The polls are closed, and the votes are in. Readers of the award-winning Dutch travel website Griekenland.net have voted for their ten most popular Greek destinations for 2024.
Unsurprisingly, Crete tops the rankings, with a whopping 16 percent of the overall vote. Greece’s largest and most populous island, Crete has long been a favorite travel destination for Dutch tourists, drawn by its endless white sandy beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history.
Lauded for its year-round mild Mediterranean climate and ease of access – regular flights between the Netherlands to Hania and Iraklio – the website notes that almost one in three Dutch people who travel to Greece, visit Crete.
© Olga Charami
The islands of Samos and Corfu are tied in second place, with 10 percent of the vote each.
Located in the eastern Aegean, Samos impresses with its beautiful villages and enchanting hiking routes. Likewise, the Ionian island of Corfu, a longtime favorite of the international jet set, is noted as being a famous film destination, providing the backdrop for the 1981 James Bond hit, “For Your Eyes Only,” and last year’s “My Big Fat Wedding 3.”
In the poll, next came the islands of Zakynthos and Kefalonia, both in the Ionian Sea, followed by Kos, Lefkada, the Peloponnese (the only mainland destination), Lesvos, and Karpathos.
The website, which also publishes the popular KALA travel magazine, provides top tips for vacations to Greece, as well as favorite recipes, what souvenirs to buy, information about local wines, and other useful facts.
© Pascal Debrunner/Unsplash
In response to the online poll, the new mayor of Eastern Samos, Paris Papageorgiou, said: “Samos has that ‘special mix’ of characteristics that differentiates it on the international stage. The new distinction in the Dutch market is another indication of the uniqueness and popularity of the island. Our concern will be to introduce travelers from Greece and abroad to all aspects of Eastern Samos, highlighting its authenticity, gastronomy, history, culture, alternative activities, natural beauty, and quality services as a combination that offers travelers an unforgettable experience.”
With information in Greek from moneyreview.gr.
