Athens Emerges as the Unlikely Holiday Hotspot for German Travelers This Christmas and New Year’s Season

Published on December 4, 2025

As the holiday season approaches, Athens has emerged as one of the top destinations for German tourists, making its mark as a sought-after city for Christmas and New Year’s holidays. According to the latest findings from Opodo, Athens is now among the most-booked cities for the upcoming festive period, climbing alongside popular destinations like London, Paris, and Barcelona.

For the Christmas season (December 17-28), Athens is gaining ground, appearing on the list of top 10 most-booked destinations for German travelers. As we move into the New Year period (December 29-January 11), the Greek capital remains strong, securing a spot among the most popular places for German holidaymakers. Athens’ growing popularity reflects a broader trend of Germans seeking cultural and sun-filled winter escapes.

Short Breaks Continue to Dominate German Travel Preferences

German travelers have long preferred shorter vacations during the holiday period, and 2025 is no different. For Christmas, nearly half (46 percent) of German travelers are choosing trips of 7 to 13 days, with 29 percent opting for even shorter breaks of 3 to 4 days. This consistency in travel preferences highlights the demand for convenient getaways that don’t require lengthy time commitments.

The New Year period sees a slight shift in preferences, with 33 percent of Germans planning 3 to 4-day trips. Meanwhile, 30 percent are opting for slightly longer stays of 7 to 13 days. While extended holidays are less common, the preference for short and medium-term breaks highlights the appeal of destinations like Athens that offer easy accessibility and a combination of historical and festive experiences.

Athens: Greece’s Growing Appeal to German Holidaymakers

Greece has long been a summer destination for German travelers, but now it is making its way onto the radar for winter holidays as well. With affordable flights, mild temperatures, and rich cultural offerings, Greece is attracting Germans who want to enjoy a change of scenery while avoiding the harsh winter in Germany.

Athens, with its stunning ancient monuments, Mediterranean charm, and vibrant street life, is becoming an increasingly popular winter destination. From exploring the Parthenon to indulging in local Greek cuisine, Athens offers an immersive holiday experience that blends culture, history, and leisure. The city’s mild winter weather, with fewer crowds compared to summer months, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Additionally, Athens’ affordability compared to other European capitals makes it an attractive choice. Budget-friendly accommodation options, affordable dining, and accessible flights make Athens an appealing option for Germans who want to enjoy a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank.

Germany Attracts Visitors for Festive Markets and New Year’s Celebrations

While Athens is attracting more German tourists, Germany itself remains a top destination for visitors during the holidays. Known for its iconic Christmas markets, festive spirit, and world-famous New Year’s celebrations, Germany continues to draw tourists from across Europe, especially Spain, France, and Italy.

Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are the prime spots for international visitors, offering everything from traditional Christmas markets to breathtaking New Year’s Eve celebrations. Spain leads the charge as the top source market for international visitors, followed by France and Italy, who all head to Germany to experience the country’s festive traditions and cultural offerings.

For the New Year period, these countries remain major contributors to Germany’s tourism numbers, but Switzerland and Austria are also showing an increase in travel to German cities. This seasonal influx highlights the global appeal of Germany’s festive charm, with tourists flocking to experience the magic of Christmas markets and the countdown to the New Year.

Why Germans Are Choosing Athens for Their Winter Breaks

What makes Athens such an attractive winter getaway for German travelers? The answer lies in its ideal combination of pleasant weather, cultural wealth, and affordability. While Germans seek relief from the cold winter months, Athens offers the perfect balance of historic exploration, leisurely strolls, and seasonal festivities. The city’s charm during the holiday season is further amplified by the vibrant Christmas markets, holiday events, and festive displays that fill the streets.

Athens provides a perfect environment for short breaks, with a combination of unique cultural experiences and modern comforts. Whether it’s exploring the Acropolis, relaxing in cafes, or shopping at Christmas markets, Athens offers something for every traveler. The mild Mediterranean climate ensures that visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in comfort, a rarity in much of Europe during the winter months.

Moreover, Athens stands out as an affordable alternative to pricier European cities. The ease of travel, coupled with reasonable costs for hotels, dining, and attractions, makes Athens a standout choice for those seeking a hassle-free holiday experience.

Looking Ahead: Athens Set to Attract More German Holidaymakers

As Athens continues to gain popularity as a holiday destination, its appeal to German travelers is expected to grow even further. The city’s rising demand during the festive season is a clear indicator that Athens is becoming a top choice for Germans looking to enjoy a combination of cultural enrichment and winter sunshine. With growing bookings each year, Athens is well on its way to becoming a year-round favorite for European travelers seeking both history and relaxation in an affordable, welcoming destination.

For Germany, the increasing number of German tourists choosing Athens signals a shift in travel habits. More and more Germans are now seeking out destinations that offer more than just sun and beach—destinations that allow them to immerse themselves in rich culture and history during the winter months. Athens’ rise as a go-to city for Christmas and New Year’s holidays is just the beginning of what could be a long-lasting trend.