As excitement builds for a potentially record-breaking year in Greek tourism, industry experts have identified the U.S. market as a key contributor.
Despite concerns about possible issues in Santorini, projections for 2025 remain optimistic.
According to the Institute of the Greek Tourism Confederation, German tourists currently generate the most revenue for Greece, trailed by British tourists. However, Americans lead in spending per overnight stay, marking them as a particularly lucrative market.
Direct flights between the U.S. and Greece have seen a dramatic increase, with the number rising from 46 in 2019 to an anticipated 103 this year. The introduction of a direct Los Angeles-Athens route by Norse Atlantic Airways and similar expansions by other airlines are key factors in this growth.
Insightful strategies have been employed by airlines to tap into the expatriate population, particularly in states like California. As a result, tourism flows from the western U.S., including key cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, are expected to grow significantly by 2025.
The upcoming year aims to surpass previous records, targeting up to 1.5 million American visitors, an increase from last year’s one million. These travelers are attractive not only for their spending habits but also for potential extended stays in Greece.
With enhanced flight routes from major U.S. cities such as New York, Atlanta, and Chicago to Athens, Greek tourism is set to benefit from a broader range of American visitors. Analysts remain hopeful that Santorini’s situation will stabilize, allowing the island to continue contributing to Greece’s booming tourism sector.