Greece has implemented a daily visitor cap of 8,000 on the island of Santorini, making it the first major European destination to legally limit tourism in response to overcrowding that has degraded the visitor experience.

The System

Visitors must register online and receive a QR code for entry. Cruise ships are limited to 3 per day, down from the previous average of 6. Local residents and hotel guests are exempt from the cap.

Reaction

The cruise industry opposes the limits, but residents and regular tourists have praised the change. Other Greek islands are considering similar measures.