Greece has introduced a new EUR 20 (USD 23) tax on cruise ship passengers arriving in Santorini, in a major move to rein in overtourism and raise revenue for infrastructure upgrades on the famed island. The fee will be implemented from 21 July, targeting visitors arriving by sea, a majority of the island’s 2 million annual tourists.
With a population of just 15,000 and only one main port, Santorini has long struggled to balance its soaring popularity with its limited capacity. Authorities say the new tax is part of a broader strategy to reduce congestion, especially during peak travel months, and to manage the growing environmental strain. Concerns about the island’s seismic sensitivity have further underscored the urgency of action.
Seasonal fee structure to spread visitor load
To avoid overburdening the island during its most crowded periods, Greek officials are introducing a seasonal pricing model for the new entry fee. From July 21 until the end of September, passengers will pay EUR 20. In October, the fee will be reduced to EUR 12, before dropping further to EUR 4 between November and March. The charge will return to EUR 12 during the shoulder months of April and May.
This flexible fee system aims to encourage more even tourism flows throughout the year while ensuring critical revenue is collected to invest in the island’s infrastructure and services. The fee mirrors growing frustration across Europe, where residents in major tourist destinations have expressed concern over surging rental prices, stretched public services, and environmental degradation. In 2021, Italy formally banned large cruise ships from the Venice lagoon to address similar issues. Cruise companies claim the tax places disproportionate responsibility on their passengers, while other types of tourists—such as those arriving by air or ferry—remain unaffected.
Broader shift in tourism management
Greece’s new policy is the latest sign of how governments across Europe are rethinking tourism strategy in a post-pandemic landscape. While international travel continues to surge, destinations like Santorini are seeking new ways to manage footfall while preserving local life and natural resources. With enforcement set to begin in less than three weeks, all eyes are on Santorini to see whether this cruise-specific tax becomes a model for other tourist-heavy islands and heritage sites around the world.
