Short-term rentals in 2026: Athens centre freeze continues, Thessaloniki joins
No new Airbnb registrations in Athens' three central districts, and a similar limit in central Thessaloniki since 1 March 2026.
- Athens municipal districts 1, 2 and 3 (Plaka, Kolonaki, Koukaki, Pangrati, Petralona and more): no new short-term rental registrations through 2026.
- Central Thessaloniki: a similar restriction since 1 March 2026, for one year.
- On sale or inheritance in these zones, the registration is deleted automatically and does not pass to the new owner.
If you plan to buy in central Athens or Thessaloniki to rent on Airbnb, that is not possible right now, even if the flat already has a registration. In these areas, plan for long-term rental or your own use, or look at neighbourhoods and islands outside the restricted zones.
What was decided
The Greek government kept the freeze on new short-term rental registrations in Athens districts 1, 2 and 3. In Thessaloniki the limit covers the First Municipal Community: the historic centre, Ladadika, the port area and the seafront up to the White Tower.
Flats that are already registered and active may keep operating as long as the owner does not change. Once the flat is sold or inherited, the registration is deleted.
Safety rules for every short-term rental
- Civil liability insurance
- A certified electrical installation with a residual-current device
- Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and emergency exit signs
- Pest-control certification and a first-aid kit
Fines
Fines start at €5,000, double for a second breach within 12 months and quadruple for a third. Owners get ten days' notice before an inspection.
Buying a flat to let? Before choosing an area, read the guide to buying property in Greece, with all the costs, taxes and letting rules.
Yavanet will keep updating from official sources.
