Greece holiday with flights: package or book it yourself?
A flight-and-hotel package looks simple but is not always cheaper. Here is how to compare properly and when a package is worth it.
- A Maariv test (September 2026) found only about $75 difference between a package and self-booking, in favour of self-booking.
- The big package advantage: luggage, transfers and someone to deal with cancellations.
- Always compare the same hotel, dates and room type, including luggage and meals.
In peak season, with children or on a first trip, a package from a reputable agency can save hassle even if it costs a little more. If you are flexible and travelling off-season, booking yourself is usually cheaper and more flexible.
What is a Greece holiday package?
A package bundles a return flight, a hotel and sometimes airport transfers, meals or insurance. Most packages from Israel go to Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Athens, Thessaloniki and the Cyclades. Some flights are charters bought in advance by the agency, so in busy periods the agency may still have seats when the airline does not.
Package vs self-booking: which is cheaper?
In a test published by Maariv in September 2026, an identical holiday cost $1,637 booked independently and $1,712 as a package, a gap of only about $75. Packages often include luggage or breakfast that you would pay for separately.
| What to check | Package | Self-booking |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Sometimes a little higher | Often lower, especially off-season |
| Luggage and transfers | Often included | Paid separately |
| Cancellations and delays | The agency handles it | You deal with each supplier |
| Flexibility | Limited dates and hotels | Full choice |
| Peak-season availability | Agencies hold allocations | May sell out |
How to compare properly
- Same hotel, same dates. Take the hotel name from the package and check it on booking sites.
- Flight extras. Hold luggage, cabin bag and seats can double a low fare.
- Board basis. Bed and breakfast, half board or all inclusive.
- Transfers. Taxis from Crete or Rhodes airports are not cheap.
- Cancellation terms. What happens if you cancel, or the airline does.
Check current direct flights: flights to Greece and direct flights to the Greek islands.
When a package makes sense
- Holidays and summer, when flights fill early.
- Travelling with children.
- A first trip to Greece.
- When you want someone to call if the flight changes.
When to book yourself
- Off-season, with plenty of flights.
- Island-hopping by ferry with a hire car.
- Small boutique hotels that are not sold in packages.
Either way, take out travel insurance.
FAQ
Is a Greece package always more expensive? No. In Maariv's test the gap was small, and with luggage, transfers and meals included a package can work out better.
What if the package flight is cancelled? Usually the agency must find a solution. Read the booking terms before paying.
Can I get an all-inclusive package with flights? Yes, many agencies sell Crete and Rhodes all-inclusive packages. Compare the hotel price booked directly too.
When should I book a summer package? Early. For holidays and August, book several months ahead.
