Greece Faces the Challenges of Overtourism: Should You Visit Now?

Greece is known for its ancient wonders and stunning landscapes, but the influx of tourists has raised serious concerns. Since 2017, overtourism has become the focus, changing the dynamics of popular destinations.

Impact on Popular Destinations

Greece, with its rich history, faces significant pressure from tourism.
Visitors are now subject to a €20 (USD 22) fee for stopping at Mykonos and Santorini.
The high number of tourists exacerbates water shortages.
To spread visitor numbers throughout the year, lodging taxes increase during peak seasons.
Athens has temporarily banned new short-term rentals to protect housing availability.

Insights from “Overtourism: A Literature Review”

In their comprehensive study, authors Alessandro Capocchi, Cinzia Vallone, Mariarita Pierotti, and Andrea Amaduzzi explore the rise of overtourism. Available in their report “Overtourism: A Literature Review to Assess Implications and Future Perspectives”, they highlight key factors contributing to overtourism:

Low-cost carriers and innovative technology boost tourism but concentrate visitors in specific areas.
Governance struggles involve the management of resources and environmental concerns like waste and pollution.
The discussion on “anthropopressure” gains traction as tourism’s impact grows.
Social media and platforms like Airbnb elevate tourism numbers, affecting local life and housing.

Tourism’s strain on communities and natural environments is recognised even outside academic circles. Factors such as affordable travel options and social media influence contribute to the debate on tourism’s future.

Should You Visit Now?

Despite the challenges, Greece remains an inviting destination. Since the peak season is over at the end of September, this is the right time to visit Greece. As the summer crowds disperse, Greece transforms into a serene haven enriched with stunning landscapes, historical wonders, and culinary delights. Here are seven reasons why experiencing Greece in the fall is a good choice:

Mild Weather: From October to November, Greece offers a refreshing climate. Temperatures are milder than the sweltering summer months—15-21 degrees Celsius (60-70 degrees Fahrenheit) in October and November—making it perfect for exploring the northern and southern regions. The cool breeze and golden sunlight provide a beguiling setting for discovering Greece’s quaint streets and vibrant foliage.
Reduced Crowds: Autumn ushers in fewer tourists, allowing travellers to relish Greece’s historical sites without the usual hustle and bustle. Attractions and tours are less congested, offering a more leisurely and intimate exploration of the islands’ beauty and culture.
Affordable Travel: With the change in season comes lower travel expenses for accommodation and flights, especially in October and November, making Greece a budget-friendly destination without compromising its allure.
Cultural Immersion: Greece’s museums are ideal to visit in the fall. With fewer visitors, they allow for a more intimate connection with Greece’s storied past.
Traditional Olive Harvesting: Autumn marks the beginning of the olive harvest. Participation in this tradition offers visitors a deeper engagement with the Greek lifestyle as communities gather olives to celebrate heritage and history.
Seasonal Cuisine: Fall introduces a bounty of flavours to Greek cuisine. Visitors can enjoy dishes enhanced by seasonal ingredients like apples, figs, and olives, experiencing the rich gastronomic traditions that define Greece’s autumnal palate.
Island Hopping: Greece’s islands, adorned with the essence of fall, offer travellers a pleasant seasonal experience. However, many of them are only accessible by boat or ferry, and this time of year is often subjected to the weather’s whims, which can boast merciless winds, unhinged waves, and powerful storms.