Overview

• Industry estimates say foreign arrivals this year could reach up to four times Greece’s 10 million population, roughly matching 2024.
• European Union data show nearly half of Greek residents could not afford a one-week holiday last year, the bloc’s second-highest rate after Romania.
• Many locals now opt for day trips and bus excursions, bringing homemade food and beach gear to keep expenses down.
• A six-day island vacation for a family of four costs about €3,500, while average monthly income barely exceeds €1,000, according to Greece’s Consumer Protection Institute.
• Luxury-focused development has squeezed out budget stays on islands such as Santorini, Mykonos and Paros, with businesses prioritizing foreign visitors over closing for workers’ summer breaks.