Rhodes Sets New Tourism Record in 2024 with 3.5 Million Arrivals

Rhodes, Greece.

Rhodes tourism hit a record high in 2024, with 3.5 million travelers arriving from January to September, reflecting a 12-14 percent increase, according to the Municipality of Rhodes.

Data, provided by Rhodes International Airport and the island’s port authority cover arrivals by airplane, cruise ships, and yachts, underscoring Rhodes’ status as a top global destination.

“This year is a record-breaking tourism season,” said Georgios Toppos, Deputy Mayor of Culture and Tourism, noting that 2024 marks the best year in Rhodes’ tourism history.

Rhodes Airport reaches new heights

Officials reported that Rhodes Airport welcomed 2.7 million passengers in the first nine months of 2024.

Brits and Germans are the most frequent visitors to the island, followed by travelers from Poland, Italy, Sweden, Israel, Scandinavian countries, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria.

Cruise arrivals surpass 350,000

Photo source: Rhodes Welcome

In the sea tourism sector, figures show that 264 cruise ships docked at Rhodes Port by late September, carrying 353,475 passengers.

Toppos noted that October is expected to lead in cruise traffic, with 60 ships scheduled to arrive more than any other month this year. Additionally, 24 cruises are scheduled for November, and four for December.

Key facts shaping a new identity for Rhodes

Key data highlights include the rise in Turkish visitors to Rhodes and the growth in yacht arrivals, which enhance the island’s upgraded image as a destination.

Tourist arrivals from Türkiye increased by 30 percent, reaching 370,026 in 2024, while 4,259 visas were issued in September. Additionally, yachting is emerging as a popular alternative for sea tourism in Rhodes, with 25 percent more yachts and catamarans docking at the island’s ports.

Rhodes Municipality plans to extend tourism season into winter

Photo source: Rhodes Welcome

According to the deputy mayor, these positive trends are the result of the Municipality of Rhodes’ strategies to promote the island as a year-round destination, extending beyond the traditional summer tourism season.

“Municipal authorities are planning initiatives to extend the tourism season into the winter months, while we are also developing projects to promote the island to new markets, many of which favor winter holidays,” Toppos stated.

As part of this effort, the municipality’s plan focuses on building new collaborations with local stakeholders to showcase the island’s strengths in wine, sports, gastronomy, MICE, thermal, and religious tourism. The plan also aims to attract new markets in Asia, with a particular focus on China, India, Bahrain, and South Korea.