Recent seismic activity across the Cyclades — with Santorini at the epicenter — is beginning to leave a noticeable mark on the tourism sector, according to an analysis by Nelios.
Early data points to a troubling trend: pre-bookings for summer 2025 have taken a significant dip. Overall, the Cyclades have seen a 21% drop in reservations, with Santorini facing the steepest decline at -27%, followed by Mykonos at -23% and Paros at -11%.
The uncertainty created by this increased seismic activity is not limited to the Cyclades. Santorini, as a globally recognized destination, serves as a barometer for the country’s tourism image — and the effects are rippling outward.
Tourism Downturn Reaches Beyond the Islands
In the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia has seen bookings fall by 8%, while Zakynthos is down 9%. Meanwhile, mainland Greece is also feeling the pressure.
Athens, which has enjoyed steady tourism growth in recent years, is showing a 9% decline in bookings — a clear sign of wider concerns among international travelers. The Saronic Islands are down 6%, and the Peloponnese has taken the hardest hit among mainland destinations with a 15% decrease.
This atmosphere of uncertainty underscores the urgent need for clear, transparent, and continuous communication from authorities, along with reinforced civil protection infrastructure and crisis management systems.
At the same time, a focused strategy is essential to rebuild trust in Greece as a safe travel destination — a step that’s critical to preventing a domino effect of negative consequences for tourism, one of the pillars of the Greek economy.
A Slow Start, But Signs of Recovery on the Horizon
Despite a shaky start to the year — with direct bookings down 15% in the first quarter — the outlook for 2025 is beginning to brighten.
In the second quarter, bookings show a slight but encouraging 1% rise, suggesting that demand is stabilizing. By the third quarter — the heart of the summer season — the numbers are even more promising, with bookings climbing by 8%.
And the real surprise? The fourth quarter, typically quieter for tourism, is showing a stunning 25% surge in bookings. This suggests that travel interest is now extending well beyond the traditional summer window.
Revenue trends are even more encouraging. In Q3, tourism revenue rose by 10%, and in Q4, it skyrocketed by 35%. This not only signals stronger demand but also greater spending power among travelers.
Nightly rates are following suit, with a 5% increase in summer and an 18% spike toward the end of the year — clear signs that Greece’s tourism market remains resilient and dynamic, despite global uncertainties and local challenges like seismic events.
A Sector That Adapts and Endures
Despite the early setbacks in the Cyclades, the broader picture for Greek tourism in 2025 is one of resilience and adaptability. Businesses that invested in direct bookings and enhanced digital experiences are proving more stable and profitable. If the current upward trends continue, 2025 could outperform initial forecasts, highlighting the value of flexibility, innovation, and direct engagement with travelers.
Rising Stars: The Destinations Winning the Tourism Game
Pre-booking data for 2025 reveals a notable shift in travel interest across Greece, with many regions — both island and mainland — gaining ground. Travelers are increasingly drawn to lesser-known or emerging destinations, while domestic tourism and off-season travel are also on the rise.
Thessaly and Halkidiki are emerging as the year's biggest winners, each recording over 100% growth in pre-bookings — a clear sign that Greece’s tourism map is changing. Halkidiki, in particular, benefits from its international appeal and proximity to Thessaloniki, offering a blend of natural beauty and easy access.
Epirus, known for its authenticity and landscapes, is seeing a 62% increase, confirming its status as a rising year-round destination. Within the region, Pelion stands out with 73% growth, while Parga continues its upward climb (+35%), securing its place as a trending hotspot.
Crete remains a powerhouse, boasting a 48% rise in bookings. Agios Nikolaos leads the charge, doubling its reservations (+100%), while Rethymno and Chania follow with impressive gains (+45% and +40%, respectively), further strengthening Crete’s profile as a diverse and multifaceted destination.
Underdog Islands on the Rise — And Popular Spots Left Behind
The Ionian Islands are back in the spotlight with a 38% boost in bookings. Corfu alone is up 27%, with smaller islands in the group also seeing healthy growth. Meanwhile, the Dodecanese are trending upward (+21%), led by Rhodes, which shows solid performance and steady growth (+9%).
In the North Aegean, while increases are more modest, the region shows strong visitor loyalty — a sign that its charm continues to resonate with returning travelers. Naxos (+14%) and Ios (+38%) reflect a broader preference for authentic, less commercialized experiences.
On the mainland, alternative and cosmopolitan destinations are also gaining momentum. Katerini (+24%), Porto Heli (+17%), and Arachova (+6%) are all climbing steadily, showcasing Greece as a year-round destination with wide appeal.
Looking Ahead: A Tourism Landscape in Transition
These shifting dynamics — from destination diversity to the growing demand for authentic, high-quality, and accessible experiences — reveal that today’s travelers are looking beyond the usual hotspots.
If this momentum holds, 2025 could be a standout year for Greek tourism, full of opportunity across the entire country. As long as the sector continues to adapt and innovate, Greece is well-positioned to not just recover, but thrive.
