This is one of the key insights shared by Engel & Völkers Greece in its latest Market Report on the Holiday Home Market in Greece, which provides an in-depth analysis of real estate market dynamics and emerging buyer behaviors.
According to the report, Greece’s holiday home market remains highly dynamic in 2025, attracting strong interest from both domestic and international buyers.
The 2025 edition compiles data from 17 regions across the country, outlining evolving buyer preferences, pricing trends, rental yields, and the areas experiencing the most activity. It also highlights a growing focus on factors such as design quality, sustainability, and the overall lifestyle offered by each location.
As George Petras, CEO of Engel & Völkers Greece, notes:
“Beyond well-known destinations like Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, and Rhodes, more and more smaller and lesser-known islands are coming into the spotlight. Whether for private use or as a long-term investment ahead of retirement, buyers are seeking high-spec properties that combine Mediterranean living with lasting value.”
Cyclades Take the Lead
Mykonos continues to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWI), maintaining premium price levels — with luxury villas reaching up to €12,000 per square meter. Nearby Paros also draws international interest, offering a compelling mix of traditional villages and modern architecture. Seafront homes are particularly sought after, with prices also approaching €12,000/m².
Santorini, known for its signature Cycladic architecture and iconic Caldera views, sees top property prices around €7,500/m². Meanwhile, islands such as Antiparos, Kythnos, and Kea show sustained demand for high-quality real estate, with upper price limits ranging between €9,000 and €9,800/m².
More affordable opportunities can be found on islands like Naxos, Syros, Andros, and Tinos, where entry-level prices begin at around €2,300/m².
Dodecanese and the Peloponnese: Strategic Demand
In the Dodecanese, Rhodes stands out with strong demand for villas in prime locations, supported by robust tourist flows and the development of luxury resorts. Top-end properties command prices of up to €6,750/m². On Symi, known for its neoclassical architecture and unspoiled charm, premium homes can reach €6,000/m².
“Symi is one of my personal insider tips,” says George Petras.
“Buyers appreciate the island’s authenticity and its atmosphere, which remains untouched by mass tourism. Prices are still accessible, and Symi offers strong investment potential.”
In the Peloponnese, Argolida is among the most desirable regions. Porto Heli, often referred to as the "Greek Saint-Tropez," attracts both affluent Athenians and international HNWIs. In addition to new luxury homes, the area also features a mature short-term rental market that appeals to investors. Villa prices can reach up to €6,000/m².
In Messinia, demand is concentrated around beachfront areas, golf courses, and high-end resorts, with property prices climbing to €5,500/m². More accessible investment options can be found in Corinthia and Laconia, where high-quality properties in strategic locations start at around €2,000/m².
Athenian Weekend Retreats and Northern Appeal
The Saronic Islands continue to attract a discerning clientele — including artists, entrepreneurs, politicians, and high-profile investors — due to their close proximity to Athens. On Hydra, prices can reach up to €7,500/m², while on Spetses, they approach €6,500/m².
In Chalkidiki, northern Greece, international demand is on the rise, with coastal villas fetching up to €10,000/m².
A More Strategic Buyer Profile
“Greek islands still offer competitive pricing compared to other Mediterranean holiday home markets, presenting attractive entry opportunities,” adds Petras.
Engel & Völkers Greece has recorded a notable increase in transaction volumes, especially in coastal and island regions. Approximately 85% of transactions are driven by foreign buyers, who vary by region and primarily come from Central Europe (DACH region), the U.S., Lebanon, Israel, the Balkans, and Turkey.
There is strong demand for villas with pools and sea views, while direct beach access remains a key selling point for premium properties.
Market Outlook: Positive Momentum Continues
Engel & Völkers forecasts stable demand and moderate price increases in prime locations through the end of the year. In places like Mykonos, a construction permit freeze until 2030 is limiting new supply, further strengthening the value of existing properties.
“Greek islands benefit from sustained excess demand in the premium segment, a favorable investment climate, and strong long-term rental returns,” concludes George Petras.
“These factors continue to support the positive trajectory of the market.”
