Athens is not currently affected by overtourism, but proactive planning is essential, Athens Mayor Haris Doukas said on Wednesday, during the opening of the Delphi Economic Forum X.
Speaking at the annual four-day event held in Delphi, Greece, Doukas emphasized the need for immediate action, noting that the Greek capital welcomed approximately 8 million visitors in 2024, up significantly from 2.5 million during the height of the debt crisis, and is projected to receive 10 million tourists this year.
While describing the figures as “extremely high”, Doukas stressed that data does not currently point to overtourism in Athens. Nevertheless, he underlined the importance of upgrading city infrastructure to support the growing influx of visitors.
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas at this year’s Delphi Economic Forum X.
“Athens may not be facing overtourism entirely yet, but there are neighborhoods that are particularly vulnerable,” Doukas said, referring to areas like Plaka and Monastiraki. These hotspots, he noted, require targeted strategies.
Doukas told OT that a carrying capacity study had identified the historic center, Koukaki, and Monastiraki as saturated. He proposed a freeze on new Airbnb licenses in these neighborhoods and suggested redirecting tourist flows to lesser-known areas such as Plato’s Academy.
“We must act as if Athens has already crossed the red line, just like Barcelona,” he said during a panel discussion with the mayors of Porto, Rui Moreira, and Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos.
A key concern, Doukas said, is the dense concentration of short-term rentals in certain areas, which impacts local communities.
“The municipal authority cannot independently make decisions on issues that directly affect the city, unlike in other European cities,” he said. “We submit proposals, but it’s the central government that decides and legislates. On the matter of short-term rentals especially, stronger cooperation is needed.”
Doukas concluded by stressing the need for greater autonomy at the local government level, saying it is essential for cities like Athens to be able to shape their own urban policies.
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