Greece in 2025: The World’s Most Welcoming Destination and a Rising Hotspot for Holiday Home Investors

Greece continues to enchant the world — not only for its landscapes and islands but also for the warmth, culture and authenticity of its people. In 2025, the country earned two major distinctions: it was named the second-best holiday destination in the world by Condé Nast Traveller and crowned the most hospitable nation globally by Travelbook.

These awards reaffirm what visitors have always felt — that Greece isn’t just a place to visit, but a place to belong.

The Spirit of Philoxenia: Why Greece Tops the Global Hospitality Charts

In a survey by the German travel platform Travelbook, Greece ranked first in the world for hospitality, securing 28% of the votes. Runners-up included New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Costa Rica and South Africa.

Visitors highlighted the warmth, openness and generosity of the Greek people — values rooted in the ancient Greek concept of philoxenia, meaning “friendship toward strangers.” From seafront residences in Crete to seaside cafés in Naxos, guests describe their experiences not as tourism, but as connection.

This unique sense of welcome is what keeps travellers — and increasingly, international home buyers — coming back.

Greece Among the World’s Top Travel Destinations

In the 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, Greece claimed second place worldwide, just behind Japan, with over 757,000 readers voting. The country outperformed other Mediterranean favourites like Italy, Spain and Portugal.

Naxos was singled out as Europe’s Best Island, admired for its authenticity, crystal-clear waters and relaxed local rhythm. Other Greek islands also made the global top list, including Crete, Corfu, Rhodes, Skiathos, Mykonos, Folegandros and Santorini.

Meanwhile, Athens ranked among the Top 15 Cities in Europe, continuing to impress visitors with its timeless mix of ancient history, creative culture and cosmopolitan spirit.

Award-Winning Resorts Reflect Greece’s Evolving Tourism Scene

Ten Greek resorts made it into Condé Nast Traveller’s Top 50 Best Resorts Worldwide, spanning destinations from Zakynthos to the Peloponnese and Athens. Each combines world-class design with genuine Greek hospitality — the perfect balance between luxury and warmth.

This rise in high-end tourism has naturally sparked growing demand for holiday homes and investment properties, especially in areas like Crete, Naxos and the Ionian Islands, where lifestyle, climate and accessibility align perfectly with global buyer expectations.

Greece’s Global Appeal Keeps Growing

The European Travel Commission’s Long-Haul Barometer 3/2025 confirms that international interest in Greece continues to climb. Between September and December, Greece attracted 14% of long-haul traveller preferences, up from 12% the previous year.

The country now ranks 8th among nearly 40 European destinations and remains a favourite for visitors from the U.S., Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, China and Brazil. This steady rise in demand underscores the country’s enduring reputation as one of Europe’s most desired destinations for travel and lifestyle living.

When Visitors Become Homeowners

What starts as a dream vacation often becomes a long-term investment. Many visitors who experience Greece’s beauty and lifestyle are now purchasing holiday homes — either as personal retreats or rental properties.

From beachfront homes in Chania to boutique residences in Naxos and stone-built homes in the Peloponnese, Greece offers rare value among Mediterranean destinations. The combination of affordability, strong tourism performance and lifestyle appeal has turned the country into a rising hub for second-home buyers and real estate investors.

A Timeless Destination for Living and Investing

Greece’s achievements in 2025 — from international travel awards to global hospitality rankings — reflect more than just tourism success. They highlight a nation that balances authenticity with modern comfort and beauty with belonging.

Whether you’re visiting for a week or searching for your own piece of paradise, Greece welcomes you with open arms — and endless possibilities.