Published on
September 21, 2025
Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Paros have long been among Greece’s most sought-after islands, attracting millions of visitors each year. However, the increasing influx of tourists has led to a range of challenges, from overcrowding to strained local infrastructure, which threatens the very charm that makes these destinations so appealing. In light of these growing concerns, sustainable tourism practices have become essential to ensuring these islands can continue to thrive while preserving their natural beauty and cultural heritage. By embracing responsible travel, investing in sustainable infrastructure, and promoting lesser-known destinations, Greece can protect its iconic islands from the negative impacts of overtourism and secure their future for generations to come.
The summer season in Greece, particularly in its popular vacation spots, is always bustling with activity. The country’s tourism industry, an essential revenue stream, has been steadily growing, with more visitors flocking to destinations each year. For Greece, tourism is not just a lucrative sector—it is the cornerstone of the economy, fueling growth and fostering development. In particular, small islands in the Aegean, such as Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Paros, serve as major tourist magnets, attracting millions of visitors annually. This number is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
However, the success of the tourism sector comes with its own set of challenges. While tourism brings economic benefits, it also places a significant strain on local infrastructure and resources. Over time, issues such as rising real estate prices, inflated ferry costs, and overstretched local facilities have become increasingly evident. These pressures are particularly noticeable in the Aegean Islands, which are struggling to cope with the volume of visitors. While tourism is undeniably vital for Greece’s economy, it is crucial to preserve the authenticity and charm of the islands without overwhelming their infrastructure.
A question often arises—does everyone really only go to the Aegean islands, and in particular, to famous places like Santorini and Mykonos? And are these islands truly struggling with overtourism? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. The South Aegean Archipelago, consisting of 36 inhabited islands, attracts 40% of all tourists visiting Greece. While the influx of millions of visitors generates positive headlines and provides unforgettable experiences for tourists, the negative consequences of overtourism are becoming impossible to ignore. Water and power shortages have become regular challenges, with frequent power cuts and water rationing becoming normalized during the summer season. The situation raises questions about the sustainability of these islands during peak tourist seasons.
This has led to an increased recognition of the need for sustainable tourism practices. Sustainable tourism is the idea of balancing the economic benefits derived from tourism with the need to protect the environment, preserve cultural heritage, and ensure the well-being of local communities. The goal is to minimize the negative impacts of tourism while maximizing its positive contributions. A sustainable approach can include promoting responsible behavior among tourists, such as reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and supporting local businesses. At the same time, it involves investing in sustainable infrastructure, such as renewable energy solutions, wastewater treatment, and systems that can handle the strain of large numbers of visitors. Policies should also be implemented to protect both the natural and cultural resources of these islands.
Adopting sustainable tourism practices is essential for the long-term viability of Greece’s tourism industry. It ensures that tourism remains economically beneficial while safeguarding the unique features of the islands. This approach is not just about protecting natural beauty but also about preserving the essence of what makes Greece such a desirable destination. The allure of these islands must remain intact—not just for today’s visitors but for future generations as well. This challenge involves finding a delicate balance where tourism continues to drive economic prosperity without sacrificing the cultural and environmental integrity of these islands. It calls for a more mindful and conscious form of travel, one where cultural exchange and respect are just as important as leisure and recreation.
The impact of overtourism is evident in everyday life. For example, ferry prices have skyrocketed, with a family of four now paying over 1,000 euros to bring their car from Athens to Rhodes. For many local families, this makes travel unaffordable. Additionally, healthcare facilities on the islands are suffering from staff shortages, as housing for medical professionals is increasingly turned into short-term vacation rentals. This shift is exacerbating the housing crisis, as rising real estate prices—largely driven by investment from foreign businessmen—are pushing local residents out of their communities. For the past three years, real estate prices have continued to climb uncontrollably, further compounding the housing issue.
One significant problem contributing to overtourism in Greece is a lack of awareness among tourists about the country’s lesser-known destinations. When talking with people who recently visited Greece, many were unaware that the country has numerous islands beyond Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros. This lack of awareness highlights a crucial gap in Greece’s tourism marketing strategy. The focus on these popular destinations has led to overcrowding and resource strain. To alleviate the burden placed on the Cyclades, there needs to be a concerted effort to promote other, lesser-known regions of Greece. By spreading the tourist traffic across more islands, the pressure on the most popular destinations can be eased. This would reduce the strain on local resources, help stabilize prices, and prevent the creation of more short-term rentals, which exacerbate the housing crisis.
Marketing lesser-known regions should be part of a national tourism plan. This plan should focus on targeted sustainable investments that support local infrastructure and promote ethical business practices. A key element of this plan is incentivizing professionals, like doctors and teachers, to work on the islands during the summer months. By addressing these issues, Greece can mitigate the effects of overtourism and create a more balanced tourism model.
Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Paros are facing the pressures of overtourism, threatening their charm and sustainability. Sustainable tourism practices are urgently needed to protect these iconic Greek islands from overcrowding while ensuring their long-term viability.
Greece’s tourism industry is at a crossroads. To preserve the beauty and charm of its islands, particularly the Aegean, there is a need for sustainable practices that promote both economic growth and environmental preservation. By diversifying tourism across lesser-known islands and promoting responsible travel, Greece can maintain its status as a top destination without compromising the integrity of its culture and infrastructure. Through careful planning and responsible tourism, Greece can ensure that its islands remain a haven for generations to come.
