Greek Tourist Tax Increase

Santorini. Picture Credit: Shutterstock
Greece has long been a favorite destination for travelers, with its picture-perfect islands, ancient history, and vibrant culture. However, starting in 2025, visitors to Greece & the Greek Islands will see an increase in tourist taxes, particularly those arriving by cruise ship or staying in hotels and holiday rentals.
 

What’s Changing?

The Greek government has approved new tax increases aimed at managing overtourism and generating additional revenue for infrastructure and environmental preservation. These changes will primarily affect cruise passengers and hotel guests, with higher fees during peak tourist seasons.

Here’s a breakdown of the new tourist taxes:

1. Cruise Passenger Tax

• €20 per day for passengers visiting Santorini and Mykonos
• €5 per day for passengers visiting other Greek islands like Corfu, Crete, and Rhodes

Greece expects to host over eight million cruise passengers in 2025, a 20% increase from last year, with islands like Santorini and Mykonos struggling to handle the influx. The new tax aims to help manage overcrowding and fund local services.

2. Hotel and Holiday Rental Tax

• The daily tax on holiday rentals (Airbnb, villas, apartments) will rise to €8 per night in summer (April–October) and €2 per night in winter.
• The tax on hotel stays will increase up to €15 per night, depending on the hotel's star rating.

Why Is Greece Increasing Tourist Taxes?

Greece hopes to raise an additional €400 million per year through these tax increases, double the revenue from 2023. The move comes as the country struggles with the effects of overtourism, particularly on smaller islands with limited infrastructure.
Officials have considered further measures, such as limiting the number of cruise ships visiting Mykonos and Santorini, but no formal caps have been introduced yet.
 

What Does This Mean for Tourists?

• If you’re cruising to Greece, expect additional costs when visiting popular islands.
• If you’re staying in a hotel or holiday rental, budget for slightly higher accommodation expenses.
• While these taxes may seem like an extra burden, they are intended to preserve Greece’s beauty and improve tourist experiences in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Greece’s new tourist tax policies reflect a growing trend in popular destinations worldwide trying to balance economic benefits with sustainable tourism. If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2025, it’s essential to be aware of these changes and factor them into your travel budget.

Would these new fees affect your decision to visit Greece? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! 
 

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