As summer travel patterns shift away from frenetic, checklist-style itineraries, a growing number of holidaymakers are prioritising calm over crowds. Research by Solmar Villas, a UK-based holiday specialist, has identified Greece as the continent's leading destination for a genuinely restful break, with seven of its top ten most relaxing spots located in the country.
The study analysed more than 160 global destinations across eight criteria, including crowd density, climate comfort, quality of nature and scenery, pace of life, affordability, safety, ease of access, and the availability of wellness activities such as yoga, hiking, and spa treatments. Each factor was scored on a scale of one to five, giving a total relaxation score out of 40.
Alonissos, a small island in the Northern Sporades, topped the list with a score of 30.5. It was followed closely by Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands, at 30.4, and the Peloponnese peninsula in southern mainland Greece at 30.3. Skopelos and Lefkada rounded out the top five, while the Mani Peninsula, Naxos, and Paxos also featured prominently.
Why Greece stands out
The findings reflect a broader European trend: overtourism is pushing visitors away from overcrowded hotspots such as Santorini, Ibiza, and Hawaii. In Greece, authorities have already taken steps to manage visitor pressure, including expanding a ban on sunbeds to 251 beaches to protect fragile coastlines. The new ranking suggests that quieter alternatives are gaining traction among travellers seeking a more sustainable pace.
“It’s no surprise to see Greece come out on top when it comes to relaxation,” said Sharon Bradbury, travel expert at Solmar Villas. “What stands out most is how well lesser-known locations perform. For travellers who want to properly unwind, choosing a quieter destination can make all the difference.”
The study also highlighted that more than 60% of the top 20 destinations are in Europe, and roughly 75% are islands, underscoring the appeal of seclusion from mainlands. For Europeans not wishing to travel long haul, this is good news: true tranquillity is often just a short flight or ferry ride away.
While Spain’s El Hierro (30.0), Thailand’s Koh Yao Noi (30.0), and the British Overseas Territory of Anguilla (29.9) also made the top ten, Greece’s dominance is clear. The country’s combination of uncrowded beaches, diverse landscapes, and a traditionally slower rhythm of life aligns well with the growing demand for slow travel—a movement that favours longer stays, overland journeys, and deeper immersion in local culture.
For those planning ahead, the study’s timing is relevant: with Skyscanner's summer 2026 guide already pointing to best dates and budget-friendly options, Greece’s lesser-known islands offer a compelling alternative to the usual crowded circuits. Whether it’s the marine park of Alonissos, the dramatic cliffs of Kefalonia, or the olive groves of the Peloponnese, the message is clear: a slower, more relaxing summer is still possible—if you know where to look.
