Greece is facing a nationwide 24-hour strike at the peak of the summer tourist season, as employees in the tourism and hospitality sectors stage coordinated protests across the country. Workers are demanding higher pay, improved working conditions, and stricter enforcement of collective labor agreements, arguing that employees should receive a fairer share of the benefits generated by the busy holiday season.
Demonstrations and marches have been scheduled in several cities, with one of the largest rallies expected to take place in Athens outside the Ministry of Labor. Organizers say the action is intended to draw attention to long-standing concerns within the industry and pressure authorities and employers to address workers' demands. “Higher wages, better working conditions, and respect for collective agreements” remain at the center of the protests.
Despite the industrial action, major disruptions for visitors are not expected. Hotels, restaurants, and most tourism-related businesses are anticipated to continue operating normally, allowing vacationers to proceed with their travel plans without significant difficulties.
The strike comes as travel to Greece from Bulgaria remains exceptionally heavy during the summer period. Border crossings and key transport routes have been experiencing increased traffic, leading to long delays and congestion. Travelers heading south are advised to start their journeys early, particularly when passing through the Kresna area and along the Struma Motorway, where traffic bottlenecks have become common during peak holiday travel.
