Greece Sees Unprecedented Demand for Short-Term Rentals This Winter with Bookings Soaring in Mountain Destinations

Published on December 22, 2025

As the festive season approaches, Greece’s short-term rental market is experiencing unusually high demand, indicating a promising start to winter tourism in the country. Winter tourism has traditionally been a quieter period for Greece than the bustling summer months, but this season is expected to break records as an increasing number of travellers choose cosy mountain retreats and charming villages over crowded, well-known destinations.

Record-Setting Bookings Across the Country

Across Greece, short-term rental platforms like Airbnb are experiencing an uptick in bookings for the winter holidays, especially in the country’s mountainous regions. In particular, locations that offer winter experiences and picturesque landscapes are seeing occupancy rates soar, with some areas approaching nearly full occupancy. According to early trends, the holiday period is expected to be one of the busiest for short-term rentals in recent memory. For many travelers, the allure of destinations with snow-capped mountains, festive markets, and serene atmospheres is proving irresistible.

The trend is most visible in several mountain areas, including Trikala, Meteora, and Arachova, where occupancy rates are nearing 90% for the Christmas and New Year period. While these figures are in line with the usual strong demand for winter getaways, what is particularly noteworthy is the rise in early bookings, indicating that Greek short-term rental properties are becoming increasingly popular in the winter months.

Popular Winter Destinations Seeing Unprecedented Demand

Among Greece’s winter destinations, the Mill of the Elves in Trikala has emerged as a key attraction, drawing a significant number of tourists and prompting local accommodation providers to report occupancy rates as high as 90%. This magical Christmas destination, which hosts a range of festive activities, has been gaining recognition for its unique winter charm. The town of Meteora, famous for its towering monasteries set against dramatic rock formations, has also seen a surge in demand, with bookings for nearby short-term rentals close to reaching full capacity.

In addition to Trikala and Meteora, the picturesque villages around Lake Plastiras have become highly sought after. These locations, nestled in the heart of the Greek mountains, offer travelers a peaceful winter retreat. Similarly, mountain villages in the Peloponnese region such as Dimitsana, Vytina, Stemnitsa, and Karytaina have experienced a boom in bookings, with many of these areas already fully booked for the festive period.

Coastal Areas Still Holding Strong

While mountain destinations are the clear frontrunners for winter bookings, Greece’s coastal towns and cities have also seen a notable uptick in short-term rental demand. Urban centres like Kalamata and Nafplio, known for their historical charm and proximity to the sea, are experiencing strong interest despite the cold weather. However, availability in these areas is more limited compared to the mountainous regions, with only a handful of accommodations left for the high-demand holiday period.

Arachova, another popular winter destination in the Parnassos mountain range, is also reporting near-record bookings. With four-night stays beginning at 780 euros, the town has become a popular base for travelers seeking a mix of winter sports and holiday festivities. The picturesque village is famous for its quaint charm and proximity to skiing slopes, making it an attractive choice for both domestic and international visitors. Metsovo, an idyllic town in the northwestern part of Greece, is experiencing even greater demand, with occupancy rates reaching an impressive 96%. Prices for a four-night stay in Metsovo start at 1,100 euros, reflecting the high demand for accommodation in the area.

Early Bookings and Stable Pricing Trends

This year, Greek travelers seem to be planning their festive getaways earlier than ever before. Many have opted for four- or five-day breaks, with arrivals typically scheduled for December 23rd and departures after New Year’s Day. This shift toward longer stays during the holiday period is a significant trend, as it shows that more travelers are looking to make the most of the extended festive break.

Despite the high demand, accommodation prices have remained relatively stable compared to previous years, which is a positive sign for both consumers and the tourism industry. This trend suggests that short-term rental hosts in Greece are continuing to strike a balance between high occupancy rates and affordable pricing, making winter holidays in Greece an attractive option for many.

The Economic Impact and Strong Prospects for 2025

The momentum witnessed this winter season is expected to contribute significantly to Greece’s overall tourism revenues. If the current demand levels continue, 2025 could go down as one of the strongest years on record for the Greek short-term rental market, particularly in terms of tax revenues generated from the sector. The increase in tourism activity in lesser-known destinations is also helping to spread the benefits of tourism beyond the traditionally crowded areas, encouraging sustainable tourism and supporting local economies.

The Role of Alternative Destinations in Shaping Travel Trends

The growing popularity of alternative destinations in Greece, such as the mountain villages and lakeside retreats, signals a shift in traveller preferences. Increasingly, tourists are seeking experiences that go beyond the typical Greek island vacation, opting for off-the-beaten-path locations that offer unique experiences, especially during the winter season. This trend also reflects a broader shift in global travel patterns, with many travelers looking to explore destinations that offer tranquility, culture, and nature, away from the hustle and bustle of more traditional tourist spots.

Conclusion

As Greece enters the winter holiday season, the country’s short-term rental market is thriving. From the snow-covered mountains of Trikala to the historic villages of the Peloponnese, Greece is proving to be a popular winter vacation destination, providing both domestic and international visitors with a one-of-a-kind festive experience. With strong demand expected to continue until 2025, Greece’s short-term rental market is poised to remain a key driver of tourism growth, benefiting both hosts and local economies.