The legal battle that could transform Airbnb

The legality of short-term rentals in Greece's designated residential areas lies in the hands of the Council of State. This matter was brought forth by the Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage (ELLET), which submitted 16 appeals to the country's top administrative court challenging the conversion of entire buildings into Airbnb accommodation units in Athens' historic Plaka neighborhood.

If these appeals are upheld, it could set a precedent for similar rulings, especially in regions subject to specific urban planning regulations, such as traditional settlements. Most importantly, this legal action will determine, for the first time, whether short-term rentals fall under the category of urban leases, as defined by law, or if they constitute a "disguised" tourist activity that might conflict with the land use regulations specific to each area.

ELLET's 16...