Survey: 86% of Greeks See Tourism as Key to the Economy

The findings of the Pulse poll were introduced by Pulse CEO Giorgos Arapoglou in a discussion with Kathimerini English Edition Editor-in-Chief Tom Ellis. Photo source: Reimagine Tourism in Greece

The significance of tourism to the Greek economy is underscored by the findings of a survey conducted by research and polling firm Pulse, which explored the perceptions of Greeks on tourism and tourists.

Presented on Tuesday during the “Reimagine Tourism in Greece” conference in Athens by Pulse Managing Director George Arapoglou, the survey was conducted between September 13 and 16, based on 1,149 individual interviews.

According to the survey, approximately 86 percent of respondents consider tourism to be very important for Greece and key to the country’s economy. Conversely, the proportion of Greeks who perceive tourism’s contribution to the economy as “small” remains in the single digits.

In response to the dilemma of whether they would prefer a) fewer foreign tourists but a better economic situation, or b) more tourists regardless of their economic impact, 54 percent clearly favor the first option — fewer visitors accompanied by a better economic environment.

Majority of Greeks concerned about overtourism

Respondents were also asked about their views on overtourism, a pressing issue that affects both Greece and other countries.

When inquired whether overtourism exists in Greece, 67 percent of respondents expressed concern. Of these, 29 percent view it “definitely” as a problem, while 38 percent believe it could potentially be an issue. 20 percent answered “probably not,” and 6 percent stated, “No, there is no overtourism.”

“Residents of the islands were more likely to perceive overtourism as a significant issue,” Arapoglou noted.

Additionally, 46 percent of respondents indicated that the “Greek landscape” and “tradition” are endangered by tourism. Only 25 percent believe that tourism development respects the natural environment.

High prices and Short-term rentals

Participants were also critical of accommodation prices, with 59 percent stating that these costs hinder Greeks from vacationing in their preferred destinations.

Moreover, 44 percent expressed “definite” concern about the impact of short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, on the urban and social fabric of Athens, while another 30 percent are somewhat concerned.

Future of tourism

Regarding whether the government’s choices for the future of Greek tourism are headed in the right direction, 48 percent responded affirmatively, while 28 percent expressed doubts and called for improvements. Sixteen percent remained undecided.

“In our view, the survey demonstrates that our respondents regard tourism as a high-value industry for Greece. The concerns raised do not contradict people’s support for the business but rather reflect their desire for improvements,” Arapoglou commented on the findings.

“The survey serves as a warning that while we are on the right path, we must not become complacent,” he added.

The survey was commissioned by the Kathimerini newspaper.