08.09.2026
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In The News
Crete and Syros have been named among the most worthwhile Greek island destinations for 2026, according to the international tourism platform Travel And Tour World, which recently published a list highlighting Greek islands that offer visitors a strong balance between quality and price.
The globally recognized tourism publication, widely read by travel professionals, tourism organizations, and travelers around the world, compiled the ranking based on research and travel data. The list focuses on destinations that combine authentic experiences, cultural richness, and natural beauty with relatively accessible prices.
Crete: Big Island, Big Value
Among the destinations featured, Crete stands out as one of the most affordable holiday destinations in Greece for 2026. As the country’s largest island, it offers a wide range of accommodation options, from family-run guesthouses and small hotels to larger resorts, allowing visitors to tailor their stay according to their budget.
Food also plays a key role in the island’s value-for-money appeal. Cretan cuisine, famous for its fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, can be enjoyed at local tavernas and markets at reasonable prices. This allows visitors to experience the island’s culinary culture without high costs, while exploring its vibrant local life.
Beyond gastronomy, Crete offers an impressive variety of experiences. From archaeological landmarks such as the Palace of Knossos to spectacular natural landscapes, including dramatic gorges and crystal-clear beaches, the island combines cultural heritage and natural beauty in a way that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
Syros: Elegance Without Excess
Syros, meanwhile, stands out for its distinctive character, elegant architecture, and strong cultural identity. Unlike some of the more heavily visited Cycladic islands, Syros has maintained a balance between quality tourism and relatively moderate prices, offering visitors an authentic experience without the pressures of crowds.
At the heart of the island lies Ermoupoli, a town renowned for its impressive neoclassical architecture and historic atmosphere. Grand mansions, marble squares, and cultural landmarks give the island a unique character among the Cyclades.
Visitors can also explore the picturesque alleys of Ano Syros, a medieval settlement perched above the town, as well as a number of easily accessible beaches that remain less crowded than those found on more famous islands. Alongside Crete and Syros, the Travel And Tour World list also includes Lefkada, Naxos, and Thassos, destinations known for combining natural beauty with relatively affordable travel options.
New Air Connection Between Syros and Crete
Further boosting Syros’ accessibility is a new seasonal air connection between Syros and Heraklion in Crete, operated by Aegean Airlines. The route will launch on June 15 and run until September 18, offering two weekly flights every Monday and Friday.
The new air link is expected to make travel between the Cyclades and Crete easier, allowing visitors to combine the two destinations within a single trip.
Strengthening Syros’ Tourism Profile
According to the Municipality of Syros–Ermoupoli, improving accessibility and strengthening the island’s tourism profile remain key priorities. Deputy Mayor for Tourism, Giannis A. Voutsinos, noted that the new air route further enhances the role of Syros’ airport while supporting the island’s tourism development.
At the same time, local authorities emphasize that the island’s greatest strength lies in the authenticity and dedication of its tourism sector. Local professionals and residents continue to work together to offer visitors genuine Greek hospitality — a defining element of Syros’ identity as a destination.
