One of the world's most photogenic islands and perennial favourite among travelers, Santorini is facing an unexpected crisis. Even amid the surge in visitor numbers, it's a tourist season that feels empty. Famous for its whitewashed cliffside house, navy blue ure dome and postcard-friendly sunsets, the Greek island is reportedly struggling to maintain its local economy, and hotels and restaurants report a decline in business despite busy streets during the day.
Gianluka Cimentai, a local tour operator who has lived on the island for nearly 20 years, has issued an alarm about what he calls “the worst season of all time.” Chimenti described the striking contrast between the bustling daytime and the creepy quiet evening.
In an interview with CNN, he said, “The problem is that social media shows something completely different from reality.” “The truth is that the island is vacant. It's more than ever before.”
Santorini, sometimes called “Instagram Island,” has built an international reputation with its visually incredible charm. Tourists pour into the island every day, with around 17,000 cruise ship passengers reportedly arriving at peak times.
The villages of Fila and Oia are particularly popular, with the crowd competing for a sunset selfie from the Cliffside perspective.
But while social media posts paint overcrowded, local businesses say pedestrians don't necessarily lead to spending. By dusk, many of the visitors returned to the cruise ship, leaving behind empty streets and non-resident hotels.
“Currently, hotels are less than 30% of their normal season,” Cimenta argues, suggesting that the image of “overtourism” can be misleading. “Overtourism doesn't exist. What I'm looking at is the lack of structure.”
Restaurants, cafes and local shops are usually supported by long-term guests and feel nervous, he added.
Greece is famous for its tourism, with 6,000 islands and islands (227 people inhabited), attracting millions of islands each year. From secluded beaches and natural wonders to ancient ruins, the Mediterranean nation has long been considered a paradise for tourists.
However, this year, Santorini appears to be an outlier amidst the post-pandemic tourism boom in Europe. Other islands have reported record visitor numbers, but Santorini's ground experience has exposed a rift in the way tourism is managed.
Chimenti believes smarter planning is important, urging local authorities and cruise companies to diversify itineraries and distribute visitors better across the island.
“Santorini currently has one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe,” he said. “Why don't cruise ships organize their tours to these sites? Splitting people across three parts of the island allows them to enjoy more and avoid pressure points.”
For many travelers, perceived crowds can completely discourage travel, even during off-peak periods when conditions are ideal for a relaxed holiday.
“People see the image of the virus and think it's too busy to enjoy it,” Chimenity said. “But in reality, we have space, beauty and people need to stay.”
