What Nekera’s CEO reveals about trends, prices and Greece’s new role in Polish outbound tourism
By Vicky Tryfona
The Polish tourism market is developing into one of the most dynamic sources of visitors for Greece, with demand steadily increasing in recent years. As Maciej Nykiel, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Nekera, emphasizes, “2024 was the best year in the history of the Polish travel industry in terms of travel to Greece” and everything indicates that 2025 will continue to rise.
26 Greek destinations, 14 Polish airports
The extent of the connection between the two countries is impressive. Nekera offers 26 Greek destinations, while 14 Polish civil airports have at least one direct flight to Greece. Traditional “champions” such as Crete and Rhodes maintain the largest shares, but the range of options is growing every year.
Optimism for 2026 but strong price pressures
Bookings for 2026 are moving positively. However, Mr. Nykiel points out a significant challenge: price increases.
“In some hotels in Crete and Rhodes we have seen increases of 30%–40% since the end of the pandemic,” he emphasizes. This trend is testing the limits of the Polish market, which remains strong but extremely price-sensitive.
At the same time, the two major competitors in the region – Turkey and Egypt – have not made corresponding increases. The price gap is widening, causing some more price-sensitive travelers to turn to more economical options.
The strength of the Polish economy “shields” demand
Despite the appreciations, the Polish market remains resilient. “Our economy is strong, our currency – the zloty – remains independent of the euro, and this increases the purchasing power of our customers when we cooperate with Greek suppliers,” explains Maciej Nykiel.
At the same time, other destinations such as Spain and Croatia are also moving upwards, with Croatia benefiting in particular from road access from Poland.
The holiday model is changing
The times when Poles arrived in Greece by car or coach are gone.
“Today everyone flies,” notes Mr. Nykiel, with the only exception being isolated school groups. Air connectivity – low cost, regular, charter – has multiplied and now covers the entire season.
The vast majority of Poles continue to choose all-inclusive 3, 4 and 5 star packages. However, there is also a strong increase in individual trips through dynamic packaging, which combine low cost flights with rented rooms or simple apartments.
“Needs are changing and we offer more and more products beyond classic hotels”, he says.
The Polish traveler
Greece is an “ideal match” for the preferences of Poles:
They are not satisfied with just sun and beach.
They emphasize history, excursions, local cuisine and music.
They spend significantly in the local economy (rent-a-car, restaurants, markets, activities).
“Compared to other nationalities, we are good spenders in the destination”, underlines Mr. Nykiel.
September… surpassed August
Nekera -like other tour operators- is systematically working to extend the tourist season. This year has proven it: “September was better than August,” the CEO points out, adding that this year flights are operating from April to November.
A significant change is the entry of city breaks into Nekera’s portfolio.
Athens and Thessaloniki are now available for short 2-3 night getaways and the product is growing year by year, complementing the classic island holidays.
