26% of Greek tourism turnover comes from Crete and the winners and losers in Greece and Europe.
Comparison of income from tourism in Greece
Comparing Investments and Revenue from Tourism in Crete
The tourism sector in Greece is unevenly distributed, with a significant amount of economic activity clustered in specific regions. Recent statistics from the Institute of the Greek Tourism Enterprises Association reveal that the Southern Aegean region leads in tourism revenue, claiming 27% of total incoming tourism income in 2023. Following closely is Crete, with 26%, then Attica at 19%, the Ionian Islands at 10%, and Central Macedonia at 8%. Together, these five regions account for 90% of the country’s tourism earnings.
Despite signs indicating a potential extension of the tourism season, particularly in Attica, experts suggest that the geographical concentration of tourism revenue is likely to remain stable or increase in 2024.
Seasonality plays a significant role in tourism earnings, as 85% of total revenue is generated between April and September. This trend has remained consistent between 2019 and 2023, and no major changes are expected for 2024.
In terms of specific revenue figures from 2023, the total earnings reached €19.8 billion. Notably, regions like the Southern Aegean, Crete, and Attica demonstrated growth compared to the previous year. For example, Crete witnessed an impressive increase of 44%, bringing its tourism revenue to €5.2 billion. Conversely, regions such as Central Macedonia and the Peloponnese saw declines, attributed to a slower recovery in road tourism, which has yet to fully resume.
This data highlights both the successes and challenges faced by different regions in Greece, particularly Crete, where tourism remains a vital component of the local economy. The high revenue generated is not without its difficulties, as the concentration of tourism in certain areas can lead to issues such as environmental stress and sustainability concerns. Thus, balancing tourism investment with long-term sustainability remains a critical focus for stakeholders in the Greek tourism sector.
Tourism: the winners and losers among destinations in Greece in 2024
Winning Destinations
The Greek tourism sector has achieved remarkable success, breaking records throughout 2024. A highlight was the notable rise in international arrivals at several key airports across popular tourist spots.
Significant increases in international arrivals were recorded at the following airports:
- Athens Airport: 7.5 million arrivals, marking a 12.6% rise (+843,000)
- Rhodes Airport: 3 million arrivals, with a growth of 13.9% (+365,000)
- Kalamata Airport: 154,000 arrivals, showing an increase of 13.6% (+18,000)
- Mytilene Airport: Notably increased by 43.9%, reaching a total of 77,000 arrivals (+24,000)
- Araxos Airport: 77,000 arrivals, with a gain of 14.4% (+10,000)
- Skiathos Airport: 269,000 arrivals, up by 12.6% (+30,000)
These statistics reflect a strong tourism trend, indicating a growing interest in Greece as a travel destination.
Among the larger airports, Thessaloniki achieved 2.3 million arrivals, reflecting a 3% increase. Other notable figures included:
- Heraklion Airport: 3.8 million arrivals (+6.8%)
- Chania Airport: 1.5 million arrivals (+8.3%)
- Kos Airport: 1.4 million arrivals (+3.9%)
- Corfu Airport: 2 million arrivals (+6.8%)
- Zakynthos Airport: 1.1 million arrivals (+6%)
- Kefalonia Airport: 371,000 arrivals (+2.6%)
- Akto Airport: 396,000 arrivals (+1.1%)
Santorini reported 756,000 arrivals, an increase of 1.8% (+13,000), while Samos experienced 138,000 international arrivals (+4.7%, +6,000).
The losers
Conversely, several airports faced declines. Mykonos Airport reported 523,000 arrivals, down 4.2% (-23,000). Similarly, Kavala Airport saw a reduction of 6.1%, totalling 115,000 arrivals. Karapathos Airport experienced a slight drop of 0.7%, landing at 99,000 arrivals.
Road Arrivals: +39.4% in November
From January to November 2024, there were 11.4 million international arrivals using road transport. This increasing trend suggests that tourists are opting for road trips to explore Greece’s diverse regions, contributing to the overall growth of the tourism sector.
Over 200,000 Airbnb in November
In November alone, there were more than 200,000 Airbnb listings available. This large number highlights the growing popularity of short-term rental options among visitors. The accommodation choices showcase a shift in traveller preferences, as many seek unique stays while exploring various destinations in Greece.
Increase in the number of tourists by 9.7 % in 2024
In the period from January to November 2024, Greece experienced significant growth in tourism, placing it fifth among European countries with more than 152 million overnight stays. This trend highlights the increasing appeal of Greece as a travel destination.
Tourism revenues rose by 4.9% during this same period. This increase reflects the surge in tourist arrivals, which improved by 9.7%. The favourable conditions in Greece have attracted more visitors, contributing positively to the country’s economy.
Despite the positive growth in the tourism sector, other economic indicators showed mixed results. The current account deficit widened by €510.9 million compared to the equivalent period in 2023, reaching €11.5 billion. This increase can partly be attributed to a rise in the goods account deficit and a decrease in export figures.
Exports in current prices fell by 3.6%, while imports saw a modest increase of 1.5%. In terms of specific categories, the exports of goods excluding fuels showed a slight rise of 0.1%. However, imports in this category surged by 4.2%, indicating a growing demand for foreign goods.
The services balance recorded a surplus, mainly due to an upturn in travel services. This growth in travel services has helped offset some of the deficits seen in other areas, although the transport services balance narrowed during this timeframe.
Greece’s Position in European Tourism
In 2024, Greece holds fifth place in Europe based on overnight stays, with more than 152.3 million recorded for the previous year. This number reflects a rise of 3.5% from 2023. These stays span various types of accommodation, including hotels, short-term rentals, and campsites. Greece and Spain together have demonstrated impressive performance in the European tourism sector, particularly during the peak summer months.
According to early estimates from Eurostat, the total number of overnight stays across Europe reached nearly 3 billion, specifically 2.989 billion. Spain led the pack, garnering over 501 million overnight stays. Following Spain were France and Italy, with 450 million and 448 million stays, respectively. Germany was close behind, recording 441 million stays for the year.
Greece’s figure of 152.33 million overnight stays in 2024 shows an increase from 147.2 million in 2023. Among these stays, an impressive 84% came from international visitors, totalling just under 128 million. The remaining 24.6 million were attributed to domestic tourists.
Breakdown of Accommodation Types
An analysis of the accommodation used during these stays reveals significant insights. Among the 152.33 million overnight stays, over three-quarters—more than 116.3 million—were spent in hotels. Short-term rentals and villas accounted for 33.8 million stays, while camping options were much less frequent, with only 2.2 million overnight stays recorded.
This growth has not only benefited Greece but has also contributed significantly to the overall tourism increase in Europe. During the third quarter of 2024, Eurostat highlighted that there were 1.24 billion overnight stays in tourist accommodations within the EU, marking an increase of 9.5 million compared to the same quarter in 2023. This equated to a 0.8% rise, indicating a slightly slower growth rate when compared to the first half of the year, which had a 2.2% increase.
Tourist Preferences
Greece’s rise in popularity can be attributed to various factors. Its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm climate have always drawn visitors. Additionally, the country has continued to enhance its infrastructure and services to cater to the needs of international tourists. The combination of appealing attractions and improved accommodations has solidified Greece’s reputation as a top tourist destination.
In terms of preferences, international visitors have shown a strong inclination towards coastal regions. This trend reflects a broader preference for beach holidays in general, as Europe serves as a prime destination for sun-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Economic Impact of Tourism
The tourism sector plays a vital role in Greece’s economy. It contributes significantly to employment, supports local businesses, and stimulates overall growth. With the ongoing increase in visitor numbers, it is likely that the economic impact will continue to evolve positively.
The collaboration between local authorities and tourism agencies is critical in maintaining this momentum. Efforts to promote diverse tourist experiences, such as adventure tourism, culinary tours, and cultural events, have broadened Greece’s appeal beyond traditional beach holidays.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Greece appears well-positioned to maintain its status within the top ranks of European tourist destinations. The strategies for appealing to a wider audience, along with the commitment to enhancing visitor experiences, remain integral. Continuous investments in sustainable tourism practices may further attract conscientious travellers.
The combination of a strong historical framework and modern enhancements allows Greece to stand out. More than ever, it has the potential to capture the imagination of travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the latest trends in Greek tourism statistics?
Recent data indicates that tourism in Greece has seen a significant increase in visitor numbers over the past few years. Popular destinations include the islands and major cities, which attract millions of tourists annually. The tourism sector plays a crucial role in the country’s economy, generating substantial revenue.
How does the Greek Ministry of Tourism assist the industry?
The Greek Ministry of Tourism implements various programmes and policies to enhance the tourism sector. It provides guidelines to ensure visitor safety and improve service quality. Additionally, the ministry promotes Greece as a top travel destination globally, working to attract more tourists.
What does tourism contribute to Greece’s economy?
Tourism is a vital part of the Greek economy, generating billions in revenue. It provides numerous jobs and supports many local businesses. The influx of tourists helps to sustain the economy, particularly in regions that rely heavily on tourism for income.
How can visitors submit complaints to the Greek National Tourism Organisation (EOT)?
Tourists can file complaints through the EOT’s online platform or by visiting local offices. It is advisable for visitors to gather documentation of their issues, as this can help resolve their concerns more efficiently.
What employment opportunities are offered by the Greek National Tourism Organisation?
The Greek National Tourism Organisation provides various job options, especially in the fields of marketing, hospitality, and customer service. Seasonal positions are often available, particularly during peak tourist seasons, allowing individuals to gain experience in the tourism sector.
What are the statistics regarding tourist arrivals in Greece?
Tourist arrival statistics show a steady increase each year, with millions of visitors welcomed. The majority come from Europe, particularly countries like Germany, the UK, and Italy. This influx of visitors highlights Greece’s appeal as a holiday destination.
