Have you ever wondered where our neighbors, Balkan tourists, travel the most? To Greece, of course! This text provides a brief overview of favorite Greek destinations for Balkan tourists. It is undisputed that all Balkan residents are fortunate to live close to the most beautiful beaches and parts of Greece, so let’s take a look at which places they particularly love.

Romanians always return to Thassos and Samothrace

For Romanian tourists traveling by car, the closest and most beautiful destinations in Greece are:

Thassos - Only 600 km away from Bucharest\, Thassos is an ideal destination for Romanian tourists. This paradise corner offers a green landscape\, beautiful beaches\, and a pleasant ambiance\, all within reach\, without the need for long journeys.

Halkidiki - The proximity and diverse range of activities make Halkidiki a popular destination among Romanian tourists. Enjoy beautiful beaches\, a large number of restaurants\, and activities for all ages.

Pieria (Olympic region) - This region offers beautiful\, tranquil beaches at more affordable prices\, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quality vacation without high costs.

Kavala - Kavala is another close destination\, popular for its proximity and beautiful beaches. It offers everything tourists could desire – from enjoying the sea to visiting historical sites.

Samothrace - This island is still undeveloped and offers a peaceful vacation in a natural environment at much more affordable prices. It is easily accessible from Romania via Alexandroupoli\, and the ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours. For those who love tranquility and affordable prices\, Samothrace is a true oasis.

Lefkada - Lefkada has become increasingly popular among Romanian tourists\, thanks to its easy access by car. The bridge connecting the island to the mainland allows for a quick arrival\, while direct flights add another option for those wishing to explore this beautiful destination.

Evia - Evia is known for its easy accessibility via a bridge\, affordable prices\, and diverse offerings. For those seeking a quality vacation without high costs\, Evia is an excellent choice.

Bulgarians still choose northern Greece

Northern Greece remains a favorite destination for Bulgarian tourists. Their interest in Halkidiki, Kavala, and the surrounding areas remains strong, and favorite places include:

Kavala, Nea Peramos, Keramoti - These destinations are the closest to the Bulgarian borders\, so no long journeys are required. Greeks often say they are “within reach\,” and the beautiful beaches and tourist offerings are a perfect choice for a weekend or longer vacation.

Halkidiki (Kassandra and Sithonia) - Popular for their beautiful beaches\, abundance of services\, and favorable price-quality ratio. For Bulgarian tourists\, Halkidiki is synonymous with an ideal seaside vacation.

Interestingly, more than 96% of Bulgarian tourists travel in their own vehicles, without the involvement of agencies. Therefore, northern Greece is perfect for weekend getaways or longer vacations – proximity, comfortable roads, and everything you need for relaxation.

Serbians always find Greece, whether it is popular or not

Greece is traditionally the most beloved destination for Serbian tourists, with the number of visitors increasing every year. Although Halkidiki and Lefkada are the most popular, Serbians travel across Greece, from islands to the mainland. However, the most visited destinations are:

Halkidiki (especially Sithonia) - The proximity\, beautiful beaches\, abundance of activities\, and friendly hosts make Halkidiki a favorite.

Pieria (Olympic region) - Besides Mount Olympus\, this region offers fantastic beaches and affordable prices.

Lefkada - Lefkada\, known for its magical beaches (and selfies\, of course) and easy car access\, is often at the top of the list.

Corfu - The connection of Serbians with Corfu is part of a much deeper tradition. Besides its beautiful beaches\, Corfu is a place Serbian tourists have been visiting for decades due to a history that has indelibly linked the two peoples. Corfu offers a rich history and exceptional beaches.

Thassos - Popular among families looking for a quality vacation\, with a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful beaches.

Skiathos - Popular among Serbians for its natural beauty\, stunning beaches\, and vibrant nightlife\, with ferry connections to the mainland allowing easy access.

Evia - Due to its easy accessibility by car (connected by a bridge)\, affordable prices\, and diverse offerings.

Why is Halkidiki still the most visited destination?

Halkidiki is an essential destination for Balkan tourists, with over 139,500 beds available. This includes 49,500 hotel beds, 50,000 short-term rental beds, and 40,000 beds in private rooms. This capacity allows Halkidiki to accommodate a large number of tourists, especially those traveling by car.

While the number of Balkan tourists remains stable, there is a need for further improvement of infrastructure, especially in quality accommodation and better air connections for guests to extend the season beyond the current 110 days per year.

Greece offers a myriad of options for all types of tourists – from a peaceful seaside vacation to exploring historical sites. Balkan tourists are an important part of this market, with a special emphasis on Romania, Bulgaria, and Serbia, which continuously support Greece’s tourism sector.

Have you already chosen your next destination? Greece offers it all – it’s up to you to decide!

We are always here to help you explore Greece! Follow us for the latest information, useful tips and authentic experiences to spend an unforgettable vacation in Greece!

We offer over 3,000 accommodations. Choose the right one for you and your family HERE.

Follow us on social networks where we regularly share exclusive offers, discounts and special arrangements for vacations in Greece as well as information, advice and useful news.

Facebook:Nikana.gr
Instagram: @nikana.gr
Tiktok: nikana.gr
Facebook grupa: Live from Greece
YouTube kanal @NikanaTravel
Write to us at e-mail: nikana@nikana.gr
 
Our site nikana.gr is the leading source of information about Greece.