The tourism sector is one of the main "pillars" supporting the economy of the region of Crete.
In 2021, traveler visits in Crete accounted for 19.2% of total traveler visits in Greece, while 23% of Greece's tourism revenue came from Crete. Arrivals and overnight stays in hotel accommodations in Crete represent respectively 20.4% and 26.3% of total arrivals and overnight stays.
In 2021 1,644 hotels operated around Crete of a total capacity 194 thousand, accounting for 22.1% of total beds Greece.
The overall market size (in value) of Crete's hotel businesses (Luxury, A' and B' class) in 2020 compared to 2019 showed a 71% decline, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. 2021 shows a recovery as the market size reached 80% of the respective size of 2019. The Crete market accounted for 26.1% of the Greek hotel market in 2021.
As regards the market breakdown per category, A’ category hotels accounted for 44.9% of the total market of Crete in 2021, followed by Luxury hotels with 40.8% and B’ category hotels with 14.3%.