A travel expert has helped Brits in their quest to find cheaper holiday destinations by sharing one island in one beautiful European country which is a firm favourite among tourists.

Holidays, even those designated as budget holidays, are getting more expensive, with costs expected to continue to rise in the coming years. 

Airlines know that people booking close to the date of departure are usually business travellers who will pay higher prices.

What’s more, while carriers recover the groundings from the pandemic, industry leaders have warned that there are several costs likely to push ticket prices even higher, including worldwide inflation.

It is no wonder, therefore, why so many Brits are trawling the internet for the best holiday deals in some of their favourite destinations. One of the favourite destinations for Brits is Greece, and it is not difficult to see why, with their welcoming locals, beautiful beaches, varied landscapes and delicious cuisine. 

Now, a travel expert has revealed the cheapest place in Greece for Brits to go on holiday – the beautiful island of Andros, the northernmost island of the Cyclades archipelago.

“As a travel writer passionate about discovering Greece’s hidden gems, I actually spent this summer exploring lesser-known, budget-friendly destinations,” Andrea Affinati, founder and travel expert at Voyaged Magazine.

“With the rise of tourism in popular spots like Santorini and Mykonos, I wanted to find a place that was both affordable and beautiful, without the insane crowds or hefty price tags.”

“After some research, I found myself on Andros – a surprisingly accessible and affordable island in the northern Cyclades. Having visited Greece extensively, I can confidently say Andros is one of the cheapest places I’ve travelled to, with budget-friendly accommodations and affordable restaurants,” Ms Affinati continued.  

At nearly 25 miles long and 10 miles wide at its greatest breadth, Andros is mostly mountainous, with its hillsides home to chestnut, walnut, oak weeping willows, poplar and olive trees to name a few. Its largest towns are Andros (also Chora), Gavrio, Batsi and Ormos Korthiou. 

Palaeopolis, the ancient capital, was built into a steep hillside, and the breakwater of its harbour can still be seen underwater.

“Properties on the island are also reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for both holiday stays and long-term moves. In Chora, the capital, apartments around 80-100m² are available to rent for €500-€600 [£400-480] per month,” Ms Affinati added. “For buyers, a similar-sized apartment ranges from €120,000 [£95,700] to €200,000 [£159,600] depending on location and condition.”

“Beyond affordability, I found Andros to be the perfect Greek escape, with pristine beaches, charming towns, mountain treks, and a relaxed, authentic vibe.”

Andros adds new paths to its hiking portfolio each year, many of which are lined by crocuses, thyme and sage.  

There are several key sights, including the ruined Frankish castle on the islet across from the main island, connected via an arched stone bridge dating from the 13th century. The castle of Faneromeni, meanwhile, is situated on an imposing plateau north of Korthi at an altitude of 600 metres.

The island is home to 70 beaches, with its most popular including Zorkos with golden sand, crystal clear water and surrounding rocky landscape as well as the pebbled bay of Vitali and the secluded Achla.

“It is also easy to reach: a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Athens’ port of Rafina brings you directly to Andros,” Ms Affinati continued. The flight time from London airports to Athens (ATH) is around three hours and 35 minutes. 

“I think it’s an ideal alternative for anyone looking to experience Greece’s beauty without the usual expense.”