If you’re dreaming of a Greek summer but want to avoid the high prices of crowded places like Kos and Corfu, check out these 10 budget-friendly islands that offer the same magic at lower prices.
A new study has revealed which are the most accessible Greek islands and what “changes of destinations” can be done to pay less on vacation without losing out on the classic Greek experience.
Results were calculated based on average prices per person for seven-night stays between September 16, 2025 and March 15, 2026.
With an average of £596 per person, Kefalonia has become the cheapest Greek island.
Marked by white sand beaches, turquoise waters, local wine and Venetian-inspired architecture, the Ionian island attracts thousands of tourists every year who want a more relaxing Greek atmosphere without the high costs.
In second place, with an average of £606 per person, is the mountainous island of Lefkas, famous for its impressive cliffs, vast green areas, white pebble beaches and charming fishing villages.
Surprisingly, Santorini takes third place thanks to an average seven-night stay costing around £637 per person.
Known for its white and blue architecture, volcanic scenery and picturesque villages, up to 17,000 tourists descend on the idyllic Aegean island in the peak summer months, with many reporting “crowded streets” and “exorbitant” hotel prices.
Close behind in fourth place is Mykonos at £670 per person – another surprising ranking given its status as one of the most luxurious and expensive places in Greece.
Rhodes, Greece’s fourth largest island, rounds out the top five with a price tag of £689 per person. The island welcomed a record 1.28 million visitors in 2025, who flocked in large numbers for its combination of medieval sites, colorful villages and energetic nightlife.
In sixth place is Crete at £768 per person, followed by Corfu (£822), Naxos (£890) and Kos (£943), with Skiathos completing the top ten with an average cost of £958 per person – almost £362 more expensive than Kefalonia.
For even bigger savings, experts at a holiday comparison site have found five destination options for those looking for authentic Greek experiences but significantly cheaper, writes the Daily Mail.
Planning a trip to an island in the sun-drenched Dodecanese? Swap expensive Kos for Rhodes, where a seven-night stay costs £689 per person instead of £943, a total saving of £254.
As for the islands on the Ionian coast, holidaymakers can save £216 per person by ditching a seven-night stay in Corfu for a holiday in Lefkas, which offers a quieter, more traditional Greek alternative.
Do you want to stand out from the crowd? Swap Skiathos for Naxos and save £68 per person, immersing yourself in ancient ruins, sandy beaches and whitewashed villages.
If you can’t compromise on luxury, swap Crete for Mykonos for a surprisingly cheap experience – saving up to £98 per person.
For unique, breathtaking scenery, swap Santorini for the rugged cliffs and turquoise bays of Kefalonia and add another £41 per person.
