Hotel prices continue their rise this year

Hotel prices in Greece have continued their upward trajectory this year, driven by sustained demand for travel, according to new data released by the Institute of Tourism Research and Forecasting of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels. The findings cover the first five months of 2026 and highlight a consistent pattern of rising average room rates and improved occupancy levels across the country’s hospitality sector. The average price for a double room has shown steady growth over the past year, with notable increases observed in several key months. In January 2026, the average rate stood at €77, up from €74 in the same period in 2025. This trend continued into February, where the average price climbed to €86, representing an increase of €7 from the previous year. March saw a similar pattern, with the average rate reaching €86, up from €81 in 2025. However, the trend shifted slightly in April, with the average rate dropping to €104, compared to €109 in 2025. May marked another peak, with the average price increasing to €117, up from €112 in the prior year. Occupancy rates have also followed a positive trajectory, reflecting strong traveler interest. In January 2026, the average occupancy rate reached 42%, compared to 40% in 2025. By February, this figure had risen to 50%, up from 44% the previous year. March maintained a high level of occupancy, with the rate hitting 51%, just one percentage point above the 50% recorded in 2025. April saw a slight dip, with an average occupancy of 48%, down from 49% in 2025. This change was attributed to the earlier timing of Easter in 2026, which affected seasonal patterns. For May, the occupancy rate climbed to 63.2%, surpassing the 62% recorded in the same month the previous year. The data suggests that while there were minor fluctuations in certain months, the overall trend remains favorable for the Greek tourism industry. The persistent rise in both pricing and occupancy indicates that travelers are increasingly willing to pay more for accommodations, likely due to a combination of factors including improved economic conditions, increased disposable income, and a growing appetite for international travel. Industry experts suggest that the resilience of the Greek tourism market can be linked to its reputation as a desirable holiday destination, coupled with effective marketing efforts and post-pandemic recovery strategies. Additionally, the early Easter date in 2026 may have contributed to a shift in booking patterns, influencing both pricing and occupancy trends during the spring season. Looking ahead, analysts expect the upward momentum to continue through the summer months, particularly as the tourist season peaks. With the current data pointing toward a robust performance, stakeholders in the hospitality sector are optimistic about the prospects for the remainder of the year. The ongoing strength of the Greek tourism industry underscores its importance to the national economy and highlights the potential for further growth in the coming months.