Greece may be known for its endless, wonderful summers, but data shows that people prefer it outside of the summer season.
As European travellers rethink how and when they explore the continent, Greece is emerging as a year-round destination, and this shift is reshaping both tourism and the property market.
According to the latest Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel report (Wave 23) by the European Travel Commission (ETC), Greece ranks among the top 10 most desired European destinations for travel between October 2025 and March 2026, holding a solid 7th place with a 5% share. That’s ahead of Austria, Switzerland, and even Turkey, confirming that Greece’s charm doesn’t fade when summer ends.
Greece Moves Beyond the Summer Peak
The Mediterranean — including Greece — now attracts 52% of European travellers, a rise of seven percentage points compared to last autumn and winter. Safety remains the main factor in choosing a destination (20%), while good weather is becoming more important 15%). Special offers and lower living costs also influence travellers’ decisions. Interest is divided between popular destinations and lesser-known places, with growing demand for alternative options. What’s striking about Greece’s 2025 performance is that the interest extends well beyond July and August.
From Crete and Rhodes to Thessaloniki and Athens, international visitors are increasingly exploring cities, islands, and countryside destinations that offer sunshine and vibrant life even in winter. If you wonder about where to visit during winter in Greece, consult our recent guide to beautiful winter destinations as well as our list for the top Greek lakes.
Middle-aged travellers (45-54), typically those with higher disposable income are driving much of this demand. They’re looking for longer stays, remote work options, and authentic local experiences, all of which make Greece’s urban and coastal properties even more appealing.
For instance, in Rhodes, boutique hotels and villas are seeing increasing occupancy through late autumn, while in Athens, digital nomads and long-stay visitors are boosting demand for serviced apartments. This evolution supports sustainable tourism growth and opens new opportunities for investors. For the real estate market, the message is clear: Greece’s property appeal is no longer seasonal. As demand stretches into autumn and winter, so do rental yields and occupancy rates, especially for short and mid-term rentals.
Investors who once focused on high-summer tourism are now looking at year-round income models that combine tourism, remote work, and lifestyle living. Properties in areas like Athens, Crete, and Rhodes are becoming popular with Europeans seeking milder winters and affordable property opportunities.
Ioannina, Greece
The takeaway? Greece’s global appeal is expanding in time, value, and vision. The country is no longer just Europe’s summer postcard; it’s becoming a dynamic, year-round destination with a growing community of long-term residents, investors, and travellers who see its potential beyond the peak months.
As European interest continues to rise, 2025 may mark the start of a new era: one where travelling, living and investing in Greece makes sense in every season.
