Ongoing Farmer Protests in Greece Disrupt Transport Infrastructure, Causing New Road Closures and Airport Blockades Affecting Domestic and International Travel

Published on December 10, 2025

The farmer protests extended into Tuesday, interrupting vital transport infrastructure throughout most of Greece, while farmers continued their protests over delays in their payments, problems with their subsidies, and increased costs. Farmers from different parts of the country are asking the government to provide them with more support for what they describe as inadequately compensated and ever-rising challenges confronting agriculture. The protest has led to big traffic disruptions, road blockages, and in some cases, flight suspensions.

Heraklion Airport Reopens After Protestors Occupy Runways

In Crete, the protests severely impacted Heraklion Airport, which had been closed since 11 p.m. on Monday after protesters occupied the runways, forcing the suspension of flights. However, following an agreement reached between local authorities, farmer representatives, and the president of the Association of Travel Agents of Crete, Michail Vlatakis, the airport was reopened on Tuesday, easing the disruption for travelers. The compromise allows protesters to move their demonstrations to the Northern Road Axis (VOAK) of the island, without further blocking airport operations.

In Chania, farmers gathered at the airport without causing any disruption to ongoing operations. Despite this, tensions remain high on the island, with further demonstrations expected in the coming days. The Kastelli airport, planned to replace the current Nikos Kazantzakis Airport in Heraklion, remains a key part of the region’s transport future, though its construction timeline may be impacted by ongoing unrest.

Farmer Protests Escalate Across Greece

The unrest is not limited to Crete. Throughout Greece, farmers, livestock breeders, and fishers have staged daily mobilizations, blocking national highways and secondary roads as part of a coordinated protest. The protests are centered around rising costs in the agricultural sector, which farmers say have gone largely unaddressed by the government.

These actions have already caused major disruptions to land and sea transport, with road closures complicating travel in several regions. On Wednesday, December 10, farmers from Thessaly’s three major blockades will join fishers from Magnesia to block the port of Volos, adding to the mounting pressure on national transport operations. Tractors will be used on the roads, and fishing boats will block harbor access.

Tourism and Travel Disruptions: Major Impact on Domestic and International Visitors

The ongoing protests and transport disruptions are having a considerable impact on tourism and travel in Greece. Domestic tourists, especially those traveling for the holiday season, are facing delays and unpredictable travel schedules due to road closures, delayed flights, and blocked ports. International visitors may also be affected, particularly those flying into Crete or traveling through major hubs like Thessaloniki and Volos.

The road closures and flight suspensions have caused significant uncertainty for travelers, forcing many to change their travel plans at the last minute. For tourists planning to visit popular destinations like Crete, Athens, and Thessaloniki, the disruptions are creating added challenges. Travel agencies are advising tourists to stay updated on the latest developments, monitor flight statuses, and plan alternative routes where possible. The disruptions could potentially lead to a temporary decline in tourist arrivals, especially during the peak travel periods ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Economic Impact: Strain on Greece’s Tourism Industry

The economic strain caused by these ongoing farmer protests could weigh heavily on Greece’s tourism sector, which has been a key driver of economic recovery in recent years. Tourism contributes significantly to Greece’s GDP, with popular regions such as Crete and Macedonia drawing millions of visitors annually. The disruptions to tourism infrastructure could impact the overall visitor experience, particularly as Greece remains one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for both summer tourism and winter travelers seeking Mediterranean sun.

The government’s efforts to address farmers’ demands while ensuring smooth tourism operations will be critical to maintaining tourism revenues and economic stability in the coming months. How the government balances these competing interests will likely play a central role in shaping Greece’s tourism recovery in the short term.

Future Travel Disruptions: Long-Term Effects on Tourism in Greece

The long-term impact of sustained transport disruptions on tourism could be significant. Frequent road blockages and airport closures may deter future visitors, especially international tourists who seek predictable travel experiences. However, if the government can address farmers’ concerns while ensuring continued smooth operation of transportation systems, the tourism sector will likely rebound, with increased international arrivals in the long run.

The future of Greek tourism will rely on maintaining operational stability at key transport hubs like airports, ports, and major highways. If the transport disruptions can be minimized, Greece will remain a competitive and attractive destination in the European tourism market.

Looking Ahead: Managing Tourism Growth Amidst Challenges

Looking ahead, Greece’s tourism sector will likely continue to grow, especially as travel demand recovers globally. However, ensuring the smooth functioning of transport infrastructure will be crucial to supporting this growth. The resilience of Greece’s tourism industry will depend on how well the government can balance addressing agricultural issues and maintaining strong tourism infrastructure.

As tourism demand increases, particularly during high seasons like summer and holiday periods, efforts to strengthen tourism-related services and transport connections will be essential for sustaining long-term growth.

Navigating Tourism Challenges for a Resilient Future

Farmers in Greece continue to organize protests that greatly disrupt travel, not only for tourists but also for people who move about domestically. The road closures, delayed flights, and ports being blocked cause inconvenience in the traveling experience of the visitors and have a ripple effect throughout the tourism sector. However, how economic needs, agricultural concerns, and tourism growth are balanced by the government remains critical to the future of Greece’s tourism industry. This way, tacking these short-term disruptions and emphasizing long-term sustainability and tourism infrastructure, Greece can continue to welcome international visitors while protecting its tourism sector as a vital economic driver for the future.