There are more than 6,000 islands and islets belonging to Greece. Most of these are completely uninhabited; only 227 islands actually boast permanent human life and just 78 of those have more than 100 year-round residents

Crete is by far the biggest island at 8336 square kilometres. It’s also one of the most popular, attracting millions of tourists from across Europe and further afield every year. The island is rather mountainous, with a high ridge crossing from east to west that is covered with snow during the winter. The highest mountain is Mount Ida, standing 2,454 metres above sea level, competing with many snow-capped peaks in the Alps. However, the island is better known for its pristine sand beaches that seem to glow under the hot summer sun. Even during the winter, the coastal and low-lying regions enjoy a mild, temperate climate. Crete is one of the few places in the Mediterranean where you can ski and sunbathe on the beach in the same day. Thomas Cook holidays in Crete are available throughout the year so you can make the most of the unique climate and landscape

Aside from the enviable climate and stunning landscape, many people come to Crete for its history, which like other Greek islands and the Greek mainland is rich, long, varied and incredibly interesting. Remnants are found across the island with Minoan sites being of particular importance and popularity. The most famous is Knossos. This is where the legend of the Minotaur is said to hail from. There was reputedly a huge labyrinth built here in which was found the Minotaur, half-man half-bull, that was eventually killed by Athenian hero Theseus. The site is also thought to be the centre of Minoan civilization and culture and a Bronze Age palace still stands, albeit in ruins

Corfu, like Crete boasts an outstanding history, riddled with intrigue, legend and dotted with facts. The earliest reference to the island was in 1300BC and it’s believed to be the island of Phaeacians in Homer’s Odyssey. The island is entwined with Greek mythology especially legends of Poseidon and Korkyra. The island has been important in more recent history too, once under the control of Venice and later falling to British rule. The history is written across the island in its architecture, castles, forts and monuments and ruins. Its history, its vicinity to the mainland and its warm, dry climate make it another winner with tourists. It’s also stunningly beautiful with a coastline to die for. Thomas Cook also offers Corfu holidays with some greater winter sun deals available at the moment