As Greeks enter the peak holiday booking season, preparations for the traditional August getaway are in full swing, with the week of August 15 remaining the high point of the country’s summer travel calendar. This year, however, the season is unfolding against a backdrop of sharply rising costs, creating what industry experts describe as a “two-speed” tourism market.
Higher ferry fares and increased accommodation prices are reshaping travel choices, prompting many households to reconsider their holiday plans. While demand for the country’s most sought-after island destinations remains exceptionally strong, a growing number of families are opting for mainland seaside locations that offer lower overall travel costs.
According to the Panhellenic Real Estate Network E-Real Estates, short-term rental properties are already approaching peak occupancy for the August holiday period. By early July, bookings had reached as high as 94% in some island destinations, while average asking prices have risen by 6% to 11% compared with last year.
“The August 15 holiday has always marked the pinnacle of Greece’s summer tourism season and the busiest period for domestic travel,” said Themistoklis Bakas, president of E-Real Estates.
Bakas noted that escalating ferry ticket prices, combined with higher lodging costs, are increasingly dividing travelers into two distinct groups. Some continue to choose Greece’s iconic islands despite the higher expense, while others are shifting to mainland destinations, where travelling by private car helps avoid costly ferry fares and allows for longer holidays within a more manageable budget.
Among island destinations, Santorini leads advance bookings with an occupancy rate of 92%, followed by Paros (91%), Milos (90%) and Skiathos (90%). The strong demand is also reflected in prices. A four-night stay in an entire short-term rental for a family of four ranges from around 820 euros on Andros to 1,850 euros on Santorini and approximately 2,200 euros on Mykonos.
On the mainland, Halkidiki tops advance bookings at 93%, followed by Parga at 91%. Accommodation costs for the same four-night stay start at roughly 650 euros in Akrata and reach around 1,180 euros in Halkidiki, with annual price increases proving more moderate at 4% to 8%.
