The Cyclades are a group of Greek islands with beautiful, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains and lush valleys. Glamorous Santorini and Mykonos attract the jetset, while lesser-known islands such as Milos and Naxos, are perfect for beach lovers. Ruins, including the 11th-century Dorian settlement and volcanic ash-preserved ancient Akrotiri in Santorini, amaze those with a bent for ancient history. Sifnos' cuisine wins it admirers. Hydrofoils, ferries and catamarans connect the islands.

While its footprint in the Aegean Sea may be small, Paros has more than enough beauty to take up a big spot on travellers’ must-see lists. Most stay in the island’s biggest town (although biggest is a relative term), Naoussa — where they can explore the labyrinth-style streets, explore shops filled with local goods, dine in the seaside cafes serving up fresh-caught octopus, and soak up all the Greek islands scenery they’ve lusted after on social media.

Ios embodies that classic Greek island ambiance—hillside clusters of blue-roofed white buildings, an amphitheatre, golden beaches that spill into the sapphire sea. The spindly windmills of Ios are like something from a storybook, and a visit to the Tomb of Homer (yep, that Homer) is an exercise in awed contemplation. When the sun goes down, party it up at one of Ios’ many electrifying nightspots. Favourites are Astra Cocktail Bar and the (kind of insane) alt-rock scene, The Orange Bar.

Known as the "Island of Colours" thanks to its jewel-coloured waters and building painted in vivid primary tones, the horseshoe-shaped island of Milos floats serenely in the Aegean Sea. It was here that the world-famous Venus de Milo statue was discovered. Though she now holds court at the Louvre, Milos has other beauties to admire. There are dozens of beaches, all different colours and all different combinations of sand, stone and shell. Explore the ancient theatre, catacombs and windmills in Tripiti village, then cap off your day with a cinematic sunset.

Imerovigli looks exactly as a Santorini village should: iconic whitewashed buildings with sapphire domes, narrow crisscrossing walking paths, epic sunsets. Set sail on a guided boat tour of nearby volcanic features or spend the day exploring the remains of Skaros, a 13th-century Venetian palace. Cap it all off with a simple but decadent meal of local delicacies.

The Greek island of Santorini is a blissful spot for a getaway, and its capital, Fira, is a vision of dramatic cliffs and pristine whitewashed buildings. The Archaeological Museum contains Minoan artifacts from Fira’s ancient foundations, while several churches and monasteries offer a glimpse into the historical and contemporary religious make up of this beautiful village. Exploring the shops and cafes along Fira’s narrow footpaths is a leisurely way to spend an afternoon.

Glamourous Santorini is deliciously different. Geographical newness is in part to thank. The island’s popular black volcanic Perissa and Kamari beaches are big draws, as is its arguably most famous Red Beach near Akrotiri (which is the place to go for archaeology buffs). Santorini curves round a giant lagoon in the Cyclades islands, offering stunning views from sky-high towns, eclectic cuisine, lovely galleries, thriving nightlife and excellent wines.

Welcome to Germany's largest island, with a myriad of terrains to delight outdoor explorers, from sandy coastlines to dramatic chalk cliffs. It's been a seaside resort since 1818 and is one of Germany's top vacation spots. There's something for everyone, from the two national parks to a former royal residence and a castle to the beach, of course - head to Binz if sunbathing is your primary objective.

You've probably heard that Guinness tastes better in Dublin (fresh from the factory), but what you may not know is that Dublin is a perfect destination for the whole family. No, we're not suggesting you let the kiddies drink a pint. Instead, take them to the Dublin Zoo, to feed the ducks in Stephen's Green or on a picnic in Phoenix Park. Scholars enjoy walking in the literary footsteps of such writers as Yeats and Joyce, while discerning shoppers have their pick of designer boutiques.