Greece introduces fines of up to 1000 euros for collecting shells on beaches.

According to inkorr.com: Tourists heading to Greece can now face serious fines of up to 1000 euros (approximately 48,000 hryvnias) for collecting shells or pebbles on beaches. This decision was made because such actions threaten the ecosystem. New measures have been introduced to protect coastal areas. This was reported by .

Collecting shells is now fined in Greece

The Greek government has introduced new measures to combat mass tourism, which damages untouched beaches and historical ruins. Collecting souvenirs from nature, which may seem harmless at first glance, can actually disrupt the ecological balance and cause coastal erosion. Tourists are advised to be aware of the potential consequences of their actions: every grain of sand can come at a high price. The new rules apply to protected beaches, where enhanced monitoring is being implemented through patrols and cameras.

Fines in Greece for extending sunbed areas

In addition to souvenirs, sunbeds have also come under scrutiny. The law requires 70% of public beaches to remain free from rented sunbeds, and severe fines are now imposed for violations. Fines for individuals and entrepreneurs range from 300 to 5000 euros, depending on the case.

New fines for tourists in Greece

Here are the main new fines for tourists:

• Collecting shells/pebbles: up to 1000 euros, focusing on ecological damage.

• Violating sunbed zones: 300-5000 euros, 70% of beaches - no commercial activities.

• General control: patrols, fines for littering or damaging landscapes.

Every year, Greece is visited by 30 million tourists, creating significant pressure on natural resources. Since 2020, coastal erosion has increased by 15%, and ancient ruins suffer from tourist influx. The government is investing in the development of 'green' areas, but fines remain the main tool. Similar problems are observed in other European countries: in Italy, a 51-year-old Scotsman narrowly avoided arrest for attempting to export six stones and bricks from Pompeii — the fine for this could have amounted to thousands of euros. Authorities emphasize that cultural heritage is not a commodity for sale.