Greek Island Accommodation Scarce and Costly for August Holiday

The popular Greek August 15th holiday weekend is proving challenging for travelers, with accommodation on the islands becoming scarce and prices soaring. Many visitors are making last-minute plans, viewing these few days as their sole summer vacation opportunity due to the escalating costs.

Occupancy rates in the Cyclades islands are reportedly nearing 100%, and prices have reached levels comparable to the minimum wage. For instance, on the island of Tinos, only one accommodation option remained for a family of four, with the cost reaching approximately 1,395 euros for a four-day stay. For couples, prices range from 561 to 653 euros.

The situation is even more difficult in the Saronic Gulf islands, which are closer to Athens. In Aegina, a family of four could face costs between 758 and 1,416 euros for accommodation, while couples might pay between 443 and 977 euros.

The increased cost of island holidays begins even before arrival, as ferry tickets remain significantly expensive. A round trip on a high-speed ferry from Piraeus to Amorgos, for example, costs 170 euros per passenger. Costs for inter-island routes also remain high, further burdening family budgets.