For many Greek families, summer holidays this year feel more like a luxury than a tradition. A four-person household will need to dig deep into its pockets to enjoy even a few days of carefree vacation on Greece’s stunning islands — and the cost is soaring.
Staggering Costs for Accommodation and Transport
Even with the most budget-conscious planning, families should expect to spend at least €1,200 just on transport and accommodation — before factoring in meals, activities, or extras. Those opting for high-end hotels or resorts face significantly higher bills: a simple rented room on Mykonos can cost €900 for a few nights, while a four-star hotel stay may run up to €4,000. And yes — there are even premium options priced above €10,000 per night.
Mykonos: Sky-High Prices, Limited Availability
On Mykonos — the island of winds — basic rental rooms for four people start at €180 per night and climb to €400. Budget-friendly hotels begin around €250 per night, but most four-bed rooms fall between €500 and €800. Ferry tickets from mainland ports (with car) range from €470 to €536 for a family of four. That means the bare minimum for five days — including transport and lodging — starts at €1,500. Food, excursions, and other expenses are not included.
Santorini: Premium Views, Premium Prices
Ferry fares from Piraeus to Santorini for a family of four plus a car range from €513 to €570 (round-trip). Rental rooms hover between €180 and €350 per night, while four-star hotel suites start at €400 and go up to €700 per night in early August. Five-star properties perched along the Caldera regularly charge over €1,500 per night — reflecting both demand and exclusivity.
Paros: Another Cycladic Hotspot Under Pressure
Paros — another popular Cycladic destination — is also seeing steep price increases and dwindling availability as August approaches. While specific figures aren’t fully detailed in the report, it follows the same trend: last-minute bookings mean fewer options and higher costs across rentals and hotels alike.
As summer peaks, many Greeks are finding themselves in the ‘last-minute’ category — either by choice or due to work commitments that delayed holiday planning. With supply shrinking and demand surging, prices continue to climb — turning what was once an accessible annual break into something increasingly reserved for those who can afford ‘golden’ rates.