The summer of 2025 has seen Greece's most iconic islands, including Paros, Mykonos, and Corfu, emerge as the top travel destinations, reflecting a shift in both Greek and international tourism trends. With rising international demand and a growing appreciation for the accessibility, beauty, and cultural richness of these islands, destinations like Paros and Aegina are experiencing a surge in popularity. As Greece continues to dominate the tourism scene, it's clear that both locals and foreign visitors are flocking to these renowned islands, eager to experience the diverse offerings and vibrant atmosphere each location provides.
According to Ferryhopper's booking data, the summer of 2025 saw a significant rise in Greek tourism, with many of the country's beautiful islands attracting large numbers of travelers. As passenger traffic continued to grow, certain destinations within Greece stood out as top choices. Among the most popular islands for summer 2025 were Paros, Aegina, Naxos, Mykonos, Tinos, and Corfu, with a number of other destinations also receiving considerable attention.
Ferry traffic across the Greek islands saw a sharp increase compared to the previous year, reflecting the ongoing strength of Greece's tourism sector. Ferryhopper, a prominent ferry ticketing platform, noted the notable surge in passenger numbers. This uptick in traffic was primarily attributed to Greek travelers, although international visitor numbers also rose, albeit at a more moderate pace compared to 2024.
One of the standout destinations this summer was Aegina, located in the Saronic Gulf, which experienced a 27% increase in ferry ticket sales. This increase reflects the growing appeal of the island among both Greek and international travelers. Another island in the Saronic Gulf, Agistri, also recorded an impressive growth rate of over 20%, marking a notable shift in ferry travel trends. Collectively, the Saronic Gulf Islands saw a year-on-year increase of 30% in passenger traffic.
This growth can be seen as part of a broader trend where travelers favored islands with easy access and affordable transportation. Islands offering a variety of experiences and activities continued to attract visitors, though cosmopolitan destinations, such as Mykonos and Santorini, remained popular choices. These destinations' accessibility, diverse offerings, and vibrant atmospheres make them enduringly attractive.
However, it was Paros that truly shone this summer. Paros saw a significant boost in its popularity, with data from Expedia showing a 45% increase in searches for the island compared to the previous year. Ferryhopper's booking data also revealed a 15% increase in ferry bookings for Paros in summer 2025. The island, located in the heart of the Cyclades, offered a perfect balance of natural beauty, rich history, and cosmopolitan flair. This combination of attributes has made it a top destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Based on Ferryhopper's booking information, the top 10 Greek islands for summer 2025 were Paros, Aegina, Naxos, Mykonos, Tinos, and Corfu, along with several others. Greek travelers favored islands such as Tinos, Paros, and Aegina, with Naxos, Syros, Mykonos, Andros, Kythnos, Agistri, and Kea rounding out the list of popular choices. Foreign travelers, on the other hand, leaned toward more cosmopolitan destinations, with Paros, Mykonos, and Santorini topping the list, along with the "classic" Greek islands like Naxos, Milos, Ios, Corfu, Aegina, Hydra, and Heraklion.
Interestingly, Corfu's popularity has been steadily on the rise over the past few years, and this trend continued in the summer of 2025. The island, located in the Ionian Sea, has long been a favorite for European travelers, and this summer saw even greater numbers flocking to its shores. Known for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, Corfu remains a key tourism hub for those visiting Greece.
One of the most striking trends observed in the data is the shifting preferences among different age groups. For younger travelers, Gen Z and Millennials were particularly drawn to islands like Paros, Mykonos, and Naxos. These destinations offered a blend of both cosmopolitan flair and a laid-back atmosphere, making them ideal for a younger, more adventurous crowd. Aegina and Tinos also saw significant traffic from younger travelers, suggesting that ease of access and affordability were key factors influencing these choices.
Gen Z, in particular, recorded an impressive 20% increase in ferry bookings compared to the previous year. This surge in bookings from Gen Z can be attributed to a number of factors, including student discounts and the appeal of destinations located close to Athens, making them easy to reach for those on a budget. Young travelers have increasingly favored islands with a more relaxed vibe and convenient transportation, suggesting that they are looking for cost-effective and hassle-free experiences.
Millennials, while remaining the largest age group of travelers, saw more moderate growth compared to Gen Z. However, the 45+ demographic recorded the most significant increase in ticket purchases compared to 2024, showing a clear shift in the types of travelers visiting Greek islands. This group has shown an increasing preference for destinations that offer a mix of culture, history, and relaxation, with islands like Paros, Naxos, and Mykonos meeting these criteria.
The rise in ticket sales for the 45+ age group could also reflect a broader trend of more mature travelers seeking leisurely escapes, often during off-peak times, to avoid the larger crowds that are characteristic of the summer high season. These travelers are likely seeking destinations with a balance of cultural immersion and serenity, further explaining the popularity of islands like Paros, Naxos, and Aegina.
The summer of 2025 has made it clear that Greece remains a top destination for both domestic and international travelers. With a mix of traditional favorites and emerging hotspots like Paros, the islands continue to offer something for everyone, whether they're looking for vibrant nightlife, stunning natural beauty, or rich cultural experiences. While younger travelers flock to destinations that offer a balance of convenience and affordability, older travelers are increasingly drawn to destinations that combine relaxation with cultural richness.
Paros, Mykonos, and Corfu have emerged as the top islands for 2025, leading the way in Greek tourism with growing international demand and shifting travel trends. These iconic destinations continue to attract both local and foreign visitors, solidifying their place as Greece's most sought-after travel spots.
As Greece continues to evolve as a leading global tourism destination, its islands are adapting to meet the needs of a wide range of visitors, ensuring that its tourism sector will remain a driving force in the global travel market for years to come. The patterns seen in 2025 suggest that the Greek islands will continue to evolve, offering unique and diverse experiences for every type of traveler.