Western Macedonia, Thessaly, and Western Greece clinched top scores, showcasing their potential for tourism growth. INSETE’s report, created with TCI Research, put these regions at the forefront of expanding the nation’s tourism map. Meanwhile, Athens continues to lure visitors year-round, holding its charm across all seasons.
Cultural heritage and exquisite cuisine form the pillars of Greece’s fame. “The human factor remains a constant highlight in reviews, reflecting Greece’s renowned hospitality,” noted analysts. Yet not all news is sunny; environmental issues and climate challenges impact the country’s overall image.
How Greece Stacks Up Globally
According to the INSETE metric, Greece landed fourth in positive mentions during the third quarter of 2024. It trailed behind Portugal, Italy, and Croatia but stayed ahead of Spain. Online discussions praised its cultural treasures, gastronomic delights, and sustainability efforts, including the green makeover of the Piraeus Tower and eco-friendly initiatives in Andros. Scenic locales like Samos and Tilos also won hearts.
Still, climate woes dimmed the glittering reviews. Wildfires near Athens, a grim display of dead fish in Volos, and Europe’s worsening drought didn’t go unnoticed.
Findings by Region
- Western Macedonia excelled in gastronomy.
- Epirus led in seaside satisfaction, followed by the Cyclades and Peloponnese.
- Attica, Ionian Islands, and Peloponnese earned high praise for their workforce.
- Central Greece, Peloponnese, and Thessaly topped cultural appreciation lists.
- Best value-for-money recognition went to Western Macedonia and Western Greece.
- Central Macedonia excelled in sustainability ratings.
Meanwhile, Crete and Cyclades gleaned mixed reactions for hygiene and eco-friendliness, lagging in sustainability scores compared to other hotspots.
Tourists’ Voice: What Visitors Said
A whopping 9.1 satisfaction score put Greece above Europe’s 8.8 average. Most regions scored at least 9.0, proving Greece delivers on expectations even during peak seasons. However, the spotlight wasn’t all golden. Hygiene ratings dipped below 8 in parts of Central Greece and Crete.
Visitors from the US and UK ranked Greece highest, scoring 9.3 and 9, respectively. Australians were swooning too, with a stellar 9.4 rating. “The trend suggests long-haul markets greatly appreciate Greece’s offerings,” said one industry expert.
The internet buzzed about untouched landscapes, luxury stays, and vibrant cultural events, such as an exhibition in Paros. Sustainability initiatives sparked positive mentions, while hospitality achieved quieter but significant recognition.
