Greece’s tourism sector is thriving, with 2024 seeing a record 33 million visitors, a 15% jump from the previous year, boosting the economy by €20 billion. Coastal towns like Santorini and Mykonos are packed, and even lesser-known spots are seeing unprecedented footfall. The government credits infrastructure investments and relaxed visa policies, particularly for non-EU visitors, for the surge. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses are reaping profits, with luxury resorts reporting full bookings through 2025.
But the boom has a dark side for workers. Many in the industry—waiters, cleaners, tour guides—face grueling hours, often 12-hour shifts, with stagnant wages. A typical waiter earns €900 a month, barely covering rising rents driven by short-term rentals like Airbnb. Labor unions report a 30% increase in complaints about unpaid overtime since 2023. Migrant workers, who make up a growing portion of the workforce, face even harsher conditions, often lacking contracts or benefits.
Locals also feel the strain. Housing shortages in tourist hotspots have forced some workers to live in makeshift accommodations or commute long distances. Meanwhile, environmental concerns mount—overtourism is straining water supplies and waste management systems. Critics argue the government prioritizes profits over sustainability, leaving workers and residents to bear the cost of Greece’s tourist gold rush.