Athens is moving to rein in overtourism, with mayor Haris Doukas warning that the Greek capital “cannot operate as a giant hotel” as visitor numbers surge and residents are pushed out of neighbourhoods.
With a population of about 7,00,000 and more than 8 million tourists annually, the city is facing mounting pressure on housing, infrastructure and public spaces. Officials say the historic centre, including areas around the Acropolis of Athens, is at risk of “over-saturation”.
Rising demand for short-term rentals has sharply altered the housing market. In the popular Plaka district, overnight stays have more than doubled since 2018, according to a municipal study. Property rents have climbed, making it increasingly difficult for local residents, especially young families, to remain in central areas.
The mayor plans to use a tourism land-use bill under discussion to push for a blanket ban on new tourism-related businesses in the historic centre. The proposal includes halting fresh permits for hotels, serviced apartments and short-term rentals in saturated areas such as Plaka.
Authorities are also considering freezing new hotel construction permits across parts of the city. The move would follow earlier steps by the Greek government to curb short-term rentals in neighbourhoods near the Acropolis.
Doukas has also taken aim at unchecked commercial activity, including unlicensed rooftop bars and restaurants, and large-scale construction projects near heritage sites.
City officials say Athens is already struggling to cope with the influx of visitors. Extensive works are under way to upgrade electricity networks, water systems, drainage and 5G connectivity.
In a notable shift, the proposals have drawn support from sections of the tourism industry. The country’s hoteliers’ association has backed the idea of limiting new hotel licences, citing global examples of regulated tourism growth.
The debate mirrors steps taken in cities such as Barcelona, which has imposed strict controls on tourist accommodation to protect housing affordability.
Mayor Doukas told The Guardian newspaper the administration is prioritising affordable housing and liveability. The city has set up a social housing office to renovate properties using EU funds and incentivise residents to remain in central Athens.
Urban planning efforts also include creating more green spaces, with thousands of trees planted in recent years. “Athens is for its people,” the mayor said. “It is not only for those who want to exploit it.”
