Top Holiday Destinations from Exeter Airport: Explore Cyprus, Greece, Portugal and More

Exeter Airport offers a fantastic gateway to a wide range of holiday destinations, perfect for travellers looking to soak up the sun, explore rich cultures, or enjoy relaxing beach escapes. Whether you want to visit the Mediterranean’s stunning islands or explore vibrant cities in Portugal and Spain, flying from Exeter makes your journey easy and convenient. This post highlights some of the top holiday spots you can reach directly from Exeter Airport, including Cyprus, several Greek islands, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, and even fly-cruise options with Marella.

Sunny Mediterranean beach near Crete, Greece

Cyprus: A Blend of History and Beaches

Cyprus is a popular destination for travellers flying from Exeter, thanks to its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and rich history. The island offers a mix of cultural sites, natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife.

• Beaches: Fig Tree Bay and Nissi Beach are famous for their clear waters and soft sand.

• Historic sites: Visit ancient ruins like Kourion and the Tombs of the Kings.

• Local cuisine: Try traditional dishes such as halloumi cheese, souvlaki, and meze platters.

• Activities: Hiking in the Troodos Mountains or exploring the Akamas Peninsula nature reserve.

  
  

Cyprus suits families, couples, and solo travellers alike, offering a variety of experiences from relaxation to adventure.

Greek Islands: Corfu, Crete, Zante, Kos, and Rhodes

Flying from Exeter gives you access to some of Greece’s most beloved islands, each with its own unique charm.

Corfu

Known for its lush greenery and Venetian architecture, Corfu is ideal for history lovers and beachgoers.

• Explore Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Enjoy beaches like Paleokastritsa and Glyfada.

• Sample local wines and olive oils.

  
  

Crete

Crete is Greece’s largest island, offering diverse landscapes from mountains to beaches.

• Visit the Palace of Knossos, linked to the legend of the Minotaur.

• Relax on Elafonissi Beach with its pink sand.

• Discover traditional villages like Chania and Rethymno.

  
  

Zante (Zakynthos)

Zante is famous for its dramatic cliffs and the iconic Navagio Shipwreck Beach.

• Snorkel or dive in the clear waters of the Blue Caves.

• Spot endangered loggerhead turtles at Laganas Bay.

• Enjoy lively nightlife in Laganas town.

  
  

Kos

Kos combines sandy beaches with archaeological sites.

• Visit the ancient Asklepion healing temple.

• Cycle around the island’s flat terrain.

• Relax on Paradise Beach or Tigaki Beach.

  
  

Rhodes

Rhodes offers medieval history and sunny beaches.

• Walk through the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO site.

• Visit the ancient Acropolis of Lindos.

• Spend time on Tsambika Beach or Anthony Quinn Bay.

  
  

Portugal: Sun, Surf, and Culture

Portugal is another excellent destination from Exeter, especially for those who enjoy a mix of city life and coastal relaxation.

• Lisbon: Explore the capital’s historic districts, tram rides, and vibrant food scene.

• Algarve: Known for stunning cliffs, golden beaches, and golf courses.

• Madeira: A lush island with hiking trails and botanical gardens.

• Porto: Famous for its riverside charm and port wine cellars.

  
  

Portugal’s mild climate and friendly atmosphere make it a year-round destination.

Spain and the Canary Islands: Diverse Experiences

Spain offers a variety of holiday options from cultural cities to island escapes.

• Mainland Spain: Cities like Barcelona and Madrid offer art, architecture, and lively street life.

• Costa del Sol: Popular for beaches and golf resorts.

• Canary Islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura provide volcanic landscapes, beaches, and water sports.

  
  

The Canaries are especially popular in winter due to their warm climate.

Turkey: Rich History and Beautiful Coastlines

Turkey is a destination where East meets West, offering a rich cultural experience alongside stunning beaches.

• Antalya: Known for its turquoise coast and ancient ruins.

• Bodrum: A lively town with a castle and marina.

• Istanbul: Though not a beach destination, it’s worth visiting for its historic sites and vibrant markets.

  
  

Turkey’s combination of history, culture, and seaside resorts appeals to many holidaymakers.

Fly Cruises from Marella to the Mediterranean

For travellers who want to combine flying and cruising, Marella offers fly-cruise packages from Exeter to the Mediterranean.

• Sail to multiple destinations without unpacking more than once.

• Visit ports in Spain, Italy, France, and Greece.

• Enjoy onboard entertainment, dining, and excursions.

  
  

Fly cruises provide a flexible way to explore several destinations in one trip.

Tips for Flying from Exeter Airport

• Convenience: Exeter Airport is smaller and less crowded than major hubs, making check-in and security quicker.

• Parking: Plenty of parking options close to the terminal.

• Transport links: Easy access by car, taxi, or bus from Devon and surrounding areas.

• Flight options: Seasonal and year-round flights to many destinations.

  
  

Booking early can secure better prices and preferred flight times.