Published on
December 30, 2025
Greece has experienced a significant surge in international tourism during the first ten months of 2025, with visitor numbers climbing by 4.4% compared to the previous year. This increase is poised to set a new record for the country as it approaches the close of the year. The Bank of Greece reports that 35.26 million international travelers visited Greece between January and October, surpassing the total for 2024, which stood at 33.79 million. This growth is just shy of the record set in 2024, making a new all-time high almost certain.
Strong Performance from Key Markets
Germany remains the leading source of international visitors to Greece, contributing 5.65 million arrivals, marking an 8.3% increase from last year. The United Kingdom follows closely with 4.68 million visitors, showing a 6.6% rise. Italy also saw a substantial increase of 8.2%, bringing in 2.10 million visitors. However, countries like France and Russia showed slower growth, with the latter still recovering from previous declines in visitor numbers.
The primary geographical shifts in tourist flows are noteworthy. While visitor arrivals from the EU-27 countries increased slightly by 1.4%, those from non-EU countries surged by 9.1%, underlining the growing appeal of Greece as an international tourist destination.
The Role of Air and Road Travel
Air travel to Greece increased by 4.6%, reflecting the country’s high connectivity and access through various air routes. Meanwhile, road travel saw a similar rise of 4.9%, demonstrating the ease of accessing Greece by land from neighboring countries. This multimodal accessibility is vital for attracting both short-haul and long-haul tourists.
Exceptional Revenue Growth
Tourism revenues have soared alongside the increase in international arrivals. Tourism revenues reached an impressive €22.39 billion during the January to October period, marking a rise of 8.9% compared to the same period in 2024. This revenue growth already exceeds the total €21.7 billion for the entirety of 2024, setting a new financial record for Greece’s tourism sector.
The most notable increase came from non-EU markets, which saw a significant rise of 12.2% to €9.11 billion, while revenue from EU-27 countries grew by 5.8%, reaching €12.12 billion. Visitors from the United Kingdom contributed a significant portion to this growth, with a 15.1% increase in spending, reaching €3.55 billion. Similarly, tourists from the United States also boosted their spending by 8.4%, contributing €1.54 billion.
A Decade of Growth and Resilience
The impressive performance in 2025 is a continuation of a decade-long trend of growth for Greece’s tourism industry. Since 2016, international arrivals have risen by about 50%, from approximately 25 million to over 37 million visitors. This upward trajectory highlights Greece’s global appeal and its rising share of the global tourism market, which increased from 2% to 2.5% over the past decade.
A major factor contributing to this growth is the expansion of air connections, which have increased by 46% between 2015 and 2024. Additionally, Greece has seen a shift towards more luxurious accommodations, with the proportion of four- and five-star hotels increasing from 42% of total capacity in 2015 to 55% today.
Travel Tips for Visiting Greece in 2026
- Book Early for Best Deals: Given the continued growth in tourism, it’s advisable to book flights and accommodations early to secure the best prices and availability, especially during peak seasons.
- Explore Beyond the Islands: While the Greek Islands are popular, consider exploring Athens, Thessaloniki, and the mainland for a more authentic experience.
- Use Multiple Transport Options: Greece’s robust air and road network makes it easy to explore. Rent a car or use buses for scenic routes across the mainland.
- Plan for Seasonal Events: Greece is known for its festivals, including the Athens and Epidaurus Festival. Check local event calendars to align your visit with these cultural celebrations.
Greece’s Continued Tourism Success
Greece’s tourism sector has shown resilience and adaptability in the face of global challenges. The Greek Government has committed to further developing tourism infrastructure, focusing on sustainability and improving visitor experiences.
With the rise of luxury travel, high-end resorts, and well-developed transportation links, the country is well-positioned to continue its tourism boom in the years to come. As international travelers look to Greece for unique cultural experiences, pristine beaches, and rich history, the country’s tourism industry is set to maintain its place among the top global destinations.
