The summer season begins in Greece 2025 with a spectacular reconfiguration: not only the prices increase, but also the tensions – both tourist and tectonic. Recent earthquakes near Santorini and Crete can best symbolize the deep change that strikes the Greek tourism industry.
Santorini loses land but the cruise fee increases in 2025 photo shutterstock
Santorini and Mykonos, once the non -pronounced queens of luxury holidays, lose ground. The tails disappeared, and the interest decreases visibly: Mykonos registered a 40% decline in premium reservations. The exorbitant prices and the suffocating agglomeration chase even the loyal tourists.
In the scenes, the anxiety is installed, but the scene does not remain empty: Zakynthos, Rhodos, Thassos, Crete and Corfu took lead. With an authentic, accessible and aligned offer to new travel tendencies, these authentic islands not only attract more and more visitors, but also rewrite the rules of the game.
The change comes at a key moment: Greece was designated the second most reserved tourist destination worldwide, after Spain, according to ITB Berlin, and was awarded with major distinctions-Crete, as “The best island destination”and Athens, straight “The best City Cultural Break”. The image of Greece is stronger than ever – but also more expensive.
On this boiling background, the Greek government announces new taxes for tourists, valid from 2025. Whether you choose a 5 -star hotel in Mykonos, an Airbnb villa in Zakynthos or a dream cruise in the Aegean, you must know: the payment note changes radically. The new fiscal regulations include increased taxes for accommodation, additional rates in cruise ports, and require more careful planning to tourists.
What changes
Greece, one of the most coveted 2025 holiday destinations in the world, synonymous for many with an escape in paradise, comes with important news for those who will visit it this year. The Greek government has introduced a series of changes that will directly affect the tourists’ budget-whether you choose to stay at the hotel, in an Airbnb or relax on a cruise in the Aegean.
From January 1, 2025, an increase in the travel tax, applicable to all types of accommodation – from modest pensions, to luxury hotels and private villas, has officially entered into force. Depending on the period when you travel and the type of unit chosen, the price per night can increase significantly.
Peak season (April – October)
- Short -term rentals: between 2 and 15 euros/night
- Hotels: Between 2 and 15 euros/night, according to classification
Low season (November – March)
- Short -term rental: between 0.50 and 4 euros/night
- Hotels: Between 0.50 and 4 euros/night
Don’t be fooled by the price displayed
The total price displayed on the reservation platforms does not always include the tourist taxes. Read carefully the reservation conditions and check if these additional costs must be paid separately – either in cash or by card, directly at the accommodation unit.
Cruise lover, pay attention to new fees
If you dream of a spectacular sunset in Santorini or a cocktail on the deck of a ship anchored in Mykonos, prepare: from 2025, a cruise fee of up to 20 euros per person is applied, depending on the ports visited.
The measure is already in force and is part of a national plan meant to support the tourist infrastructure and to reduce the impact on the environment.
Why all these changes
Greece does not introduce these taxes only for economic reasons. According to the Greek authorities, the funds collected will be directed to combating climatic changes, preventing natural disasters and modernizing the tourist infrastructure.
Tourism remains an essential pillar of the Greek economy: in 2023, Greece attracted about 36 million visitors – more than three times more than its population. And in 2024, the country registered a record of about 40.7 million international tourists, according to the official data of the Greek Bank. The revenues generated by the tourism have reached a historical level, exceeding 30.2 billion euros, reflecting both the increase in the number of visitors and the higher expenses per tourist.
How you are preparing
- Carefully consult all the details of the reservation: find out exactly how much you will pay and how to pay the taxes.
- Follow the official updates of the Greek Government and the European Union.
- Consult the websites of cruise companies, especially if you have popular ports in the itinerary.
- Be always informed by following reliable sources, such as insults, for the latest news and travel tips in the Schengen area.
Greece is waiting for you-but inform yourself before you leave
2025 brings more than sun, beaches and millennial history. This year comes with new rules, updated taxes and an increased emphasis on sustainable tourism. If you are well prepared, the holiday in Greece, in 2025, will be exactly what you need: relaxing, without unpleasant surprises.
Greece remains a dream destination, but in 2025 it requires something extra: increased attention, serious documentation and, inevitably, a more generous budget.
