Crete has long been praised as one of Europe’s most charismatic destinations, but the latest survey by the rural tourism network epaithros+ shows something even more impressive: travellers today aren’t just satisfied with Crete… they’re genuinely thrilled.
According to the research, conducted in autumn 2025 among 1,187 international visitors, 91% said the island fully met their expectations, while an incredible 97% rated their stay positively or very positively. These are numbers usually found in mature, highly refined global destinations, and Crete is right up there.
Who Visits Crete? Young, Educated, International and Loyal
One of the strongest themes emerging from the study is the loyalty of Crete’s visitors. A remarkable 62% have been to the island at least once in the last five years. This alone shows how powerful Crete’s appeal is, as it doesn’t simply attract tourists; it keeps them coming back.
The typical traveller is:
– 96% from abroad, with
– Germany leading at 38%
– followed by the US (7%), Switzerland (6%), the UK, the Netherlands and Belgium (5% each)
– Educated and well-travelled:
– 44% hold a university degree
– and nearly 20% have a postgraduate qualification.
– Mostly working professionals (74%)
– with a strong presence of visitors aged 25–34 and 35–44, though the 55–64 group also plays a significant role.
Budget-wise, daily spending usually sits between €51–100, with a notable 20% spending over €100 per person per day. Stays are long too, more than half remain for 7–14 days, reinforcing Crete’s image as a proper holiday destination, not a quick weekend break.
Why Travellers Choose Crete: Sun, Sea… and Something More
Unsurprisingly, the classic duo of sun and sea remains Crete’s most powerful magnet. More than 80% choose the island for its coastline, while nearly 90% say their main motivation is summer beach holidays.
But that’s not the full story.
Before arriving, visitors mainly imagine:
– golden beaches (65%)
– history and culture (45%)
– nature and adventure (27%)
After their stay, their perceptions deepen: the majority report discovering stronger-than-expected cultural, natural and authentic local experiences.
In fact, interactions with locals are among the most treasured memories, an element that gives Crete an emotional impact other destinations often lack.
Crete
The Rise of Thematic Tourism and Its Untapped Potential
While sun and sea dominate, there’s a growing movement toward special-interest tourism.
About 41% of visitors joined some kind of themed activity, mainly:
– cultural experiences (43%),
– food & wine exploration (35%)
– sports tourism (31%)
– diving and marine activities (18%)
Spending for such experiences ranges widely, with 19% paying more than €121 per activity, indicating a segment willing to invest in premium, curated experiences.
Yet, 59% didn’t engage in any special-interest activities and many said they simply didn’t know these options existed.
What Travellers Really Feel: Serenity, Joy & Authenticity
Perhaps the most revealing part of the survey is emotional rather than statistical.
Visitors described the Cretan countryside with words like:
– serenity
– joy
– authenticity
– natural beauty
– local warmth
– memorable food
Nature, local conversations, slow moments in villages, and traditional cuisine were repeatedly highlighted as the memories they’d love to relive.
A Destination With Strong Momentum
For anyone considering buying a home or investing on the island, this level of visitor satisfaction speaks volumes. It signals strong demand, loyal repeat tourism, and long-term destination strength. Crete today is more than a holiday favourite, it’s a mature, resilient and evolving market with rising interest in themes like gastronomy, nature, culture and rural experiences.
