Kavos, Corfu, Second in Europe for Bed Bug and Dirty Mattress Complaints
Corfu, June 22, 2026 – Kavos, the popular nightlife resort on the Greek island of Corfu, has been ranked as the second-worst European destination for complaints about bed bugs and dirty mattresses in a new study. The research, conducted by MattressNextDay, analyzed 12.9 million hotel reviews on TripAdvisor from 59 popular European destinations to identify where travelers most frequently report such issues.
Study Methodology and Key Findings
The study found Rome to be the top offender, with 31.37 complaints per 1,000 reviews, significantly higher than any other destination. Italy had a total of three entries in the top ten, with Venice ranking seventh (12.66 complaints per 1,000 reviews) and Florence ninth (10.43 complaints per 1,000 reviews).
Greece secured two spots in the top three: Kavos, Corfu, came in second with 19.05 complaints per 1,000 reviews, closely followed by Athens in third place with 18.96 complaints. Amsterdam ranked fourth with 17.40 complaints, and Paris, five years after initial reports of bed bug infestations, placed fifth with 16.02 complaints.
The full ranking of European destinations with the most complaints is as follows:
- Rome, Italy
- Kavos, Greece
- Athens, Greece
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Paris, France
- Brussels, Belgium
- Venice, Italy
- Budapest, Hungary
- Florence, Italy
- Bucharest, Romania
Expert Warnings on Bed Bug Transmission
Martin Seeley, CEO of MattressNextDay, warned travelers about the ease with which bed bugs can be transported from hotels to homes. He explained that these insects can easily hide in clothing, luggage, and fabrics, often going unnoticed by travelers until weeks later. By then, the problem can escalate significantly, as female bed bugs lay between 200 and 500 eggs over approximately two months. Seeley also noted that even bed bug eggs, which are sticky, can be transferred from hotels to homes.
Seeley advised travelers to inspect more than just bed sheets. Bed bugs commonly hide in mattress seams and labels, bed frame crevices, headboards, and furniture such as nightstands, chairs, and luggage racks. He also highlighted that dark spots, reddish stains, shed skins, and clusters of small eggs can indicate the presence of bed bugs in a room.
Local Reaction and Implications for Tourism
The findings have sparked concern among local stakeholders. A comment attributed to “the municipality” on the original news article stated, “We’re doing well. Champions in the negatives.” This sentiment reflects a potential blow to the reputation of Kavos, a destination heavily reliant on tourism.
The issue of bed bugs and dirty accommodations can significantly impact tourist satisfaction and future bookings. As a popular destination, Corfu’s tourism industry will need to address these concerns to maintain its appeal and ensure a positive experience for visitors.
This study underscores the importance of stringent hygiene practices and regular inspections in hotels and accommodation facilities across popular tourist destinations. Travelers are also encouraged to be vigilant and take precautionary measures to avoid bringing bed bugs home.
Source: Daily Mail, Corfu TV News
