Greece Emerges as the Top European Destination for U.S. Travelers in 2025

In 2025, Greece is capturing the hearts of American travelers like never before. Enhanced connectivity, with more direct flights from major U.S. cities to Athens, has made the country more accessible, while its unique mix of culture, history, and natural beauty has solidified Greece as the premier European destination for U.S. visitors this year.

Data shared at the Resort & Residential Hospitality Forum highlights Greece’s record-breaking growth, outpacing all other major European destinations. Between January and August 2025, U.S. arrivals to Greece increased by over 20 percent year-on-year, with a remarkable 25 percent spike in August alone. By comparison, Italy recorded double-digit growth but remained behind Greece, while countries like France, Switzerland, and Germany saw more modest increases.

Americans Exploring Beyond the Summer Season

Traditionally, Greece experiences a significant seasonal split, with peak tourist rates in May–August often more than double those in the off-season months of January–April. This pattern is stronger than in neighboring Mediterranean countries, including Turkey, Italy, and Spain.

However, recent trends indicate a shift. Increasingly, American visitors are traveling to Greece in the shoulder and autumn seasons, seeking smaller crowds, lower prices, and comfortable weather. This emerging pattern is reshaping local tourism dynamics, spreading economic benefits throughout the year and highlighting the country’s appeal beyond summer.

Luxury Tourism and Accommodation Growth

Luxury travel remains a major driver of Greece’s popularity among U.S. visitors. While Turkey is still the most affordable high-end destination in the region, Greece offers competitive luxury accommodation rates averaging around €370 ($428) per night in peak months. France and Italy remain pricier, but Greece’s combination of quality and value is attracting discerning travelers.

Despite limited new hotel development—less than 0.5 percent growth in the past decade—the country has adapted to rising demand through expansion of short-term rental options. This has allowed both islands and mainland destinations to accommodate a growing influx of visitors without sacrificing the quality of experience.

Top Destinations for U.S. Travelers

Several regions have become particularly popular among Americans in 2025:

• Athens: The capital blends history, modern culture, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Direct flights make it a convenient entry point and a hub for exploring both mainland attractions and nearby islands.
• Crete: Offering a mix of coastline, mountain villages, and traditional culinary experiences, Crete appeals to travelers seeking an immersive cultural and natural experience.
• The Cyclades: Islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Koufonisia continue to be synonymous with luxury, romantic escapes, and iconic landscapes. Their enduring charm draws high-end travelers looking for both relaxation and investment opportunities in short-term rental markets.

Other destinations across mainland Greece and smaller islands are also benefiting from this broader dispersion of U.S. visitors, particularly during the autumn months.

Greece’s Rising Appeal for Property Investment

The surge in U.S. tourism is not just good news for hospitality—it also highlights Greece as a promising real estate market. Cities like Athens are attracting buyers interested in both urban lifestyle and rental potential, while islands such as Crete and the Cyclades are drawing international investors looking for holiday homes, luxury villas, and properties that can generate strong short-term rental income.

For investors, the combination of high tourism demand, competitive property prices compared to other Mediterranean markets, and evolving infrastructure creates a compelling opportunity. Whether seeking a city apartment in Athens, a villa on Crete, or a Cycladic island retreat, Greece is positioning itself as both a top destination for travelers and a smart choice for property investment in 2025.