Winter Wonderland in Greece: Trikala’s ‘Mill of the Elves’ and Dreamland Spark Tourism Boom

Published on December 9, 2025

Greece’s winter tourism is experiencing a remarkable surge, with holiday bookings flooding in from both domestic and international tourists. Regions across the country, particularly those hosting popular festive theme parks, are seeing high occupancy rates and attracting large crowds. The Mill of the Elves in Trikala and Dreamland in Drama are some of the major attractions driving this influx, filling up hotels not just in these cities but also in surrounding towns and mountain regions.

The holiday season, particularly from December 21 to January 6, is witnessing full occupancy in destinations such as Trikala and nearby mountain towns like Meteora, Pyli, Pertouli, Mouzaki, and Plastira. According to Trikala Mayor Nikos Sakkas, the surge in holiday bookings has reached an impressive 100% occupancy in these areas, underscoring the growing appeal of Greece’s winter tourism offerings.

The Mill of the Elves: A Major Winter Attraction in Trikala

One of the main drivers of the holiday tourism boom in Greece is the Mill of the Elves, located in Trikala, a charming town known for its rich history and natural beauty. The Mill of the Elves, which is a festive theme park designed for families, has become a major tourism magnet in recent years. The attraction features a winter wonderland, with lights, decorations, and a variety of activities for children and adults alike.

The Mill of the Elves has grown in popularity, becoming a must-visit spot for both Greek visitors and international tourists looking for a unique holiday experience. With ice skating rinks, Christmas markets, and themed activities, the park offers a perfect family-friendly environment during the festive season. The success of the Mill of the Elves has had a significant impact on the local economy, boosting tourism and driving demand for accommodations in Trikala and the surrounding towns.

The festive atmosphere and the range of activities available at the Mill of the Elves have contributed to the destination’s popularity, leading to fully booked hotels and an increase in tourist visits to nearby attractions such as Meteora—famous for its breathtaking monasteries perched atop rock formations—and Plastira Lake, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Dreamland in Drama: A New Holiday Destination for Families

In addition to the Mill of the Elves, Dreamland in Drama has also emerged as a key player in Greece’s winter tourism boom. The holiday park, located in the northern part of the country, offers a magical Christmas experience complete with light displays, festive performances, and activities for all ages. Like Trikala, Drama has seen a surge in winter tourists flocking to its holiday-themed park.

Dreamland provides a whimsical environment for children, with opportunities to meet Santa Claus, enjoy rides, and explore Christmas-themed exhibits. Adults can also enjoy local food, drinks, and cultural activities while taking in the festive atmosphere. The combination of family entertainment, cultural offerings, and local traditions has made Dreamland a popular destination for tourists seeking a more relaxed yet festive winter getaway.

With the increased number of tourists visiting Drama, local hotels and accommodations are experiencing higher-than-usual bookings, which have helped boost the region’s economy. The success of Dreamland contributes to the growing trend of winter tourism in northern Greece, particularly among families looking for an alternative to the typical ski resort holiday.

Winter Tourism in Greece’s Mountain Towns: A Perfect Getaway

In addition to the festive theme parks, Greece’s mountain towns have seen a rise in visitors seeking a more tranquil winter experience. Towns such as Meteora, Pyli, Pertouli, and Mouzaki offer visitors a chance to experience the charm of traditional Greek villages while enjoying the crisp winter air and scenic landscapes.

Meteora, known for its UNESCO-listed monasteries, attracts visitors year-round, but winter adds a special allure to the already majestic site. The area’s serene environment and striking natural beauty, combined with fewer crowds, make it a perfect winter retreat for those looking to relax and explore Greek history and culture. Hotels in these areas are also seeing a rise in bookings, particularly from visitors who combine their visits to the monasteries with nearby winter sports activities.

The Mouzaki and Pertouli areas are also seeing increased winter tourism, with their picturesque landscapes offering perfect conditions for hiking, local village exploration, and even skiing at nearby resorts. These regions, known for their peaceful ambiance and natural beauty, provide an escape from the busy tourist centers, making them ideal for winter holidays in Greece.

Sustainability and Future Growth for Greece’s Winter Tourism

As Greece continues to expand its winter tourism offerings, sustainability is at the forefront of the conversation. Many of the new winter tourism attractions, including the Mill of the Elves and Dreamland, are working to incorporate environmentally friendly practices, such as using energy-efficient lighting, minimizing waste, and promoting local, sustainable tourism experiences.

The winter season in Greece is set to continue growing, with a focus on offering more diversified tourism experiences. As holiday bookings continue to increase, regions outside of traditional beach destinations, like the islands and coastal cities, are seeing a rise in interest. Greece’s winter tourism sector is positioning itself as a year-round destination that caters to both adventurous tourists and those looking for relaxation, nature, and family-friendly activities.

Conclusion: Greece’s Winter Tourism Surge Shows Strong Growth for 2025

With a strong winter tourism season in 2025, driven by festive theme parks and stunning mountain destinations, Greece continues to attract international visitors looking for unique holiday experiences. Whether enjoying the charm of Trikala’s Mill of the Elves, exploring the magical Dreamland in Drama, or visiting Greece’s winter wonderlands, tourists are flocking to Greece in ever-increasing numbers. As the tourism sector grows, the country is poised to become one of Europe’s top winter destinations, with more travelers seeking a magical and authentic winter experience.