If you are a travel lover, then chances are that Greece is one of the top places on your bucket list! With its ancient architecture, culture, food, and stunning beaches, it only makes sense why so many people travel to this beautiful country to experience it. However, this overtourism is now becoming a big issue for Greece. Despite their many efforts, the country is struggling to face the challenges posed by its booming tourism sector.
Greece Continues To Face Challenges Caused By Overtourism
While the tourism boom is welcomed by many, when it starts affecting the lives of the locals, it is time for the authorities to step in! And like many European countries, Greece is experiencing the challenges of overtourism as well. According to Travel And Tour World, despite efforts like raising rental prices, taxes, and other regulations, Greek authorities are not able to manage the overwhelming influx of tourists.
As per data shared by AirDNA data, in 2024, 14 million overnight stays by foreigners were reported by short-term rental services like Airbnb. This is a massive 2 million rise from 2023. Greece implemented policies to combat overtourism, however, they all seemed to fail.
Despite the challenges faced by locals in high-demand areas like Athens and the Greek islands, landlords are earning more from tourists than ever before. Tax revenue from short-term rentals rose to €870 million in 2024, up from €750 million in the previous year.
Reports suggest that despite challenges of overtourism, especially in areas like Athens and the Greek islands, landlords are having a field day. They are earning more from tourists than ever before. Tax revenue from short-term rentals rose to €870 million in 2024. In 2023, this was about €750 million.
Also Read: Japan’s Famous Spirited Away Town Dispirited From Overtourism; Sets A Daily Cap For Tourists
What Are Greek Authorities Doing To Handle The Issue?
In response to the growing number of visitors, Greece’s Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis introduced new regulations to handle this growing issue of overtourism. To mitigate the impact of overtourism, they introduced a regulation that requires owners of rental properties to register with the government. If they fail to do so, they have to face fines of up to €20,000. Surprisingly, despite this, the number of holiday rentals in the country rose and is now estimated to be around 1 million.
The Greek government is also introducing higher visitor fees. Travellers are now facing a €2 daily tax during the off-season, and €8 between April and October, a fourfold increase from previous rates.
Also Read: Overrun And Overstressed, 6 Famous Destinations In The World Struggling With Overtourism
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