Published on
November 15, 2025
Greece is experiencing a remarkable rise in international travel demand this November, with a notable increase in the number of available air seats. According to INSETE, the research institute of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), air seat availability has risen by 11.2% compared to 2024. This surge highlights Greece’s growing appeal, particularly as a shoulder-season destination, attracting more travelers outside the peak summer months.
Rising Demand for Air Seats to Greece
In November 2025, 1,357,189 air seats have been scheduled for Greece, an increase from 1,220,293 seats in November 2024. This growth signifies the increasing popularity of the country as a year-round destination. While summer remains the busiest season, more international visitors are choosing to visit Greece during the off-peak months, making the November–March period an attractive travel window for many. This shift reflects both the broader appeal of Greece and the ongoing investment in its tourism infrastructure, allowing for extended tourism throughout the year.
Top Destinations Across Greece Show Strong Growth
Among the key Greek destinations, Athens remains the top city, with more than 1.04 million seats available for November 2025. This represents an 11.8% increase compared to the previous year, showcasing the capital’s enduring popularity as a cultural and historical hub. As Greece’s primary international gateway, Athens continues to benefit from a robust influx of tourists.
Following Athens, Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, also experienced significant growth, with 193,554 air seats available, marking an 11% increase from last year. Thessaloniki’s rich history, vibrant food scene, and proximity to natural landscapes have made it an increasingly popular destination, especially in the off-peak season.
On the island of Crete, Heraklion recorded 57,347 seats, reflecting an 8.9% increase from 2024. Crete, known for its picturesque beaches and ancient ruins, continues to attract both European and international visitors. Similarly, the island of Rhodes saw a significant increase, with 22,661 seats scheduled for November 2025, marking an 11.8% rise in available air seats.
In contrast, Kalamata, a smaller and less commercialized destination, saw a remarkable 55.3% increase, with 5,843 seats scheduled. This growth highlights the rising trend of travelers seeking quieter, less-developed destinations in Greece, which aligns with global tourism trends where travelers are increasingly looking for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Traditional Summer Destinations Face Declines
While many Greek regions have seen growth, some traditional summer destinations have experienced declines. Corfu, one of the country’s most popular islands, saw a 12.9% drop in air seat availability, reflecting a shift in tourist preferences and possibly the effects of over-development in recent years. Similarly, Kos and Chania recorded decreases of 9.9% and 3.0%, respectively. Santorini, despite being a highly sought-after destination, also saw a 12.4% decline in air seat availability. The decline in these destinations is partly attributed to changing travel patterns and a general move toward less crowded locales, with visitors increasingly opting for destinations that offer a more relaxed experience.
Growth Driven by Key International Markets
The growth in air seats to Greece is driven primarily by increased demand from major international markets. Israel leads the charge with an outstanding 63.8% increase, bringing in 70,997 seats for November 2025. This significant growth highlights the strengthening relationship between Greece and Israel as a preferred travel destination for Israeli tourists.
Other key markets that have shown strong growth include Germany, with a 12.5% increase and 226,056 seats, and Poland, which saw a 17.5% increase with 34,262 seats. Austria and Turkey also saw increases, with 13.9% and 8.8% growth, respectively, underscoring the strong demand for Greek destinations from central and eastern Europe.
However, some traditionally strong markets have shown slight declines. The United Kingdom experienced a 0.4% decrease, while France and the Netherlands saw drops of 0.5% and 3.5%, respectively. The most significant decline came from the UAE, with a 30.2% decrease in air seats. These declines are thought to be driven by external factors, including geopolitical issues and shifts in travel patterns.
Positive Forecast for 2026
Looking ahead, the positive growth in international travel demand is expected to continue into 2026. The November–March period is forecasted to see 6,326,734 air seats, marking an 11.8% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The top five source markets for this period are expected to be Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Cyprus, and Turkey, further highlighting Greece’s popularity across Europe and neighboring regions.
This growth is indicative of the sustained momentum in Greece’s tourism sector and the increasing recognition of Greece as a year-round destination. With improved flight connectivity, investments in airport infrastructure, and strategic marketing, the country is well-positioned to maintain its position as one of Europe’s leading tourism hubs.
A Year-Round Destination for International Travelers
The trend towards shoulder-season travel is expected to continue as Greece’s tourism infrastructure continues to evolve. The rise in air seats to destinations such as Kalamata and Heraklion is a clear indication that international travelers are exploring beyond the traditional summer hot spots. Greece’s commitment to expanding its tourism offerings, including better flight connections and increased route options, positions the country as an ideal destination throughout the entire year.
As Greece continues to attract international visitors, the tourism sector remains a key driver of economic growth. The increase in air seat availability is a reflection of the growing global demand for Greek destinations, and the forecast for 2026 suggests that this upward trend will persist in the years to come.
Conclusion: Greece’s Bright Tourism Future
With a record number of international flights and increasing interest in both popular and emerging destinations, Greece’s tourism sector is thriving. The rise in air seat availability to key destinations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Kalamata demonstrates the country’s ability to diversify its offerings and attract visitors year-round. As Greece continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure and strengthen its connections to international markets, the outlook for Greek tourism in 2026 and beyond looks promising.
