Crete

Best For: Honeymooners, hikers and party people.

Why: Imagine the Beara Peninsula in West Cork given a makeover with a giant blowtorch and you have something of the hulking physical presence and diverse landscapes of Crete. Large enough to withstand anything mass tourism throws at it, Crete’s fascinating history is ever present, even as you sip your pina colada on the Palm Beach at Vai or shake your booty at Yanni’s Rock Bar in Agios Nikolas. This is by far the largest and most populous of the Greek islands, with white sandy beaches, gorgeous mountains, magnificent gorges and traditional villages, while coastal towns like ‘Ag-Nik’ are party central during summer for the 18-35 set. The island’s history is multi-layered, with buildings from all who came through – from the ancient Minoans to the 20th-century German paratroopers. – Conor Power

High: The Palace at Knossos. The Minoan structure feels more like a city made up of inter-connected rooms and buildings than a palace, but exerts a powerful presence. Late afternoon is the best time to wander its ruins and feel the Bronze Age vibes. No matter what you come to Crete for, don’t leave without seeing this.

Details: incrediblecrete.gr