Greece is once again making headlines, not just for its beauty, but for its people, culture, and resilience. In 2025, the country has secured major international recognition, being ranked the second-best holiday destination in the world by Condé Nast Traveller readers and earning the title of the world’s most hospitable nation by Travelbook.
Greece Ranks Second Worldwide As Top Holiday Destination in Condé Nast Traveller Awards
In the 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, Greece achieved an impressive second place globally, just behind Japan. Condé Nast Traveller is a luxury and lifestyle travel magazine published by Condé Nast in New York City.
Out of more than 757,000 reader votes, the country outperformed other beloved European destinations like Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Turkey, reaffirming its position as one of the world’s favourite holiday spots.
The island of Naxos took home the title of Europe’s Best Island, earning praise for its authenticity, stunning beaches, and welcoming atmosphere. Other Greek islands also featured prominently, including Crete (8th), Corfu (10th), Rhodes (11th), Skiathos (12th), Mykonos (14th), Folegandros (17th), and Santorini (18th), showing that the appeal of the Greek islands extends well beyond the typical postcard destinations.
Meanwhile, Athens was named one of the Top 15 Cities in Europe, ranking 12th for overall visitor satisfaction. The Greek capital continues to captivate travellers with its unique blend of ancient heritage, cosmopolitan charm, and modern creativity.
Greece Also Shines Regarding Hospitality
The beauty of a place is not enough on its own. The hospitality of its people also plays a major role, and Greece has distinguished itself in this area as well. Condé Nast Traveller readers placed 10 Greek tourist resorts on the list of the 50 best resorts worldwide. Some of them are located in Zakynthos, the Peloponnese, and Athens.
Apart from that, a survey conducted by the popular German travel platform Travelbook has named Greece as the most hospitable country in the world. Greece made it to the top rank with 28% of the votes, followed by New Zealand (24%), Sri Lanka (23%), Costa Rica (17%), and South Africa (9%).
Travellers praised the warmth and kindness of Greek locals, their willingness to help, share, and make every guest feel at home. This spirit of generosity is rooted in the ancient Greek concept of “philoxenia”, which literally means “friendship toward strangers.”
From the villages of Crete to the tavernas of the Cyclades, visitors consistently highlight that what makes Greece unforgettable is not just what they see, but how they are treated.
Greece’s International Appeal Also Recognised by the European Travel Commission
International interest in Greece as a destination continues to exceed the European average, according to the Long-Haul Barometer 3/2025 report published by the European Travel Commission.
Greece continues its steady rise in global travel demand, capturing 14% of traveller preferences from September to December, up from 12% last year. The country now ranks among the top choices for visitors from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States, securing 8th place among nearly 40 European destinations, including Turkey.
How the Success of Greek Tourism Affects Greek Real Estate
Greece’s success in international awards is not only a collection of rankings but also a reflection of its authentic spirit. Whether it’s a luxury resort in Zakynthos, a seaside taverna in Naxos, or a family-run guesthouse in the Peloponnese, Greece continues to offer what travellers value most: beauty, warmth, and belonging.
Interest in Greece is also growing in the holiday home sector, with many tourists who visit each year purchasing homes on the Greek islands, whether for leisure and vacation or for investment purposes.
