Stepping into Greece is like stepping into paradise. Where white-washed buildings line cobbled streets, and stretches of gold sand that go on for miles, it’s just like the picture postcard views you’ve been dreaming of. But with more than 277 Greek islands and countless mansion rentals to choose from, where to begin? How about the five of the most popular Greek islands - let’s go!

With jaw-dropping views from every crevice of this volcanic island, Santorini is known for its dramatic views, seductive sunsets, and small winding roads. Head over to Oia for sundowners – it’s the place to go, with plenty of cute bars and restaurants that you can drop into for a sneaky ouzo. With this being one of the most popular Greek islands, it thrives on tourism, meaning that locals are especially warm and welcoming. Although this is the Greek islands to visit for breathtaking views, there’s much more on offer, from ancient ruins at the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, to its own volcano. For a touch of Greek romance, be sure to book at table at Botago in the pretty village of Pyrgos. This former fortress is a popular spot for a night cap, best enjoyed from its roof terrace.

The largest of all the Greek Islands, Crete is known for its luxury villa rentals and endless historical ruins. Wherever you stay on this stretch of island, you won’t be far from its hidden treasures. One of the most famous is the Palace of Knossos – a vast archaeological site dating back to the Bronze age. Preserved in great detail, you can marvel at this former site of enterprise, with theaters, drainage systems, courts, and a throne room to discover. If that’s not enough, then the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of artefacts spanning some 5,500 years. As a final thought, olive oil is the island’s largest export, so be sure to swing by the Cretan Olive Oil Farm for a tour before you depart.

The family-friendly island of Corfu is a popular spot for travellers of all kind. Being one of the largest islands, it also has a wealth of history and beauty, especially nature to uncover. Hire a private speedboat to experience the tour from the coastline, it’s really something. That’s because the island happens to be brimming with nature reserves and first-class birdlife. The Alikes Lefkimmis wetlands is the perfect spot for bird watchers, with rare and beautiful species to spy, including flocks of flamingos. For a different kind of bird dance altogether, the Colibri Spirit festival takes place between 11-16 September with Nessi Gomes confirmed in the line-up. There’s more to Corfu than meets the eye.

Beachside glam and Cyclades charm come together in this achingly cool Greek island. From world-class luxury Mykonos villas to the best restaurants in Greece, you can find it all here. To enjoy a slower pace and island chill, the east of the island offers remote tranquillity. However, if you don’t want to miss out, base yourself in and around Mykonos Town – the place to go for sunset cocktails, famous restaurants and partying in its many LGBT friendly clubs including Cavo Paradise. Sure, this is a party island, but it’s also a fun and friendly hangout where the beautiful people come together, even if it’s in hip nearly-there bikinis by the pool. Pack light!

Also known as Zakynthos, this idyllic Greek islands is the third largest in the Ionian archipelago. Distinguished by its clear blue waters and 27 pristine sandy beaches, it invites you in with a warm Greek welcome. The dramatic scenery lends itself to tourists, amateur photographers and holidaymakers from all over the world. They’re all here for the same reason: Navagio bech – better known as ‘Shipwreck beach’ due to the shipwrecked MC Panagiotis ship that adorns it. Accessible only by boat, it’s like something out of James Bond film, with pure white sand and turquoise waters greeting you. Another popular beach is Porto Zorro, which attracts a cosmopolitan crowd and party atmosphere by day (and night), For somewhere more quiet, Porto Vromi is one of the more tranquil spots, worth leaving your Zante villa rental for a day trip.

Looking for the best luxury villa rentals for your next travels? Check out Global Luxury Villas today.