Planning a holiday can be a meticulous process, but sometimes, the best experiences come from spontaneous decisions. If you’re yearning for a quick getaway, consider the allure of a last-minute villa holiday. Imagine basking in the sun by a private pool and exploring stunning destinations. Here’s why a last-minute villa holiday might be just what you need to unwind and recharge.
Unmatched Privacy and Luxury
One of the main draws of a villa holiday is the unparalleled privacy and luxury it offers. Unlike crowded hotels, villas provide a secluded retreat where you can relax without interruptions. All of our villas come equipped with a private pool, many of which are heated free of charge, expansive gardens, and stunning views, allowing you to immerse yourself in comfort and tranquility.
Flexibility in Destinations
Last-minute bookings open up a world of possibilities when it comes to destinations. Whether you dream of a coastal escape, a countryside retreat, or a cultural city adventure, there’s a villa available to suit your desires. This flexibility allows you to discover new places and experiences you might not have considered initially.
Why Last-Minute Villa Holidays Are Perfect for Every Traveler
Ideal for Families
Villas provide ample space for families to spread out and enjoy their holiday without feeling cramped. With multiple bedrooms and communal living areas, villas are perfect for family holidays. Booking last minute can add an element of surprise and excitement for children and adults alike.
Romantic Getaways
For couples seeking a romantic retreat, last-minute villa bookings can lead to some of the most memorable and intimate holidays. Imagine surprising your partner with a spontaneous trip to a secluded villa with breathtaking views, private pools, and luxurious settings…
A last-minute villa holiday is more than just a trip; it’s an adventure waiting to happen. With the benefits of privacy, luxury, flexibility, and potential cost savings, there’s every reason to embrace spontaneity and book that villa you’ve been eyeing up. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Ready to find your perfect last-minute villa? Start exploring the incredible options available and make your spontaneous getaway a reality today.
Are you an explorer who likes to see the country you are visiting, and not just the view from the taxi between the airport and the villa? Or are you a ‘flop and drop’ type of person who only gets off the lounger to jump in the pool?
Don’t worry, we won’t judge! But if you are the latter, then you might be missing out on enhancing your holiday experience. Let’s talk car hire…
Why rent a car?
How about spending a day on a nice secluded sandy beach as a change from the pool? A trip to the fabled Birthplace of Aphrodite in Cyprus, a lap of the Monaco Grand Prix circuit if you’re in Provence, seek out the Sicilian film locations for Inspector Montalbano or The Godfather, or go for a leisurely lunch in the beautiful Venetian port of Fiskardo on Kefalonia? Having a hire car makes all this possible!
It also makes it easy to get from the airport to the villa via the supermarket to stock up on those all-important goodies. It also resolves the question of what to do when you’ve left the villa at 10am and your flight home doesn’t leave until 10pm. Why not load everything into the car and do some last-minute exploring for the day?
Do I need a car for where I’m going?
Only you know the answer and it comes down to the question we asked in that opening sentence. But we do try to give you some guidance by grading our villas into three categories;
· Car not required – This is where you are close to, or in a resort centre and can walk to a selection of restaurants, mini-markets, shops, bars, and usually the beach.
· Car useful – This is where you can usually walk to some restaurants, a mini-market, and the beach within 20 minutes and where a car will enhance your resort experience.
· Car essential – This is where the villa location is not close enough to restaurants, bars, shops, or the beach to be able to walk or where the villa is so remote that taxis won’t visit.
Check the FAQs section of our website and you’ll find lots of useful information about car hire there. We’ve got decades of experience from hiring cars overseas, and we’ve shared that on our website with various tips and tricks to make renting a car as stress-free as possible.
Have I booked the right number of days?
One final thing…check your flight times. Car rental is charged in units of 24 hours from the time you collect the car so if you pick it up at 11 a.m. the company will expect it back by 11 a.m. on the last day of the rental. So, if your flight home isn’t until 10 p.m., you’ll need to add an extra day!
They say that travel broadens the mind so get out and see some of the countryside or the rich history of our destinations. You won’t regret it!
When it comes to travel, there’s something undeniably enchanting about staying in a place that feels like it’s frozen in time, where history, culture, and architecture come together to create an unforgettable experience. Vintage villas, with their timeless appeal and heaps of personality, are the perfect embodiment of this charm. Vintage villas can be found nestled in various corners of the world. They often dot the landscapes of rural areas, authentic villages, or quaint towns, showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of the region they call home. These villas aren’t just places to stay; they are gateways to the past, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the local way of life.
Let’s take you on a journey to explore 5 of our most vintage villas that capture the essence of their respective regions and offer an authentic travel experience like no other.
Nestled in the picturesque region of Puglia, Villa Trulli Isabella is a countryside haven that oozes character. Its unique charm lies in its distinctive architectural elements, notably the iconic stone interiors known as “trulli.” These conical roofed structures are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide a sense of historical continuity. It’s conveniently located near Valle D’Itria, allowing guests to explore the stunning landscapes and historic towns of the region.
Ready to explore Villa Trulli Isabella further? Click here.
In the heart of the French Riviera, Villa Mas des Fleurs beckons travelers with its quaint charm. The villa’s interiors and exteriors are a harmonious blend of traditional design and spaciousness. Stepping inside, you’ll find a space that feels both cozy and elegant, a true representation of the region’s allure. It’s a perfect retreat for those seeking a tranquil getaway in a vintage setting.
Ready to book Villa Mas des Fleurs further? Click here.
Nestled in the heart of Andalucia, this vintage villa stands as a testament to timeless design. It’s a visual masterpiece that captures the essence of Spanish culture and history and a place where authenticity meets luxury, providing an exceptional experience for travelers who want to connect with the rich heritage of Andalucia.
Ready to explore Villa Piedras Blancas further? Click here.
Villa Dominikos, located in Crete, offers a unique blend of vintage and modern elements. Its Cretan-style architecture showcases sophistication and a connection to the island’s rich history. The design of this traditional villa seamlessly marries the past with the present, making it a true gem on the island.
Villa Casa Sophia, situated in the Algarve region of Portugal, exudes quintessential Portuguese charm. Its vibrant yellow and blue decor and furnishings set against neutral backdrops create a captivating ambiance. This villa offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Portuguese culture and architecture.
Ready to explore Villa Casa Sophia further? Click here.
The Canary Islands are an all-year-round destination, offering UK holidaymakers endless winter sun. Jodie and Alex from the Villa Plus team travelled to the island at the end of March 2022 to see what it had to offer, and were not disappointed! Here’s the story of their holiday experience…
After four hours of in-flight chatting, before we knew it, we were descending onto the runway into sunny Lanzarote. There is no better feeling than getting off the aircraft and being greeted by the warm Spanish air hitting your face and filling you with vitamin D.
Lanzarote airport is fairly small, so we were through passport control and baggage collection within just half an hour, which kept things nice and simple. We didn’t have a hire car to pick up, so we left the arrivals hall and jumped into one of the many taxis queued up outside the airport to head to our villa in Matagorda, Villa Kikay. The area of Matagorda is only a short five-minute drive from the airport, and the cab ride cost us around €11.
Our centrally-located villa offered three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a heated pool and a great location in Matagorda – just a five-minute walk from the main shopping centre and beachfront. We arrived at our villa quite late in the evening, so we unpacked our bags, freshened up and headed out to explore the immediate area and get our bearings. We found a lovely restaurant on the beachfront, where we had dinner and a cocktail before heading back to our villa for the night.
Visiting Puerto del Carmen
Matagorda to Puerto del Carmen
The next morning, we were up and ready for our first full day of exploring! On went the walking shoes, and off we went with a coffee in hand for a 45-minute walk along the beach front from Matagorda to Puerto del Carmen. There is a long promenade which follows the coastline all the way around from one resort to the other. Here you’ll find great shopping, restaurants and cafes along the walk – perfect for a quick pit stop to admire the views.
Puerto del Carmen is nestled on the coast in the southern central part of the island, and is only a 10-minute drive from the airport. The main Avenida de Las Playas, fondly known as “The Strip”, offers bars, restaurants, shopping, supermarkets, car hire and duty-free shopping. The strip has something to offer everyone – whether you’re travelling as a family, couple, or with friends.
Playa Grande Beach
We found Puerto Del Carmen to be the largest resort on the island. It spans four miles across three golden sand beaches. Playa Grande Beach was clearly the heart of the resort – a mile-long stretch backed by many bars and restaurants. At one end of the strip is the Old Town and harbour, where you can enjoy traditional tapas and the catch of the day at the many eateries on offer. At the other end of the strip is a more lively scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants open until the early hours.
Towards the end of our second day in Puerto Del Carmen, we found a beautiful and very picturesque award-winning seafront bar called ‘Café La Ola’, with stunning uninterrupted sunset views, a range of cocktails and delicious dining options. Alex and I shared a jug of the most incredible sangria while playing cards and watching the sun set.
Café La Ola
As we had chosen to visit Lanzarote in March, the evenings were a little chilly, so once the sun had gone down, we left to find a taverna where we both enjoyed traditional garlic prawn tapas, along with some paella. After a busy day of exploring, we found a taxi along the strip and were back at our home from home in just 15 minutes.
Touring Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca
On our final day, we met up with our very friendly and helpful resort manager Lyn, who kindly drove us from Matagorda to Playa Blanca, which takes around 30 minutes. If you’re in Lanzarote, then Playa Blanca is definitely worth a visit. If you do not have car hire, don’t worry, as you’re able to take a local bus, with travel times of just an hour.
Our overall impression of Playa Blanca was that it seemed more upmarket, with luxury bars and hotels overlooking the fantastic sandy beaches. We found the main bars and restaurants to be busier than Matagorda, but quieter than Puerto Del Carmen. For us, it really was the perfect mix of the two resorts! If you wanted to, you can actually get a ferry from Playa Blanca to Fuerteventura and do a bit of island hopping for the day! It only takes around 30 minutes, and costs approximately €40.
One of the absolute highlights of Playa Blanca was the Marina Rubicon. This luxurious leisure hub is a great place to try some water sports or simply wander around in the evenings.
Marina Rubicon
Overall, both Alex and I had an amazing three days in Lanzarote, and fell in love with Playa Blanca in particular! We will certainly be visiting again.
Have Alex and Jodie inspired you to take a trip to this gorgeous island? Explore our range of quality villas in Lanzarote, and start planning your next dream getaway today!
This is the land of long sandy beaches, epic mountain ranges, palm tree forests and vibrant bustling cities that share their home with ancient monuments. Architecture from the Venetians, Minoans and Ottomans lies at every turn, pointing to Crete’s fascinating history. So, when is the best time to book flights to Crete and take your dream villa holiday? It all depends on the types of activities your family will be doing, and how high you’d like the mercury. Here’s our guide to the best time to visit Crete.
Summer (May – August)
The summer season is the best time to visit Crete. The mercury starts to climb up to 24-25ºC in June, with mild and balmy evenings. By July-August, the island sees daily temperatures between 28ºC-31ºC, and it is the time of year when visitors and locals alike head to the beaches to make the most of the glorious weather and sea temperatures of 24ºC. But although the temperatures rise, so do the numbers of people visiting attractions, so be prepared for slightly longer waiting times and queues. July can be a windy month as the sirocco winds from Africa heat up the island. If you’re a wine lover, the Rethymnon Wine Festival takes place in June, and is an absolute must.
Autumn (September – October)
If you’ve come to Crete to hit the glorious beaches of Marathi, Krios and Plakias (among others), the months of September and October are the best time of year to visit. Expect fewer crowds, less people in eateries and resorts, and glorious beach weather. Temperatures still continue to hit the mid-twenties, making the weather ideal for topping up your tan, swimming in the sea and sightseeing. The climate is still very warm around this time of year, but without inflicting scorching heat, which some may find more comfortable if they’re exploring the Palace of Knossos, touring Rethimno’s Venetian Harbour, or taking a dip in their private pool in their Villa Elounda Pelagos. With an average of six hours of sunshine per day, there’s still plenty of warmth to experience this stunning island. October is also when the island’s Chestnut Festival is held, marking the beginning of the autumn. Locals descend on the town of Elos to celebrate food made with chestnuts. Expect live music, plenty of drinking, dancing and fabulous street food.
Spring (March – April)
Spring can be the best time to visit Crete if you want a quieter, more laid-back holiday that is free of crowded resorts. March can be a bit unpredictable for weather, so do pack accordingly. That said, temperatures often float around 15-17°C as April begins, offering up ideal weather for exploring historical ruins and nature parks, without the queues. Average sea temperatures in spring peak at 16°C, and in fact the sea tends to be warmer than the outdoor air if you want to enjoy a refreshing dip! In March, the 1821 Memorial Parade takes place, while the Burning of Judas festivities take place in April.
Winter (November-February)
While lying on the beach may not be on the cards, this doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty to do and explore on this island. This is when the locals enjoy boisterous and exuberant festivals. Accommodation can get booked up, as visitors want to enjoy a more authentic and quieter experience on their Cretan holiday, so it is best to plan early. The St. Minas Parade, celebrating the patron saint of Heraklion, takes place in November, while the Rethymnon Carnival usually takes place in either January or February – expect partying, dancing and vehicles made out of styrofoam! As the island comes into November, evenings do get a little chilly, so you’ll need a coat and some warm trousers, as the mercury can dip to 13°C (but achieve peaks of 21°C during the day).
Dreaming of soaking up the sunshine in Greece? The island of Crete has it all – ancient ruins and attractions, dramatic mountainous landscapes, lush olive groves, a buzzing nightlife, pristine white-sand beaches and attractions galore for the little ones. Here are some of the most unique things to do in Crete.
Visit the Malia Ruins
If you’re thinking of more adventurous things to do in Crete, head to the town of Malia, where just a few kilometres east you will find historical ruins dating back 4,000 years. Constructed in 1900 BC, the ruins are of a former Minoan palace which was then destroyed by an earthquake 200 years after it was built. Visitors are given free maps to explore the site. Step back in time as you tour the palace courtyards, altars, grand staircase and pillars. Don’t forget to visit the exhibition hall which features a model of how the palace would have looked in Minoan times.
Hop on a boat trip to Spinalonga
As one of the more off-the-beaten-track must-do things in Crete, the island of Spinalonga has a rich and interesting history that just beckons to be explored. Take a boat for a day trip from Aghios Nikolaos and discover winding cobbled streets, a Turkish fortress and a former leper colony village that was romanticised in Victoria Hislop’s novel The Island. After a day of exploring, head back to your Villa Elea for dinner beneath the stars in your private garden.
Spend a day on the beach
Whether you like to play volleyball on the sand, swim in azure waters, snorkel or take part in water sports, there is a beach for you in Crete. Heraklion and the surrounding areas feature a selection of beautiful shores, with the popular resorts of Malia, Amoudara and Agia Pelagia offering a range of bars and restaurants right on the sand so that you can make a day of topping up your tan. Diving schools are available in Hersonissos, Agia Pelagia and Gouves, offering diving and snorkelling to those who want to get closer to native sea life on the island. If you want to get away from the bustle and crowds to a more secluded cove, Agia Pelagia Psaromoura and Paleokastro offer more peaceful retreats with stunning views.
Visit Kotsifou Gorge
Those who love getting back to nature will love hiking Kotsifou Gorge, which offers spectacular views of the island while showcasing beautiful flora and fauna. At the top of the hill, once you have hiked upwards, you are greeted by a small Greek Orthodox chapel where you can admire the stunning vistas below. A romantic and beautiful place to watch the sun rise or set.
Tour Rethymnon Venetian Harbour
When you want to head out a little further from your private Villa Chloe up in the hills, hop in the car and take a leisurely drive to the resort of Rethymnon, featuring the popular attraction that is the Venetian Harbour – considered the most stunning boat harbour on the island and one of the most popular things to do in Crete. It isn’t hard to see why – take a tour of Rethymnon Old Town and discover traditional beautiful town houses in a Venetian style, as well as local tavernas, bars and eateries serving up local fare and freshly caught seafood – an ideal place to stop for lunch and soak up island culture. After exploring the harbour, head to the Venetian Lighthouse and the nearby beach to catch a few rays.
Now you’ve planned your itinerary and discovered some of best things to do in Crete, you’ll need to start browsing our range of premium holiday villas in Crete, where you’ll find your home from home on the island.
Dreaming of a sunny villa holiday in the Canary Islands? The island of Fuerteventura has it all – including sprawling beaches, intriguing road trips, nature parks, fascinating cultural sights, tranquil villages, and of course – a year-round mild climate. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Fuerteventura.
Visit Corralejo National Park
This is one of the island’s most popular attractions, welcoming visitors all year round. The park is famous for its iconic sand dunes and vast beaches that are ideal for surfing, windsurfing and other water sports. If you don’t have your own car to drive around the park, you can take a buggy tour, which begins in Corralejo before heading towards the Natural Park. Some tours also head towards the volcanic area so that you can really get back to nature!
Take a day trip to Lobos Island
If you feel like heading out on a unique day trip while on your villa holiday, take a catamaran to Lobos Island, which is completely uninhabited and feels miles away from the rest of the world. Trips can either take you around the island in about four hours, or you can swim in the various coves and lagoons the island has to offer. After all that sailing, swimming and sea air, you’ll enjoy a very relaxing night’s sleep once your head hits the pillow in your Villa Del Mar.
Enjoy Oasis Park with your family
This attraction is on most people’s lists when it comes to Fuerteventura things to do and see, and is arguably one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura with little ones. Take in the views as you wander around this green and beautiful park, with birds of prey shows, the biggest cactus garden in the whole of the Canaries, Kids’ Farm and animal park. The whole family will love learning about the variety of animals living at the park, as well as the fun activities and educational wildlife workshops on offer.
Take a walk at Cofete beach
Discover one of the many beaches on the island that hasn’t been spoiled by mass tourism – no trip to Fuerteventura is complete without visiting Cofete. Swimming is not advised, as the waters are very choppy and dangerous, but walking and sunbathing are an absolute must. Bring water and food with you if you plan on spending the day here, as there are no facilities – just Mother Nature in all her glory. Enjoy the epic sweeping views of the mountains as you wander along the shoreline, with the ocean as your soundtrack. A perfect romantic retreat for couples who want to escape the bustling resorts.
Take the hike up Pico de la Zarza
If you prefer more of an active holiday instead of lazing on the beach, Fuerteventura offers plenty of walking and hiking trails to get you into the great outdoors. With an altitude of 807m, Pico de la Zarza is the island’s highest peak and gives those who hike it stunning views of Playa de Cofete, making for memorable holiday snaps. You should always start your hike in the morning when it is cooler, especially because there is no shade as you make your way up. Take plenty of water and sun cream with you, and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Shop local produce at one of the island’s markets
Wherever you stay in Fuerteventura, there is always a market close by selling everything from food items like olive oil and local wine, to lace, pottery and crafts. The market in El Campanario (in Corralejo) for example features original and unique handmade items that make for perfect souvenirs, as well as a range of food stalls and live music performances.
Now you know some of the most amazing things to do in Fuerteventura, you need to get booking your next villa holiday in the sun! Browse our selection of luxury villa properties in Fuerteventura.
Tenerife is popular with couples and families alike thanks to its pristine coastlines, buzzing nightlife, vibrant resorts and delicious cuisine. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to attractions and places to visit, with the lively southern resorts of Costa Adeje, Los Crisianos and Playa de las Americas offering plenty of nightlife, shopping and beach culture in the south, while towns like Santa Cruz de Tenerife offer historical ruins, water parks, small nearby villages and the surrounding natural park of Rural de Anaga in the north of the island. Whatever you like to do on your villa holiday, here are some of the most amazing things to do in Tenerife.
Make a splash at Siam Park
If you want to cool off in an even larger pool than the one at your Villa Del Conde, there’s always Siam Park, which is bound to keep kids of all ages entertained for hours on end, and is one of the most popular Tenerife things to do. Spanning 48 acres, it is considered to be one of the best and largest water parks in Europe. There’s a play area called Lost City with plenty of games to keep them occupied, and Siam Beach, which offers surfing lessons. Kids will love the epic Tower of Power slide, kamikazes and lazy river, while grown-ups will enjoy shopping at the Floating Market, or booking a massage.
Visit Mount Teide National Park
Considered one of the best things to do in Tenerife (south), this stunning national park consists of volcanos, sand dunes, rivers made of petrified lava and craters. The main feature though is the majestic Teide volcano that dominates the landscape at 3,718 metres high. If you have a car to get around while staying in your Villa Venezuela, there are many roads that lead across the park, which head to various beaches, viewpoints, amenities and a visitors’ centre. Once parked, there are often multiple walking trails that you can take to discover this epic UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also hike or take a cable car up to the summit of Mount Teide, where you are rewarded with stunning views of the Canaries, although you’ll need to get a permit beforehand if you not taking an organised tour. Space lovers will also enjoy a guided tour of the Teide Observatory, which is famous for being the world’s largest solar observatory, positioned at 2,400m above sea level.
Hike to one of the island’s tallest villages
Considered to be a miniature version of Macchu Picchu, Masca village is one of the tallest villages on the island, and is very popular with hikers who enjoy the challenge of a 3-5 hour climb up to its lofty heights. The hike is one of the best things to do in Tenerife, and takes walkers up a ravine full of majestic flora and various animals, viewpoints and amazing photo opportunities. Wear comfortable walking shoes and take refreshments if you plan on undertaking this epic challenge! You can then take a water taxi from Masca Bay to return to Los Gigantes. It is always recommended that you travel with a guide, due to the rough terrain.
Top up your tan at the beach
Whether you’re looking for amazing things to do in Tenerife’s north or south, you’ll be sure to find a beach that suits your needs. With over 400km of coastline on offer, and 17 beaches with Blue Flag status, it is little wonder that so many flock to Tenerife every year because of its beautiful beaches. We recommend checking out Santa Cruz’s Playa de las Teresitas, which features imported sand from the Sahara. Its soft powdery shores and calm azure waters are great for those who love swimming and snorkelling, and the beach is popular with families and locals. If you want something a little more quiet and off the beaten track, try Playa El Puertito or Playa del Pozo. These beaches often have little in the way of facilities, so bring food and refreshments with you if you plan on visiting for the day. If you are visiting Tenerife for surfing, the one beach you should be heading to is El Medano in the south, which is considered one of the best shores for kite and windsurfing thanks to its winds.
Discover some of the most amazing things to do in Tenerife on a villa holiday in the sun. Browse our selection of beautiful Tenerife holiday properties and start booking your dream getaway.
Holidays to Rhodes are filled with sunny days and plenty of things to do and see, making for an unforgettable trip. Narrowing down your options is the hardest part! Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Rhodes while enjoying some quality time with your loved ones.
Take a day trip to a nearby island
Explore the surrounding Dodecanese islands by taking a ferry trip from Rhodes. Ferry rides take just a couple of hours, and transport you to more traditional Greek islands that haven’t yet been impacted by tourism. Discover the enchanting settlement of Symi, which attracts thousands of visitors from across the globe with its ornate churches and villages, and the famous Archangel Michael Panormitis monastery. Also worth visiting is Kastelorizo (also known as Megisti), which has a particularly fascinating history, intriguing neoclassical buildings and a natural harbour.
Relax at a beach bar
When it comes to Rhodes best things to do, beach bars take luxury and relaxation to the next level. Expect to lounge about on plush sun loungers on dreamy soft sands while a waiter hands you your next cocktail. Some will even let you place chairs very close to the sea if you want to dangle your feet in the water or keep a closer eye on your little ones. Many also offer high-end cuisine, music and dancing, massages and much more. While the children are splashing about in the sea or building sandcastles, you can take time to relax and unwind at one of the most gorgeous spots in town.
Visit the ancient city of Ialysos
History lovers will enjoy visiting Rhodes thanks to the various Roman, Minoan and Mycenaean ruins that are worth exploring. Many ruins date back centuries, all the way back to 3BC. The ancient city of Ialysos dates back to the Byzantine era, when it had the name of ‘Achaia’. The site was commonly used as a place of worship. During 1912-1945, a ‘Golgotha’ was constructed, consisting of several shrines that stretch from the main square up to the west edge of Filerimos Hill. At the top of the plateau, you can enjoy some stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Discover the Lindos Acropolis
Head out from your picturesque Villa Aqua Blu and discover one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the island. Lindos is a must-see in terms of alternative things to do in Rhodes. Surrounded by a more modern village, the site gives a glimpse into what ancient life was like in times gone by. You’ll find historical monuments at the acropolis, as well as various ruins, medieval walls, fortifications that date back to the 14th century, and towers. The ruins date back to ancient times, the Byzantine period and the medieval period. Don’t forget to take a wander around the town of Lindos itself, which features whitewashed houses, gates that date back to 4AD, and the Temple of Athena Lindia.
Hike the island’s walking trails
Those who love getting back to nature and enjoying tranquil walks will enjoy the various hiking trails of Rhodes. We recommend having a car if you want to take some walks that are more off the beaten track, and you can easily take part in walks on the island at any time of the year thanks to its mild climate. Many routes take walkers through small villages that are untouched by tourism, as well as past waterways and old crumbling monuments and churches. This is a different, more natural and wild side to Rhodes that very few people get to see, making walking trails one of the best things to do in Rhodes. Some walks can be organised with a guide. If walking isn’t your thing, you can hire a bike, as the island also offers plenty of cycling trails for all abilities.
Discover some of the best things to do in Rhodes on a family villa holiday to Greece. Explore our selection of premium Rhodes holiday rentals.
Situated in the northern and easternmost point of the Canary archipelago, Lanzarote greets visitors with dramatic sand dunes and volcanic landscapes, a vibrant Spanish culture and a calming, laid- back pace of life. Spend your holiday relaxing on Blue Flag beaches, exploring the Timanfaya National Park and its stunning scenery, indulging in tapas and delicious seafood and visiting local markets. There’s always something to be discovered on this beautiful Canary island.
Sample local Lanzarote wine in La Geria
La Geria is a wine-lover’s paradise, with plenty of vineyards to explore, tasting tours on offer and tipples to be tasted. It is said that the Malmsey wine of the island was even approved of by Shakespeare himself! Many of the island’s vineyards were established after the volcanic eruptions of 1730, and therefore a lot of the fertile land is covered with black ash, and then covered with a picon gravel. With little rainfall on Lanzarote, vines here grow thanks to higher levels of morning dew and by receiving moisture from the nearby trade winds. Booking a vineyard tour of the island is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote, and you can arrange trips from many of the major towns and sample wines made from the local grape variety of Malvasia Volcanica.
Top up your tan at one of Lanzarote’s quiet beaches
If you are a sun worshipper and fancy a beach day away from your Villa Amapola Pocillos, head to Playa de Papagayo on the south of the island, which is much quieter than other beaches in the popular holiday resorts. Other secluded beaches include Playa Mujeres and Playa Caleta del Congrio. These beaches are within the Los Ajaches reserve so there is little development and facilities. There is a small toll of €3 to access the reserve by car, but the drive is worth it. Expect crystal-clear waters for swimming and soft sandy shores. Beach restaurants can get a little crowded in warmer months, so we recommend packing a picnic if you plan on spending the day at one of these beaches. You can also take yacht and boating tours around the island from these shores.
Visit the Jameos del Agua caves
These caves are one of the island’s biggest attractions, and are one of the best things to see and do. They were originally designed by Cesar Manrique – the island’s most famous artist. You enter through a system of lava tubes, before passing through an underground lake, inhabited by small albino crabs. You can then see a deep turquoise lagoon surrounded by volcanic stone walls. The caves are used for concerts because of their great acoustics, but you can easily while away the hours just wandering around and taking in their intriguing beauty. You’ll find a restaurant on site, as well as cafes and other giftshop facilities.
Take a day trip to La Graciosa
Just north of Lanzarote is the island of La Graciosa, and it is one of Lanzarote’s top things to do if you plan on visiting for a holiday. Spend the day cycling, swimming and taking in the glorious nature on this quiet island. Ferries depart from Orzola and take just 30 minutes. Hike the dirt roads from some impressive views and incredible holiday photos, swim in the sea, or rent a bike and take a leisurely cycle through the volcanic terrain. La Graciosa is a great place to visit if you love getting outdoors to exercise. If you want a slower pace, you can spend some time relaxing on the beaches of Playa de las Conchas and Playa de la Francesca. In Caleta del Sebo you can tuck into fresh seafood and paella while enjoying the amazing harbour views.
