Greece is attracting an increasing number of travelers during the shoulder season, as visitors opt for short-term rental accommodation beyond the peak summer months. According to the latest AirDNA data for September 2025, this trend is strengthening, signaling a more balanced tourism activity throughout the year.
AirDNA data highlights steady performance in Greek short-term rentals
The average daily rate (ADR) for Greek short-term rentals declined by 4% year-on-year to €169, while revenue per available rental (RevPAR) fell by 2% to €100. Despite these slight drops, occupancy rose by 2% to 59%, confirming the market’s resilience beyond the summer peak. Compared to August, when occupancy had reached 76%, this marks a typical seasonal slowdown.
Why travelers prefer the shoulder season
According to AirDNA, travel habits are shifting. The shoulder months – March to May and September to October – are gaining traction due to three main reasons: rising summer heatwaves pushing visitors toward milder weather, lower off-peak prices making travel more affordable, and growing concerns about overtourism encouraging travelers to seek calmer, more authentic experiences.
Athens: A year-round city break destination
Athens continues to establish itself as a vibrant, all-year destination. The city’s share of annual short-term rental demand during the shoulder season increased from 39% in 2019 to 41% in 2024, while the summer share decreased from 32% to 30%. Winter remains stable at around 29%, reinforcing Athens’ position as a sustainable urban tourism hub.
Rhodes: A summer hotspot that’s extending its season
A similar trend is observed in Rhodes, one of Greece’s quintessential summer destinations. Demand for short-term rentals during the shoulder season rose from 39% in 2019 to 41% in 2024, while summer slightly decreased from 51% to 50%. Although winter still accounts for only 9–11% of stays, the data suggest a gradual lengthening of the island’s tourism season.
Tourism calendar spreads evenly through the year
Overall, AirDNA’s findings indicate a structural shift toward a more balanced distribution of tourism demand throughout the year. Mild weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds are fueling interest in the shoulder season, creating new opportunities for property owners and managers across Greece.
European short-term rental performance in September 2025
The European short-term rental market followed a similar pattern. In September 2025, available listings reached 4 million, up 2.3% year-on-year. Total nights booked rose by 3.6% to 45.9 million, while the average daily rate slightly declined by 0.8% to €158. Occupancy stood at 55.3%, marking a 0.7% increase, and RevPAR remained steady at €87.4.
This trend highlights a maturing European short-term rental market, with Greece standing out as a prime example of how shoulder season tourism supports sustainable growth and extends the travel calendar year-round.
