Thursday, June 12, 2025
Greece continues to captivate travelers from the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, who are drawn to its world-renowned beaches, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. A recent survey conducted by Ipsos for Visa in early 2025 highlights the ongoing appeal of the country, gathering insights from over 1,500 travelers planning their trips to Greece this year.
The findings, shared in Athens, reaffirm that both Athens and the Greek islands are top destinations for international visitors. Interestingly, almost 90% of tourists finalize their travel plans approximately one month ahead of their departure, with many turning to traditional sources like accommodation platforms and official hotel websites for information. However, a new trend reveals that ChatGPT is becoming an increasingly popular tool for travelers seeking recommendations for activities and experiences.
Key Factors Influencing Tourist Visits to Greece
The survey sheds light on why tourists are choosing Greece as their destination and what they prioritize during their trips.
Main Reasons for Choosing Greece:
Greece’s alluring beaches remain the primary motivation for many travelers, with 69% citing it as their top reason for visiting. A close second is the country’s rich cultural heritage, with 65% of tourists eager to explore its historical sites. U.S. visitors, in particular, show interest in a wide range of activities beyond beaches, including nightlife, amusement parks, and live performances, in contrast to their British and French counterparts, who tend to focus more on cultural pursuits.
Length of Stay:
Approximately 48% of tourists plan to stay in Greece for 4 to 7 days, while the remaining half opt for longer stays, typically exceeding 8 days, indicating a strong interest in immersing themselves in the country’s offerings.
Preferred Travel Seasons:
The summer months remain the most popular for visiting Greece, but specific months vary by nationality:
- U.S. travelers primarily visit in July (21%).
- British tourists favor May (17%) and June (27%).
- French travelers are more likely to travel in September (20%).
Extended European Travel Plans:
A large portion of tourists plans to extend their European vacations. About 50% of travelers also include Italy in their itineraries, and 40% include Spain, reflecting a broader interest in exploring neighboring countries.
Popular Destinations within Greece
When it comes to choosing specific Greek regions, tourists’ preferences differ:
- U.S. travelers: Favor Attica (41%), South Aegean (31%), and Crete (27%).
- British visitors: Prefer the Ionian Islands (32%), South Aegean, and Attica (both 27%).
- French tourists: Are drawn to Attica (39%), Crete (35%), and South Aegean (30%).
Tourist Spending Habits in Greece
Visitors from the U.S., U.K., and France have varying expectations for their spending in Greece:
- U.S. tourists: Plan to spend an average of €3,040 per person, which represents about 13% of their income. They are also more likely to engage in luxury tourism experiences.
- British travelers: Estimate spending around €1,900 per person (about 11% of their income), with 25% planning to increase their travel budget compared to the previous year.
- French tourists: Expect to spend approximately €2,550 per person, also about 11% of their income.
Growing Interest in Sustainable Tourism
Interest in eco-friendly travel options is notably higher among U.S. tourists. About 30% of American visitors are willing to pay an extra 5% to 10% for environmentally sustainable services, such as eco-friendly accommodations or activities. Overall, one-third of all tourists recognize the importance of sustainability in their travel decisions, particularly when it comes to dining, transportation, and chosen travel routes.
In conclusion, Greece continues to be a favored destination for tourists from the U.S., U.K., and France, who are attracted not only by its stunning beaches and cultural sites but also by its growing range of eco-conscious travel options. As sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration for modern travelers, Greece is well-positioned to meet this demand and continue to offer unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the world.
