Europe offers a wealth of island destinations, each providing unique experiences for travelers seeking sunshine, dramatic landscapes, and cultural immersion. These islands range from well-loved holiday spots to more secluded retreats, with travel options including flights starting from approximately £19.
Sardinia, Italy, consistently ranks high on best island lists due to its Caribbean-like beaches, clear seas, and quality cuisine. The La Maddalena Archipelago, a national park with seven main islands, is a notable attraction. For beachgoers, Capo Testa offers stunning views and unique rock formations. History enthusiasts can visit the UNESCO-listed Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a significant Bronze Age structure. The island's cuisine features local specialties like slow-roasted suckling pig, potato pasta parcels, and abundant seafood. Flights to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, near the La Maddalena Archipelago, are available from London Stansted starting at £19 one-way.
Corsica, France, known as 'L'Île de Beauté' (the Island of Beauty), appeals to those seeking dramatic scenery alongside quiet beaches. Its appeal extends beyond idyllic coastlines to include cliffside architecture in towns like Bonifacio and opportunities for wild hiking. Plage de Saleccia is a renowned beach, though access requires a 4x4 vehicle, a taxi boat, or a hike. Flights from London Luton to Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport start at £47 each way.
São Miguel in the Azores, Portugal, nicknamed 'The Green Island,' is celebrated for its volcanic crater lakes, hot springs, and lush landscapes. Unique activities include geothermal cooking, whale watching, and hiking. The Octant Furnas hotel offers a thermal wellness experience. Flights to Ponta Delgada Airport begin at £160 each way.
Norway's Lofoten Islands present a spectacular archipelago characterized by dramatic peaks and clear fjords. Visitors can experience the Midnight Sun in summer and the Northern Lights from September to April. Kvalvika Beach, accessible via a challenging hike, offers secluded golden sands and turquoise waters. Flights to Bodo, typically via Oslo, start from £25 one-way from London Stansted, followed by a ferry to Moskenes.
Scotland's Isle of Skye offers rugged beauty with natural landmarks such as the Fairy Glen and the Old Man of Storr, steeped in folklore. The nearest major airports are Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Elba, Italy, often overshadowed by Sicily and Sardinia, is a historically significant island, known as the first place of exile for Napoleon Bonaparte. Visitors can explore his former residences. Porto Azzurro is a popular fishing resort with beaches and diving opportunities. Reaching Elba requires a ferry from Piombino, which can be accessed by flying into Pisa or Florence and then taking a train or driving.
Syros, Greece, provides a cultural and culinary experience with fewer crowds than Santorini or Mykonos. The island's towns, Ermoupolis and Ano Syros, offer medieval charm and sea views. Syros is also known for its large population of stray cats, with an initiative offering free accommodation for those who help care for them. Travel options include flying to Athens and taking a domestic flight to Syros, or taking a ferry from Mykonos or Santorini.
Mljet, Croatia, is described as the 'greenest island,' offering a tranquil natural paradise with relaxed beaches and the Mljet National Park, which features two saltwater lakes. Saplunara village is a recommended place to stay. Flights from Manchester to Dubrovnik start at £18, with a ferry service available to Mljet.
Menorca, Spain, is renowned for its beaches, including the cove-like Cala Galdana and the long Son Bou beach. It has been recognized as a relatively affordable European family holiday destination. Flights from Newcastle to Menorca start at £37 each way.
Porto Santo, Portugal, offers a quieter alternative to Madeira, with a 9km stretch of golden sand. Hiking trails are available, and the island's main town, Vila Baleira, houses the Christopher Columbus House Museum. Accommodation options include the oceanfront Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa. Flights from Lisbon and Porto start at £26 each way.
Corfu, Greece, is a classic Mediterranean destination with a UNESCO-listed old town featuring Venetian architecture. Porto Timoni beach, accessible by hike or boat, is a unique attraction. The Domes Miramare is a recommended beachfront hotel. Flights from London Stansted to Corfu start at £16 each way.
Heligoland, Germany, a red sandstone island in the North Sea, is known for its smallest nature reserve and the Lange Anna sea stack. Cars are banned, contributing to fresh air. Historically, it was exchanged between Britain and Germany. Travel involves flying to Hamburg, taking a train to Cuxhaven or Büsum, and then a ferry to the island.