Greece’s Tourism Industry Reaches New Heights in 2025 with Record Revenue

Published on February 23, 2026

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Greece has broken records in 2025, achieving a remarkable €23.6 billion in tourism revenue, up 9.4% from the previous year. The country welcomed 42.97 million visitors, a 5.6% increase compared to 2024, according to official data from the Bank of Greece (BoG). This growth underscores Greece’s status as one of the top European travel destinations, despite challenges in certain regions, such as Santorini, which was affected by the 2025 earthquakes.

Tourism remains one of Greece’s primary economic drivers, and these figures confirm the country’s continued strength in the international tourism market. The surge in arrivals and receipts reflects both the global appeal of Greek islands and cities, as well as the country’s ability to recover and grow after difficult periods.

Tourism Growth Across Greece, With Key Regions Leading the Way

The national growth in tourism revenue and arrivals in 2025 highlights the diverse appeal of Greece, from its iconic islands to bustling cities. The accommodation sector, in particular, saw a 3.3% increase in turnover, reaching €11.77 billion in 2025, compared to €11.39 billion in 2024. This growth reflects the steady demand for Greece’s wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to family-friendly hotels.

Regional destinations also saw significant increases in tourist spending. Thessaloniki, Corfu, and Heraklion recorded some of the highest increases in accommodation turnover, with Thessaloniki leading the charge with a 6.8% rise. These regions have capitalized on their unique attractions and local cultures to attract more visitors, proving that tourism in Greece is not limited to just its most famous spots like Athens or the Greek Islands.

Santorini’s Struggles Amid Earthquake-Related Challenges

While Greece as a whole saw substantial growth in tourism, Santorini faced significant challenges in 2025. The island experienced a sharp decline of over 15% in turnover in both the accommodation and food service sectors. The earthquakes in 2025 caused uncertainty among potential visitors, leading to fewer arrivals and a dip in spending, particularly in the food and beverage sector.

Despite the challenges, the island is showing signs of stabilization, with some recovery expected in the following year. Santorini’s allure as a top destination remains strong, but the events of 2025 have underscored the vulnerability of even the most popular tourist destinations to natural disasters and unforeseen events.

The Rising Importance of Food Services and Dining in Tourism

While the accommodation sector thrived, the food service industry faced a different reality. Turnover in food service activities, including restaurants and catering, dropped by 3.4% to €10.73 billion in 2025, down from €11.12 billion in the previous year. This decline, particularly felt in regions like Santorini, highlights the challenges faced by the hospitality sector, especially in areas heavily dependent on tourism.

Despite the decline in some regions, dining remains a key part of the tourist experience in Greece. Many visitors flock to the country’s islands, such as Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes, to enjoy local specialties, fresh seafood, and traditional Mediterranean cuisine. The food service industry plays a critical role in the overall tourism experience, and as tourism continues to rebound, experts expect food service revenues to recover, particularly in popular and emerging destinations.

The Changing Landscape of Greek Tourism

The significant increase in international visitors to Greece in 2025 reflects the changing dynamics of global travel. The United States remained the top international source market, with Americans accounting for a substantial portion of Greece’s tourist arrivals. The United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany also continue to be important markets for Greek tourism, while emerging markets such as China and Poland are showing promising growth.

The trend toward high-value, longer stays is also evident in the increased number of visitors seeking authentic experiences and less-crowded destinations. Greece’s tourism sector has benefited from its diverse offerings, which include vibrant cities, historical landmarks, scenic coastlines, and cultural attractions. As travelers increasingly seek more meaningful and personalized travel experiences, Greece’s tourism industry is well-positioned to meet their demands.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Growth and Managing Challenges

While Greece’s tourism industry continues to show impressive growth, sustaining this success in the long term will require careful management. Ensuring the preservation of the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while meeting the growing demand for travel will be key. With the ongoing development of infrastructure, sustainable tourism initiatives, and efforts to promote less-visited destinations, Greece can continue to offer an exceptional experience to visitors without compromising its resources.

The focus on attracting high-value tourists who seek longer stays and are willing to spend more on accommodations, dining, and experiences aligns with Greece’s efforts to maintain quality tourism. By managing this growth and supporting local communities, Greece will continue to be a top destination for tourists from around the world.

Conclusion: Greece’s Growing Tourism Industry in 2025

Greece’s tourism sector has reached new heights in 2025, with record-breaking revenue and arrivals. The continued popularity of iconic destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens, combined with the rise of emerging regional destinations, has ensured that Greece remains one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe. As the country adapts to new trends in tourism and works to balance growth with sustainability, the future of Greek tourism looks bright.