Discover the Best Islands in Europe
Discover the Best Islands in Europe
White, sugar-like sand, azure blue water, the warmth of the sun on your skin, a light sea breeze on your face – if you’re dreaming of island life this summer, you may not have to travel as far as you think. Europe is home to a vast collection of stunning archipelagos, just waiting to be explored.
From the Greek and Canary Islands to the Balearics, read on to discover the best islands in Europe.
If you are flying from Birmingham Airport, check out our useful travel tips to ensure a smooth journey. If you choose to drive to the airport, Car Parks 1, 2 & 3 are most convenient – just a 2-minute walk from the terminal building. Pre-book online to save up to 70% and guarantee a space.
Canary Islands
From the national parks of Tenerife to the sand dunes of Fuerteventura and the beaches of Gran Canaria, the Canary Islands are a wonderful holiday destination for the whole family. Enjoy Spanish culture with an African climate and sink your toes into beautiful sand. Discover our favourite islands below.
Tenerife
Known widely as the ‘island of eternal spring’, Tenerife enjoys almost guaranteed sunshine all year round. Safe, family-friendly and just a four-hour flight away, it is one of Britain’s top holiday destinations. Admire spectacular volcanic scenery, lounge on one of the beautiful beaches, get your adrenaline pumping with water sports and enjoy a mojito or three on a night out.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Tenerife with Jet2.com, Ryanair or TUI.
Fuerteventura
With emerald green waters fringed by over 150km of incredible white sandy beaches, Fuerteventura is an ace holiday destination. The untouched coast and spectacular volcanic landscapes have earned the island a Biosphere Reserve status. Spend your days admiring volcanoes, exploring treasure islands and tasting some very special goat’s cheese.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Fuerteventura with Jet2.com, Ryanair or TUI.
Gran Canaria
‘A continent in miniature’, Gran Canaria earned its reputation from its dramatic variations of terrain, ranging from the green and leafy north to the lush mountainous interior and the desert-like south. It’s an island of microclimates, meaning you can run into three or even four seasons in one day! Sail out to watch whales, walk in the Canary pine forests, star gaze, or just relax on some of the 60km of beach.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Gran Canaria with Jet2.com, Ryanair or TUI.
Balearic Islands
East of the Spanish mainland, the four chief Balearic Islands – Ibiza, Formentera, Mallorca, and Menorca – maintain a character distinct from the rest of Spain and from each other. Because of this, the sun-kissed archipelago caters to a variety of holiday makers. Whether you want to party the night away, spend a week on the beach, hike through national parks or get your nose stuck into some history, the Balearic Islands are a great choice.
Mallorca
The ever-popular star of the Mediterranean, Mallorca attracts tourists with its gorgeous beaches, azure views, remote mountains and enchanting hill towns. With a well-balanced combination of culture and nature, it’s no surprise that tourists keep coming back year after year. From visiting the capital’s Gothic cathedral to sunbathing on a pristine beach and strolling through medieval villages to relaxing at a glamorous seaside resort, there’s something for everyone on the Balearic’s largest island.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Mallorca with Jet2.com, Ryanair or TUI.
Menorca
Unspoiled, idyllic, glistening sand, turquoise water – Menorca’s beaches are like a clichéd tourist brochure. The island has been quietly encouraging sustainable tourism for years, long before it became fashionable. So, the beaches will stay pristine for generations to come. From gorgeous walks through the nature reserves and gorges, to horse riding through the ancient countryside and across hidden beaches, to mountain biking on Camí de Cavalls rugged coastline, you won’t be stuck for things to do on this stunning island.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Menorca with Jet2.com or TUI.
Greek Islands
The Greek Islands are somewhat mystical – igniting the imagination and satisfying the soul with a history laced in mythical tales and told through ancient, sun-bleached ruins. With whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, the turquoise Aegean Sea and delicious gyros, it’s no wonder British holiday makers flock to the archipelago each year.
Rhodes
With miles of beaches, a forested, mountainous interior, Crusader castles, delicately painted churches, and one of the finest medieval towns in the Mediterranean, not to mention eight sunny months a year, Rhodes sells itself. However, if you’re still not convinced then perhaps you will be by the local flora and fauna – Rhodes is home to the butterfly valley which teams with colourful butterflies between June and September.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Rhodes with Jet2.com or TUI.
Kefalonia
Despite the devastating earthquake of 1953 that destroyed much of its historic Venetian architecture, there is still much to see on this historic island. Kefalonia’s convoluted coastline is peppered with captivating coves and beach-lined bays. Picturesque harbourfront villages are quaint and inviting, while the lush mountainous interior, dotted with wild meadows and vast vineyards, invite endless exploration.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Kefalonia with Flybe or TUI.
Heraklion
The largest city and port of the island of Crete is a great holiday destination for Greek and foreign tourists alike. With archaeological sites, stunning natural beauty, vivid nightlife, and delicious food, there’s plenty to see and do.
Book your direct flight from Birmingham Airport to Heraklion with Jet2.com or TUI.
Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Discover where else we fly and check out our destination guides for more travel inspiration.