New figures show that more than 34 million passengers passed through Athens International Airport in 2025, marking an all time high and a 33 per cent increase compared with pre pandemic levels. Of those, more than 8.7 million were international tourists arriving directly into the Greek capital.
Despite the economic boost, city leaders have raised concerns about the impact of such rapid growth on local communities and infrastructure.
Haris Doukas, mayor of Athens, said: "Athens cannot operate as if it were a giant hotel. Restrictions and rules are needed. Cities must also have a say in the way they develop."
He warned that the balance between residents and visitors is becoming increasingly strained, with around 700,000 locals sharing the city with nearly eight million tourists annually.
Plans are now being considered to curb further tourism expansion, particularly in the historic centre. Authorities are reportedly looking to introduce a ban on new tourism related businesses in areas such as Plaka, alongside limits on hotel capacity.
Doukas said: "We’ll be stopping all tourist investment in Plaka, which I am on a mission to save. There’s no more room. Not for short-term rental, not for serviced apartments, not for hotels, or any other tourism use. The area is oversaturated. We want to say ‘enough is enough’ in a bill that is enshrined in law."
The proposals follow earlier restrictions on short term rentals near the Acropolis, where overnight stays have doubled since 2018, driving up rental prices for residents.
City officials have drawn comparisons with Barcelona, which has faced similar challenges linked to overtourism in recent years. Athens leaders have repeatedly stressed that they want to avoid the same trajectory.
Doukas said: "Athens is for its people. It is not only for those who simply want to exploit it."
Alongside proposed restrictions, the city is investing in infrastructure upgrades, public spaces and environmental initiatives, including the planting of thousands of trees and improvements to water and energy systems.
As global travel demand continues to rise, Athens now faces the challenge of balancing its popularity with preserving the character and livability of one of Europe’s most historic capitals.
