Page 15 - iGREECE_EATA MARCH 2025

Athens, with its distinctive urban layout, faces ing signs of “tourism vulnerability.” This refers to the
challenges to its historical and cultural identity due to city’s sensitivity to the strain placed on its infrastruc-
the impact of tourism, particularly because of its iconic ture by increasing numbers of tourists. Certain areas,
archaeological landmarks like the Acropolis, the pedes- particularly the central and saturated neighbourhoods
trianised areas of its historic and commercial centre, like the Commercial Centre, Monastiraki-Plaka, Psi-
and the stark contrast between the historic core and ri-Koumoundourou, and Makriyanni, are experienc-
its surrounding neighbourhoods. In recent years, the ing significant spatial overconcentrations. At the same
rise in short-term holiday rentals through platforms time, pressures are rising in peripheral neighbour-
like Airbnb has shown that tourism is expanding into hoods, leading to rising costs and notable effects on the
neighbouring areas, such as Southern Attica, including real estate market and residents’ quality of life.
districts like Glyfada and Piraeus.
Despite these challenges, the influx of visitors during
The physical and social dimensions of tourism the high tourist season (May – October) does not seem
caused by exceeding carrying capacity and the diffi- to place excessive strain on the city, as many perma-
culty in managing visitor flows due to the city’s urban nent residents leave Athens during this time, keeping
limitations present challenges to preserving the local the balance between residents and visitors relatively
character of the destination. The growing number of stable. Furthermore, Athens, as a “city break” destina-
visitors to Athens also directly impacts local society and tion, receives tourists year-round, leading to a constant
the economy, fostering the “touristification” of many level of strain on the city’s resources, without any sig-
central areas and increasing pressure on public infra- nificant breaks in tourism activity.
structure. This leads to changes in the usage of various
areas and businesses, gradually resulting in a tourism Residents generally view tourism positively, recog-
monoculture and diminishing traditional economic ac- nising its role in adding vibrancy to daily life. However,
tivities within the city. visitors have voiced concerns about specific issues like
noise pollution, overcrowding, and accessibility chal-
The threat of future touristification in Athens lenges at popular sites. Through strategic planning and
could create a scenario where the success of the des- a commitment to sustainable tourism practices, Ath-
tination hampers the ability to preserve the city’s au- ens aims to balance the needs of residents and tourists
thentic urban and social fabric. The city’s development while preserving the city’s unique character for future
agency, Develop Athens, is officially designated as the generations.
“Destination Marketing and Management Organisa-
tion”, continuing the important work it has consistently The conclusions and recommendations of this
carried out in the field of tourism. “The operation of study can form the foundation for creating a modern
the Sustainable Tourism Observatory, under the um- Sustainable Tourism Observatory. Such an observatory
brella of the Destination Management Organisation, would enable continuous monitoring and evaluation of
strengthens the city’s strategy by promoting innovative tourism activity, strengthening strategic decision-mak-
and sustainable policies. Using the Tourism Carrying ing to ensure a balance between tourism development,
Capacity Study as a ‘compass,’ we are working towards residents’ quality of life, and the protection of both nat-
an Athens that remains both welcoming and resilient ural and urban environments.
for its residents and visitors alike,” says Ioannis Georgi-
zas, CEO of Develop Athens. The development of sustainable tourism policies
and practices is crucial for preserving Athens’ unique-
The City of Athens is leading the way in adopting ness as a destination and enhancing its resilience against
innovative methodologies to address the impact of future challenges. Through the collective efforts of all
tourism, including neighbourhood-level indicators, big stakeholders, Athens can ensure a high-quality, sustain-
data analysis, and field research. In collaboration with able, and welcoming tourism environment that benefits
various stakeholders, the city is prioritising a strategic, both residents and visitors alike.
diagnostic, and preventive approach to managing tour-
ism. This proactive stance aims to ensure that Athens
can control the potential negative effects of the grow-
ing “Overtourism” phenomenon, safeguarding the
city’s infrastructure and quality of life.

Although Athens is not currently experiencing
“Overtourism” across the city as a whole, it is show-