paleokastritsa: A cluster of beaches with impossibly clear water and dramatic rocky backdrops. You can rent a boat or just enjoy the view.
Dassia & Issos: Family-friendly, shallow waters, plenty of amenities, and great for sandcastle-building or paddle-boarding.
Myrtiotissa & Chalikounas: Off the beaten path. No loungers, no loud music, just raw natural beauty and the sound of waves.
Porto Timoni: One of Corfu's most photographed spots, a double cove that's pure magic. You'll have to hike down or boat in, but it's worth every step.

Kos:

Agios Stefanos: Shallow, warm water and ancient ruins nearby, perfect for a dip, a snorkel, and a bit of light sightseeing all in one.
Tigaki & Marmari: Long, wide, sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Close to small villages with laid-back tavernas and dreamy sunset views.
Lambi Beach (Kos Town): Easy access, full-service beach clubs, and close to the shops and cafés of the old town. Great if you like a beach day with an iced coffee on demand.
Kardamena: Buzzier and more happening, with beach bars, watersports and soft sand. Best if you like a side of people-watching with your sunbathing.
Psalidi: Quieter and breezier, good for windsurfers and those wanting more space to stretch out.
Embrós Hot Springs (Therma Beach): For something different, soak in natural hot springs on a pebbled beach framed by dramatic cliffs.

Skiathos:

Koukounaries: Arguably one of the best beaches in Greece. Pine trees, golden sand, warm shallows and plenty of beach bars make it a top pick.
Lalaria: Only accessible by boat and all the more magical for it. Think smooth white pebbles, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs.
Vromolimnos: A lively beach with a young crowd, paddleboarding, beach bars, and DJ sets as the sun goes down.
Troulos & Elia: This family-friendly, low-key beach has soft sand and calm waters, ideal for little ones or anyone who wants to switch off.
Krifi Ammos & Ligaries: Tucked away, wild-feeling beaches for when you really want to escape.
Xanemos: Wild and breezy, with a front-row seat to Skiathos' famous plane landings. Yes, really.
Kastro Beach: Great for combining a swim with a bit of culture as it sits just below the island's old Byzantine castle.

Each of these islands is accessible via off-peak British Airways reward flights for 27,500 Avios plus £1. Don't forget to use your Avios points credit card to build up points before you go and pay the Taverna bill once you're horizontal.

For Seniors: Athens, Rhodes, Kalamata

Senior visitors will find Greece both welcoming and easy to navigate. Athens brings the classics (literally), Rhodes brings cobbled lanes and sea views, and Kalamata, which is more low-key, offers good food, walkable streets, and easy day trips.

Here's what we recommend:

Athens:

The Acropolis & Museum: A bucket-list destination with a lift for those who need it and a world-class museum at its base.
Plaka & Anafiotika: Two picturesque districts for relaxed walks, alfresco dining and a taste of old Athens charm.
National Archaeological & Benaki Museums: Well laid out, air-conditioned, and packed with history.
Mount Lycabettus: Take the funicular to the top for panoramic views and a leisurely coffee with a view.
Filopappou Hill: A gentle nature walk with views of the Acropolis, perfect at sunset.

Rhodes:

The Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site full of cobbled alleys, castles and charming cafés. It’s compact and walkable, with plenty of shaded resting spots.
The Acropolis of Lindos: Accessible by donkey ride or gentle walk, the views alone are worth it.
Day trips to Butterfly Valley or Seven Springs: Gentle nature walks with plenty of shade and rest spots.
The island's traditional villages: Try local wine in Embonas or soak up coastal views from Kritinia.
A seaside taverna: The island's culinary scene is fantastic, so don't miss fresh seafood, grilled cheese, or mezedes.

Kalamata:

Stroll the Old Town. Visit the Byzantine Church of the Apostles, browse artisan shops, and stop for a coffee in the square. The area is compact and easy to navigate, with plenty of places to rest.
Explore local markets. The Agora is a feast for the senses, with olives, honey, cheese, and more. Mornings are quieter and shaded, making it a comfortable stop for senior travellers looking to experience authentic local life without the rush.
Relax on the beach promenade. Paralia Kalamatas is flat and shady, perfect for leisurely walks or a sunset meal.
Discover nearby ancient sites: Take easy day trips to Ancient Messini or the hilltop ruins of Mystras.
Visit museums and galleries: The Victoria Karelias Costume Museum is small but fascinating and ideal for a quick cultural stop.

All three destinations are available on off-peak British Airways reward flights from London for 27,500 Avios plus £1. If you're a senior wondering how do I use Avios points, this is one of the best answers.

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How to use Avios to explore Greece: Flights, islands, and insider tips