Top Places in Greece to Buy for Visa Benefits

Greece is more than a Mediterranean escape—it’s a gateway to the EU. With the Golden Visa Program, investors can secure residency by purchasing property worth €250,000 or more.The program offers visa-free Schengen travel, family residency, and a path to EU citizenship. But choosing the right location is key.

Roots Realty helps investors find top-value properties in Greece that deliver both strong returns and visa benefits.

1. Athens – The Capital of Culture and Investment

Athens is at the top of every smart investor's list, and for good reason.

Why Invest in Athens:

• Capital city with strong demand for rentals (long- and short-term)

• Tourist-friendly, business-ready, and culturally rich

• Ongoing urban regeneration (especially in Exarchia, Koukaki, and Neos Kosmos)

• Easy access to top schools, hospitals, and government services

You can find:

• 1-bedroom apartments in central Athens from €140,000

• Renovated units near the Acropolis around €200,000–€250,000

• High-end properties in Kolonaki or Glyfada for €300,000+

With tourism booming and digital nomads arriving year-round, Athens offers one of the highest returns on investment in the country.

2. Thessaloniki – Greece’s Underrated Investment Gem

Located in northern Greece, Thessaloniki is a rising star in the real estate market.

Why Invest in Thessaloniki:

• Greece’s second-largest city, full of students, tourists, and culture

• Lower real estate prices than Athens

• High demand for long-term and student rentals

• Beautiful seafront and a growing tech/startup scene

Here, you can buy:

• Studio apartments from €90,000

• 2-bedroom flats close to universities around €150,000

• Modern developments near the waterfront starting from €200,000

Thessaloniki is perfect for first-time investors or those looking to buy multiple properties under the visa threshold.

3. Crete – Island Life with Investment Appeal

Crete is Greece’s largest island and one of the most popular destinations for lifestyle buyers.

Why Invest in Crete:

• Consistent tourist demand from April to October

• Stunning beaches, mountains, and charming towns

• Strong short-term rental market

• Large expat and retiree community

Top areas include:

• Chania – known for its Venetian harbor and vibrant old town

• Heraklion – the capital with strong economic activity and port connections

• Rethymno – quieter and ideal for family life

Typical prices:

• 2-bedroom homes in Chania from €220,000

• Seaview villas starting at €300,000

• Traditional homes for renovation under €150,000

Crete is ideal for Golden Visa holders who want to combine income and vacation lifestyle.

4. Rhodes – Beauty, History, and Income Potential

Located in the southeast Aegean, Rhodes is one of Greece’s most visited islands, rich in medieval charm and beach resorts.

Why Invest in Rhodes:

• High tourist numbers = high short-term rental income

• Relatively affordable luxury real estate

• Cruise ship destination and well-connected airport

• Strong seasonal business and hospitality infrastructure

Available properties:

• Studio or 1-bed units near Old Town: €120,000–€160,000

• Villas near the beach: €250,000–€400,000

• Rental-ready holiday homes with pools for €280,000+

If you're aiming for high rental returns and vacation usage, Rhodes offers great value.

5. Kalamata & The Peloponnese – The Hidden Treasure

For those seeking something more peaceful and under the radar, Kalamata and surrounding Peloponnese towns offer affordable real estate with promising growth.

Why Invest Here:

• Low purchase prices = better entry for visa threshold

• Authentic Greek lifestyle, ideal for retirees and remote workers

• Growing demand from tourists and international relocators

• Excellent local produce, beaches, and hiking trails

You can buy:

• Seaside homes for €180,000–€220,000

• Traditional stone houses inland for €100,000–€150,000

• Apartments in Kalamata city for €120,000+

This area is perfect for slow living, long-term appreciation, and family-friendly EU access.

6. Corfu – Where Nature Meets Sophistication

Corfu is lush, green, and offers a blend of luxury and nature. It’s a long-standing favorite of European travelers.

Why Invest in Corfu:

• High-end tourism with potential for luxury rentals

• Beautiful natural landscapes and blue waters

• Air connection to most of Europe

• Popular for weddings, luxury getaways, and retirement

Typical investment:

• Renovated village homes: €200,000–€250,000

• Hilltop villas with pools: €350,000+

• Waterfront apartments in Corfu town: €250,000+

Corfu is an ideal place for those seeking serenity with solid returns and property value growth.

Golden Visa Benefits Recap

All these locations qualify for Greece’s Golden Visa—as long as your total real estate investment is €250,000 or more.

Benefits include:

• Residency for you and your family

• Visa-free travel within Schengen countries

• Ability to rent out the property

• No need to live in Greece to maintain status

• Path to citizenship after 7 years

With professionals like Roots Realty, you can be sure the property is Golden Visa–eligible, properly titled, and legally secure.

Tips for Choosing the Right Location

When picking your ideal location, consider:

• Purpose: Will you live there, rent it out, or both?

• Budget: Are you buying one property or multiple?

• Management: Do you want to hire local rental managers?

• Seasonality: Islands may be seasonal; cities are year-round

• Resale Potential: Is the area growing or saturated?

If unsure, Roots Realty offers personalized consultations and bilingual service to guide your decision.

Wrap-Up

Whether you crave the cultural buzz of Athens, the calm of Kalamata, or the postcard perfection of Crete and Rhodes, Greece has a perfect place for every type of investor.

And with the Golden Visa offering EU residency for as little as €250,000, investing in Greek real estate is not only smart—it’s transformative.

Ready to make your move? Partner with Roots Realty to explore visa-approved properties, streamline your application, and begin your Greek investment journey with confidence.