British tourists warned about new rule before booking summer holiday to Greece

Nabbing a sun lounger on holiday during peak season can sometimes be a challenge.

Then there's the price, with some destinations charging huge amounts to rent a bed for the day.

But it seems tourists travelling to Greece could have even more difficulties finding a spot in the sun after a new change has been announced across the country and the Greek islands.

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Those travelling to Greece this year will be hit with some new rules.

Greek prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, announced the changes - which will come into force in May - over on TikTok.

The rules stipulate that, under the new regulations, only a third of the beach can be occupied by sun-loungers.

This is to reduce overcrowding on the beaches, as well as offer more space for those who cannot afford expensive hire costs.

The prime minister said the ban will be enforced by the use of regular drone inspections, followed by fines if needs be.

Elsewhere, ecologically sensitive beaches will be designated as ‘untouchable' and therefore no beach furniture will be allowed at all.

Alongside the number of loungers, a minimum distance of four metres between the loungers and the shore will now be required, meanwhile beachfront businesses will have to take part in online auctions to secure space.

It's an issue that's been frustrating locals for some time, due to bars and restaurants occupying beaches with loungers.

Many have been trying to 'reclaim the beaches' and are welcoming of the new rule.

Nikos Boutsinis, owner of Santorini Walking Tours, told i: “Greek law clearly states that no beach can be private.

"Personally I hope more limitations are enforced. I am sure people are concerned that there might not be enough sunbeds for everyone, but who wants to swim and sunbathe at an overcrowded and overexploited destination?”

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Earlier this year, Greece also announced a new levy for overnight visitors.

The charge is intended to help combat the damage caused by the wildfires and floods that affected the region last year.

It's expected to generate €300 million this year and the rate will vary based on the type of accommodation, ranging from €1 (£0.86) to €4 (£3.45) per night.

This new tax will be added to Greece's already existing accommodation tax.

And the country isn't the only one to be implementing a fee.

Venice in Italy is also trialling the idea, charging tourists €5 (£4.35) to visit the centre.