By Greece is taking decisive action to combat overtourism, with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announcing a series of measures aimed at managing the influx of visitors. Among these measures is a €20 fee for cruise ship passengers disembarking at popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos. Additionally, the government is implementing stricter regulations on short-term rentals to address the housing crisis exacerbated by the tourism boom. These steps are part of a broader strategy to ensure sustainable tourism and protect local communities.
Cruise Ship Levy and Its Implications
Starting next summer, cruise ship passengers visiting Santorini and Mykonos will be required to pay a €20 fee. This levy is intended to mitigate the environmental and infrastructural impact of the massive influx of tourists during peak season. The funds collected from this fee will be used to improve local infrastructure and services, ensuring that these popular destinations can handle the high volume of visitors without compromising their charm and appeal.
Local authorities have expressed support for this measure, highlighting the strain that cruise tourism places on their limited resources. The mayor of Santorini, for instance, has pointed out that the island’s infrastructure was not designed to accommodate the thousands of tourists who arrive daily during the summer months. By imposing this fee, the government hopes to manage the flow of tourists more effectively and reduce the pressure on local services.
Short-Term Rental Regulations
In addition to the cruise ship levy, the Greek government is introducing new regulations on short-term rentals, particularly in Athens. These regulations include a ban on new short-term rental leases in three central districts of the city for at least one year. The aim is to curb the rapid growth of short-term rentals, which has driven up housing costs and reduced the availability of long-term rental properties for residents.
Property owners who convert their short-term rentals into long-term housing will be exempt from rent taxes for three years, providing an incentive to increase the supply of affordable housing. This move is expected to alleviate some of the pressure on the housing market and make it easier for locals to find affordable accommodation. The government is also planning to impose new taxes on short-term rental contracts through platforms like Airbnb, further discouraging the proliferation of short-term rentals.
Balancing Tourism and Local Needs
Prime Minister Mitsotakis has emphasized that these measures are not intended to discourage tourism but to ensure that it remains sustainable and beneficial for both visitors and residents. Greece has seen a significant increase in tourist numbers in recent years, with over 33 million visitors annually. While tourism is a vital part of the Greek economy, it has also led to overcrowding and strained local resources in popular destinations.
The government is committed to finding a balance between promoting tourism and protecting the interests of local communities. By implementing these measures, Greece aims to preserve the quality of life for its residents while continuing to attract tourists from around the world. The success of these initiatives will depend on effective enforcement and the cooperation of both tourists and local businesses.