British tourists heading to Greece this year will face higher costs as the country increases a fee aimed at protecting its people from climate disasters.
The country has increased its Climate Resilience Fee, with charges reaching up to £12.66 per room per night during the peak holiday season.
The fee, introduced in January to fund environmental initiatives, will rise between April and October, affecting hotel stays and villa rentals across the country.
Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni announced the changes this week, explaining that the increased revenue would be used to fund the prevention and restoration of natural disasters and to enhance infrastructure supporting the tourism sector.
The move comes in response to the devastating impacts of last year’s forest fires and floods, as well as challenges posed by over-tourism and the national housing crisis.
The fee varies based on accommodation type, with tourists staying in one and two-star hotels or rented rooms now paying £1.73 per night, up from £1.29.
Guests at three-star hotels will pay £4.33 per night instead of £2.59, while those staying in four-star hotels will see the fee increase to £8.66 per night.
Five-star hotels and villas will bear the highest charge at £12.66 per night, compared to the previous £8.66.
These increases mean that a week-long stay at a five-star accommodation could add as much as £88.62 to the cost of a holiday.
The fee will continue to apply year-round but at a lower rate during the winter months. From November to March, the charges will remain relatively modest, with rates starting at £0.43 for budget accommodations.
However, short-term rental properties will see a sharp rise in fees, increasing to £1.73 in the winter and £6.92 during the summer season.
In a statement, Minister Kefalogianni stressed the importance of the fee in supporting Greece’s efforts to protect its natural environment and prepare for future climate-related challenges.
“The revenue generated will be allocated to the prevention and restoration of natural disasters and to enhancing infrastructure that supports the country’s tourism sector,” she said.
While the fee aims to address pressing environmental concerns, it has drawn mixed reactions from tourists and local businesses.
Some travellers expressed frustration at the additional cost, while others recognized the necessity of funding resilience efforts.
One hotel in Greece has already begun informing guests about the updated charges, explaining that the new rates will apply to all stays starting from January 1, 2025.
