Wednesday, August 28, 2024 Santorini, the picturesque Greek island renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and volcanic landscapes, is facing an unprecedented challenge: overtourism. In recent years, the island has been overwhelmed by a surge of visitors, leading to severe overcrowding and growing frustration among residents. The situation has escalated to the point where Santorini is now being compared to Venice, another iconic destination grappling with the negative impacts of mass tourism.
In response, local authorities and the Greek government are exploring new measures to manage the influx of tourists, including the potential introduction of a tourist access fee. Over the past decade, Santorini has seen a dramatic increase in tourism, fueled by its global reputation as a must-visit destination. The island’s unique beauty, with its caldera views and charming villages like Oia and Fira, has attracted millions of visitors from around the world.
However, this surge in popularity has come at a cost. One of the main contributors to Santorini’s overtourism problem is the influx of cruise ships. Each year, thousands of cruise ship passengers disembark on the island, often arriving in large numbers on the same day.
This has led to severe congestion in popular areas, with narrow streets and public spaces becoming overcrowded. In July 2024, a social media post from a local councillor highlighted the extent of the problem, warning residents to stay indoors .