Two of Greece’s most iconic tourist destinations, Santorini and Mykonos, are experiencing notable shifts in visitor numbers this year, as fresh data reveals a new drop in international arrivals and a competitive battle for bookings.
Santorini, renowned worldwide for its stunning sunsets and volcanic landscape, has seen a significant decline in tourism, largely attributed to prolonged seismic activity earlier in 2025. This geological unrest has caused uncertainty among potential visitors, especially those traveling from key markets such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
According to reports by the Greek Tourism Confederation and the Institute of the Hellenic Tourism Business Association (INSETE), international air arrivals to Santorini have fallen by as much as 19% compared to last year. Overall, the year-end decline in arrivals to the island is projected to range between 10% and 15%. Ferry bookings mirror this trend, with Santorini experiencing a 7% drop in reservations.
In contrast, Mykonos shows signs of a gradual recovery. Despite an 8% fall in air arrivals during the early months of 2025, the island recorded a slight 2% increase in arrivals in June. Ferry bookings to Mykonos have remained stable, supported largely by steady domestic demand, even as some international markets show mixed results.
Ferryhopper data highlights the differing booking trends between the two islands, with ferry bookings from the US, Australia, and Canada declining for Santorini by 5%, 6%, and 2% respectively. Meanwhile, Mykonos maintains similar US booking levels but faces decreases from Australia (-10%) and Canada (-22%).
Google search data further confirms these patterns, revealing a 16% drop in queries related to travel routes between Piraeus (Athens’ main port) and Santorini, and a 25% decrease for routes connecting Mykonos and Santorini. Searches for Piraeus to Mykonos routes showed a slight 2% increase compared to last year.
While international demand softens, the domestic Greek market demonstrates renewed interest in both islands. Travel agencies report higher booking volumes from Greek tourists for Santorini and even stronger demand for Mykonos. However, this rise in local tourism is not enough to fully offset the overall drop in foreign arrivals.
Data from the Panhellenic Federation of Hoteliers and short-term rental platforms like Airbnb also indicate a slowing demand trend in Santorini, with up to a 20% reduction in bookings during certain periods compared to 2024.
Source: tovima.com
