Greece Implements Measures to Curb Overtourism

Greece is implementing new measures to combat overtourism, particularly in popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced a 20-euro levy on cruise ship visitors during peak summer season, intended to manage the influx of tourists and reduce the strain on local infrastructure and environment. Additional measures include regulating the number of cruise ships, increasing accommodation taxes during high season, and banning new short-term rental licenses in central Athens to alleviate the housing crisis. These steps are part of a broader European trend to address the negative impacts of mass tourism. Proceeds from the new taxes will be reinvested in local communities to improve infrastructure and support sustainable tourism.