Farmers Road Blockades Disrupt Travel During New Year 2026 Holidays in Greece, Affecting its Tourist Mobility and Raising Concerns Over Winter Tourism Growth

Published on December 28, 2025

As the dawn of the New Year 2026 approaches, road blockades set up by farmers continue unabated in various parts of the country of Greece, halting traffic and potentially disrupting movements during the holiday and tourist seasons. The blockade, which would bring much-needed pressure on the government from the farmers who initiated it, would continue until the end of the holiday season and enter the next year.

As of Sunday, 28th December, it has been reported that critical road points in the country remained under the impact of the roadblockades, though there have been some exceptions during the Christmas season so that people can move around. As the Christmas season progresses, roads are expected to be closed down for some routes, which is likely to cause congestion in the busy tourist destinations.

Tourist Travel Delays and Disruptions During Peak Season

According to local authorities, farmers’ blockades at critical points, including major highways and border crossings such as Evzones and Promachonas, have created delays in accessing winter tourism destinations across the country. Areas known for winter tourism, including mountain resorts and coastal destinations, are now facing difficulties in catering to the growing number of holiday travelers. The roadblockades have caused traffic bottlenecks, especially along key routes like the Athens–Thessaloniki corridor, which is a major travel route for both domestic and international tourists.

This situation has directly impacted tourists who were planning to visit snow-capped mountains, ski resorts, and coastal villages. The blockades have made it harder for tourists to get to their booked destinations, leading to cancellations and delayed travel, with many now uncertain whether they will be able to make it to their chosen winter holiday spots.

Tourism Growth at Risk: Winter Destinations Impacted by Traffic Disruptions

The continuing disruptions also pose a significant risk to winter tourism growth in Greece, which relies heavily on road access for travelers seeking seasonal experiences. Mountain resorts and beachside destinations in regions like Crete, Peloponnese, and the Greek Islands depend on efficient transportation for both local visitors and international tourists. As tourists are rerouted or delayed, there is a growing concern that winter tourism revenue will be impacted, especially with tourist arrivals already increasing during the holiday season.

Tourism stakeholders, including the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) and the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation, have expressed worries that prolonged travel disruptions could lead to a decline in visitor satisfaction and economic setbacks for businesses that depend on seasonal visitors. These disruptions not only affect tourist arrivals but also risk damaging Greece’s reputation as a reliable winter destination for future visitors.

Impact on Domestic and International Tourists

The disruptions are affecting both domestic travelers and international tourists. International visitors, particularly those arriving from neighboring countries and long-haul destinations, have expressed frustration with the transportation difficulties, which have hampered their travel plans. Tourist mobility is critical during the holiday season, when many visitors choose to explore multiple destinations or travel across the country to attend festivals or participate in winter sports. The ongoing blockades have caused a ripple effect, impacting travel plans for tourists heading to famous winter locations like Athens, Thessaloniki, Meteora, and the Aegean coast.

Additionally, the tourism sector is facing challenges in maintaining smooth operations for both transportation providers and tourism-related businesses, which rely on road travel to bring visitors to their accommodations and attractions. Delays and disruptions have led to uncertainty for tourists who may struggle to reach hotels, resorts, and ski slopes in time for their planned activities.

Addressing the Impact on Tourism: Government and Industry Collaboration Needed

As the farmers’ protests show signs of continuing into the New Year, government and tourism authorities need to collaborate on solutions that minimize disruptions and safeguard tourist mobility. Temporary traffic diversions, improved communication with travelers, and alternatives for transportation will be critical in ensuring that tourists can still visit their destinations and enjoy a seamless holiday experience.

Moreover, tourism stakeholders have urged the Greek government to expedite the resolution of the disputes, as the winter tourism season is vital to Greece’s tourism recovery. The ongoing blockades underscore the need for improved infrastructure and contingency plans to ensure that travel disruptions do not threaten the country’s tourism growth.

The Future of Tourism in Greece: Focusing on Sustainable Growth

Looking toward the future, Greece’s tourism industry must focus on sustainable growth and better infrastructure planning, especially in anticipation of peak travel periods. A reliable transport network is key to ensuring that both domestic and international visitors can easily access the diverse range of tourist attractions that Greece offers.

With winter tourism set to continue as a major economic driver, the industry must work towards strengthening its infrastructure, while balancing the needs of both local communities and tourism demand. By focusing on future-proofing its tourism infrastructure, Greece can minimize the impact of disruptions like these blockades, ensuring that tourists can continue to visit the country’s famous destinations without hindrance.

Securing the Future of Greece’s Winter Tourism

The farmers road blockades in Greece, occurring around the time of New Year celebrations, have highlighted the significance of tourist mobility within tourism development. Although such events create a short-term impact on tourist mobility, there still exists hope for a successful future of winter tourism within Greece. The industry, focusing on a post-pandemic revival, needs to keep its priorities straight—focusing on the future of tourism development within the country, ensuring tourist mobility and tourist satisfaction.