Greece announces new measures to combat overtourism in 2023

In 2023, Greece announced a series of measures aimed at addressing the challenges posed by overtourism, particularly in popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis revealed plans to impose a 20-euro levy on cruise ship visitors during the peak summer season. This decision comes as the country grapples with the impact of mass tourism on its idyllic islands, which have a combined permanent population of around 20,000 residents. The government recognizes that while tourism is vital for the economy, excessive visitor numbers can threaten the local environment and quality of life. Mitsotakis emphasized that Greece does not face a widespread overtourism issue, but certain locations experience significant pressure during specific times of the year. The cruise shipping tax is intended to alleviate some of this burden, with part of the revenue earmarked for local infrastructure improvements. Additionally, the government plans to regulate the number of cruise ships allowed to dock simultaneously at these destinations. To further combat the effects of tourism, Greece aims to increase taxes on short-term rentals and halt new licenses in central Athens, thereby enhancing housing availability for residents. These measures reflect a growing awareness of the need to balance economic growth from tourism with the preservation of local communities and environments. As Greece continues to recover from a decade-long economic crisis, these interventions are seen as essential steps to ensure sustainable tourism practices that benefit both visitors and local populations.