Where to go Island Hopping in Europe

The language spoken in Skiathos and Alonissos is Greek and the Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Skiathos is approximately 6,000 and 3,000 on Alonissos.

On Skiathos you can find delicious Mediterranean cuisine in the variety of traditional tavernas and luxury gourmet dining restaurants located on the island. Skiathos is known for its Amygdalota, chewy cookie type biscuits made with almonds.

Famed for its traditional Greek cuisine, restaurants and tavernas on Alonissos serve the flavours of the Mediterranean, making the most of the fabulous fresh fish caught off the coast.

Skiathos

Skiathos Town: Experience Skiathos Town, during the day explore its range of restaurants, traditional tavernas and quirky shops, and in the evening lose yourself in the lively entertainment options found in the bars and nightclubs.

Beautiful Beaches: For golden sand, brilliantly blue waters and a tranquil atmosphere journey to Tsougrias Beach. Try out a range of water sporting activites and boat excursions. Water sports can be found on many of the islands beaches including Vassilias beach and Achladies beach, or take a boat tour and see stunning areas that can’t be reached by land.

Moni Evangelistrias, Skiathos: Churches and monasteries symbolise the island’s rich religious history, many of which are scattered over the island, such as the Moni Evangelistrias.

Alonissos

National Marine Park of Alonissos: Located at the southern end of the island, including nearby islands and rocky outcrops, the marine park is home to a wide variety of marine life including, birds, fish, reptiles and mammals. This park is the largest of its kind in Europe and visitors can swim in crystal clear waters and inspect the wide variety of fish that inhabit the area.

Agios Dimitrios Beach: This quiet beach offers stunning views and plenty of space to relax and soak up the glorious Mediterranean sun. With schools of fish swimming close by in the warm, azure waters, the area is perfect for snorkelling.

Boat Tours: With numerous caves carved into the cliffs, there is plenty to explore. The Blue Cove of Alonissos provides an impressive location to visit, with the clear waters enticing visitors to swim and to dive inside.

The language spoken in Skiathos and Skopelos is Greek and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Skiathos is approximately 6,000 and 5,000 on Skopelos.

Delicious Mediterranean cuisine awaits your arrival on Skiathos. With a variety of traditional tavernas and luxury gourmet dining restaurants located on the island, visitors are spoilt for choice in where to dine out.

Famed for its pies and pastries, the island of Skopelos prioritises the use of fresh, local ingredients to infuse the flavour of the Mediterranean into its pies and local dishes.

Skiathos

Skiathos Town: Explore Skiathos Town, a range of restaurants, traditional tavernas and quirky shops await those who visit, and when the sun goes down, the abundant bars and nightclubs provide fabulous night time entertainment.

Beautiful Beaches: Tsougrias Beach is perfect for those searching for golden sand, brilliantly blue waters and a peaceful atmosphere. Water sports can be found on many of the islands beaches including Vassilias beach and Achladies beach, or you can take a boat tour and see stunning areas that can’t be reached by land.

Moni Evangelistrias, Skiathos: A reminder of the island’s rich religious history, churches and monasteries can be found dotted all over the island, including the charming Moni Evangelistrias.

Skopelos

Skopelos Town: Spend the day wandering around the picturesque town of Skopelos. Pass beautiful white buildings as you climb up to the Panagitsa of Pyrgos. The church’s location offers stunning views over the island. With lots of steps to climb it is best to avoid the hottest part of the day, why not visit at sunset and watch a spectacular range of colours cascading across the sky.

Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri: Featured in the Mama Mia! film the church of Agios Ioannis Kastri offers a superb photo location. For a quieter alternative, journey to the end of the island to the impressive Agios Reginos Monestery.

Beautiful Beaches: Visit the Agios Ioannis Beach, made famous by the film Shirley Valentine, for wonderful views of the sunset; or visit the relaxing Panormas beach for clean, crystal clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere.

Sedoukia Pirate Graves: The journey to discover these hidden graves allows you to explore the quiet, natural side of the island.

The language spoken in Mykonos and Santorini is Greek and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Mykonos is approximately 15,000 and 25,000 on Santorini.

In addition to the international range of cuisine that can be found on Mykonos, an array of delicious local, Mediterranean inspired, dishes are served in numerous restaurants and tavernas.

A combinations of glorious sunshine and rich volcanic soil, provides Santorini with a fabulous range of vegetables, fruit and wine, infusing them with a unique, delicious flavour.

Mykonos

Little Venice: For a romance filled daytrip, filled with beautiful old houses perches on the edge of the sea, Little Venice offers a romantic location to explore.

The Church of Panagia Paraportiani: The oldest church on the island is well worth a visit offering superb views out over the island.

Archaeological Site of Delos: For a cultural excursion take a day trip to explore the Archaeological Site of Delos. An important Panhellenic sanctuary, the island features impressive monuments, temples and mosaic artwork.

Beautiful Beaches: For a vibrant location to soak up the sun, visit Paradise beach. The island’s party beach, a range of cafes and bars provide refreshing drinks. Water sports centres offer a range of activities and boat tours around the island.

Nightlife: Visit one of Mykonos’ famous clubs. Throw yourself into the extraordinary nightlife which takes over the island at dusk. Incomparable to anywhere else, Mykonos is known for its ‘anything (and I mean anything) goes’ atmosphere, and hedonistic lifestyle, ensuring those who visit have an experience like no other.

Santorini

Akrotiri excavations: A Minoan bronze age settlement, the excavations create a window into the past and the lives of those who used to live there.

Photography Hotspots: Take a photography tour of the island. Famous for its white buildings and glorious blue roofs, Santorini is the ideal place to get that perfect holiday picture. Make your friends jealous with pictures of Santorini town cascading down the hillside, magical sunsets and the crystal clear waters that hug beautiful beaches.

Wine Tasting: Go on a winery and brewery tour and taste the unique flavour of the islands alcoholic creations.

Hot Springs: For a rejuvenating experience visit a volcano and swim in the surrounding hot springs.

Diving: Go scuba diving and journey into the underwater world to observe the rich biodiversity that lies hidden beneath the waves.

The language spoken in La Palma and La Gomera is Spanish and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on La Palma is approximately 83,000 and 22,000 on La Gomera.

With their rich soil and easy access to the vast diversity of sea life in the North Atlantic Ocean, restaurants on the islands of La Palma and La Gomera are overflowing with fresh ingredients with which to create fabulous dishes.

La Palma

Roque de Los Muchachos: Located above the clouds this viewpoint offers unbelievable views of the Caldera Taburiente National Park and far beyond. If you hire a car, the view is well worth the journey.

Caldera de Taburiente National Park: A paradise for walkers, this national park offers a superb range of trails to follow and spectacular views over the island. Click here for information.

Beautiful Beaches: Just steps away from the hotel Parador de La Palma, Los Cancajos beach offers the ideal snorkelling location.

Insular Museum: For a cultural excursion dive into the islands history with a visit to the Insular Museum of La Palma.

Read our blog for more reasons to visit La Palma.

La Gomera

Garajonay National Park: With many subtropical plant species within the densely forested area, this is a fantastic location for keen walkers to explore.

San Sebastian de La Gomera: A journey to the capital offers visitors the opportunity to view the old religious artwork in the Church of the Assumption, some of it dating back to the 16th Century.

Playa de Santiago: Visit this peaceful fishing village and enjoy the lively Plaza del Carmen at the village’s centre, with its selection of bars, restaurants and sandy beach that you can sink your toes into.

Silbo Gomero: Attempt to learn the whistled language, awarded the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 2009.

The language spoken in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote is Spanish and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Fuerteventura is approximately 116,000 and 147,000 on Lanzarote.

Fuerteventura and Lanzarote both enjoy culinary influences from Spain, Africa and Latin America. Although fish is readily available, including the famed Parrot Fish, the specialty on both islands is meat, for Fuerteventura goat is a local delicacy frequently enjoyed by the locals. The volcanic soils also provide a rich source of nutrients that benefit crops, giving them a rich, unique flavour.

Fuerteventura:

Corralejo and Lobos: Soak up the sun and relax on the glorious sand dunes.

Baku Waterpark: With thrilling rides the waterpark offers endless hours of fun for all the family.

Oasis Park & Zoo: View over 250 animals, go on a Camel safari and take part in the Sea Lion experience.

Submarine Tours: Dive into the mysterious and exciting underwater world located just off the coast.

Lanzarote:

Timanfaya National Park: Explore the amazing lunar type terrain created by the eruption of the numerous, now dormant, volcanoes.

Cueva de los Verdes: Explore fascinating lava-formed tunnels with a guided tour.

Water Based Excursions: Take to the water on a Catamaran and spend a day swimming and snorkelling in the crystal clear waters.

Tour the Island: Visit some of the charming, old-fashioned villages, with their old cobbled streets and delightful markets.

Read our blog for more things to do in Lanzarote.

The language spoken in Tenerife and La Gomera is Spanish and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Tenerife is approximately 920,000 and 22,000 on La Gomera.

Due to the island of Tenerife’s popularity, restaurants serve a varied selection of international cuisines. This means that traditional dishes may not be as easily found, however it is worth the search if you wish to try the wonderful, lively flavours of the fresh ingredients produced on the island, these include fresh fish, wild meats and tropical fruits and vegetables.

La Gomera enjoys easy access to a vast diversity of sea life and benefits from rich soil for its crops. This provides the island’s local restaurants with fresh ingredients, which are used to create fabulous exotic meals.

Tenerife

Teide National Park: This park allows you to explore the unusual lunarscape of Lanzarote. Catch a cable car to the top of Mount Teide and enjoy stunning views down the volcano and over the stark landscape below.

Beautiful Beaches: With gorgeous sandy beaches ranging in colour from golden to black, your only task is to find the best beach for you.

Siam Park: With something for everyone, from hair raising rides to relaxing by the pool, this water park is the ideal place for all the family to spend the day.

Playa de las Americas: Throw yourself into the vibrant culture that exists within. With a range of activities available both in and out the water, along with a vibrant nightlife, there is no shortage of entertainment options.

Golf: Take time away from the sightseeing and take to the golf course. With high quality courses available in stunning locations, for golf enthusiasts, there is no better place to relax and unwind.

Read our blog for more things to do in Tenerife.

La Gomera

Garajonay National Park: A vast diversity of subtropical plant species within the densely forested area, make this is a fantastic location for keen walkers to explore.

San Sebastian de La Gomera: Journey to the capital and view beautiful, old religious artwork in the Church of the Assumption, with some of the artwork dating back to the 16th Century.

Playa de Santiago: A peaceful fishing village, visitors can enjoy the lively Plaza del Carmen at the village’s centre, with its selection of bars, restaurants and glorious sandy beach that you can sink your toes into.

Silbo Gomero: Attempt to learn the whistled language, awarded the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 2009.

The language spoken in Mallorca and Ibiza is Catalan (and Spanish) and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Mallorca is approximately 850,000 and 150,000 on Ibiza.

Delve into the Balearic gastronomic delights that can be discovered on the islands of Mallorca and Ibiza.

Mallorca’s cuisine, like many other islands, has been passed down through the generations and makes use of locally sourced ingredients, including meat such as pork, freshly caught fish and locally grown vegetables. With historic influences from both the Romans and nearby Africa, plus the grounding in Spanish traditions, has led to the creation of varied, flavoursome dishes.

Ibiza serves a range of culinary delights from all over the world, ensuring there is food to suite all dietary requirements. Locally sourced ingredients such as fish caught daily from the waters surrounding the island, form the basis of the culinary delights served in the island’s restaurants, with popular dishes including Paella and Tapas.

Mallorca

Best beaches: Relax and soak up the sun on one of Mallorca’s palm lined, golden sandy beaches.

Serra de Tramuntana: With areas of great natural beauty, waterfalls and charming villages to explore, this is the perfect location to enjoy the best that Mallorca has to offer.

Catedral de Mallorca: This striking architectural accomplishment is well worth a visit, and for those searching for a souvenir, the area hosts a range of popular shops waiting to be explored.

Take a Cooking Class: Sign up for a cooking class and learn the secrets to Spain’s most well known dishes.

Caves of Drach: Take a boat tour and enjoy the live music and creative lighting that adorns the cave walls.

Ibiza

Best Beaches: For a tranquil location in which to sunbath, journey to the small, yet charming beach of Cala d’Hort. The beach offers stunning views, sand on one side and pebbles on the other, and restaurants located nearby serve a variety of culinary delights.

Hippie market: Filled with an abundance of colours and fascinating items, the Hippie Market is perfect for those searching for a souvenir. Made up of countless stools fanning out under the shade of large pine trees, an array of items are on sale, from brightly coloured bikinis and flowing dresses, to hand made leather belts and henna tattoos.

Ibiza Old Town: Ogle the yachts floating in the harbour in the charming Ibiza Town. Spend the day exploring the wealth of small, attractive shops, ideal for those looking for elegant dresses, hand crafted shoes and stylish jewellery, and dine outside in the sun at one of the superb restaurants in the area.

Ibiza Cathedral: Journey up the hill from Ibiza Town to the picturesque Ibiza Cathedral. Adorned with beautiful religious paintings, the location offers superb views over the town and harbour below.

Ibiza nightlife: What Ibiza is known for, dance the night away in one of Ibiza’s famous nightclubs and feel the rejuvenating effect that the energy and vibrancy of the island has on you.

The language spoken on the island of Sicily and Vulcano Island is Italian and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Sicily is approximately 5 million and 500 on Vulcano Island.

Sicilian cuisine has a myriad of influences which have accumulated throughout its history. However, the main influence believe it or not, is Italian cuisine. Its proximity to the Italian mainland has meant the fresh flavours that embody Italy, are infused in each dish.

Cuisine on Vulcano island, as one of the Aeolian islands, originates mainly from old fishing traditions and enjoys ancient Greek influences. Combining strong, colourful flavours from aromatic herbs and flavoursome vegetables benefiting from the strong sunshine, the dishes show off the diverse selection of fish that can be found in the surrounding waters.

Sicily

Palermo: Visit the regional capital Palermo, with influences from its long history, the town is filled with beautiful architecture, charming shops and a variety of cafes and restaurants.

Mount Etna: Climb or ascend by car, and observe up close the billowing smoke from the volcano and breath taking views down the mountain, with the curvature of the earth visible on clear days.

Catania: Filled with a vibrant energy, the flourishing city of Catania is the perfect place to lose yourself in the chaos and explore the abundant number of cafes, bars and restaurants that populate the city.

Valley of the temples: A famous historical landmark, visitors can explore multiple temples dedicated to the gods, along with the lush gardens located within the temples.

Vulcano Island

Capo Grillo: Enjoy stunning views over the coast and out to the neighbouring island of Lipari.

Spiaggia Sabbia Nera: Sink your toes into the black volcanic sand found on Spiaggia Sabbia Nera. Located on the northern end of the island, just a short walk beyond the mud pools found on the western side of the island, this is a rare sandy beach that can be found on the Aeolian islands.

The Central Muds of Vulcano: Throw yourself into a warm mud bath. Although the smell leaves much to be desired, the mystical healing properties believed to be in the hot spring mud baths can benefit your skin and help heal other bodily ailments.

Volcano Excursions: For stunning views inside the crater of a volcano and out over the island hike up the islands dominating volcano.

The language spoken on the island of Ischia and Capri is Italian and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Ischia is approximately 58,000 and 12,500 on Capri.

Cuisine on the islands of Ischia and Capri are heavily influenced by their past. Historically the islands contained poor inhabitants, who relied on fishing and agriculture as their main source of income. The culinary delights served on the islands are now much diversified, but traditional dishes still maintain the original Italian inspiration, with fish and vegetables forming the basis for many dishes. Beautifully crafted wines and Limoncello, can also be found and enjoyed on the Islands.

Ischia

Aragonese Castle: A spectacular castle located on an island just off the coast of Ischia. Guests can access the island and explore the extensive castle by crossing the stone bridge that connects the island to mainland Ischia.

La Mortella: A subtropical and Mediterranean garden, where visitors can enjoy stunning views and a fantastic selection of flowers, encompassed within a peaceful and serene environment.

Parco Thermale Castiglione: Visit the range of thermal baths, dip into the varying temperature pools and relax, soaking up the golden sun.

Beautiful Beaches: If you wish to explore beyond the hotel’s beach, take a trip to the beautiful San Pietro Beach. This beach is perfect for feeling the soft sand between your toes as you wander along next to the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Capri

Marina Piccola: For a quieter escape in a tranquil setting, visit the hideaway spot for the rich and famous.

Island tour: Travel round the island visiting the intriguing grottos that are cut into the rock.

Mount Vesuvius & Pompeii: Take a day trip and explore the excavated ruins of the once bustling city of Pompeii and the neighbouring Volcano.

Piazzetta: Visit the famed main square of Piazzetta where you can indulge in a refreshing cocktail in the shade while surreptitiously people watching those that amble past.

The language spoken on the island of Sicily and Sardinia is Italian and Euro is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on the island of Sicily is approximately 5 million and 1.6 million on Sardinia.

Boasting a myriad of influences, which have accumulated throughout its history, Sicilian cuisine offers something for everyone. Its close proximity to the Italian mainland has meant the fresh flavours that embody Italy, are infused in each dish.

In Sardinia, much like in the rest of Italy, eating is a social occasion. Influenced by thousands of years of history, meals involve a variety of courses, making the most of simple yet delicious dishes aimed at nourishing those with the health of the Mediterranean diet.

Sicily

Palermo: The regional capital, with influences from its long history holds within, a range of beautiful architectural accomplishments, charming shops and a variety of charming cafes and restaurants.

Mount Etna: Ascend the mountain and observe up close the billowing smoke from the volcano and breath taking views across the island, with the curvature of the earth visible on clear days.

Catania: Filled with a vibrant energy, this flourishing city is the perfect place to explore an abundant number of cafes, bars and restaurants that populate the city.

Valley of the temples: Visitors can explore temples dedicated to the gods, along with beautiful gardens which provide the ideal location in which to wander around and soak up the sunshine.

Read our blog for more things to do in Sicily.

Sardinia

Budelli: Take a boat tour out to nearby islands, such as Budelli, and enjoy quieter beaches, crystal clear waters and plenty of areas to explore.

Dolmen Luras: Go on a trek and explore the archaeological site of Dolmen Luras.

Grotta del Bue Marino: Hop on a boat tour and visit the fascinating grottos, that are half submerged by crystal clear waters.

Basilica di Sant’Antioco di Bisarcio: Visit this striking basilica, guided tours can be taken to learn more about the fascinating history of the churches on the island.

The language spoken on the island of Sipan and Korcula is Croatian and Kuna is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Sipan is approximately 500 and 16,000 on Korcula.

Influenced by the countries around them, cuisine served on the islands of Sipan and Korcula is varied and imaginative. Known as Dalmatian food, due the island being located along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, the staple dishes involve fresh fish, locally grown vegetables and is seasoned with garlic, parsley and rosemary.

Sipan

Sudurad: One of the two inhabited locations on the island, Sudurad is a sleepy village, home to the islands main harbour and lies in the shadow of a dominating 16^th century castle.

St Stephens Church: From the harbour wander up to the charming St Stephens Church and enjoy beautiful views out over the bay.

Hiking: Get back to nature by walking along one of the marked trails from Sipanska Luka to Sudurd.

Korcula

Korcula Old Town: Wander the lanes and alleyways that make up the fascinating old town of Korcula. With music in the air and historical buildings and churches to explore this is the perfect place to spend some time meandering around.

Island of Proizd: Just off the western tip of Korcula, the island of Proizd offers blissful surroundings in which to relax. Crystal clear waters and beautiful views, make it well worth a visit.

Get Active: A range of activities are available all over the island, both on and off the water. Go cycling and get back to nature, or explore the island by water, using a kayak to investigate hidden grottoes.

The language spoken on the island of Sipan and Lopud is Croatian and Kuna is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on the island of Sipan is approximately 500 and 400 on Lopud.

Influenced by the countries around them, cuisine served on the islands of Sipan and Lopud is varied and imaginative. Known as Dalmatian food, due to the island being located along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, the staple dishes involve fresh fish, locally grown vegetables and is seasoned with garlic, parsley and rosemary.

Sipan

Sudurad: Sudurad is one of the two inhabited locations on the island, home to the islands main harbour, this sleepy seaside town lies in the shadow of a dominating 16^th century castle.

St Stephens Church: For wonderful views over the bay, wander up to the charming St Stephens Church, located up the hill from the harbour.

Hiking: Walk along one of the marked trails from Sipanska Luka to Sudurd, and enjoy the picturesque scenery that inhabits the island.

Lopud

Beautiful Beaches: Only accessible by sea, Sunj Beach is a sprawling, sandy beach secluded by outcrops of land either side that make the waters of the bay calm and tranquil.

Cultural Excursions: Explore some of the many churches, monasteries and religious monuments that populate the island.

Get Active: A network of old trails across the island provide great hiking opportunities.

Lopud Village: Wander around the village and gaze at the attractive Italian inspired villas, and take in the fresh smell of citrus that floats in the air, coming from the range of citrus trees growing in the occupants gardens.

The language spoken on the island of Brac and Hvar is Croatian and Kuna is the accepted currency. The number of inhabitants on Brac is approximately 14500 and 11500 on Hvar.

Originating from Greek and Roman influences, the islands of Brac and Hvar offer a range of dishes that are popular across the Makarska Riviera region. Dishes revolve around tantalising stewed meats and fresh seafood, and as an accompaniment, visitors can indulge in locally sourced wines and beers, which convey the unique flavours of the area.

Brac

Beautiful beaches: Brac island is a superb location, with many beautiful beaches to enjoy. Visit the breath taking Ziatni Rat Beach, the gorgeous blue of the water is enhanced by the small white pebbles that cover the beach. Or journey to the small town of Sumartin, where the friendly atmosphere that radiates from the village, along with the range of cafes, restaurants and bars make Sumartin Beach a wonderful location to spend the day.

Blaca: For a cultural trip visit the monastery at Pustinja Blaca. Hear the fascinating history of this religious building and examine the numerous historical artefacts that offer a window back in time.

Church of St. Jerolime: For a relaxing excursion visit the calming town of Sveti Jeronim. Quiet and rustic, visitors can explore the Church of St. Jerolime.

Kastil Gospodnetic Dol: For superb food in a rustic setting book a table at the Kastil Gospodnetic Dol. A charming, family run restaurant, guests receive a warm welcome, delicious culinary delights and can enjoy beautiful views.

Hvar

Beautiful Beaches: Only accessible by sea, this rare sand beach is secluded by outcrops of land either side that make the waters of the bay calm and tranquil.

Pakleni Islands: Take a boat tour and travel round the Pakleni Islands. Spend the day snorkelling in secluded coves and enjoying beautiful views of the small islands.

Wine Tasting: Sample a range of tantalising Croatian wines and good food, in the main wine bar in Hvar Town, Tri Prsuta.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Climb up the bell tower and enjoy views over the town, or sip on a refreshing drink in St. Stephen’s square and watch the cathedral glow in the last light of the day.