Key Tourism Figures 2016: Rena Dourou, Governor of Attica Region

Official Tourism Message

Now, more than ever, “tourism”, in all its aspects, is a key factor in the prospects of growth in our country.

With this in mind, the design of tourism promotion in Greece’s greatest region does not constitute a simple ‘regional’ matter, but it must be considered from the perspective of a national challenge.

As a Regional Authority, we had to make clear choices in order to design a strategy that highlights the uniqueness of “Attica” as a destination, whilst it promotes its metropolitan role at local, European and global levels.

We have focused on multilateral synergies with public and private tourism stakeholders as well as with the municipalities of Attica. A five-year Roadmap has been elaborated in the Strategic Plan for Tourism Promotion of Attica for the period 2016-2020, on the basis of scientific specifications. Indeed, this Roadmap has two strong cards:

Firstly, Attica with its 66 municipalities. We, therefore, enhance the image of Attica, an inclusive, multifaceted region, still with hidden history, nature and culture routes to be revealed by the traveller. Yet, there is also Attica that combines a series of thematic tourism products, offering unlimited experiences to its visitors.

Secondly, Attica qualifies as a unique all year round tourist destination. Attica has no seasonality, what is more, outstands itself through its notable light, its temperate climate and its people.

At the same time, the Region of Attica is very much ‘present’ in initiatives and international tourism fairs, hosts tourism professionals and promotes its comparative advantages in the international as well as Greek Media.

Attica may be an amazing all year round tourism destination for the citizens of the world who are seeking authentic experiences. The port of Piraeus, Athens Riviera, Marathon, Elefsina, Lavrion, the hiking routes on the mounts of Penteli, Hymettus and Parnitha, as well as the uniqueness of its islands offer such experiences to the visitor.

All of the aforementioned are spectacular places to be and, therefore, constitute a priority on Attica’s tourism promotion internationally.

With these thoughts in mind, you are more than welcome in Attica, a 12-month irreplaceable tourist destination.

And I wish that the international tourism fairs WTM London 2016 and Philoxenia 2016 help Greek tourism enhance its potential.