With the rising popularity of the Greek Golden Visa program, more and more investors are choosing to buy Greek properties to obtain EU residency. Greece is not only blessed with beautiful natural scenery, rich history and culture, and a pleasant climate, but it is also a promising real estate market. For those who wish to obtain a golden visa through real estate investment, it is crucial to know the top cities, types of properties and the rates of return. In this article, we'll provide you with an in-depth analysis ofImmigration to GreeceThe top real estate investment cities, different types of properties and their rates of return will help you make informed investment decisions.
I. Popular Cities for Real Estate Investment in Greece
The Greek real estate market is favored by investors and is concentrated in a number of popular cities and tourist areas. These areas not only offer a high quality of living environment, but also provide stable rental returns. Below are a few popular cities that are often chosen by investors:
1. Athens
As the capital of Greece, Athens is undoubtedly the biggest hotspot for real estate investment. Athens is not only the political, economic and cultural center of Greece, but also an important destination for international tourism. In recent years, with the rebound of tourism, the real estate market in Athens is gradually picking up.
- Type of property: The real estate market in Athens is dominated by condominiums in the city center, historic buildings in the Old Town, and commercial properties.
- return on investment (ROI): The return on investment in the downtown area is around 4%-6%, and short-term rental returns in some popular areas can reach 8%-10%.
2. Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, Greece's second largest city, is located in the north of the country and is a vibrant city that attracts a large number of international students, businessmen and tourists. The city's real estate market has grown steadily in recent years, especially in student apartments and short-term rental properties.
- Type of property: Downtown apartments, student housing, and vacation villas by the sea.
- return on investment (ROI): Property returns in Thessaloniki typically range from 5%-8%, with the short-term rental market performing particularly well.
3. Santorini
Santorini is one of the most recognizable islands in Greece, attracting a large number of international tourists for its unique architecture and beautiful island scenery. The real estate market here is dominated by tourism and vacation investments.
- Type of property: Luxury vacation villas, serviced apartments and short term rentals.
- return on investment (ROI): Due to its high end tourism demand, Santorini properties can yield returns of 6%-9%, with extremely high short-term rental incomes, especially during the high season.
4. Crete
Crete is one of the largest islands in Greece, with both beautiful beaches and rich historical sites, making it a major vacation destination for European tourists. The real estate market in Crete is suitable for investors who are looking for a long-term stable investment.
- Type of property: Beachfront villas, vacation apartments, and country houses.
- return on investment (ROI): Returns in Crete are more stable, typically 4%-6%, but in popular tourist areas, short-term rentals can return 8%-10%.
Second, the analysis of the type of Greek real estate
The real estate market in Greece offers a wide range of property types for different types of investors. Understanding the characteristics of the different types of properties will help you make the most suitable investment decision.
1. Apartment properties
Apartments are the most common type of property, especially in the city centers of Athens, Thessaloniki and other cities.
- specificities: Apartment properties are usually highly liquid and are in high demand, especially in the short-term rental market.
- return rate: Downtown condos typically return 4%-6% for investors looking for steady income.
2. Vacation villas
Vacation villas are mainly located in seaside towns or islands such as Santorini, Crete, etc.
- specificities: Vacation villas are suitable for long term holdings and can be rented out on a short term basis for high returns. Due to their unique location, these villas have a higher appreciation potential.
- return rate: During peak seasons, vacation homes can yield returns of 6%-9% and have a huge value-add.
3. Commercial real estate
Commercial real estate in Greece includes hotels, office buildings, retail stores and more.

- specificities: Commercial properties are usually suitable for well-capitalized investors as they require a larger investment, but their returns are usually higher and they can generate stable rental income.
- return rate: Commercial real estate returns typically range from 5%-7% for long-term investments.
C. Analysis of the return on investment in Greek real estate
The Greek real estate market has been gradually recovering in recent years, with returns on different types of property varying according to region, type and market demand. Overall, Greek real estate returns are in the middle of the range within Europe.
1. Short-term rental returns
Greece has a strong tourism industry and an active short-term rental market, especially during the summer and holiday periods. Investors can use their properties for short-term rentals through platforms such as Airbnb to get high returns. Taking Athens, Santorini and other tourist cities as an example, the return on short-term rentals can reach 8%-10%, which is very impressive, especially during the peak season.
2. Long-term rental returns
The long term rental market offers more stable returns than short term rentals and is suitable for investors who wish to avoid frequent management and maintenance. Generally speaking, the long term rental market in Greece's major cities offers returns of around 4%-6%, which is stable and low-risk.
3. Real estate appreciation
due toGreece Real EstateThe market has gone through years of downturn and in recent years, with the recovery of tourism and the gradual recovery of the domestic economy, property prices have shown an upward trend. Especially in places like Athens and Santorini, the potential for property appreciation is very high.

IV. How to choose the right type of property
- Budgetary considerations: If you have a limited investment budget, you can choose apartments in cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki for a smaller initial investment and a solid return.
- Returning expectations: If you are more focused on high returns, consider vacation villas in popular tourist areas such as Santorini and Crete, where the short-term rental market is very active and returns are high.
- Long-term appreciation: If you are looking for a long-term hold and capital appreciation, commercial real estate in the Athens metro area and some second-tier cities with higher growth potential may be more suitable for you.
summarize
The real estate market in Greece attracts a large number of investors due to its cost-effectiveness, stable returns and natural beauty. By choosing popular cities and property types wisely, you can not only enjoyImmigration to GreeceThe beautiful life of a family can also be realized through property investment with high returns. When choosing a property, it is advisable to make an informed choice based on your investment budget, return expectations and risk tolerance in order to maximize your investment returns and lay the foundation for your future family life.