Greece could make a billion euros annually from ... golf

Greece is poised to capitalize on its untapped golfing potential, with a new study revealing the sport could generate an additional €880 million annually.

The Institute for Economic and Industrial Research (IOBE) report, “The Contribution of Golf to the Greek Economy,” highlights the country’s significant lag in golf development compared to neighboring nations.

Despite its stunning landscapes and burgeoning tourism industry, Greece currently boasts only ten golf courses. This starkly contrasts with Portugal, which, with a similar-sized economy, has 113 courses and generates €1 billion annually from golf tourism.

The IOBE study emphasizes the global golf market’s strong connection to tourism, with over 62.3 million golfers worldwide. By expanding its golfing infrastructure and offerings, Greece can attract a new segment of affluent travellers, particularly during the off-peak tourist season. Golf, the study notes, can mitigate the seasonality of tourism, as the sport's peak season aligns with the shoulder months of October to May.

By investing in golf, Greece can not only boost its economy but also enhance its reputation as a world-class tourist destination.