Lesser-known Greek island ‘better than Corfu’ that everyone wants to visit in 2026

British tourists are flocking to a historic Greek island that has all the beauty of Mykonos and Crete, without the crowds.

TUI says it is seeing a ‘surge’ in bookings to lesser-known islands as travellers increasingly turn to quieter destinations that offer value and authentic experiences.

Leading the charge is Samos, with bookings up 118% year-on-year, boosted by the addition of new direct flights from travel companies including Jet2 and TUI.

And with golden sands, ancient ruins and fine wine, there are plenty of reasons to visit and explore Greece in a new way.

While Greece welcomed a whopping 35.95 million tourists in 2024 – making it the 10th most visited country in the world – the vast majority visit the capital, Athens, and the islands of Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Corfu and Crete.

So go on, dare to be different and stick Samos on your list for 2026.

What to see and do in Samos

Lying just off the Turkish coast, Samos is one of the northeastern Aegean’s most beautiful destinations.

But beyond its low-key resorts and the lively capital, Vathy, there are off-the-beaten-track beaches and quiet spots in the forested inland mountains where traditional life continues.

It does have its resorts, but it’s big and diverse enough to still reward visitors.

As is everywhere in Greece, this island is steeped in history – for the Ancient Greeks, it was considered one of the most ‘spiritual centres’ in the Mediterranean.

Zeus’ sister (and, er, wife) Hera hailed from Samos. She was closely associated with all things women, marriage and childbirth as their reigning goddess.

If you’re into mythology, there are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore, including the ancient, fortified city of Pythagoreion, and the ancient Temple of Hera herself, which towers 25 metres high.

This is Greece we’re talking about, so you can expect magnificent views at every turn.

One vantage point worth visiting is Mount Kerkis, which, at 1,433 metres above sea level, is the second-highest peak in the eastern Aegean.

If visual history is more your thing, both Vathy and Pythagoreion have their own Archaeological Museums – and if you’re into learning more about the island’s rich alcohol history, there’s also the Samos Wine Museum.

For the best food, head up to the hillside villages. The local tavernas serve a great mixture of small dishes and salads to mix and match. Do as the Greeks do and order a little at a time and keep going for as long as you can.

One of the best beaches on Samos is Livadaki Beach, around 10km along the northern coast from Vathy.

Here, you’ll be treated to tropical azure waters and soft white sand in a sheltered cove that overlooks tiny islets.

The water is warm and shallow for a long way out, making it a good choice for families with young children.

Generally, the beaches are quieter than those on more popular mainstream islands, but they won’t stay that way for long.

Over on Reddit, many are raving about Samos and all it has to offer, with @MarcusZXR describing it as his ‘favourite Greek island so far.’

How much do flights to Samos cost?

You can get direct flights to Samos (SMI) from the UK with airlines such as Jet2 and TUI, flying from London (Gatwick and Stansted), Manchester, and Birmingham during the summer season.

Flights take around 4 hours.

Earlier this year, we found return fares from as little as £201 per person.

In recent months, tour and travel companies have launched a raft of new routes to alternative destinations in Greece, as travellers move away from traditional hotspots.

Jet2, for example, now flies direct from the UK to 15 Greek locations, including Kefalonia, Halkidiki, Kos, and Zante.

‘We are very pleased to be expanding our presence across Greece by adding this brand-new gateway to our portfolio, appealing to holidaymakers looking for a laid-back Greek island experience,’ Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, previously said.

‘After experiencing consistent demand from holidaymakers wanting to explore Greece, we are confident that these new flights and holidays will prove popular with customers looking for an off-the-beaten-track style holiday.’

Addressing the surge of interest in Samos, TUI UK& Ireland Commercial Director Chris Logan said: ‘What we are seeing is Brits exploring Greece in a whole new way.

‘These picturesque islands offer incredible beaches, amazing food and fantastic value without the crowds, allowing people the chance to truly relax and indulge.

‘The demand shows travellers are ready to go beyond the classics and discover Greece’s hidden gems.’

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