Forest fires on Chios: is it safe to go on vacation to Greece in the summer of 2025

Forest fires are raging again in Greece — this time on the island of Chios. Is it safe to go on vacation now? Find out what is happening on the island, which areas have been affected, how tourists should behave, and what the authorities advise

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Large-scale forest fires, which threaten the tourist season in Greece every year, started earlier than usual in 2025. This time, the disaster engulfed the country's fifth largest island, Chios, located in the Aegean Sea, near the coast of Turkey. According to The Independent, the fires have been raging for four days, destroying forests and threatening settlements, prompting a state of emergency to be declared on the island.

Where exactly are the fires raging on the island of Chios?

As of Tuesday morning, May 13, Greek civil protection services reported active fires in the areas of Vessa, Liti, and on the coast near Liti Beach. On Tuesday, residents of a seaside village in the southwest of the island were urged to evacuate after thick white smoke appeared over the local beach.

Other villages and towns on the island had also received warnings in the previous days. The authorities are asking everyone to remain alert and follow the official instructions published on the civil protection service website. Fire service representatives acknowledge that “there is still a lot of work to be done to bring the fire under control.”

How important is Chios for tourism and the economy?

Chios is an island known for its unspoiled nature, medieval villages, and architectural heritage from the Byzantine era. It is also the only place in Europe where mastic trees are grown, from which a unique resin is extracted. Mastic is not only a gastronomic symbol of the island but also a strategic industry for the local economy. Fires threatening these trees could cause significant economic damage.

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What advice is being given to tourists and what are the official recommendations from the Greek authorities?

As of June 23, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not issued any new restrictions or warnings regarding travel to Greece. However, the FCDO's general recommendations mention a high risk of forest fires in Greece from April to October.

At the same time, the UK Foreign Office advises:

● Do not light fires or barbecues;

● Do not leave litter, especially glass, which could cause a fire;

● Extinguish cigarettes properly;

● Register your phone number to receive emergency alerts;

● In case of fire, call the emergency number 112 immediately.

It is also recommended to follow official announcements on Twitter (@112Greece) and listen to instructions from local emergency services.

What are the prospects for the situation?

Due to the hot summer and drought, the situation with forest fires in Greece may remain tense. Previously, fires mainly occurred in August, but in 2025, the natural disaster intensified as early as June.

The fires on the island may be just the beginning of a wider threat that could potentially spread to other resort regions.

Therefore, those planning a vacation in Greece should:

● closely monitor forecasts;

● book accommodation in less fire-prone regions;

● plan alternative routes in advance;

● keep documents and essential items ready.

Is Chios Airport operating and are flights being canceled?

Chios National Airport, which operates a limited number of domestic flights, continues to operate as usual, with minor delays. There have been no mass cancellations of flights so far.

If a flight is canceled due to force majeure, airlines usually rebook passengers on the next available flight. Compensation is not usually provided if the reason for the cancellation is beyond the airline's control (e.g., in the case of fires).

Can I cancel my tour or get a refund?

There are currently no travel warnings for Chios, so tour operators are not obliged to refund money if a trip is canceled at the initiative of the tourist. The possibility of a refund will depend on the terms and conditions of your contract with your tour operator.

Travel insurance purchased in advance also does not guarantee compensation if the government does not officially recognize the trip as dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase policies that cover emergencies.

Ukrainians can purchase travel insurance for trips to Greece online at Visit Ukraine — it's convenient, fast, and guarantees that you will be protected in case of unexpected events (including evacuation, hospitalization, or trip cancellation).

We remind you! Lonely Planet has named the 20 best beaches in Europe for summer 2025 — and the list includes not only Mediterranean resorts, but also the cold but charming coastlines of the North. Read about where to go this summer for a beach fairy tale in our previous article.

Photo: illustrative / Reuters

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