How many hotels are there in Greece, which are eco-friendly and TUI’s top 5 hotels in Crete.
How many hotels are there in Greece?
Greece has a vibrant hotel industry, with a total of 10,104 hotels operating across the country. This reflects an increase of 57 hotels compared to the previous year.
The growth in the number of four-star and five-star hotels indicates a trend towards higher quality accommodations, while the lower-rated categories have seen a reduction in numbers.
The data from the Hotel Chamber of Greece (ΞΕΕ) reveals that, as of the end of 2024, the total number of hotels rose slightly by less than 1%, moving from 10,047 in 2023 to 10,104.
The hotel rooms across the nation totalled just under 900,000 beds, with approximately 447,363 rooms—an increase of about 3,000 rooms compared to the previous year.
Growth in Higher Star Ratings
The increase in the number of hotels is particularly pronounced within the five-star category, which recorded 835 units in 2024, up from 792 in 2023, marking a growth of 5.4%. This segment provides 109,628 rooms, nearly 4,000 more than the previous year, reflecting a 3.8% rise.
The trend suggests that new additions tend to be smaller in size but provide enhanced service levels.
The four-star category also saw positive growth, with a total of 1,898 hotels in 2024, which is 50 more than in 2023, equating to an increase of 3%.
The total number of rooms in this category stands at 130,705, up from 128,813 the previous year. Both categories reflect a clear shift towards upgrading hotel offerings to cater to changing consumer preferences.
Challenges in Lower Star Categories
Conversely, there has been a decline in the lower star categories. For the three-star hotels, the figures dropped slightly, from 2,919 hotels with 101,592 rooms in 2023 to 2,913 hotels and 101,060 rooms in 2024. This decline may highlight evolving market demands, where tourists favour better-rated options.
The two-star category also reflects a downward trend, with 3,251 units and 84,209 rooms reported in 2024. The trend continues in the one-star category, which mirrors the overall pattern of decreasing hotel numbers and room availability in lower-tier establishments.
Features and Amenities
Many establishments in Greece, particularly in the three, four, and five-star categories, offer essential features designed to enhance guest experiences.
Free Wi-Fi is now common across hotels, providing guests with easy access to the internet.
Swimming pools are another popular amenity, especially during the warm summer months, allowing visitors to relax and unwind.
Air conditioning is a standard feature, ensuring comfort during the hotter periods of the year.
Guests often look for free cancellation policies, which add flexibility to booking, especially in uncertain times.
Furthermore, many hotels provide a complimentary breakfast, adding value to stays, attracting guests who appreciate an easy start to their day.
Seasonal Trends and Promotions
Hotel occupancy often varies seasonally, with particular months being more popular for tourism.
The cheapest month to visit Greece is typically associated with the off-peak season, where many hotels may offer promotions and discounts.
These offers are particularly relevant for budget-conscious travellers seeking cost-effective options for their stays.
Special deals on hotel bookings during this period can greatly influence travel decisions and reflect the industry’s responsiveness to economic factors and consumer demand.
Pet-Friendly Options
While the focus on luxury and quality has increased, there is also a growing trend for pet-friendly accommodations.
Many hotels now allow pets, catering to travellers who prefer to bring their furry companions along. This feature enhances guest experiences by providing options that accommodate diverse needs.
New Hotels Opening Weekly in Greece
Since 2019, Greece has witnessed an extraordinary rise in hotel developments, with over 450 new five- and four-star hotels and an additional 244 three-star hotels now in operation.
This equates to about three new hotels opening each week.
While this growth significantly boosts the economy, it also presents challenges such as the need for adequate infrastructure and consideration for local environments.
The total investment for constructing new facilities or upgrading existing ones is estimated at around €2.5 billion annually. Over five years, this amounts to approximately €12 billion in investment, highlighting the scale and impact of the hospitality sector in the region. For more details, visit three new hotels opening every week.
Golden Award for Zero Waste at Porto Elounda and Elounda Mare Hotels
The Porto Elounda and Elounda Mare hotels recently received a prestigious Golden Award for Zero Waste, which includes a monetary prize.
This recognition comes from the social platform Zero Waste HORECA. Notably, these hotels were among the 92 awards handed out during the fourth meeting of the Awards Committee. The awards included eight Golden, ten Silver, and 74 Bronze recognitions, which marks the hotels’ achievement as the top in the sector.
The award was presented by Manolis Grafakos, the General Secretary of Waste Management Coordination at the Ministry of Environment, to Fotis Kokotos.
Following the award ceremony, Kokotos announced plans for a new recycling centre to be set up across all hotel points.
This centre will manage five plus one streams of waste, signalling significant progress in their waste management strategy.
The Elounda SA Hotels and Resorts have achieved an impressive 95% reduction in solid waste sent to landfill, far exceeding the 80% threshold required for achieving a Golden Award.
This accomplishment underlines the commitment of these hotels to sustainable practices and sets a standard within the region.
It is significant that two hotels in Elounda received such high scores for their efforts. This indicates their importance not only as individual entities but also as leaders in sustainability for the broader area.
The successful results stem from the systematic efforts made by both Porto Elounda and Elounda Mare, led by Fotis Kokotos, an environmental engineer focused on sustainability for many years.
Innovative Waste Management Strategies
To attain this distinction, the hotels conducted research on alternative waste management methods to prevent waste from ending up in landfills.
They discovered various companies in Crete and beyond that offered solutions for transporting what is commonly branded as “waste”. These materials can actually be repurposed, transforming them into valuable resources in line with contemporary views on the circular economy.
Currently, Porto Elounda and Elounda Mare handle 23 different waste streams that are sent to specialized facilities for recovery.
The types of materials include those commonly known, such as metals, cardboard, plastics, and glass, as well as less familiar items like batteries, electrical devices, light bulbs, and pharmaceuticals.
Waste Classification and Recovery
Waste Type |
Recovery Method |
|---|---|
Metals |
Sent to metal recovery facilities |
Cardboard |
Recycled into new paper products |
Plastics |
Processed for reuse in manufacturing |
Glass |
Recycled to produce new glass items |
Batteries |
Handled through specialized waste disposal systems |
Electrical Devices |
Recovered for valuable components |
Light Bulbs |
Processed through approved recycling channels |
Pharmaceuticals |
Safely disposed of through regulated programmes |
This detailed approach allows the hotels to maintain control over their waste management processes while contributing positively to the environment.
Community Impact and Leadership
The efforts made by the Porto Elounda and Elounda Mare hotels have a ripple effect on the local community.
By embracing sustainable practices, these establishments encourage other local businesses to follow suit, thus fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. Their success story serves as a model for other hotels and businesses in the region.
The commitment to reducing waste sets a powerful example for the hospitality industry. As more companies recognise the importance of sustainability, the potential for collective impact increases.
Future Developments in Waste Management
In line with their ambitious goals, the hotels are preparing to roll out further initiatives.
The upcoming recycling centre will play a crucial role in streamlining the waste management process across various hotel operations.
With structured signage being designed, the goal is to ensure guests and staff fully understand and participate in these sustainability efforts.
Recognition and Awards
Such accolades as the Golden Award for Zero Waste reinforce the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry.
These awards not only recognize current achievements but also motivate other hotels to strive for similar excellence in waste management practices.
This recognition has instilled a sense of pride within the staff and management of both hotels, contributing to a workplace culture that values sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Conclusion
The commendable actions of Porto Elounda and Elounda Mare highlight the importance of innovation in waste management. Their proactive strategies and willingness to adapt practices underscore the benefits of sustainability in both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
As they continue to lead by example, the hotel’s journey serves as an inspiration for others in the industry to embrace sustainable practices and contribute to a healthier planet.
The efforts made by these hotels resonate throughout the community, promoting a broader understanding of the significance of waste management in tourism. Through continuous improvement and community engagement, Porto Elounda and Elounda Mare are not only preserving the environment but are also enhancing their reputation as leaders in sustainable tourism.
25 of the Best Hotels in Greece by TUI – Top 5 in Crete
The latest listing from TUI for 2025 highlights that Greece boasts twenty-five hotels among the top one hundred worldwide. This impressive representation places Greece alongside Spain, which also has twenty-five entries.
In addition, Turkey contributes seventeen hotels to this prestigious list. Together, these three nations account for sixty-seven percent of the total hotels listed, which encompasses establishments from eleven countries and thirty-three destinations across the globe.
Among the selected hotels from Greece, five noteworthy options can be found in Crete. The distribution includes one hotel in Chania and four situated in Heraklion, showcasing the island’s appeal as a tourist destination.
These hotels are not just popular but represent the pinnacle of quality, making up just one per cent of TUI’s vast portfolio, which includes around fourteen thousand hotels.
Top Hotels List
Location |
Hotel Name |
Rating |
|---|---|---|
Mike’s Hotels & Apartments |
Top 25 |
|
Heraklion (Chersonissos) |
Top 25 |
|
Heraklion (Chersonissos) |
Top 25 |
|
Heraklion |
Ikones Seafront Luxury Suits |
Top 25 |
Top 25 |
The announcement of these esteemed hotels coincides with the upcoming TUI Global Hotel Awards 2025, which happend on 3rd March. During this event, the top hotels were formally recognised for their exceptional service and hospitality, attributes that continue to set the bar for the travel industry.
Guests have consistently highlighted the superior quality and welcoming atmosphere of these selected hotels, a sentiment reflected in TUI’s latest rankings.
The list showcases a diverse range of accommodation styles, from charming family-run hotels to luxurious boutique options and expansive resorts equipped with spa facilities. This variety meets the needs of different travellers, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Stefan Baumert, the commercial director for markets at TUI, expressed excitement over the announcement, affirming that these recognitions exemplify outstanding commitment, excellence, and hospitality.
His words underline the dedication of hotel partners who strive to provide unforgettable experiences, as reported by guests across the board.
Improvements in service play a crucial role in shaping guests’ holiday experiences. Elements such as a warm welcome upon arrival and high-quality, authentic service contribute significantly to the overall satisfaction levels.
Phill Iveson, the director of the Accommodation Products and Procurement department, echoed these sentiments by acknowledging the importance of the details in creating the perfect holiday experience.
Crete’s selection in the TUI list underscores its status as a premier choice for travellers seeking both leisure and adventure. The island offers not only stunning beaches and historical sites but also invites guests to enjoy authentic Cretan hospitality.
As these hotels are set to be showcased, they represent the commitment of their hosts to providing an exceptional stay.
Tourists choosing to visit Crete will find an abundance of activities and attractions to explore. For instance, they can enjoy picturesque towns, explore archaeological sites, and relax on famous beaches with crystal-clear waters.
Each hotel provides a unique perspective on Crete’s charms, integrating local culture and traditions into their services.
Whether a visitor seeks relaxation or adventure, the best hotels in Crete serve as perfect gateways to discovering the island’s rich offerings. From luxurious amenities to engaging local experiences, these hotels aim to meet guest expectations with class and style.
As travel continues to evolve, TUI’s efforts to identify and promote top hotels reinforce the importance of quality service. With great attention to both small details and overarching experiences, hotels are keen to ensure their guests leave with treasured memories of their stays.
In conclusion, Crete’s five hotels in the TUI 2025 list perfectly exemplify the island’s allure for holidaymakers. Offering a blend of relaxation, culture, and extraordinary service, these hotels aim to uphold high standards in hospitality.
Visitors planning a trip will find many reasons to be excited about their upcoming adventures in these unique accommodations.
TUI’s commitment to excellence gives guests confidence in their hotel choices, ensuring that every stay is an opportunity for an unforgettable experience.
By championing these top hotels, TUI also contributes to the ongoing development of the tourism sector in Greece, inspiring other establishments to strive for similar levels of excellence in service.
Crete stands out not just for its stunning views and rich history but also for its hotels that maintain high standards of hospitality and comfort.
With the continuous recognition from TUI, it is clear that the island remains a cornerstone of the European travel experience, promising visitors remarkable experiences come 2025 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hotels are currently operating in Greece?
As of now, Greece is home to approximately 10,104 hotels. This number has increased slightly over the past year, reflecting a growing interest in tourism.
What is the total number of hotel beds available in Greece?
In Greece, there are a substantial number of hotel beds (c.900,000), with five-star hotels offering around 93,687 rooms. The four-star category also contributes significantly to the total accommodation capacity.
Where can I find a comprehensive map of hotels in Greece?
A detailed map of hotels in Greece can typically be found on various travel websites and hotel booking platforms, like booking.com. These resources often provide information about hotel locations, star ratings, and available amenities.
How can I obtain a list of contact information for hotels in Greece?
To acquire contact details for hotels in Greece, one can visit tourism directories or hotel booking websites, like booking.com. These platforms frequently list contact information for individual hotels, making it easy for travellers to connect.
What has been the trend in the growth of hotel accommodations in Greece over recent years?
The trend in hotel accommodation in Greece has shown steady growth. Over the years, there has been a noticeable increase in both the number of hotels and the category of accommodations, catering to diverse traveller needs.
Can you explain the definition and significance of hotel bed capacity in Greece?
Hotel bed capacity refers to the total number of beds available in hotels across Greece. This metric is crucial as it helps gauge the country’s ability to accommodate tourists. It also influences economic and tourism planning.
