For years, German-Greek relations have been shaped by the economic crisis and the scars of World War II occupation, with Greek public opinion often critical of Germany. But less attention is given to the reverse: how do Germans view Greece? A new study by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) in Athens aims to shed light on this less-explored dimension.

The goal is to illuminate the “silent side” of bilateral relations — the one shaped not by headlines or politicians’ speeches, but through personal experiences, cultural exchanges, and yes, even stereotypes.

A First-of-Its-Kind Poll

The research is the first representative survey conducted in Germany on the country’s image of Greece. Carried out between March 6 and 17, 2025, the study polled 1,002 Germans across diverse geographic and social backgrounds.

When asked what comes to mind when they think of Greece, nearly half of respondents (48%) cited “sea, sun, warm weather.” About a third mentioned Greek cuisine (31%), while 27% highlighted the people’s hospitality and the country’s natural beauty.

Words like “history,” “culture,” and “mythology” appeared less frequently (15%), and only 2% spontaneously referred to “crisis,” “poverty,” or “bankruptcies” — signaling that for most Germans, the hardships of the last decade have largely faded from view.

Greece: A Dream Destination

In the German imagination, Greece is seen more as a holiday paradise than a complex nation. Two-thirds of Germans view it positively, with young people the most enthusiastic. Sixty percent say bilateral relations are good.

According to political analyst Ronald Meinardus, quoted in the study:
“Above all, Greece is seen as a place of longing — the place where Germans want to spend the most precious days of their year.”

Tourism as Soft Power

This overwhelmingly positive perception owes less to political awareness and more to sensory experience: flavors, sunshine, and hospitality. Few respondents mentioned austerity or political turmoil — for most Germans, these are seen as past issues or forgotten.

Personal experience plays a key role: 88% say it’s essential for shaping opinions, and 46% have visited Greece. Of those, 89% came away with a positive impression — among the highest tourism ratings in Europe.

Why do Germans visit? The answers are predictable but telling:
• 75% go for the weather
• 61% for the hospitality
• 53% for the food

Younger travelers are also drawn by affordability, while older visitors prioritize the climate.

Culinary Connections: The Role of Greek Restaurants

Beyond vacations, food shapes Germany’s image of Greece. For 58% of Germans, Greek culture is most familiar through dining. This “gastrodiplomacy” isn’t state-driven but stems from everyday diaspora life.

With 3,300 Greek restaurants and a well-integrated community, Greek cuisine has become part of German daily life. In fact, 72% say the Greek community is well integrated, and many support its greater political participation.

Crisis? What Crisis?

Another striking finding: the economic crisis has largely vanished from German memory. Once dominant in headlines, it’s now mentioned by only 2% of Germans when asked about Greece.

The Missing Piece: A Broader Understanding

While the positive view is welcome, it comes with a caveat. Greece’s image in the German public eye is largely stripped of political or historical complexity. Few Germans today associate Greece with its role in the European Union, its strategic position in migration policy, or its social and political challenges.