Touristification dynamics in Greek Islands: a composite index approach

Purpose This study applies a composite index to assess and monitor touristification in the south and north Aegean regions of Greece. Design/methodology/approach The study integrates tourism demand and supply indicators covering from 2011/2012 to 2019 using secondary data from the Aegean Observatory Data Report. The indicators were statistically validated through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to ensure dimensional coherence and eliminate redundancy. Missing values were imputed using a percentile-based method, and indicators were standardised (z-scores), equally weighted and linearly aggregated to construct the composite index. Correlation analysis was then performed to explore the relationships between the index and its component variables. Findings The findings suggest that touristification on Greek islands is characterised by the perpetuation of existing hierarchical dynamics among popular destinations (Thira and Mykonos) and expansion into previously non-touristic islands. The study categorises touristified islands into three groups: those with international airports, those with domestic airports and those without direct airport access. The findings support more differentiated, island-specific tourism planning strategies and highlight the need for early intervention in smaller and peripheral islands. Research limitations/implications The composite index may serve as a monitoring tool for planners and policymakers to identify destinations requiring intervention. The methodology enables comparative analysis across island contexts, supporting evidence-based sustainable tourism planning. Originality/value This study introduces a disaggregated, island-level analytical framework that captures touristification dynamics often obscured in regional/municipal analyses.