- Greece is introducing new tourism tax rules:
- The “Resilience Fee” on January 1, 2025, replaces the old Accommodation Tax.
- It applies to hotels, short-term rentals, and other lodging options.
- Tax rates vary by accommodation type and season.
- Higher taxes are from April to October, and lower rates are from November to March.
Starting January 1, 2025, Greece’s government, in its infinite wisdom, is swapping the Accommodation Tax for the more ominously titled “Resilience Fee.” This clever tax applies to all kinds of lodging—no exceptions here. Whether it’s a five-star hotel, a seaside villa, a quaint B&B, or an Airbnb, you better believe this fee has its sights set on you.
The tax isn’t one-size-fits-all. Rates depend on the accommodation category and when you’re staying. That’s right—just when you thought your summer getaway couldn’t cost more.
How Much Are Tourists Paying? Here’s the Breakdown
April to October (aka peak tourist wallet-emptying season):
- 1-2 Star Hotels: €2 per night
- 3-Star Hotels: €5 per night
- 4-Star Hotels: €10 per night
- 5-Star Hotels: €15 per night (because luxury ostensibly has its price…and then some)
- Furnished Rooms/Apartments: €2 per night
- Short-Term Rentals (Airbnbs): €8 per night
- Standalone Villas or Homes Over 80m²: €15 per night
- Tourist Villas: €15 per night
- Furnished Tourist Residences (less than 80m²): €8 per night; over 80m², it jumps to €15.
November to March (off-season, aka slight reprieve season):
- 1-2 Star Hotels: €0.50 per night
- 3-Star Hotels: €1.50 per night
- 4-Star Hotels: €3 per night
- 5-Star Hotels: €4 per night
- Furnished Rooms/Apartments: €0.50 per night
- Short-Term Rentals (Airbnbs): €2 per night
- Standalone Villas or Homes Over 80m²: €4 per night
- Tourist Villas: €4 per night
- Furnished Tourist Residences (less than 80m²): €2 per night; over 80m², it’s €4.
Who’s Behind the New Tourism Tax Rules and Why
Greece has decided that tourists’ love for its beaches, sunsets, and souvlaki must come with a slightly higher price tag. They’re branding this as a “resilience measure” to support the tourism sector. Translation? They need more cash, and visitors are a convenient source.
This tax swap applies to every overnight stay, from the old Accommodation Tax to the new and shiny Resilience Fee. So, no matter whether you’re roughing it in a budget hotel or living it up in a luxury villa, you’ll be chipping in.
While some might call it a smart move to bolster tourism infrastructure, others might call it, well, annoying. But hey, at least you’ll be “building resilience,” whatever that means.
So, if Greece is on your 2025 travel list, consider this your wallet’s heads-up. Adjust your vacation budget—or make peace with paying more for that picture-perfect island escape.