Overtourism: Historic districts of Athens under pressure

The historic center of Athens, especially Plaka, is facing increasing pressure due to overtourism. The number of visitors is expected to reach 10 million in 2025, an increase of 2 million compared to 2024.

Residents and organizations express concerns about the conversion of homes into Airbnbs, rising rents, and the loss of local identity. Giorgos Zafiriou, head of the residents' association, emphasizes that Plaka is threatened by overtourism.

The Mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas, acknowledges the saturation of Plaka and stresses the need for action before the situation reaches extremes. An "intervention unit" has been created to enforce the rules in the area.

The government has banned new listings of apartments on short-term rental platforms in the center of Athens for one year, in an effort to address rising rents.

A lawyer, Dimitris Melissas, has submitted a case to the Council of State regarding the legality of buildings that have been converted into short-term rentals, arguing that they operate as hotel facilities.