The three-day Ash Monday holiday is approaching, providing a strong tourist "breather" before the official start of the summer season. The carnival events and traditional customs of Ash Monday attract a large number of visitors to various corners of Greece every year.
Top destinations for the weekend
Some destinations continue to be popular for their traditional celebrations and well-known carnival events. For another year, the Patras takes first place, organizing the largest carnival in the country.
Other popular options for the weekend include:
- Xanthi – Famous for its impressive parade.
- Naoussa – The custom of “Gentiles and Boules” attracts visitors from all over Greece.
- Skyros – Traditional events and the custom of the “Old Men”.
- Rethimno – Lively Carnival atmosphere, with visitors from all over Crete and the rest of the country.
- Tyrnavos – Known for its Dionysian custom "Bourani".
- Kozani & Kastoria – Traditional feasts and events.
- Syros, Ioannina, Thebes & Galaxidi – Popular destinations with intense Carnival activity.
Increased tourist activity everywhere
Η Thessaly, the Pelion, The Trikala and Kastoria are recording increased tourist traffic during this period, while attractive destinations with traditional carnival events are also showing significant demand. According to the president of the Federation of Greek Associations of Tourist & Travel Agencies, Lysandros Tsilidis, tourist flows are at levels similar to last year.
Abroad, the most sought-after carnival destinations are Brazil and Venice, where two of the most famous carnivals in the world are held.
Hotels with high occupancy rates
The demand for accommodation in Patras has already increased since Christmas, with hotels in the city and the wider area almost full.
A similar situation is observed in Thrace, as hotels in Komotini, Alexandroupoli and Xanthi are experiencing high occupancy rates due to the famous Xanthi carnival. In addition, the Alexandroupolis constantly attracts Turkish and Bulgarian tourists, with the flow increasing particularly during the three-day period.
Η Naoussa is also in high demand, with bookings made since last year. Visitors are also expanding to nearby areas such as Edessa and Katerini, taking advantage of the favorable weather conditions for skiing.
Rethymno: Center of attraction for Cretan and foreign visitors
The Rethimno remains one of the most popular carnival destinations, attracting visitors not only from Crete and the rest of Greece, but also from countries such as Netherlands, Belgium and FranceAccording to the president of the Rethymno Hoteliers Association, Manolis Tsakalakis, about 2.000 beds are available in the city until the beginning of the summer tourist season, which is expected to begin in early April.
