Greece Extends Airbnb Ban in Central Athens, Eyes Restrictions in More Tourist Hotspots

The Greek government is stepping up efforts to regulate the booming short-term rental market, extending bans on new Airbnb properties in central Athens and preparing stricter standards nationwide.

The measures, announced by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, aim to address mounting housing pressures in major tourist destinations.

From October 1, 2025, all properties listed for short-term rental must meet new safety and quality requirements. These include proper ventilation, natural lighting, air conditioning, civil liability insurance, fire safety equipment, pest control certification, and first-aid provisions. Property owners will also be required to provide emergency contact information and obtain official electrician certifications.

Unannounced inspections will be carried out by officials from the Ministry of Tourism and the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). Property owners will receive at least 10 days’ notice to submit supporting documents, while inspectors will conduct on-site checks with official identification and written inspection orders.

Violations will be met with heavy fines:

• €5,000 for first-time offenses such as refusing entry or failing to meet requirements.
• Double fines for repeat offenses within one year.
• Quadruple penalties for subsequent violations.

The most immediate change is the extension of the ban on new short-term rentals in central Athens until the end of 2026. This applies to the first three municipal districts, covering neighborhoods such as Plaka, Koukaki, Kolonaki, Syntagma, Exarchia, Pangrati, Neos Kosmos, Gazi, and Petralona.

Meanwhile, the government is also considering expanding restrictions to other popular tourist destinations where housing shortages are acute, including Thessaloniki, Chania, Santorini, Paros, and Halkidiki.

The AADE has already begun sending thousands of emails to registered hosts, warning them of upcoming inspections and the stricter framework. The government’s aim is to balance the tourism-driven short-term rental market with the urgent need for affordable housing in urban and tourist-heavy areas.