Greece’s Short-Term Rental Market Reaches One Hundred Sixty Thousand Listings in 2025, Expanding to New Destinations and Poised for Continued Growth in 2026

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Greece is poised to rank as one of the leading destinations for Airbnb-style accommodations in Europe by 2026. The country’s short-term rental market has shown remarkable resilience and growth, with more than 160,000 active listings recorded in 2025, marking a significant rise from previous years. According to data shared by AirDNA analyst Camilo Schmid Rivas at the Short Stay Conference in Athens, this surge underscores the increasing demand for vacation rentals in Greece, particularly in popular cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.

The country’s rapid growth in the short-term rental sector stands out, especially as the Mediterranean region as a whole experiences a slowdown. Greece has not only maintained its position in the European market but has thrived despite regional challenges, showcasing its resilience as a sought-after destination for international travelers.

Growth in Greece’s Short-Term Rental Market: Key Drivers

Since 2023, Greece’s short-term rental market has witnessed significant growth, with the number of Airbnb listings jumping from 130,000 in 2023 to 160,000 in 2025. This trend highlights the country’s growing reputation as a top destination for tourists, especially during the summer months when demand for rentals is at its peak. The popularity of Greek islands, as well as vibrant cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, has helped fuel this expansion, contributing to Greece’s prominence on the global travel map.

Although growth slowed slightly in 2025 due to new regulations introduced in October, Greece still experienced far less of a decline compared to countries like Spain, where stricter policies led to significant drops in listings. In contrast, Italy saw a temporary boost in short-term rentals due to the Winter Olympics, but Greece’s sustained growth and strong forward bookings for 2026 signal that it is well-positioned to continue thriving.

Emerging Markets and the Expanding Reach of Short-Term Rentals

While Athens and Thessaloniki remain the key drivers of Greece’s Airbnb market, with their rich history, cultural heritage, and urban appeal, demand for short-term rentals is spreading to new regions. Areas like Piraeus, Marousi, and Glyfada are seeing growing interest from visitors looking for a more authentic experience away from the typical tourist hotspots. These areas offer visitors a taste of local life while still providing convenient access to key attractions and transportation links.

In addition to these urban areas, emerging markets such as Chios, Lesvos, Kalymnos, Katerini, and Alexandroupoli are gaining traction. Traditionally less known for tourism, these regions are now benefiting from the increasing popularity of short-term rentals, providing new opportunities for travelers looking to explore lesser-known parts of Greece.

This trend towards exploring lesser-visited destinations reflects a growing demand for more authentic and diverse experiences, as travelers seek to escape the crowds of more famous locales like Santorini or Mykonos. It also helps stimulate economic activity in these regions, benefiting local businesses and communities by bringing in new revenue streams.

A Changing Rental Landscape: Smaller Units and Quality Experiences

The short-term rental market in Greece remains dominated by smaller units, such as studios and one-bedroom apartments. These types of properties are popular among travelers seeking affordable accommodations for short stays. However, there is also a growing demand for larger rentals, including villas and apartments, which cater to tourists looking for more space and privacy.

As more hosts enter the market, a trend has emerged: smaller property owners tend to offer more personalized experiences with higher-quality reviews, while larger hosts with multiple listings often see slightly lower ratings. Despite this, the overall market remains robust, with many property owners benefiting from the increasing demand for Airbnb-style accommodations.

Peak Season Bookings and the Role of Early Planning

The demand for short-term rentals in Greece was particularly strong during the first three quarters of 2025, with nearly one million more booked nights compared to 2019. This increase highlights Greece’s growing popularity as a summer vacation destination and shows that travelers are more willing to plan their trips in advance.

June and July were the busiest months for short-term rentals in Greece, with travelers flocking to the country for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant Mediterranean weather. Early bookings have become a trend, reflecting travelers’ desire for better availability and the assurance of securing desirable rental properties.

New Regulations and the Path Forward for Greece’s Short-Term Rental Market

Greece’s short-term rental sector is not without its challenges. Local authorities are working to balance the benefits of a booming tourism industry with the needs of local residents. In 2025, new regulations aimed at curbing over-tourism and ensuring the sustainable development of the sector were introduced. While these regulations led to a slight reduction in listings, especially in highly saturated markets like Athens and Santorini, the growth of the overall sector remains positive.

Going forward, the development of clear, fair, and sustainable regulations will be crucial in maintaining the balance between encouraging tourism and protecting local communities. A well-managed market that supports local economies without overwhelming them will ensure the long-term success of Greece’s short-term rental industry.

Conclusion: Greece’s Short-Term Rental Market Shows Strong Future Potential

Greece’s short-term rental market continues to thrive, with 160,000 active listings in 2025 and strong forward bookings for 2026. The expansion of rentals into emerging destinations, combined with the continued growth of cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, ensures that Greece remains a top European destination for Airbnb-style accommodations. By fostering quality experiences, diversifying rental options, and implementing balanced regulations, Greece is set to maintain its position as a leader in the European short-term rental market, offering travelers a wide range of unique and authentic experiences for years to come.