Demand for short-term rental accommodation such as Airbnb is exceptionally strong this winter season in Greece, with bookings across the country pointing to a robust festive period.
In many mountain destinations, occupancy rates for Christmas and New Year’s are approaching 90%, while availability is shrinking by the day. Early indications for the holiday period are particularly encouraging, as more travelers opt for alternative destinations and experiences beyond traditional choices.
If the current momentum continues, 2025 could go down as one of the strongest years on record in terms of tax revenues generated from short-term rentals.
Airbnb Occupancy Hotspots
The Mill of the Elves in Trikala has emerged as the country’s most popular Christmas attraction, pushing local accommodation occupancy to around 90%. Similar levels are reported in Meteora, Pertouli, Mouzaki, and around Lake Plastiras.
Peloponnese destinations are also in high demand. Mountain villages such as Dimitsana, Vytina, Stemnitsa, and Karytaina are effectively fully booked, while urban centers like Kalamata and Nafplio still offer a limited number of available options.
In Arachova, bookings are nearing 90%, with four-night stays starting at 780 euros. Metsovo is seeing even higher demand, with occupancy reaching 96% and four-night stays priced from 1,100 euros. Ioannina, long considered one of the most atmospheric Christmas destinations, is also performing strongly, with bookings around 85%.
Early Planning and Stable Prices
This year, travelers planned their festive getaways earlier than usual. Many have scheduled arrivals around Dec. 23 and departures after New Year’s Day, turning the holidays into four- or five-day breaks.
Overall, the picture suggests that domestic tourism is once again performing strongly during the festive season, with accommodation prices remaining relatively stable despite heightened demand.
