Demand for holiday homes in Greece is gaining fresh momentum, with international buyers increasingly turning their attention to key destinations across the country. According to data from Elxis – At Home in Greece, Crete, the Peloponnese and the Ionian Islands are leading this year’s surge in overseas interest.
At the same time, a growing number of foreign investors are opting for newly built properties sold off-plan, seeking both lower purchase prices and the flexibility to tailor construction to their preferences.
“We are seeing Crete evolve into an increasingly dynamic market, with one in three foreign investors now searching for property there,” said CEO Giorgos Gavriilidis. Interest in Cretan homes rose to 35.15% this year, up from 29.42% in 2025.
Particular hotspots include southern areas of the island—especially in the regions of Rethymno and Chania—where properties overlooking the Libyan Sea remain among the most sought-after by international buyers.
Beyond its natural beauty, Crete offers compelling investment fundamentals. Its mild climate supports an extended tourist season, while property prices remain relatively competitive—an appealing combination for investors targeting solid returns. Accessibility is another advantage: year-round flights from the Netherlands to Heraklion now operate 52 weeks a year, significantly easing travel for foreign owners.
Further boosting the island’s prospects is the development of the new airport in Kasteli, Heraklion.
Strong foreign demand is also driving new construction. Data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority shows that in 2025, building permits were issued for 3,319 new homes in Crete alone.
After Crete, the Peloponnese and the Ionian Islands are attracting the highest levels of international buyer interest. In Crete, prices for newly built villas with pools sold off-plan range from 3,800 to 4,500 euros per square meter.
Similar starting prices are seen in the Peloponnese, while the Ionian Islands command a premium: average prices reach 5,600 euros per square meter in Corfu and 5,500 euros per square meter in Lefkada for comparable properties.
“We are observing a steadily growing share of clients seeking off-plan homes,” Gavriilidis noted. “This approach not only offers a discount compared to completed properties, but also allows buyers to customize materials and design during construction.”
