Two under-appreciated Greek islands are slated for a tourist boom as droves of Brits consider ditching hotspots like Spain. It follows escalating anti-tourist sentiment and a string of planned protests - as activists .

Independent travel agent explains that despite rising tension, hotspots like the Canary Islands remain a popular choice for sun-worshipping Brits. However, she has also witnessed bookings to Greek Islands spike by around 11 per cent compared to this time last year.

Speaking exclusively with the , she said: "I've seen huge demand for this year, with a rise in popularity of some of the smaller Greek Islands such as Symi and Paxos as Brits look for something a little different." As the smaller islands don't have an airport, and therefore require travellers to fly into bigger islands and then catch a ferry, Michelle couldn't pinpoint the exact increase in bookings to Symi and Paxos.

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Often touted as the 'Jewel of the Dodecanese', most visitors in Symi are simply on a day trip from the popular hotspot of Rhodes. However, the 'fairytale-like island' deserves to be the main attraction itself, and impresses visitors before they even arrive.

"While approaching the port of Symi, one has the overwhelming feeling of entering a perfectly painted image of a scenic traditional village," states Visit Greece, the country's official tourist board. "As a rule, people remain agape and cannot take their eyes off the spectacular sight. A galore of two and three-storey traditional stone houses, painted in all colours but mostly in indigo, ochre and terracotta, with red-tiled roofs and cute little balconies with railings set up the peculiarity of the island."

Beyond stunning architecture, Symi is filled with secluded sandy beaches - many of which can only be accessed via a boat - guaranteeing you an escape from the droves of tourists. Those wanting to stay on land can still kick back and relax at the iconic Marathounda Beach, a small bay accessible by car, complete with a cafe and bar.

For history buffs, the 18th-century Panormitis Monastery is a must-see. "Adorned with the world's largest baroque-style bell tower and an array of intricate frescoes, both the monastery's exterior and interior captivates all who visit," says travel experts over at "A revered pilgrimage site dedicated to the Archangel Michael, it offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Symi while also being an incredibly picturesque place."

The best way to get to Symni is to fly into Rhodes, and then take a 50-minute ferry over to the island. You can fly to Rhodes directly from Birmingham and Nottingham airport, with return fares going for as low as £81 in April.

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Dubbed one of Greece's 'best-kept secrets', Paxos is perfect for those wanting to de-stress and truly switch off. It's home to a slew of pebble beaches with cobalt waters, including the iconic Erimitis Bay Beah, and Harami Beach - that never become as cramped and crowded as the nearby island of Corfu.

Many travellers get a boat out to see the magnificent Triptios Arch, a naturally formed rock structure on the west coast that makes for the perfect selfie. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even get back on land and hike the collapsed sea cave, and be rewarded with some pretty unbeatable views of Paxos.

"Visit the picturesque villages of Loggos, Lakka and Ozias, tucked away in pine and olive trees," added Visit Greece. "In the areas of Ozias, Yana and Glyfada, sulphur thermal springs offer an alternative treatment for rheumatics and other health conditions. Innumerable ravishing beaches await the fitter ones as a starting point for scuba diving into underwater caves and shipwrecks, and for top-notch windsurfing. It sounds pretty interesting to walk through the vast olive groves inland. In the area of Magazia, don’t forget to drop by the Olive Museum, once a traditional olive press."

To get to Paxos you'll have to fly to Corfu, and then get a 55-minute ferry over to the island. You can fly directly from several UK airports including London and Liverpool - with return fares costing as little as £76 in April.

*Prices based on Skyscanner listings at the time of writing.

What's your favourite Greek island? Let us know in the comments section below