Tourism

Up-until-now Central Macedonia governor Apostolos Tzitzikostas will hold the sustainable transport and tourism portfolio

In Greece, travel revenues saw a notable increase in the first half of 2024 (Jan – June) underscoring the robust performance of the country’s tourism sector. 

The findings published by the research Institute revealed that although the numbers were not yet on par with pre-pandemic levels, a total of 6.2 million departures, 34.9 million overnight stays, and 2.4 billion euros in expenditures were recorded

Market pundits estimate the Tour Operator still owes approximately 2 million euros to hotels in Greece

For 2024, projections suggest over 34 million cruise passengers, potentially nearing 35 million

This emphasis stems from tourism's extensive interconnectivity with various sectors and its significant contribution, amounting to 10% of Europe's Gross Domestic Product.

European cities like Istanbul, Rome, and Milan are also seeing a rise in popularity, while destinations in Spain and Greece, including Athens, are losing ground after initial post-pandemic demand.

The data was presented by London-based travel insurance company Quotezone

However, despite this year’s bookings projected to rise slightly compared to last year, Yiannis Hatzis, President of the Panhellenic Federation of Hoteliers, stresses the importance of strategic planning

The verdant eastern Aegean island is among the closest to the opposite Asia Minor coast

The publication praises Naxos' rich historical tapestry showcased through its white marbles, ancient temples, and monumental Kouros statues.

Europe’s travel and tourism stakeholders agreed to address the challenges posed by climate change through sustainable actions and cooperation.

Major tour operators like TUI and Jet2.com have expanded their flight offerings and vacation packages to popular Greek island destinations for both Easter and the summer season.

A pilot program allowing 7-day express visas to be issued to Turkish citizens wishing to visit 10 islands in the eastern Aegean began on April 1

The Israeli market ranks seventh in terms of foreign tourist arrivals in Athens for the January to July 2023 period, recording the second-highest growth rate in passenger traffic and tourist arrivals

According to the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), the average hotel occupancy rates in the country witnessed a new uptick in January and February this year compared to last year

Astypalaia Mayor Nikos Kominis commenting on the island’s appeal said "Through ongoing efforts, Astypalaia showcases itself to the global travel community, which increasingly values exotic beauty, quaint villages, tradition, gastronomy, and our sustainable innovations."

Pieria, with its 400 hotels and 900 rental accommodations can become a year-round tourist destination as it combines both mountain and sea attractions.

The data shows major source countries of foreign travelers, like Germany, France, and England will continue to be the key players in foreign arrivals in the country in February

However, despite the positive outlook, the two most popular islands in the Cyclades, Mykonos, and Santorini, struggled to reverse the "No Mykonos, No Santorini" trend from last year.