Greece will soon implement a €20 fee for tourists arriving on cruise ships to Santorini and Mykonos. This measure is part of the government’s broader efforts to manage increasing tourism numbers, which pressure local infrastructure and the environment. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced that the revenue from this fee will be reinvested into local communities to support much-needed infrastructure improvements.
In addition, a lodging tax will be raised during the peak tourist season , from April to October, as a further step in regulating visitor numbers. The higher taxes aim to fund sustainable practices and climate change initiatives while also contributing to the welfare of local communities.
Greece will also regulate the number of cruise ships allowed to visit these islands. Santorini, in particular, will introduce a cap on daily cruise passengers starting in 2025, limiting them to 8,000 per day. The island has witnessed a dramatic surge in cruise arrivals, with 800 ships bringing 1.3 million tourists in 2023 alone. By limiting the number of visitors, the government hopes to alleviate overcrowding and maintain the island’s charm for future generations.
These steps reflect Greece’s commitment to balancing its booming tourism industry with environmental sustainability. With 32.7 million tourists visiting Greece last year, these new measures are crucial in protecting both local ecosystems and the livelihoods of the people who call these islands home.
The next time you visit, consider driving in Greece to see top attractions and historical places. You can also go on a road trip from Athens to visit coastal areas or embark on a seven-day road trip to see its iconic landmarks.
