Easter bookings are at historic lows, with some labeling the trend as even worse than during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Santorini, a favourite Easter destination in the Cyclades, faces an unprecedented low in hotel bookings this season, driven by the natural disasters that hit the island earlier this year.
“We are down 60-70% compared to other Easters that have passed in previous years. Reservations are currently at the level… that is, for April-May, worse even than coronavirus,” said hotelier Giorgos Tsokalis, cited by OT.gr. “As a business, we have 26 hotels. Right now, I should have opened around ten, I have opened three, and even those three are half full,” he added.
In short:
- Easter bookings are 60-70% lower than previous years.
- Reservations hit lower levels than during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Many hotels remain closed, while in the ones that opened occupancy hardly reaches 50%.
In an effort to salvage the season, businesses have slashed their prices to record lows:
- A three-night private suite in Imerovigli now costs €414, down from € 900 last year.
- Couples can secure a double room in Fira from Good Friday to Easter Monday for just €289.
- In Oia, boutique suites with breakfast now start at €418 for the same period.
Despite these price drops, some hoteliers remain skeptical. While the discounts are designed to woo visitors, the extent of the damage raises questions about whether such measures can turn the tide this year.
Why Are Santorini Easter Bookings So Low?
With Greek Orthodox and Catholic Easter falling on the same date, April 20, the opportunity to capitalize on bookings is exceptional, but Santorini cannot bank on the momentum. Here are the main reasons why, in a nutshell:
- Restrictions are in place in parts of the caldera with human settlements below them until mid-May.
- Affected areas include the Old Port of Thira, Armeni, Ammoudi, and Korfos bays.
- Cruise ships will divert disembarkation to Athinios port until May 15.
- Operations to reduce landslide risks have already begun, and if everything goes according to plan, they will be completed within six weeks.
- Tourism enterprises temporarily shut down in limited areas have asked for state compensation.
Under the initiative Santorini 2025: Year of Promoting and Supporting Authenticity, the island is focusing on preserving its rich traditions, protecting the environment, and enhancing local experiences for visitors. But these efforts, while well-intentioned, are not enough to draw in Easter travelers this year.
While Tsokalis has reported a 70% drop in bookings for his hotels, other sources suggest reductions as steep as 30% on the island. No matter which figure you rely on, Santorini faces significant losses this Easter.
Despite the struggles, the local community isn’t backing down. From environmental conservation to joint events, Santorini is laying the foundations for a more sustainable type of tourism. The short-term benefits may be underwhelming, but the island is playing the long game.
For tourists planning their next trip, the message seems clear: Santorini is doubling down on what makes it so special—the authenticity of its people, food, and culture. Even in difficult times, it’s a destination like no other.
