Americans are choosing Greece in record numbers this year, and it’s no coincidence. More direct flights between major US cities and Athens have made Greece more accessible than ever for American travelers. This ease of access, combined with a strong cultural draw, has made Greece a standout destination in Europe for 2025.
Data presented at the Resort & Residential Hospitality Forum (R&R Forum) shows that Greece leads all major European destinations in growth from the US market, both in year-to-date terms and specifically in August.
Greece on Top: Record-breaking growth in 2025
According to analysis by STR, travel from the US to Europe increased by just over 5 percent between January and August 2025, with a similar rise in August. In Greece, however, arrivals jumped by more than 20 percent during the same period and reached nearly 25 percent in August alone.
Italy also showed a strong performance with over 10 percent growth from January to August and 15 percent in August. Other countries, including Ireland, Switzerland, the Netherlands, France, and Germany, reported milder increases.
Even though early predictions for 2025 were cautious due to global instability and safety concerns, the summer season ended with a 5 percent rise in US arrivals across Europe. Analysts highlighted Greece and Italy as top destinations among American tourists.
American travelers are changing seasonal trends
Seasonality remains a key issue in Greek tourism. Hotel rates in Greece during the peak months of May to August are more than double the rates of the low season (January to April). This is the largest seasonal price difference among Mediterranean destinations. Turkey and Italy follow with smaller price gaps, while Spain and Cyprus have the most stable pricing year-round.
Despite this, emerging travel patterns point to change. Increasing numbers of American travelers are visiting Greece outside the high summer season. This shift was especially clear during the autumn of 2025 as visitors sought fewer crowds, better prices, and comfortable weather.
Luxury tourism and accommodation trends
Luxury travel continues to be a major engine of growth. Turkey remains the most affordable option for high-end stays, averaging around €248 ($287) per night. France leads at nearly €470 ($544) per night, followed by Italy at just under €400 ($463) and Greece at approximately €370 ($428) during August in luxury categories.
Greece has expanded its hotel capacity by less than 0.5 percent in the past decade. However, a significant increase in short-term rental listings has helped absorb the growing demand, especially during peak months.
