Athens, Greece – The Bank of Greece revealed a strong performance by the tourism sector during the first eight months of 2025. Tourism revenues rose significantly to €16.7 billion, compared to €14.9 billion during the same period last year, marking a 12% increase.
The number of non-resident travelers also increased by 4.1%, reflecting the continued attractiveness of Greek destinations to international tourists despite global challenges.
Another positive year for tourism
For her part, Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni described 2025 as “another positive year for tourism in Greece.” She noted that the data available so far confirms the sector’s continued strong momentum.
Especially during the off-peak months, this is the fruit of the Ministry’s strategy to expand the tourism season and enhance the sector’s sustainability.
Focus on quality and benefit dissemination
During a meeting held by the Minister with the Board of Directors of the Greek Hoteliers’ Association (POX), the importance of increasing average spending per guest was emphasized.
This has contributed to increased hotel revenues and brought direct benefits to local communities. Recent government initiatives to regulate the short-term rental market have also been commended. These initiatives are an important tool for regulating the market and addressing housing challenges.
Kefalogianni emphasized that the government’s goal is not limited to increasing numbers. It also includes achieving quality, sustainability, and distributing tourism gains across all geographic regions of the country.
Promoting mountain tourism and promoting new destinations
The minister emphasized the priority of strategically promoting mountain tourism for the first time, through projects supported by the European Recovery and Resilience Fund.
In addition, legislative and promotional initiatives resulted in increased visitor traffic during the winter months and low seasons in 2024 and 2025.
The meeting also addressed the importance of Destination Management and Promotion Organizations (DMMOs) and their role in expanding and diversifying the Greek tourism landscape. The meeting focused on the spatial planning framework, environmental issues, and licensing, in addition to the staff shortage crisis in the tourism sector.
The tourism sector…the engine of the national economy
These figures and trends represent clear indications of the resilience and vitality of Greece’s tourism sector. The sector is a fundamental pillar of the national economy and a major source of employment opportunities.
This dynamic is expected to contribute to enhancing economic growth and attracting more investments in the hospitality sector and related services.
