Santorini is increasingly associated with overtourism, high traffic issues and inquiries about possible negative environmental impacts are emerging (Peeters et al., 2018).

In 2026, Santorini is grappling with a severe "overtourism" crisis, characterized by a staggering ratio of over 100 tourists for every 1 permanent resident. This has led to extreme congestion in the narrow paths of Oia and Fira, where a 600-meter walk can take over 45 minutes during peak hours. The island's infrastructure is under immense strain, with water consumption doubling and the power grid frequently reaching its limit. To combat this, authorities implemented a strict limit of 8,000 cruise passengers per day in 2025, down from previous peaks of 17,000. Additionally, the island faced a massive seismic crisis in early 2025—with over 25,000 earthquakes in two months—which, while stabilized, has left residents and tourists on high alert. High property prices driven by short-term rentals have also forced many locals and seasonal workers to leave, threatening the social fabric and the sustainability of the island's world-famous vineyards.