Monday, September 9, 2024 In an effort to protect some of its most popular islands from the effects of overtourism, Greece has announced a new levy on cruise ship visitors arriving in Santorini and Mykonos during the peak summer season. The 20-euro tax, set to be implemented by the Greek government, is aimed at regulating the influx of tourists that these idyllic islands experience. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of this measure in safeguarding the sustainability of these iconic destinations, which have increasingly struggled with the pressures of mass tourism.
Santorini and Mykonos, two of Greece’s most renowned islands, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of overtourism due to their immense popularity among cruise travelers. The picturesque landscapes of Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings and scenic beaches, make it a top destination for cruise ships. However, the island, which has a permanent population of only 20,000, is regularly overwhelmed by the massive number of tourists arriving via cruise ships, often in a short time frame.
The Greek Prime Minister acknowledged that while overtourism is not a widespread issue across the country, it is concentrated in a few key destinations during specific times of the year. He noted that the cruise shipping industry has placed a considerable burden on islands like Santorini and Mykonos, which is why targeted interventions, such as the 20-euro tax, are necessary. This levy is int.