As summer hits its peak, one in four Greeks are skipping vacations this year due to financial strain and uncertainty, a Focus Bari survey reveals. Those traveling expect to spend around 446 euros each over an average nine-day trip, aiming to keep daily costs below 50 euros.

Islands Remain a Favorite—But for Fewer Days

Despite tighter budgets, Greek islands continue to hold the top spot for summer destinations. The Focus Bari survey, carried out in July, reveals that 25% of respondents will not be taking a vacation at all this summer, while another 9% remain undecided.

Among those who have made plans, the most popular destinations are the Aegean islands (14%) and the Peloponnese (12%), followed by Northern Greece and the mainland (both 10%), Crete (8%), areas in Attica (7%), the Ionian islands (6%), Evia (4%), and the Saronic Gulf islands (4%). Interestingly, 8% of respondents said they will be traveling abroad.

What Greeks Want from Their Summer Holidays

For Greek holidaymakers, affordability is key—63% prioritize price and deals when choosing a destination, followed closely by clean beaches (62%), relaxation, and natural beauty (both 52%). Variety also matters, with 75% preferring a new domestic spot each year. A strong 74% believe Greece ranks among the world’s best summer destinations.

Holiday Stays: From Hotels to Summer Homes

This summer, 40% of Greeks plan to stay in hotels, while 29% opt for Airbnb-style rentals. Others will stay at family homes (21%) or with friends and relatives (20%). Fewer choose camping (5%) or cruises (2%). Most travel with family (39%) or a partner (31%), while others go with friends (17%), solo (8%), or in groups (3%). Just 4% remain undecided.

Shorter Vacations, Tighter Budgets

Nearly half of Greeks plan vacations lasting 4–7 days, with only 8% taking trips longer than two weeks, a survey shows. Most will spend between 201–500 euros per person, while 24% aim to stay under 200 euros. Two in five are sticking strictly to their budgets, with the rest trying to stay within limits.

The Downsides: High Prices and Overcrowding

Despite its popularity, Greece’s high holiday costs are a major concern for 69% of locals, the survey finds. Other complaints include overcrowding and overpriced services (both 37%), transport delays (18%), poor infrastructure (17%), and subpar customer service (16%).