Farmers’ Strikes Cause Major Disruptions in Greece’s Winter Tourism: Fifty Percentage Cancellations in Key Destinations

Published on December 22, 2025

In a major blow to Greece’s winter tourism sector, farmers’ protests have caused widespread disruptions across several popular destinations, leading to significant cancellations in bookings for the Christmas period. Thessaly and Epirus, two of Greece’s most visited regions during the winter, have been particularly affected, with up to fifty percentage of bookings being canceled in some areas. The protests, which have been ongoing for several weeks, have led to a volatile situation for both tourists and local businesses, with many travelers finding themselves unable to access the regions due to blocked roads and heightened tensions.

These disruptions come at a critical time for the Greek economy, as the holiday season is traditionally one of the busiest periods for tourism, especially in areas known for their cultural significance and winter tourism attractions, such as Trikala, Volos, and Pelion. While the protests are focused on securing better terms for farmers, the ripple effects on hospitality, food service, and local economies have been severe, with businesses struggling to recover the lost revenue.

The Impact of Farmers’ Protests on Tourism and the Local Economy

The protests have been centered around farmers’ demands for better conditions, subsidies, and support for sustainable agricultural practices. As a result, they have led to road closures and disruptions to travel in some of the country’s most scenic and culturally rich areas. The Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry has reported significant daily losses in fresh produce and food exports, particularly in regions near the Balkan countries, with road transport being heavily impacted.

The tourism sector in particular is feeling the brunt of these disruptions. According to the President of the Magnesia Hoteliers Association, Giorgos Zafeiris, hotel occupancy rates in Thessaly and Epirus have plummeted by as much as 50%, with many tourists opting to cancel or change their travel plans. Trikala and Volos, two of the most popular winter destinations in Greece, are seeing fewer visitors, especially as the protests drag into the peak travel season.

Local businesses, many of which are small family-owned establishments, are facing the harsh reality of fewer tourists and reduced spending. The community impact is severe, with local restaurants and attractions in places like Trikala and Ioannina already reporting losses in revenues. These businesses, which rely on tourism traffic, are struggling to maintain operations and have called for immediate action to address the situation.

What Travelers Should Know: Tips for Navigating the Ongoing Disruptions

For travelers planning to visit Thessaly, Epirus, or other affected regions in Greece, it is crucial to stay informed about the evolving situation. The Greek government and local authorities have urged travelers to avoid the protest areas and be prepared for potential delays in travel plans. Here are some important tips for navigating these disruptions:

1. Check for Road Closures: Keep an eye on travel advisories issued by the Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and local news outlets for updates on road conditions. Avoid driving through areas experiencing protests, as blockades could cause significant delays.
2. Book Accommodation Early: Due to the uncertainty caused by the protests, it is advisable to book hotels in advance. Some hotels are offering flexible booking policies in case plans need to change.
3. Consider Alternative Routes: If you are traveling by train or bus, check for alternative routes that avoid protest-prone areas. Consider reaching out to your tour operator or transport provider for up-to-date information.
4. Monitor Flight Cancellations: The airport authorities have not reported major cancellations so far, but with the ongoing situation, airports in Thessaly and Epirus may be subject to disruptions. Always check with your airline or flight tracker for real-time updates.
5. Explore Other Areas: If your plans include visiting regions affected by the protests, consider exploring other parts of Greece. The Athens and Santorini areas, for instance, are less impacted by the ongoing unrest.

Local and International Efforts to Resolve the Crisis

As the farmers’ protests continue, there is growing pressure on both the Greek government and the local authorities to find a resolution that will allow the tourism industry to recover and mitigate further disruptions. The Tourism Ministry of Greece is expected to launch new measures to facilitate smoother travel during the upcoming holiday season, including re-routing flights and improving access to major tourist sites.

At the same time, the Greek Tourism Organization has expressed its commitment to ensuring that international tourists continue to enjoy the country’s attractions despite the current situation. Support for the local economy, particularly businesses hit hardest by the protest disruptions, remains a priority.

The Future of Greek Tourism and Local Businesses

Looking ahead, the Greek government will need to balance the needs of its agricultural sector with the long-term health of the tourism industry. The Tourism Authority of Greece has outlined a multi-year plan aimed at improving tourism infrastructure and supporting local businesses to ensure that they remain competitive in the global travel market.

However, the success of these initiatives will depend on the resolution of current labor disputes, as well as the restoration of confidence among tourists. Efforts to expand cultural events, local tours, and eco-friendly tourism options will play a major role in attracting travelers who wish to enjoy the beauty of Greece without contributing to over-tourism.

The current disruptions underscore the need for greater collaboration between the tourism industry and other key sectors to create a more sustainable and resilient tourism model that benefits both local communities and visitors alike. In the meantime, the government is urged to work closely with farmers and businesses to de-escalate tension