"Tourism under pressure" by Spyridon Krokidis

As temperatures rise and weather conditions become more extreme, Greek tourism is being called upon to redesign its future.

For decades, Greece has been one of the world’s top tourist destinations. The sun, the sea, the cultural heritage, and the welcoming climate attract millions of visitors each year. But the very climate that gives the country a competitive edge now threatens to become one of the biggest risks to its tourism industry.

Heatwaves, wildfires, and coastal erosion

In recent years, intense heat events and prolonged heatwaves have become more frequent and more dangerous. Athens, Rhodes, and Crete are recording temperatures exceeding 43°C, making tourist activities extremely unpleasant—and in some cases, hazardous.

Wildfires, like those during the summers of 2023 and 2024, led to mass booking cancellations and damage to tourist facilities, exposing the high vulnerability of many destinations to the climate crisis.

Moreover, the gradual rise in sea level and coastal erosion threaten popular beaches and seaside resorts—particularly on islands like Zakynthos, Santorini, and Lefkada.

A new seasonality, new maps

The traditional summer season, from mid-June to late August, appears to be reaching its limits. Milder months—such as May and September—are becoming more attractive for travel, highlighting the need to extend the tourist season.

At the same time, attention is shifting to lesser-known inland or mountainous destinations that offer cooler climates, natural beauty, and tranquility—with a lower environmental footprint.

Adaptation and solutions are possible

Despite the pressure, Greek tourism has the potential to endure and transform. Targeted actions are needed:

• Investment in green infrastructure (solar panels, recycling, water conservation).

• Shift toward sustainable forms of tourism, such as agritourism, diving tourism, hiking tourism, and cultural tourism.

• Education and awareness campaigns for business owners and visitors about environmental issues and the need for responsible travel behaviour.

• Digital tools for risk forecasting and management (e.g., for fires, floods, or heatwaves).

Crisis and opportunity

Climate change is not only a threat; it can also be a catalyst for the regeneration of Greek tourism. It can push us toward a new model: more qualitative, more responsible, more resilient. The challenge is great, but Greece has the necessary resources—natural, cultural, and human—to turn it into an opportunity.

The future of Greek tourism will not be judged solely by the number of arrivals, but by our ability to coexist with nature and protect the treasure it offers us: our very own land.

SPYRIDON KROKIDIS

Photo: pixabay