Cheap Holidays To Greece From The UK | Budget Travel Guide
3 min read
Greece is a mosaic of ancient history and sun-bleached islands that remains one of the most accessible budget destinations for UK travellers. Whether you're exploring the iconic ruins of Athens or seeking a secluded cove on a lesser-known island, Greece offers a high-quality Mediterranean experience that can be tailored to any budget.
The secret to an affordable Greek holiday is mastering the local ferry network and leaning into the country's legendary street food scene—the gyros. If you are looking for specific island tips, see our guides to budget travel in Crete or cheap holidays to Rhodes. By choosing 'shoulder' season travel and staying in family-run guesthouses (studios), you can enjoy world-class sunsets and crystal-clear waters without the premium price tag found in other European hotspots.
Destination Quick Facts
| Average package price | £350–£650 |
| Flight time from London | 3.5–4 hours |
| Best budget months | May–June, September–October |
| Main airports | Athens (ATH), Heraklion (HER), Rhodes (RHO) |
| Typical daily food budget | £25–£50 |
Cheapest Time To Visit Greece
The cheapest months to visit Greece from the UK are:
- May to June
- September to October
These shoulder season months offer much better value for hotels and flights while still providing excellent weather for exploring the islands.
Cheapest Airports To Fly From The UK
- London Gatwick
- London Stansted
- Manchester
- Birmingham
Typical Holiday Costs
- Flights: £80–£220 return
- Hotels: £50–£120 per night
- Package holidays: £350–£650
Budget Tips To Save Money
- Eat at 'Souvladzidika'—local grill houses—where a filling gyros wrap is often under €5.
- Book ferries in advance using 'Ferryhopper' to get the best prices and secure your spot on the faster ships.
- Many islands have excellent local bus networks (KTEL) that connect the main port to the best beaches for just a few Euros.
- House wine in Greece is usually served by the half-kilo or kilo in carafes and is much cheaper and often better than bottled wine.
Best Areas to Stay in Greece for Budget Travellers
For the best island value, look towards **Crete**; its size means it has a huge range of affordable accommodation and local prices. **Naxos** is a fantastic alternative to the pricier Cyclades neighbours, while **Lefkada** (accessible by a bridge from the mainland) offers stunning beaches without the need for expensive ferries. On the mainland, the **Peloponnese** region provides an authentic, budget-friendly experience.
Typical Daily Travel Costs in Greece
A realistic daily budget is **£50 to £85**. This allows for a comfortable studio with a kitchenette, plenty of delicious gyros and Greek salads, and enough left over for ferry tickets or entry to historic sites. Local 'Mythos' beer and house wine are incredibly affordable and usually excellent. For those considering more all-inclusive value, see our guide to Greek all-inclusive resorts.
Nearby Budget Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest time to visit Greece from the UK?
The cheapest time to visit Greece is typically during May to June and September to October, when flight and hotel prices are lower than the peak summer months.
How much does a holiday to Greece cost from the UK?
Flights: £80–£220 return. Hotels: £50–£120 per night. Package holidays: £350–£650
Which UK airports offer the cheapest flights to Greece?
London Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, and Birmingham are common low-cost airports offering affordable routes to the area.
How far in advance should I book a cheap holiday to Greece?
Booking 6–10 weeks in advance typically offers the best balance of price and availability for Greece holidays.
Are package holidays cheaper than booking separately?
Package holidays often offer better value to Greece due to bulk pricing and consumer protection, though DIY booking can occasionally save money during sales.