Greeks appear to be in an increased mood for travel ahead of the Holy Spirit weekend, with data for bookings from 29 May – 1 June 2026 showing a significant increase compared to last year, according to Booking.com. The data is based on searches made by users in Greece between 4-11 April 2026, with check-in dates from 29 May to 1 June 2026.
Specifically, searches by users in Greece appear to be up 21% compared to the same period last year, confirming that travel intent remains particularly strong.
Inland tourism is particularly dynamic, with interest in destinations within Greece recording a 33% increase. Athens remains at the top of the search, retaining the top spot, despite a slight 5% decrease compared to last year. Thessaloniki also has a significant presence in the top ten, ranking fourth, with a 33% increase in searches.
The biggest increase among the ten most popular destinations is recorded by Nafplio, which is in eighth place, with an impressive 115% year-on-year increase. This performance reflects the shift of many travellers towards more nearby, flexible and easily accessible getaways within Greece. The city of Chania is also found in the top ten, with a 13% increase, confirming the steady momentum of Crete as a choice for short breaks.
Among international destinations, Rome and Paris remain firmly high in the preferences of Greek travellers, taking second and third place respectively, despite marginal decreases of 3% and 2%. At the same time, Budapest is emerging as one of the most up-and-coming foreign destinations, with a 43% increase, while Istanbul is also on the rise, ranking seventh. Milan, in sixth place, is also on the rise, with a 7% increase. Conversely, Barcelona, while still in the top ten most popular destinations, is recording the biggest drop, with searches down 35% year-on-year.
Overall, the data outlines a travel market in high mobility, with Greeks combining classic European destinations with increased interest in domestic getaways. Destinations such as Nafplio and Thessaloniki are gaining ground, while the rise of cities such as Budapest and Istanbul shows that travellers are also looking for alternatives abroad, beyond the more traditional European capitals.
