Published on
September 15, 2025
Greece is taking decisive action to combat overtourism and address the growing housing crisis, and UK travelers are poised to face significant disruptions as a result. The country is rolling out bold, game-changing regulations that target short-term rentals and restrict access to its most popular destinations. These measures are aimed at alleviating the pressure on local infrastructure and housing markets, while striving to maintain the balance between the economic advantages of tourism and the quality of life for residents. UK tourists may encounter reduced accommodation availability and changes to their travel plans as Greece works to tackle these pressing challenges.
Greece is introducing new regulations aimed at addressing the growing challenges of overtourism and housing shortages, with a particular focus on the impact this may have on UK travelers. These measures aim to strike a balance between the economic advantages of tourism and the well-being of local residents. By regulating short-term rentals and limiting access to heavily visited areas, the government seeks to manage the strain on popular destinations, while ensuring the preservation of local communities.
Key Insights:
- New regulations are designed to combat overtourism and housing shortages in Greece’s high-demand regions.
- Stricter short-term rental rules will be enforced starting October 1, 2025, including mandatory safety standards and insurance requirements.
- Potential restrictions or bans on UK visitors in certain overcrowded areas could be considered.
- Fines for non-compliance with short-term rental regulations may reach up to €20,000 for repeat offenders.
New Restrictions in Popular Destinations
The Greek government is introducing updated travel restrictions that focus on popular tourist destinations like Athens and the Cyclades Islands, where overtourism is putting a strain on infrastructure and local housing markets. These new measures are aimed at easing the pressure on these areas, which have seen a dramatic increase in visitors in recent years. For UK tourists, this may result in fewer options for accommodations in some of Greece’s most sought-after locations. As part of this initiative, the government is considering halting new short-term rental licenses in areas that are most affected by the rising demand for tourism.
The Growth of Short-Term Rentals and Its Consequences
The surge in short-term rentals, particularly through platforms like Airbnb, has been a major factor in the housing crisis facing many Greek regions. While these rentals have contributed significantly to tourism, they have also led to a shortage of affordable long-term housing for local residents. In areas like the Cyclades, the number of short-term rentals has far outpaced the availability of housing for permanent residents, driving up property prices and changing the character of local communities. To address these issues, the government is extending a ban on new short-term rental licenses in high-demand areas to prevent further exacerbation of the housing problem.
Impact on UK Tourists and Travel Plans
For UK travelers, these changes could mean fewer accommodation options in popular destinations such as Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. The ease of travel enabled by budget airlines and online booking platforms has contributed to an influx of tourists, which in turn has led to congestion and a diminished visitor experience. As a result, UK tourists may need to consider alternative destinations or accommodations that are less reliant on short-term rental services. While the regulations are designed to protect local communities, travelers may also have to adjust their plans to ensure a more sustainable and enjoyable trip to Greece.
Stricter Short-Term Rental Rules Coming into Effect
On October 1, 2025, Greece will introduce new, more stringent regulations for short-term rental properties. These rules will require property owners to meet higher safety standards, including ensuring adequate ventilation, sufficient natural light, and the presence of necessary safety equipment like fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. In addition, property owners will be required to obtain civil liability insurance and submit a safety declaration from a certified electrician. Inspections will be carried out by the Ministry of Tourism and the Greek tax authority (AADE), with fines ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 for repeated violations. These regulations are expected to improve safety standards and ensure that short-term rental properties are suitable for both guests and residents.
Rebalancing Tourism with Local Priorities
The core objective of these new regulations is to rebalance the demands of tourism with the needs of local communities. While tourism remains a vital part of Greece’s economy, the government recognizes the importance of protecting the quality of life for its residents. By limiting the expansion of short-term rentals and potentially restricting new hotel developments in certain areas, Greece aims to promote sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and locals. This approach could serve as a model for other European countries facing similar challenges related to overtourism and housing shortages.
The Road Ahead: A Shift Toward Sustainable Tourism
These new regulations represent a significant step toward more sustainable tourism in Greece. By focusing on managing overtourism, the government is signaling a growing recognition of the need for responsible travel practices. For travelers, this shift presents an opportunity to explore less crowded areas and embrace a more authentic, immersive experience in Greece. As the government continues to evolve its approach to tourism, flexibility and awareness of the new rules will be key for travelers seeking to make the most of their time in the country.
Greece is introducing bold new regulations aimed at combating overtourism and the housing crisis, directly impacting UK travelers with stricter rules on short-term rentals and limited access to popular destinations. These game-changing measures seek to balance the needs of tourism with the well-being of local communities.
the new regulations in Greece are designed to protect the long-term viability of the tourism industry while ensuring that local residents continue to thrive. By rethinking the growth of short-term rentals and focusing on responsible tourism, Greece is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable travel. For UK travelers and other visitors, staying informed about these changes will be essential to having a fulfilling and responsible experience in Greece’s iconic destinations.
