Published on
October 28, 2025
Greece is the proud owner of the very title of ‘Short-Haul Destination of the Year‘ at the UK Food and Travel Awards 2025. The honour, which was unveiled on October 20, 2025, paid tribute to Greece’s superb attractiveness to British travellers who look for a harmonised mixture of culture, gastronomy, and comfort. This award further validates Greece’s amplified position in the UK tourism market, thus demonstrating its various offerings that lure not only the skilful travellers but also the ones eager for the real European experiences.
Greece’s Rising Popularity Celebrated at Food and Travel Awards
The award ceremony, held in London, is a significant event in the global travel and lifestyle industry, with readers of Food and Travel Magazine casting their votes. This is one of the most respected platforms for celebrating excellence in global tourism, spanning categories from destinations to restaurants and hotels. Food and Travel Magazine, with its readership of around 31,000 professionals aged between 26 and 54, most of whom have high disposable incomes and an interest in travel, food, and wine, is a trusted authority within the travel sector. The recognition of Greece in this context speaks volumes about the country’s growing status as a destination of choice for discerning UK travellers.
The Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) celebrated this win, which highlights Greece’s established position among British tourists seeking more than just a getaway. Greece offers a compelling mix of rich cultural heritage, renowned gastronomy, stunning landscapes, and ease of access, all of which play a pivotal role in the country’s popularity. The win reflects the strength of Greece’s year-round tourism offering, aligning with efforts to attract high-value visitors who seek a deeper connection with their destination.
Greece has always attracted tourists with its idyllic islands, stunning beaches, and historical landmarks, but it’s the unique blend of modern luxury and traditional hospitality that increasingly appeals to today’s travellers.
A Boost for Greek Culinary Tourism
In recent years, the gastronomy tourism sector has emerged as one of Greece’s fastest-growing niches. With its world-famous Mediterranean cuisine, Greece offers a truly immersive culinary experience. From the fresh seafood of the Aegean to local olive oils, cheeses, and wines, Greek cuisine provides an authentic and delicious way to experience the country’s culture. The recent award win shines a spotlight on this aspect of Greek tourism, reinforcing its status as a culinary powerhouse within Europe.
The country’s efforts to highlight its food scene have been strategically amplified by the GNTO, who has been working to align Greece’s reputation with high-end, experiential tourism that is focused on food, wine, and authentic cultural encounters. British tourists, known for their interest in food and wine, find Greece’s culinary offerings irresistible, making this recognition crucial in positioning the country as a go-to destination for food lovers.
Greece’s Growing Appeal to UK Travellers
The UK continues to be one of Greece’s most important tourism markets. Recent data from the Greek National Tourism Organisation highlights that British travellers are consistently among the top nationalities visiting Greece, contributing significantly to the country’s tourism revenue. With direct flights to Greek cities and islands from major UK airports, British tourists enjoy easy access to the country year-round. Greece’s success in attracting British visitors, particularly in the culinary and experiential travel sectors, speaks to its ability to offer both short-term getaways and longer, enriching experiences.
The “Short-Haul Destination of the Year” award adds to Greece’s growing list of accolades in recent years. The country has consistently ranked highly in global tourism rankings and has been recognised at other prestigious events, including the World Travel Awards. The UK market, with its affinity for travel, food, and culture, has been central to Greece’s success in these competitions, further solidifying the country’s appeal as a year-round destination.
Greece’s Unstoppable Rise
Greece’s victory at the UK’s Food and Travel Awards 2025 not only solidifies its position as a short-haul destination of choice but also highlights its status as an all-encompassing destination offering culture, cuisine, and accessibility. As Greece continues to build on this momentum, the recognition will likely boost its visibility in the UK, attracting more travellers keen to explore its rich traditions and diverse landscapes.
This victory demonstrates the continuous attraction of Greece to UK holidaymakers who are in search of an amalgam of rare cultural encounters, top-notch culinary delights, and the cheerful Mediterranean hospitality. Such awards will bolster Greek tourism, creating a golden period for both visitors and the local tourism sector.
