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Greece has completed the summer season Europe’s top destinationwhich surpasses countries like Spain, France and even Italy.
Clearly, tourists are flocking to the country’s idyllic, white-sand beaches in record numbers.
What many of us could not have predicted, however, is the fact that Greece continues to attract a remarkable number of visitors as temperatures have dropped and the beaches that only a few weeks ago filled our Instagram feeds have closed.
According to the INSETE investigative bodythe Mediterranean country is expecting more than 4 million international visitors this month, with three destinations recording the biggest increase in tourists since last year.
Thessaloniki
This highly influential port city is set to become Greece’s trendiest hotspot this autumn and is expecting the biggest increase in visitors for September – an increase of almost 20% compared to the same period last year.
With an estimated 315,000 tourists arriving this month, Thessaloniki is about to transform into the country’s liveliest hotspot.
You can expect some of the city’s main attractions (the White Tower of Thessaloniki, Aristotle Square, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the ancient Roman Forum) to be extra busy during the weekend, so make sure you plan ahead .
Since Greece is best known in the international travel community as a summer destination, the fact that a port city like Thessaloniki can only experience such a large influx of visitors once temperatures drop may come as a surprise.
However, if you ever see the city for yourself, you will understand why it is so much more than just a holiday resort.
For starters, even though Thessaloniki is located on the Aegean Sea, sunbathing in the city is not an option.
Those who spend their summers here must travel back and forth to nearby beaches if they want to tan or swim.
Instead of beaches, the town features a long, beautiful promenade that borders the sea and offers unparalleled views, especially at this time of year.
However, be aware that it can get quite windy at night, so make sure you bring a jacket if you like beach walks.
Plus, Thessaloniki is known for its rich cultural scene and vibrant atmosphere, so once in the city there’s plenty to do and see without having to hit the beach.
In addition to the more traditional attractions mentioned above, tourists can also enjoy modern exhibitions such as the Museum of Illusions (a must-see, in my opinion), the lively bar scene and the many diverse restaurants offering excellent quality food at competitive prices . .
If you don’t have time to sit down and eat between outings, I recommend grabbing a bougatsa or gyro – Thessaloniki is known for being home to some of the best variants of both.
Shoppers will have the time of their lives here. In addition to the many shops near Aristotelous Square, they can also find a great outlet center called One Salonica, near the outskirts of the city.
Some of the most popular brands in the world (Nike, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Guess, Lacoste, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, etc.) sell their merchandise here at heavily discounted prices,
Athens
Although the capital comes in second place in terms of visitor increase compared to last year (15.4%), it still attracts the highest number of tourists in the country.
More than 1.2 million people from more than 45 countries are expected to visit Athens in September.
Between the Parthenon, the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and the many, many museums that proudly showcase the city’s rich history, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to filling your itinerary with cultural sights.
Plus, the city offers all the benefits of a fun night out in a beautiful Mediterranean city, without all the extra costs of getting around in a place like Rome or Milan.
Rhodes
Third on the list is Rhodes, a famous summer hotspot that still attracts more than 437,000 visitors per month, even as its beaches begin to empty.
The largest Greek island in the Dodecanese has apparently recovered from July’s devastating fires, with a 7.1% increase in visitor numbers this autumn compared to the same time last year.
Home to the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the island has a remarkable cultural value that tourists can enjoy all year round.
The natural beauty, the delicious cuisine and the fun events throughout the year further explain why tourists still flock to the Greek island even though the high season is over.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
