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In 2023, Greece once again proved its status as a leading global tourist destination, setting a new record for the number of visitors — more than 32.7 million people. This is 17.6% more than in 2022, when 27.8 million travelers visited the country. This significant rise in tourist flows played a key role in boosting tourism revenues, which reached an impressive €20.5 billion, exceeding the previous year’s results by 15.7%.
32.7M+ visitors in 2023 — a new record.
+17.6% vs 2022 in total arrivals.
€20.5B in tourism revenue (+15.7% YoY).
Growth from both EU-27 residents and non-EU-27 visitors.
Border crossings by road rose strongly: +34.9%.
What drove the revenue increase: EU-27 vs non-EU-27
According to published data from the Bank of Greece, the increase in revenues was driven by growth in receipts from both EU-27 residents and non-EU-27 visitors. Receipts from EU-27 residents rose by 11.5% to €11.158 billion, while revenues from tourists from non-EU-27 countries increased by 18.5% to €8.591 billion.
Which markets contributed the most
Specific countries played an important role in this success. For example, receipts from Germany increased by 9.5% to €3.563 billion, and from France by 11.6% to €1.425 billion. The UK and the US also posted significant growth, while revenues from Russian tourists, on the contrary, declined.
Source-market performance can differ by seasonality, flight connectivity, and traveler preferences — which is why the mix of arrivals matters as much as totals.
Why the tourist flow surged: air travel and road crossings
This impressive growth in tourist flows was driven not only by more travelers arriving by air, but also by a sharp increase in tourist traffic through road border checkpoints, which rose by 34.9%. The number of tourists from EU-27 countries increased notably, reaching 19.65 million people — 15.6% more than in the previous year.
What this means for the economy
These figures not only confirm Greece’s status as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, but also point to a healthy overall economic outlook. Rising tourist flows and tourism revenues help create new jobs, increase consumption, and support investment in infrastructure — which in turn stimulates further economic development.
What to do
When planning a trip to Greece, keep seasonality in mind: peak months tend to be busier, while shoulder seasons can offer a calmer pace and comfortable weather.
Track travel updates and connectivity (routes, frequency, border traffic) and leave room for flexibility — it often improves both comfort and budget.
1-day itinerary
Morning: a relaxed walk in the old town or along the waterfront, coffee, and a first taste of local cuisine.
Midday: one key attraction (museum or landmark) plus a seaside break or a viewpoint nearby.
Evening: dinner in a taverna and an easy stroll — a simple way to end the day on a warm note.
2-day itinerary
Day 1: focus on culture and the city vibe — walks, main sights, local markets, and traditional food.
Day 2: go for sea and nature — beaches, a short excursion, scenic spots, and sunset by the water.
Tip: keep 1–2 “unplanned” hours — that’s often when the best spontaneous discoveries happen.
How to get there
The growth in visitor numbers was supported by both air travel and increased traffic via road border checkpoints. Compare options: direct or connecting flights, seasonal routes, and — where relevant — overland travel by car.
In years with strong demand, booking earlier usually means more choice and a more predictable budget.
FAQ: Greece tourism figures (2023)
How many tourists visited Greece in 2023?
More than 32.7 million people — a new record.
How much did arrivals grow versus 2022?
Arrivals increased by 17.6% compared to 2022.
How much tourism revenue did Greece earn?
€20.5 billion, up 15.7% from the previous year.
How did receipts from EU-27 residents change?
They rose by 11.5% to €11.158 billion.
What about revenues from non-EU-27 tourists?
They increased by 18.5% to €8.591 billion.
Which markets are mentioned as key contributors?
Germany and France are highlighted, with strong growth also noted from the UK and the US.
What was notable about road border checkpoints?
Tourist traffic through road border checkpoints rose by 34.9%.
How many EU-27 tourists are mentioned?
19.65 million people, up 15.6% year-on-year.
How does tourism support Greece’s economy?
It supports jobs, consumption, and infrastructure investment, stimulating further economic development.
Why should travelers care about these statistics?
They help with timing, budgeting, and logistics planning for trips.
Can higher demand affect prices?
Often yes — higher demand can mean higher occupancy and stronger price pressure in peak season.
What does “tourism revenue” generally reflect?
It reflects tourism-related receipts linked to visitor spending, as recorded in official statistics.
Is the EU-27 vs non-EU-27 split important?
Yes — both grew in 2023, and non-EU-27 increased faster in percentage terms.
What is the main takeaway from 2023?
Record arrivals and higher revenues, reinforcing Greece’s global tourism position.
How can travelers plan smarter in a high-demand year?
Book earlier, stay flexible on dates, and choose a season that matches your priorities.
