Tourism in Greece Faces Setbacks as Storm Byron Brings Flooding and Disruptions

Published on December 5, 2025

Greece is currently grappling with severe weather disruptions caused by Storm Byron, which has led to extensive flooding and travel challenges across the country. The storm, which has affected both urban and rural areas, prompted Greek authorities to issue new work guidelines, including recommendations for teleworking and safety protocols for outdoor and delivery workers. These measures are particularly important for the tourism industry, which is seeing direct impacts from the storm, especially in popular destinations like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete.

The severe flooding has hindered travel across key transportation routes, affecting both domestic and international visitors. Airports, bus services, and ferry routes have been delayed or canceled, especially in regions prone to heavy rainfall and flash flooding. The public-sector absences and telework recommendations aim to protect workers and mitigate further disruptions in the wake of the storm. Meanwhile, the tourism industry is working to adapt to the evolving situation, as travelers are urged to stay updated on weather conditions before planning their trips.

Travel Disruptions Across Greece

Storm Byron has caused widespread disruptions in Greece’s travel infrastructure. Major tourist hubs such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and Santorini have been impacted by heavy rainfall and rising floodwaters, leading to significant delays at transportation hubs. In Athens, the Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport saw delays and cancellations due to strong winds and poor visibility, affecting both domestic and international flights.

Several ferry routes connecting the mainland to islands in the Aegean Sea have also been suspended, with travelers looking to reach destinations like Mykonos, Paros, and Crete facing uncertainty. For visitors with scheduled plans, particularly those flying or traveling by ferry, it is crucial to check with local authorities and service providers for updates regarding any cancellations or delays.

Public transportation within the capital has also been impacted, with flooding and debris obstructing roads, leading to delays in buses and taxis. The city of Thessaloniki, which has seen major tourism growth in recent years, has also faced disruptions in both its airport and public transit systems. Due to the high volume of rainwater, some of the iconic archaeological sites, such as the Acropolis in Athens, have been temporarily closed for safety reasons.

Impact on Tourism and Outdoor Activities

Tourism, a vital sector of Greece’s economy, is facing significant disruption due to the storm. Many tourists have found their itineraries altered as a result of closed airports, delayed transport services, and canceled tours. For travelers planning to visit outdoor attractions, such as hiking routes in Meteora, the beaches of the Peloponnese, or the ancient ruins in Crete, the heavy rainfall and high winds have led to temporary closures of these popular spots.

In particular, Greece’s extensive network of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, water sports, and archaeological site tours, has been severely affected. Tour operators have been working with local governments to reschedule activities or offer alternatives to visitors, but the storm’s unpredictability has left many plans in limbo. With parts of the island of Crete and the Cyclades seeing the worst of the flooding, outdoor enthusiasts have been advised to postpone any adventure tourism activities until the storm subsides.

For the hospitality industry, the storm has led to a decline in tourist arrivals, especially for those with short stays in Athens or other city centers. Hotels in the capital and other major tourist areas are offering flexible cancellation policies to accommodate affected guests. However, many visitors have decided to delay their travel plans to avoid the ongoing disruptions and to wait for safer conditions before exploring Greece’s attractions.

Work Guidelines and Safety Protocols for Employers

In response to the widespread disruption caused by Storm Byron, Greece has issued work guidelines aimed at minimizing the impact on the workforce and enhancing safety across various industries, including tourism. The guidelines recommend that private-sector employers, especially those in outdoor, travel, and delivery-related services, ensure the safety of their employees during the storm. Employers are being urged to provide flexible working conditions, including the option to telework where feasible, to mitigate the risks posed by the severe weather.

The government has issued safety protocols for employees who are required to work in hazardous conditions, such as those in delivery services, outdoor tours, or transportation roles. Employers are urged to prioritize employee welfare by adjusting shifts or offering safety equipment and protective gear to those working outdoors. These measures are especially important for the tourism sector, where the safety of workers leading tours or handling travel logistics is essential for maintaining Greece’s high standards of service.

Looking Ahead: Recovery and Tourism Resilience

As Storm Byron moves out of Greece, recovery efforts are already underway. Local authorities and the tourism industry are working together to restore transportation services, reopen closed sites, and resume planned activities. The government has assured the public that it is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to issue updates to travelers and residents.

Despite the storm’s challenges, Greece’s tourism industry remains resilient, with continued efforts to ensure the safety of visitors and the sustainability of the country’s attractions. While the storm has temporarily disrupted travel plans, Greece’s infrastructure and commitment to service excellence will ensure that the country remains one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations.

As tourists begin to resume their travel plans, the Greek tourism sector is well-positioned to handle the seasonal increase in visitor numbers and continue to provide travelers with exceptional experiences across the country’s cultural, historical, and natural offerings.