Greece Outbound Tourism Skyrockets In 2025 With Twenty Percent Growth Reflecting Shifting Travel Preferences And Increased International Spending

Greek outbound tourism has experienced a notable surge in 2025, with a 20% increase in both the number of travelers and spending abroad. This growth highlights a shift in preferences, as Greeks explore new destinations like Egypt and the UAE while continuing to frequent traditional European hubs. The rise in travel is driven by a desire for unique cultural experiences and emerging hotspots, alongside the continued popularity of familiar favorites. This trend signals a broader shift in global tourism as Greek travelers seek a blend of adventure and luxury, reshaping their travel habits for the year ahead.

The latest figures from Visa reveal a significant rise in Greek outbound tourism for 2025, underscoring the country’s growing interest in international travel and evolving consumer preferences.

From January to September 2025, the number of Greeks traveling abroad surged by 20% compared to the same period in 2024. This increase in travel was matched by a 20% rise in spending abroad, demonstrating that Greek travelers are prioritizing international experiences as a key part of their lifestyle.

Exploring New Destinations

While traditional European destinations remain popular, Greek travelers are increasingly exploring less familiar locations, particularly in the Middle East and less mainstream parts of Europe. This shift reflects a growing desire for new cultural experiences, emerging travel hotspots, and quick getaways that offer more than the standard Western European circuit.

One of the most significant developments has been the surge in visits to Egypt, with traveler numbers rising by over 80%. The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in late 2025, along with enhanced flight connectivity, has made Egypt more accessible and attractive to Greek tourists. This newfound interest in Egypt highlights a broader trend toward discovering more unique and culturally rich destinations.

Other countries seeing notable increases in Greek visitors include Albania, Slovenia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These countries, once off the radar for many Greek travelers, are now becoming key players in Greece’s outbound travel market, reflecting a diversification of travel choices beyond the well-established Western European destinations.

However, despite the growing appeal of these “hidden gems,” the traditional favorites still dominate Greek travel preferences. Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and Turkey remain the top five destinations for Greek travelers, reinforcing the importance of these longstanding connections.

Spending Patterns: Tailored to Destinations

The spending habits of Greek tourists vary depending on the destination, with travel budgets shifting according to local offerings and attractions:

• Italy: Known for its fashion scene, Greek travelers to Italy dedicate around 20% of their total expenditure to clothing and accessories. This is nearly double the average for other markets, showcasing the influence of Italy’s iconic fashion culture.
• Germany: Spending on food and groceries in Germany is significantly higher than the overall average, suggesting that many Greek visitors opt for self-catering accommodation or are visiting friends and family. This trend indicates a preference for more budget-conscious travel arrangements while still enjoying the destination’s rich culinary offerings.
• France: Spending on entertainment and cultural activities in France is 3% higher than the average, likely influenced by the post-Olympic cultural renaissance in Paris. Greek tourists are drawn to the vibrant cultural scene, including art, theater, and music, which are integral to the French experience.
• United Kingdom: Greek visitors to the UK are also spending more at major department stores, with purchases in this category surpassing the average by 4%. London, in particular, continues to be a favorite shopping destination, cementing its status as a global retail hub.

The Summer Surge and Its Global Impact

While domestic tourism peaks during the summer months, outbound travel also sees a significant uptick during this period. Greek travelers are increasingly spending their summer holidays abroad, with travel spending during June, July, and August climbing by 25% compared to the previous year. This trend shows that as Greece’s domestic tourism season reaches its height, an increasing number of Greek tourists are choosing to explore international destinations instead of staying within the country.

Overall, the data reveals a dynamic shift in the preferences and spending habits of Greek travelers. The rise in interest for less traditional destinations and the strong increase in spending abroad reflect broader changes in the global tourism landscape. Greek tourists are no longer just looking to visit well-worn European routes—they are embracing new opportunities for cultural exploration and luxury travel across diverse regions. This trend signifies a growing trend toward adventure and discovery in global tourism, reshaping the profile of the typical Greek traveler.