This summer season, several Greek islands achieved near-full occupancy rates, surpassing 90 per cent and even reaching 100 per cent in some cases.
Popular destinations such as Crete, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Santorini led the charge, while lesser-known islands like Naxos, Ios, Samos, Skopelos, Lipsi, Andros, and Astypalaia also experienced significant tourist influxes.
According to statements from officials and tourism representatives, many islands saw high occupancy levels.
Naxos: Maintained high occupancy throughout the summer. Vangelis Katsaras, Deputy Mayor of Tourism for Naxos and Small Cyclades, reported that August saw very high occupancy rates from visitors across Europe, America, Australia, and beyond.
Ios: August occupancy rates exceeded 90 per cent. Mayor Gkikas Gkikas noted that despite higher costs, efforts to enhance services and add new cultural events helped attract tourists and extend the benefits of tourism beyond the peak season.
Samos: Achieved 95 per cent -100 per cent occupancy. Deputy Mayor Evangelos Marnezos highlighted that the island’s unique combination of tradition and vibrant atmosphere contributed to a strong visitor turnout throughout August and into September.
Lipsi: Saw improved figures with more arrivals in July compared to the previous year. Mayor Fotis Mangos praised ongoing environmental initiatives and the island’s unique customs for attracting tourists.
Skopelos: Known for its connection to the “Mamma Mia” movie, had occupancy rates of 85-90 per cent in August. Municipal Tourism Councilor George Papadavid attributed this to the island’s diverse visitor markets.
Astypalaia: Experienced over 99 per cent occupancy during mid-August. Deputy Mayor Kostas Kampylis noted the island’s appeal for rejuvenating vacations and its natural beauty as key factors.
Andros: Achieved 100 per cent occupancy during mid-August. Municipal Tourism Councilor Nikos Moustakas cited the island’s natural beauty and promotional efforts as reasons for its success.
In contrast, car-accessible destinations in Greece struggled this season. Industry representatives reported decreased revenue and spending by tourists. The rising costs of ferry tickets and reduced consumer spending have impacted these destinations, with some, like the Peloponnese, not meeting expectations.
Evia: Occupancy in Aidipsos reached 80 per cent in August, though July fell short of expectations. The region is seeing improved tourism dynamics in September, driven by spa tourism from Balkan markets.
Karpenisi: Faced a challenging year with fewer visitors choosing mountain destinations. President Sofia Flega noted a decline in spending and a lack of effective promotional campaigns.
Magnesia: Although August was busy, it did not reach 100 per cent occupancy. President George Zafeiris highlighted issues with flood recovery and inadequate promotional support as contributing factors.
*With In.gr, AMNA
