Greece in 2026: A Premier Destination for Travel and a Growing Hub for Luxury Property Investment

Greece: Recognized as One of the World’s Top Travel Spots and a Hotspot for Holiday Home Investors
In 2026, Greece continued to captivate the world, not just through its stunning landscapes and idyllic islands, but through its unmatched hospitality, rich culture, and the authenticity of its people. The country proudly earned two prestigious distinctions: ranking as the second-best holiday destination globally by Condé Nast Traveller and being named the most welcoming nation worldwide by Travelbook.

These recognitions solidify the reputation that Greece isn’t merely a place to visit — it’s a place to belong.

Philoxenia: The Heart of Greece’s Hospitality Excellence
According to a survey by the renowned German travel platform Travelbook, Greece took the top spot for global hospitality, securing 28% of the votes. Other countries, such as New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, and South Africa, followed suit.

Travellers have often praised the warmth, generosity, and openness of the Greek people. These attributes are deeply rooted in the ancient Greek principle of philoxenia, meaning “the love of strangers.” Whether staying in a coastal villa in Crete or enjoying a café on Naxos, visitors often describe their time in Greece not as mere tourism, but as a genuine connection with the local culture.

This unique, welcoming atmosphere is one of the key reasons tourists — and now increasingly international property investors — continue to flock to Greece.

Greece: A Leading Travel Destination for 2026
In the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, Greece earned second place globally, just behind Japan, with over 757,000 readers casting their votes. Greece outshone other Mediterranean destinations like Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

Among the Greek islands, Naxos stood out as Europe’s Best Island, renowned for its authenticity, crystal-clear waters, and serene pace of life. Other Greek islands such as Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Skiathos, Mykonos, Folegandros, and Santorini also garnered international acclaim.

Furthermore, Athens secured a spot in the Top 15 Cities in Europe, continuously impressing visitors with its fusion of ancient heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and cosmopolitan vibe.

Luxury Resorts Highlight Greece’s Evolving Travel Landscape
Ten Greek resorts were featured in Condé Nast Traveller’s Top 50 Best Resorts Worldwide, with destinations ranging from Zakynthos to the Peloponnese and Athens. These resorts combine world-class architecture with authentic Greek hospitality, offering the perfect blend of luxury and warmth.

This surge in high-end tourism has, not surprisingly, sparked significant interest in holiday homes and luxury investment properties. Areas like Crete, Naxos, and the Ionian Islands are seeing increasing demand, thanks to their ideal combination of lifestyle, climate, and accessibility — all factors highly sought after by global buyers.

The Rising Global Appeal of Greece
According to the European Travel Commission’s Long-Haul Barometer 3/2025, Greece’s international popularity continues to grow. Between September and December, the country captured 14% of the long-haul travel market, an increase from 12% the previous year.

Ranking 8th among nearly 40 European destinations, Greece remains a top choice for visitors from the U.S., Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, China, and Brazil. This steady uptick in demand is a testament to Greece’s enduring reputation as one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for both travel and lifestyle investments.

When Visitors Become Homeowners: The Appeal of Greece’s Real Estate
What often begins as a dream vacation can quickly turn into a long-term investment. Many visitors who fall in love with Greece’s natural beauty and way of life are now choosing to invest in holiday homes, whether for personal use or as rental properties.

From luxurious beachfront villas in Chania to chic boutique apartments in Naxos and traditional stone homes in the Peloponnese, Greece offers exceptional value within the Mediterranean property market. Its combination of affordability, strong tourism growth, and lifestyle appeal makes it an increasingly attractive option for second-home buyers and real estate investors alike.

Greece in 2026: A Timeless Destination for Both Living and Investing
Greece’s achievements in 2025, from winning prestigious travel awards to securing a top spot for hospitality, represent much more than tourism success. They highlight a country that harmonizes tradition with modern luxury, and authenticity with comfort — all while offering unparalleled living and investment opportunities.

Whether you’re visiting for a short getaway or seeking to purchase your own piece of paradise, Greece extends a warm welcome, offering both an inviting place to call home and a promising destination for investment.