Home » GERMANY TRAVEL NEWS » Athens Emerges as the Unlikely Holiday Hotspot for German Travelers This Christmas and New Year’s Season Published on
December 4, 2025As the holiday season approaches, Athens has emerged as one of the top destinations for German tourists, making its mark as a sought-after city for Christmas and New Year’s holidays. According to the latest findings from Opodo, Athens is now among the most-booked cities for the upcoming festive period, climbing alongside popular destinations like London, Paris, and Barcelona.For the Christmas season (December 17-28), Athens is gaining ground, appearing on the list of top 10 most-booked destinations for German travelers. As we move into the New Year period (December 29-January 11), the Greek capital remains strong, securing a spot among the most popular places for German holidaymakers. Athens’ growing popularity reflects a broader trend of Germans seeking cultural and sun-filled winter escapes.Advertisement Short Breaks Continue to Dominate German Travel PreferencesGerman travelers have long preferred shorter vacations during the holiday period, and 2025 is no different. For Christmas, nearly half (46 percent) of German travelers are choosing trips of 7 to 13 days, with 29 percent opting for even shorter breaks of 3 to 4 days. This consistency in travel preferences highlights the demand for convenient getaways that don’t require lengthy time commitments.The New Year period sees a slight shift in preferences, with 33 percent of Germans planning 3 to 4-day trips. Meanwhile, 30 percent are opting for slightly longer stays of 7 to 13 days. While extended holidays are less common, the preference for short and medium-term breaks highlights the appeal of destinations like Athens that offer easy accessibility and a combination of historical and festive experiences.Athens: Greece’s Growing Appeal to German HolidaymakersAdvertisement Greece has long been a summer destination for German travelers, but now it is making its way onto the radar for winter holidays as well. With affordable flights, mild temperatures, and rich cultural offerings, Greece is attracting Germans who want to enjoy a change of scenery while avoiding the harsh winter in Germany.Athens, with its stunning ancient monuments, Mediterranean charm, and vibrant street life, is becoming an increasingly popular winter destination. From exploring the Parthenon to indulging in local Greek cuisine, Athens offers an immersive holiday experience that blends culture, history, and leisure. The city’s mild winter weather, with fewer crowds compared to summer months, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.Additionally, Athens’ affordability compared to other European capitals makes it an attractive choice. Budget-friendly accommodation options, affordable dining, and accessible flights make Athens an appealing option for Germans who want to enjoy a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank.Germany Attracts Visitors for Festive Markets and New Year’s CelebrationsW …
