Greek islands draw record Turkish tourists amid lower prices

Turkish journalist Deniz Zeyrek explained in the newspaper Nefes why an increasing number of Turkish visitors are choosing Greek islands for holidays. In 2025 more than 1.5 million Turkish travellers made a total of 2.6 million visits to the islands, spending over €500 million, and forecasts for 2026 anticipate a further 25‑30 % rise.

Zeyrek attributes the trend to several factors: substantially lower accommodation and food costs, reduced VAT rates on tourism services, the introduction of an express visa for Turkish citizens in 2024, short ferry routes, the absence of extra beach or parking fees, and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere of the islands. By contrast, high inflation in Turkey has made domestic resorts comparatively expensive.

The Greek tourism strategy, developed after the 2009 financial crisis, includes tax incentives for islands such as Lesbos, Chios, Samos and Kos, which have helped make Greece an attractive, affordable destination for Turkish tourists.