For many short-term rental properties in Greece, winter means lower demand, more empty dates on the calendar and pressure on nightly rates. However, this does not mean that significantly reducing prices is the only solution. From updating the listing and its photos to adjusting amenities, pricing strategies and highlighting the surrounding area, there are several ways to make an Airbnb more attractive for winter bookings.
After all, seasonality does not affect every destination in the same way. Coastal properties may experience a significant drop in demand, while mountain destinations, cities and areas offering winter activities or events can attract different types of travelers. Greece’s official tourism promotion highlights winter destinations such as Metsovo, Karpenisi, Ioannina, Kastoria, Nafplio, Monemvasia and Zagori, along with activities that go beyond skiing.
Show your property as it is in winter
A listing created for the summer season may not be equally effective in November or January. A swimming pool, terrace and nearby beach may be major selling points in August, but winter travelers are looking for different features.
Airbnb points out that photos are among the most important elements of a listing and recommends that hosts include all available amenities and highlight their property’s distinctive features in the title and description.
It is therefore worth adding seasonal photos: a warm, bright living room, a lit fireplace, a beautiful winter view or a space where guests can comfortably spend several hours. Update the property’s presentation and refresh its description to highlight what the surrounding area has to offer during the colder months.
Heating and comfort become essential amenities
In winter, the guest experience often comes down to very practical details: Does the heating work properly? Are there enough blankets? Is the property warm when guests arrive? Are there clear instructions for using the fireplace or heating system?
Before winter arrivals begin, hosts should check the heating system, water heater, electrical and plumbing installations, and any other equipment that may see increased use during the colder months.
In Greece, this preparation is now also linked to the regulatory framework. Since October 1, 2025, minimum standards for short-term rental properties have been in effect, including requirements for natural lighting, ventilation, air conditioning and specific safety measures.
Particular attention is also needed in properties with fireplaces or fuel-burning appliances. Airbnb recommends installing and regularly checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as providing guests with clear instructions for safe use.
Small amenities that create a winter experience
Not every property owner needs to invest in a hot tub, sauna or underfloor heating. Often, smaller improvements can make a noticeable difference to a property’s appeal.
Warm blankets, quality bedding, slippers, extra towels, tea, coffee or hot chocolate, board games and a comfortable space for watching a film or reading can all enhance the sense of hospitality. The same applies to a small winter welcome basket featuring local products, connecting the season with the destination.
For families, couples or travelers who spend more time indoors, these details become even more important than they are during summer.
Read also- Airbnb tips: How to prepare your property for rainy days
Don’t just sell the property. Sell the destination
One of the biggest mistakes is presenting a property without connecting it to what is happening in the surrounding area. Every destination has features that can be used to attract winter visitors.
- Mountain properties: Highlight access to ski resorts, winter activities, fireplaces and views of the mountain landscape.
- Properties in inland areas and villages: Promote hiking trails, traditional settlements, local products and culinary experiences that showcase the area’s identity.
- Urban properties: Connect the stay with Christmas events, cultural activities, conferences and short city breaks. Also highlight amenities for business travelers and remote workers.
- Coastal properties: Focus on the peaceful atmosphere of winter, seaside walks, local cuisine and nearby excursions. A warm, comfortable property with sea views can be an ideal choice for a short getaway.
Regardless of location, hosts can take advantage of local events by adjusting availability and minimum-stay requirements. A short digital guide featuring activities, restaurants and suggested routes can also enhance the guest experience.
Pricing and minimum-stay requirements need reviewing
Lower demand does not automatically mean that prices should be drastically reduced. Hosts need to compare their rates with similar properties in the area and adjust them according to specific dates.
Airbnb itself states that price, quality, popularity and availability influence where a property appears in search results. Offering more available dates and greater flexibility in stay length can also increase the chances of a listing matching a traveler’s search criteria.
During the low season, hosts can therefore consider last-minute offers, weekly or monthly discounts, lower weekday rates and shorter minimum stays. In 2026, Airbnb also introduced personalized insights that can suggest actions based on recent local market data, such as extending the booking window, reducing advance-notice requirements, offering discounts or adjusting the base price.
Winter may appeal to a different type of guest
Perhaps the most important point is that hosts should not expect the same audience that visits in summer to fill their winter calendars.
Couples looking for weekend getaways, families traveling during the holidays, remote workers, guests seeking longer stays and travelers looking for peace and quiet away from the peak season represent different audiences with different needs.
Fast Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace and a discount for longer stays may, for example, be more valuable to a remote worker than a purely tourist-oriented amenity. Similarly, the prospect of a peaceful winter weekend may be more appealing to a couple.
For hosts in Greece, winter does not have to be treated simply as the “low season.” The key question is who has a reason to visit the area at this time of year and what they need from the property. The answer can guide the choice of photos, amenities and pricing, ultimately helping create a listing that gives travelers a genuine reason to book, even in winter.
