Thassos Island in Greece sees repeat visitors as travelers seek quieter alternatives

The Greek island of Thassos continues to attract repeat visitors thanks to its traditional villages such as Panagia, Theologos and Kastro, scenic beaches, pine forests and mountain trails. Visitors appreciate the authentic stone houses, family‑run tavernas and the sense of calm that the island provides.

At the same time, a broader post‑pandemic shift is prompting tourists to choose less‑crowded “destination dupes” – quieter counterparts to famous spots. Romanian travelers are opting for the Greek islands of Paros and Naxos instead of Mykonos or Santorini, and for Italian lake towns around Como and Annecy rather than more tourist‑heavy locations. Southeast Asian alternatives like Lombok in Indonesia are highlighted for their lower prices and similar scenery to Bali. As Raluca Mureșan explains, “the phenomenon has even been given a name on the internet: ‘destination dupes’, the lesser‑known sisters of popular places.” Sociologist Dan Petre adds that social‑media status drives many to seek unique backdrops for Instagram.

The trend reflects a desire for affordability, reduced crowding and more authentic experiences across Europe and beyond.