The Tourism Season at Its Peak: Greek Top Destinations and Tips.
The Tourism Season at Its Peak: Greek Top Destinations and Tips
The month of August is a significant holiday period in Greece. During this time, cities like Athens and surrounding areas see a substantial reduction in population as people leave for popular holiday destinations. Many residents travel to visit family in rural areas or stay in their holiday homes.
On Monday, 5 August, over 39,000 passengers left Athens and the Attica region by ferry, primarily using the ports of Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrion. That day, 24 ferries departed towards the Aegean Islands, while 41 ferries headed for the Saronic Gulf Islands. The previous Saturday saw even higher numbers, with approximately 50,000 Athenians embarking on holiday trips. Ferry tickets to islands like Aegina and Angistri were sold out, with the Cyclades and Crete being the most favoured destinations.
Airports across Greece are exceptionally busy during this period. In July, Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” handled 9.3% more travellers compared to the same month in 2023. Hotels and rental accommodations also report high occupancy rates. According to the Greek Tourism Research and Forecast Institute (ITEP), hotel occupancy in June exceeded 75%. During the same month, the average price for a double room reached €142, up from €120 the previous year. Yet, double rooms in mountain areas such as Zagoria, Pilion, or Arcadia are available at more affordable rates, ranging from €50 to €100, although these areas are also heavily booked with around 70% occupancy.
Additionally, Greece is promoting alternative travel destinations. For example, the island of Samos is gaining attention, particularly among Italian tourists. According to MyGreekSalad.it, Samos is considered a hidden gem that combines culture, mythology, gastronomy, and beautiful beaches.
To illustrate the popularity of travel in August:
- Cities like Athens become quieter as people leave for holidays.
- Popular ferry routes include the Aegean and Saronic Gulf Islands.
- Airports and hotels experience a significant increase in travellers and bookings.
- Rooms in mountain areas offer cheaper alternatives but are still in high demand.
- Samos is promoted as a unique destination blending various attractions.
This substantial movement of people and the rise in travel activity highlight the peak tourist season in Greece during the summer months.
August is the Favourite Holiday Month in Greece
August is a special period in Greece, recognised as the most popular holiday month and the peak of the tourism season. Many Greek destinations see an influx of tourists during this time, with reservations expected to remain high until 20 August. Dimitris Karalis, President of the Messinia Hoteliers Association, noted on Mega TV that the season already started with significant tourist numbers in May.
Accommodation on the islands is currently in short supply due to the high number of international and domestic visitors. This surge in tourists is evident not only at airports but also on highways, with many arriving by land. Data from the Institute of the Association of Greek Tourism Enterprises (INSETE) revealed a 13.7% increase in road arrivals to Greece in the first half of the year, with around four million people entering the country by vehicle compared to 3.5 million the previous year.
Northern border crossings, such as Evzoni in Central Macedonia, experienced significant traffic, with 926,000 people entering—an increase of 103,000 from the same period last year. Promachonas followed closely with 801,000 travellers, marking a 6.5% rise.
Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni has emphasised that sustainable tourism development is a strategic priority. This includes promoting alternative forms of tourism such as hiking, religious, wellness, and conference tourism. While Greece boasts a coastline of 13,700 kilometres and over 5,000 islands (with more than 100 permanently inhabited), the country’s inland regions are equally captivating.
Greece’s mountainous areas, like the 2,917-metre-high Olympus, and other ranges with peaks over 2,000 metres, offer excellent opportunities for hiking. Given the heatwaves that have swept through Greece this year, a holiday in these cooler mountain areas can be a great alternative. The Lefka Ori (White Mountains) or the Dikti range in Crete, the Rhodope Mountains, the Pindus range in the north, and the Taygetos and Erymanthos ranges in the Peloponnese are all potential destinations where visitors can enjoy cooler temperatures. Many of these peaks offer stunning views of the blue sea in the distance, providing a unique experience of both the mountains and the Mediterranean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the peak months for holiday travel?
Peak holiday travel months vary by destination. In general, summer months from June to August are the busiest for most places in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter destinations see higher numbers from December to February, coinciding with school breaks and major holidays.
How does peak tourist season affect hotel availability and prices?
During peak tourist season, hotel rooms become scarcer and more expensive due to high demand. Booking in advance is often necessary, and last-minute availability is rare. Prices can increase significantly, particularly in popular tourist areas.
What is the difference between peak and off-peak travel periods?
Peak travel periods are characterised by high visitor numbers, leading to crowded attractions and higher prices. In contrast, off-peak periods experience lower tourist traffic, with benefits such as reduced costs, easier availability, and a more relaxed experience.
Which destinations in Europe see the highest influx of tourists during their peak season?
In Europe, France, Italy, and Spain are some of the most popular destinations during peak season. Cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona attract significant crowds, especially during the summer months.
How are flight prices and schedules influenced by high travel season?
Flight prices often increase during peak travel season due to higher demand. Airlines may add more flights to popular routes, but the overall availability of affordable tickets drops. Travelling during off-peak hours or days can sometimes mitigate these costs.
What strategies can travellers employ to avoid the drawbacks of travelling in peak tourist season?
Travellers can use several strategies to minimise the downsides of peak season travel:
- Book early for better deals and availability.
- Travel during shoulder seasons, such as late spring or early autumn.
- Choose less popular destinations that offer similar experiences.
- Travel mid-week rather than on weekends.
- Stay in accommodations outside of major tourist hubs to find better rates.