The « Hurricane » Trump can bring a storm to European tourism – what will happen in Greece?
‘Hurricane’ Trump and the ‘Duty clouds’ They can bring a storm to Europe by indirectly affecting the tourism sector. Greece ‘bets’ in one more summer with record But the uncertainty that prevails can overturn everything.
Our country is not directly confronted with duties (if they are finally imposed to the maximum) but it is almost certain that they will hit the European economy, reducing citizens’ disposable income in countries such as Germany, which are important markets for Greek tourism. As a result, this can lead to fewer visitors or a reduction in per capita tourist expenditure, as tourists may choose cheaper destinations or limit their spending during stay in Greece.
Greece attracted a large number of European tourists in 2024, as Europe remains the main market for Greek tourism
In addition, they can increase the cost of products and services associated with tourism, such as airplanes or imported goods used in hotels and restaurants. This could lead to higher airline tickets or tourist packages by discouraging potential visitors.
The beautiful Greece
In a time of uncertainty
Although American tourists are a smaller share than Europeans for Greece, reducing their purchasing power or reluctance for international trips can affect arrivals especially in destinations such as Athens and our renowned islands in the Cyclades.
The co -founder of BookretREats.com, Sean Kelly, in an attempt to « read » developments in a time of uncertainty, world tensions and life costs, suggests alternatives that will « save » holidays in Europe and excursions from exorbitant expenses.
« Smaller European cities with lower costs of living avoid the pricing pressure of mass tourism, » he says and proposes some « surprisingly affordable » destinations and recommends that they are interested in booking as soon as possible if you want to escape the crowds and price increases …
‘Exchange’ Santorini with Nafplio
Turning his gaze to Greece he looks at the former capital of modern Greece, Nafplio. It remains relatively unexplored today and Sean recommends that you choose to visit it instead of tourist hotspots.
« Visitors here can enjoy the Mediterranean experience without the high costs and crowds of Santorini or Athens, » he says.
According to Sean, a three -course meal for two people in Nafplio costs around 37 euros, while travelers will pay more than twice as much in Santorini.
His proposals continue with Bosnia and Herzegovina instead of Croatia, Granada instead of Madrid, Porto instead of Lisbon, Albania instead of Turkey.
Magical destination
Americans and European tourists
Despite the concerns, the world tourism sector is projected to grow in 2025, with travel spending reaching record levels. Greece, and especially Athens, has seen tourists triple over the last decade.
About 1.4-1.5 million American tourists visited our country in 2024 with a strong presence in Athens and islands such as Santorini and Mykonos.
US tourist spending increased by 13.3% compared to 2023, reaching € 1.5 billion, with a particular emphasis on luxury tourism. Greece attracted a large number of European tourists in 2024, as Europe remains the main market for Greek tourism.
European tourists in Greece in 2024 were at least 25-28 million, with the main markets in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy and other countries such as the Netherlands and Poland.
In total, Greece recorded 29.3 million international air arrivals in 2024, while the total number (including cruise and other means) is estimated at close to 33-36 million.
More European, more Americans spend more
US tourists, though fewer in number, contribute significantly to revenue due to high per capita spending, especially luxury tourism.
European tourists are the backbone of Greek tourism, with a steady increase in basic markets such as the United Kingdom and Germany.
Greece’s strong position as a destination can mitigate the negative impact of duties, especially if the competitiveness of the price is maintained in relation to other destinations.
