Israeli Tourism to Greece Hits Record Nearly 750,000 Visitors in Past Year

In 2025, nearly 750,000 Israelis traveled to Greece, marking a historic peak in tourism between the two countries. According to the annual report from the Greek Embassy's Economic and Commercial Affairs Office in Tel Aviv, 743,841 Israeli entries were recorded in Greece last year, a nearly 20 percent increase from 620,805 visitors in 2024 and a surge of over 264,000 compared to 479,163 in 2023. Israelis accounted for 1.71 percent of all inbound tourists to Greece in 2025, up from 1.59 percent the previous year, with demand expected to remain strong into 2026.

The appeal of Greece for Israeli travelers lies in its short flight distance, abundant direct flights, and a diverse vacation offering that includes idyllic islands, vibrant city life in Athens, and excellent cuisine. Popular destinations include the Aegean and Ionian islands as well as major cities. Athens International Airport has also become a key transit hub for Israelis traveling onward to other European locations.

Beyond tourism, economic ties between Israel and Greece are robust, with Israeli investments in Greece totaling 86 million euros in 2025, primarily in real estate such as hotels and short-term rental properties. Although this is a decrease from 129 million euros in 2024, Israeli interest remains strong and continues to support Greece's tourism infrastructure and economy.

Despite occasional political protests in urban areas, Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni assured that Greece remains safe for Israeli visitors, emphasizing strict law enforcement against any violence or hate crimes. Tourism officials confirm that the atmosphere in popular destinations remains welcoming and secure.

Greece's tourism boom is part of a broader global trend, with the sector contributing about 30 percent of Greece's GDP. Alongside Israelis, over 1.55 million American tourists visited Greece in 2025, supported by a record 103 weekly direct flights from the U.S. The country's popularity is also boosted by celebrity visits and major Hollywood productions filmed on Greek islands, enhancing its global appeal. Amid this international spotlight, Israeli tourists continue to choose Greece as their preferred vacation destination year after year.