Greece, Bulgaria, And Turkey’s Winter Hotspots See Explosive Growth In Holiday Bookings As Tourists Rush To Celebrate The Season

Published on December 9, 2025

Greece, Bulgaria, and Turkey are experiencing a significant surge in holiday bookings as tourists rush to celebrate the winter season in these vibrant destinations. The explosive growth is driven by the appeal of unique seasonal experiences, from Greece’s festive islands to Bulgaria’s snowy landscapes and Turkey’s rich cultural traditions. With affordable travel options and a variety of holiday packages available, these countries are becoming increasingly popular for those seeking a memorable winter getaway.

Greece is currently experiencing a remarkable surge in winter tourism, as the festive season draws visitors from both within the country and abroad. Holiday bookings have skyrocketed, especially in regions with popular seasonal attractions, such as Trikala and Drama, where theme parks and unique winter experiences are drawing large crowds. These areas are not only filling up hotels in their own cities but are also experiencing an influx of visitors to the surrounding towns and villages.

In Trikala, the famous “Mill of the Elves” has become a major magnet for tourists, and the surrounding region is seeing strong demand. The nearby mountain towns of Meteora, Pyli, Pertouli, Mouzaki, and Plastira are experiencing fully booked weekends and long holiday weekends. The tourism sector in these areas has benefited significantly from the growing popularity of these attractions, contributing to both local and regional economic growth. In fact, bookings in the Trikala area from December 21 to January 6 are reported to be at full capacity, highlighting the immense draw of the festive celebrations and the “Mill of the Elves” event.

This trend of high demand for winter tourism is not limited to Trikala. Across mainland Greece, the Panhellenic Federation of Hoteliers estimates that holiday occupancy rates are at approximately 75%. While some areas have seen slight price increases, the demand for accommodation during the festive season remains strong. This is indicative of a thriving tourism sector, with visitors eager to experience Greece’s winter charm, including its cultural attractions and snow-covered mountain resorts.

The Dreamland park in Drama is also seeing impressive crowds this winter season, drawing tourists from all over Greece and beyond. The park’s festive offerings, alongside the region’s winter appeal, have made it a major destination for families and holidaymakers. With long weekends already fully booked, it is clear that Dreamland’s revamped attractions are making a significant impact on local tourism. Snow conditions in the mountainous regions will be a key factor in determining the success of resorts this winter, with ski resorts and other winter destinations relying on favorable weather. Even cities like Thessaloniki and Ioannina, which do not have the snow-covered landscapes of the mountain resorts, are seeing steady tourism numbers, with consistent bookings expected well into January.

Pelion and Volos, located in central Greece, are also benefiting from the winter tourism boom. Both regions are reporting occupancy rates nearing 75%, driven largely by the festive events and hotel packages offered to holidaymakers. However, some bookings in these areas have been affected by the ongoing farmers’ protests, which have created logistical challenges for travelers. Despite these issues, Pelion and Volos remain attractive destinations for those seeking a winter getaway, with charming villages, scenic landscapes, and a wealth of cultural events. In Ioannina, occupancy rates are even higher, with over 90% of rooms already booked for the late December period, signaling strong demand for the region’s winter offerings.

The region of Thrace, particularly Alexandroupoli, is also experiencing a significant uptick in tourist activity, with New Year’s bookings already surpassing 90%. The majority of these visitors are coming from Turkey and Bulgaria, reflecting the cross-border tourism trends in the region. Local events, such as Soufli’s fairytale park, are expected to further enhance the area’s appeal, providing visitors with additional cultural experiences that complement the natural beauty of the region.

In the Peloponnese, a record demand for accommodation has been observed, particularly in the mountain villages of Dimitsana, Vytina, Stemnitsa, and Lagkadia. Pre-bookings for these charming destinations are reported to be between 90-100%, demonstrating the popularity of these idyllic spots during the winter months. These villages are known for their traditional architecture, scenic beauty, and proximity to historical sites, making them perfect for winter vacations. Urban destinations in the Peloponnese, such as Kalamata and Nafplio, are also seeing strong interest, with occupancy rates reaching 72% and 73%, respectively. These coastal cities are attracting visitors who are looking for a mix of winter sunshine and cultural attractions.

The winter tourism boom in Greece is a testament to the country’s growing appeal as a year-round travel destination. While Greece is traditionally associated with summer holidays, the winter season is proving to be just as captivating, offering a wide range of attractions for visitors. The combination of festive theme parks, snow-covered mountain resorts, and vibrant city events is helping to make winter in Greece an unforgettable experience for tourists. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Thessaloniki, the snowy peaks of the mountains, or the charming villages of the Peloponnese, Greece has become a prime destination for winter tourism.

In addition to the popular holiday destinations, the country’s ability to attract visitors to less traditional winter locations, such as the Peloponnese’s coastal towns and the cultural hubs of Thessaloniki and Ioannina, speaks volumes about the diversification of Greece’s tourism offerings. With the strong demand for both rural and urban winter experiences, the Greek tourism industry is clearly thriving and set to continue its upward trajectory.

Greece, Bulgaria, and Turkey have seen a surge in holiday bookings as tourists flock to these winter hotspots for affordable travel, festive events, and unique seasonal experiences.

As the winter season progresses, Greece is expected to maintain its position as a top destination for winter tourism, with its festive spirit, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural offerings continuing to draw both domestic and international visitors. The diverse range of attractions across the country ensures that there is something for everyone, making Greece an ideal winter holiday destination.