Greece Expands Tourism Focus on India, Eyes Rapid Growth

Greece is strategically opening up to India, one of the fastest-growing tourism markets in the world. With a population of 1.46 billion and travel spending projected to reach $410 billion by 2030, India represents a major opportunity for European destinations.
Indian travel to Greece is rising rapidly. The country moved from 39th to 26th place among Indian tourist destinations between 2024 and 2025, with a 19% increase in travel traffic compared to 2.7% for Germany and 7.3% for Italy. In 2024, Indian arrivals via Athens totaled 87,400, up 32% from 2023, and January 2025 alone saw 35,500 arrivals, an 18% increase. Greece appeals not only for its sun and sea but also for its rich culture, increasingly appreciated by Indian travelers.
Aegean Airlines is a key player in this growth, planning direct flights to New Delhi from March 2026 and Mumbai from May, operating multiple weekly routes with new Airbus A321neo XLRs. Partnerships with IndiGo and Air India are also being explored to strengthen local connectivity. Athens International Airport and the Greek National Tourism Organization have been actively promoting Greece in India through events, familiarization trips, and participation in international tourism exhibitions.
The response from the Indian market has been positive, signaling strong potential for Greece to establish itself as a top European destination. Continued air connectivity, local partnerships, and targeted promotions will be crucial to sustaining this momentum and unlocking the full potential of Indian tourism for Greece.