Published on
February 20, 2026
Image generated with Ai
As global travel trends continue to shift, Greece has become the top choice for travellers who seek to explore religious sites. Christian groups select Greece as their destination for biblical travels because of its affordable prices and safe travel conditions, and its historical connections to the New Testament. According to America Greece Tours® (AGT), faith travellers visit Greece because of its significance in early Christianity, and they choose to explore locations that relate to the Apostle Paul’s missionary activities.
Greece’s accessibility and well-developed tourism infrastructure have made it an attractive alternative for those looking for a more stable travel experience compared to other traditional biblical destinations. Popular sites such as Philippi, Corinth, Thessaloniki, and Athens are now in higher demand, alongside Patmos, traditionally associated with the Book of Revelation, and Ephesus in Turkey.
Rising Demand for New Testament-Focused Tours
In 2024, Greece welcomed over 40 million international visitors, a record year for the country. Early data from 2025 shows continued growth, especially in mainland cultural destinations where biblical and religious tourism is experiencing significant momentum. Tour operators are seeing rising interest in curated itineraries focused on Apostle Paul’s travels, with a noticeable shift away from other regions, particularly Israel, which has faced challenges in maintaining pre-2023 visitor numbers.
Why Greece is Gaining Momentum Among Faith-Based Travellers
Several factors are contributing to Greece’s growing appeal as a biblical destination. Greece’s pivotal role in the Apostle Paul’s ministry places it at the heart of New Testament history. Sites such as Philippi, Thessaloniki, and Athens offer visitors a tangible connection to the early spread of Christianity. Additionally, Greece’s excellent tourism infrastructure, including modern transportation and high-quality accommodations, makes travel to these sacred sites seamless and enjoyable.
Beyond the mainland, the cruise industry is also driving interest in Greece, with Aegean itineraries often incorporating visits to Patmos and neighboring Turkey, making it easier for Christian travelers to explore sacred sites.
The Shift in Faith-Based Travel Preferences
In response to changing global travel dynamics, faith-based travel has adapted rather than diminished. The trend toward biblical tourism in Greece highlights the ongoing demand for spiritually enriching travel experiences that combine education with historical exploration. Small-group and personalized itineraries are becoming more popular as travelers seek deeper connections with their faith.
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With increasing numbers of travelers choosing Greece for its biblical significance, the focus is now on experiential and educational travel. Tours often include visits to iconic Christian sites, with group leaders and educators guiding participants through a profound understanding of early Christian history.
Looking Ahead: A Growing Niche in European Tourism
Looking forward to 2026, industry analysts predict that faith-based tourism in Greece will continue to expand. Greece’s New Testament-themed itineraries are expected to grow, particularly as Christian groups and educational institutions increasingly diversify their pilgrimage options. This growth is part of a broader trend of purpose-driven and experiential travel, with faith-based tourism becoming an important niche within the European market.
As more travel agencies and operators offer faith-centered tours, Greece’s mainland biblical sites are set to solidify their place as a cornerstone destination for New Testament travel. Industry operators foresee continued interest in these tours, as churches and academic institutions look to diversify their pilgrimage offerings.
A Pillar of Faith-Based Tourism in Europe
The increasing number of faith-based travelers visiting Greece demonstrates the country’s rising status as a Christian heritage tourism destination. The country of Greece provides visitors a stable and meaningful option to explore New Testament sites through its combination of biblical heritage, low-cost travel options, and developed tourism systems. The increasing popularity of experiential educational travel will establish Greece as a major destination for Christian pilgrims who want to deepen their faith in one of the most historically significant locations in the world.
