Santorini Tourism Stays Strong Despite Seismic Activity, Says Greek Minister

Bookings for the Greek island of Santorini remain high despite ongoing seismic activity, according to the country’s tourism minister, Olga Kefalogianni. Speaking to public broadcaster ERT on Thursday, she emphasized that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will take necessary measures to ensure visitor safety. She reassured potential tourists that Greece is transparent about the situation and prepared to handle any developments.

When asked about the impact on local businesses, Kefalogianni acknowledged that operations on the island would not be the same as last year. She stressed that adjustments would be required depending on how seismic activity evolves, hinting at potential restrictions or safety measures in the coming weeks. Despite these concerns, Santorini’s tourism industry remains resilient, with strong booking numbers.

Santorini, a small volcanic island and one of Greece’s most visited destinations, attracts approximately 3.4 million tourists annually. On February 6, Greek authorities declared a state of emergency for the island, effective until March 3, due to increased seismic activity. While the situation remains under observation, officials remain optimistic about managing tourism while prioritizing safety.