Greece’s Non-Hotel Accommodation Sector Thrives with Increased Demand in 2025

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Greece is poised to rank sixth in Europe for Airbnb-style accommodation rentals in 2026, buoyed by strong forward bookings for the summer. According to data shared by AirDNA analyst Camilo Schmid Rivas at the Short Stay Conference in Athens, the country’s short-term rental market continues to show remarkable growth, outpacing the broader Mediterranean slowdown. With over 160,000 active listings in 2025 and expanding demand, Greece’s short-term rental sector is proving to be a resilient and growing force in the European market.

The Growth of Greece’s Airbnb Market: A Rapid Surge

Since 2023, Greece has seen significant growth in the short-term rental market, surpassing the performance of many of its Mediterranean neighbors. The number of Airbnb listings in the country reached over 130,000 in 2023 and hit a record 160,000 in 2025, despite the typical dip in the fourth quarter. This growth is largely attributed to the increasing popularity of Greece as a top destination for international travelers, particularly during the summer months.

While growth slowed somewhat in 2025 due to new regulations introduced in October, the slowdown was less pronounced than in Spain, where stricter policies led to more substantial listing removals. In contrast, Italy saw a temporary boost in listings due to the Winter Olympics. Greece’s slower deceleration and strong forward bookings for 2026 highlight the country’s potential to continue growing as a key player in the short-term rental market.

Athens and Thessaloniki Lead the Growth, with New Markets Emerging

Athens and Thessaloniki remain the dominant forces driving the growth of short-term rentals in Greece. Both cities continue to attract a large number of tourists and business travelers, bolstered by their rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and thriving city life. However, the demand for short-term rentals is increasingly spreading to other parts of the country.

Regions like Piraeus, Marousi, and Glyfada are seeing growing interest, offering visitors a more local experience, away from the bustling tourist hubs. In addition, emerging markets such as Chios, Lesvos, Kalymnos, Katerini, and Alexandroupoli are gaining momentum. These areas, traditionally less known for tourism, are now benefiting from the expanding reach of short-term rentals, providing new opportunities for travelers looking to explore less-visited parts of Greece.

The trend toward renting in less conventional locations reflects the broader demand for more authentic and diverse experiences, as travelers seek to avoid the crowded, tourist-heavy areas. This shift also benefits local communities, as it drives economic activity in areas that were once less connected to the international tourism market.

Market Composition and Trends in Greece’s Airbnb Listings

Greece’s short-term rental market is still dominated by smaller units, with studios and one-bedroom apartments comprising the majority of listings. However, the market also includes a balanced mix of apartments and villas, which cater to tourists looking for more space and privacy. The rise of Airbnb has provided a broader range of accommodation options for different types of travelers, from solo travelers to families seeking longer stays.

As new entrants continue to join the market, AirDNA’s data shows that review scores tend to decline as the size of a portfolio grows. This suggests that smaller hosts may provide more personalized and higher-quality experiences for their guests. Despite this, the overall market remains robust, with many property owners continuing to benefit from the increasing demand for short-term rental options.

Peak Season Bookings and the Growing Role of Early Planning

Demand for short-term rentals in Greece surged from the first to the third quarter of 2025, with nearly one million more peak-season booked nights compared to 2019. This trend demonstrates the growing popularity of Greece as a summer vacation destination and the increasing willingness of travelers to plan their trips well in advance.

June and July remain the busiest months for short-term rentals, as travelers flock to the country for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural experiences, and warm Mediterranean weather. However, booking patterns are shifting, with more travelers opting for early bookings. This early planning not only ensures better availability but also reflects the broader trend toward more organized and thoughtful travel experiences.

Regulations and the Future of Short-Term Rentals in Greece

While the short-term rental market in Greece continues to grow, it also faces increasing regulation. Local governments are looking to balance the benefits of tourism with the needs of residents, especially in popular areas like Athens and Santorini. The introduction of new rules in 2025, while slowing the growth of listings in some regions, has also highlighted the need for a more sustainable approach to managing short-term rentals.

The ongoing development of clear and fair regulations will be key to the future of the sector. Ensuring that local communities are not overwhelmed by tourism while also supporting the growing demand for short-term rentals is a delicate balancing act that will require continued collaboration between the government, property owners, and the tourism industry.

Conclusion: Greece’s Bright Future in the Short-Term Rental Market

Greece’s short-term rental market has proven to be one of the most dynamic in Europe, with continued growth in 2025 and strong demand expected for 2026. With Athens, Thessaloniki, and a host of emerging destinations benefiting from the boom, the country’s short-term rental sector is playing an increasingly important role in its tourism economy. By focusing on high-quality, diverse accommodations and a balanced approach to growth, Greece is set to maintain its position as a leading European destination for short-term rental travelers.