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Greece's Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Destinations Emerge as Top Tourism Spots

Say goodbye to overcrowded Santorini and Mykonos. Discover Greece's hidden gems, where authentic charm and increasing arrivals await.

It is the beautiful view of the city. At the top there is the sky. There are so many houses and...
It is the beautiful view of the city. At the top there is the sky. There are so many houses and buildings one beside the other. At the bottom there are plants and sand.

Greece's Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Destinations Emerge as Top Tourism Spots

Greece's tourism scene is witnessing a shift, with lesser-known destinations stealing the spotlight from traditional hotspots like Santorini and Mykonos. Volos Airport, for instance, has seen a remarkable 51.1 percent rise in visitors in June 2025.

Syros, an island known for its beautiful neoclassical houses and unspoiled beaches, has emerged as an alternative to Santorini. It recorded a staggering 112.8 percent increase in airport arrivals in June 2025. Meanwhile, the mid-size port city of Volos, home to over 85,000 people, offers a mix of calm and city life, attracting visitors with its unique charm.

Thessaloniki, Heraklion on Crete, and Corfu are other lesser-known places that have shown significant tourism growth in the first half of 2025. Thessaloniki saw a 9.3 percent increase, Heraklion on Crete had a 5.3 percent rise, and Corfu experienced a 4.8 percent increase. These destinations, while not as internationally renowned as the Cyclades islands, are gaining attention due to their expanding airport arrivals and diverse attractions.

Athens, the capital city, continues to draw visitors with its ancient wonders like the Parthenon and the Acropolis Hill. It has seen a 7.6 percent increase in passenger traffic for the first half of 2025. The Athens Riviera, with its crowd-free beaches and old temples like the Temple of Poseidon, also contributes to the city's appeal.

While Santorini and Mykonos may still be popular, the spotlight is shifting to Greece's lesser-known destinations. These places, with their unique attractions and increasing airport arrivals, are set to become the next big things in Greek tourism.

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