The way UK travellers plan their holidays is evolving. Longer winters, busier lifestyles and a growing focus on wellbeing have shifted attention away from short, rushed breaks towards more meaningful leisure time. As we move closer to 2026, demand is rising for destinations that balance relaxation, culture and value — particularly during the winter months.
Among global favourites, Greece continues to stand out, with islands like Lefkada and Corfu attracting growing interest from UK tourists seeking sunshine, slower travel and authentic experiences.
UK Tourists Are Prioritising Leisure Time in Winter
Winter is no longer seen as an off-season for travel. UK holidaymakers increasingly view it as an opportunity to escape cold weather, recharge and enjoy quieter destinations without peak-season crowds.
Key reasons winter travel is gaining popularity include:
- Flexible remote working arrangements
- Better winter flight connectivity from the UK
- Competitive pricing compared to summer travel
- Increased focus on wellness and downtime
This shift has positioned Mediterranean destinations — especially Greece — as ideal winter sun escapes for UK travellers.
Greece Remains a Global Favourite for UK Holidaymakers
Greece has long been one of the most trusted destinations for British tourists. Its mix of history, climate, cuisine and hospitality consistently places it among the world’s most popular holiday locations.
As global travel demand recovers and grows, Greece continues to outperform many long-haul destinations due to:
- Shorter flight times from the UK
- Reliable winter sunshine in southern regions
- Strong tourism infrastructure
- Wide appeal across couples, families and older travellers
This sustained popularity is reflected in rising interest in holidays in Lefkada and Corfu holidays, both of which offer distinctive experiences beyond the traditional peak summer season.
Lefkada and Corfu Are Gaining Year-Round Appeal
Lefkada: Scenic, Calm and Authentic
Lefkada is increasingly attractive to UK travellers looking for peaceful escapes. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, it offers dramatic coastlines, traditional villages and a slower pace of life. Outside of summer, Lefkada becomes an ideal destination for couples and retirees seeking tranquillity.
Interest in holidays in Lefkada is rising among UK tourists who prefer boutique-style accommodation, scenic drives and uncrowded beaches — particularly in late autumn and winter.
Corfu: Cultural Depth Meets Comfort
Corfu has long been popular with British visitors, but winter travel is giving it renewed relevance. The island’s UNESCO-listed old town, rich Venetian history and lush landscapes make it appealing year-round.
Demand for Corfu holidays remains strong due to its versatility. Whether travellers are looking for cultural breaks, leisurely stays or extended winter escapes, Corfu continues to meet diverse UK travel preferences.
UK Destinations vs Global Places: A Clear Shift Abroad
While UK staycations gained momentum in recent years, international travel is firmly back on the agenda. Domestic destinations often struggle to match the climate, value and cultural variety offered by overseas locations during winter.
When comparing UK destinations with global places, many travellers find:
- Overseas winter breaks offer better weather and daylight
- Mediterranean destinations provide stronger value for money
- Cultural immersion feels more rewarding abroad
As a result, global destinations like Greece are regaining priority status for UK tourists planning ahead for 2026.
The Role of UK Tour Operators in Shaping Travel Choices
UK-based tour operators continue to play a major role in guiding travel demand. Established names such as Sunvil, TUI UK, Jet2holidays and easyJet holidays have expanded their Greece-focused offerings to meet changing traveller expectations.
These operators are increasingly promoting:
- Off-season Greece travel
- Flexible booking options
- Smaller, experience-led resorts
- Longer-stay winter packages
Sunvil, in particular, has built a strong reputation for specialist holidays in Greece, appealing to travellers seeking authenticity and deeper cultural engagement.
Greece Demand Is Set to Rise Further in 2026
Looking ahead, Greece is well-positioned to benefit from long-term travel trends. Early indicators suggest that demand from the UK will continue to grow into 2026, driven by:
- Increased winter flight routes
- Improved island infrastructure
- Strong brand trust among UK travellers
- Continued popularity of island-based travel
Destinations like Lefkada and Corfu are expected to see sustained growth, not just as summer hotspots but as year-round destinations that align with modern travel priorities.
Michael Caine