'We Are Not A Giant Hotel': This Country's Capital Is Restricting Tourism Completely. Here's Why

Last Updated:April 25, 2026, 19:35 IST

As visitor numbers surge to record levels, Athens is weighing restrictions on tourism growth, with the mayor cautioning that the city’s historic centre is under strain.

Athens is grappling with growing concerns over overtourism, as city officials warn that the Greek capital’s historic centre is under increasing strain from record visitor numbers and rapid short-term rental growth.

Narrow streets around ancient landmarks are now frequently filled with large tour groups, with visitors trailing guides through densely packed archaeological areas. While such scenes were once seen as a sign of economic recovery, city leaders now say the scale of tourism is becoming unsustainable.

Mayor Haris Doukas has raised alarm over what he describes as “over-saturation" in the city’s core, arguing that unchecked tourism is threatening the character of traditional neighbourhoods. “Athens cannot operate as if it were a giant hotel," he said, calling for stricter rules and greater local control over tourism development. He added that cities must have a stronger role in shaping how tourism evolves.

The concerns come as Athens recorded more than 8 million visitors last year, a sharp increase for a city that was once largely considered a transit point for travellers heading to the Greek islands. The rise of short-term rentals has been particularly pronounced, with overnight stays in areas such as Plaka—located beneath the Acropolis—more than doubling since 2018, according to a municipal study.

Officials say the surge in tourism is putting pressure on housing availability and driving up rents, pushing local residents out of central neighbourhoods. Infrastructure is also struggling to keep pace, with expanded construction projects underway across the city to support growing demand.

Doukas, who previously worked as a climate and energy professor before entering politics, said the city is undergoing constant upgrades to cope with the influx. “We are rebuilding electricity networks, water systems, drainage and digital infrastructure," he noted, adding that resources are being stretched as Athens balances its resident population of around 700,000 with millions of annual visitors.

City authorities warn that without intervention, Athens risks losing the cultural authenticity that makes it one of Europe’s most visited historic capitals.

News world 'We Are Not A Giant Hotel': This Country's Capital Is Restricting Tourism Completely. Here's Why

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