Greece Focusing on New Destinations to Extend Tourist Season

Source: Visit Kavala

The Greek Tourism Ministry is bringing new destinations into the spotlight as part of its ongoing strategy to extend the tourist season beyond summer.

Speaking from Kavala, Eastern Macedonia, this week, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias said Greece could tap into dozens of beautiful alternative destinations which can keep travelers coming off season.

The minister was in Kavala to attend a working group with local tourism stakeholders. “Greece is blessed with beautiful landscapes, unique gastronomy and hospitality… it has enormous potential to expand the tourist product by utilizing available financial tools and developing thematic tourism in many areas that do not have as strong a reputation as Kavala,” he said.

Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias at the Chamber of Kavala.

In this direction, Kikilias said the ministry was working with the local chamber to develop infrastructure projects through the utilization of RRF resources and with the private sector.

During his visit, the minister also announced that the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) would be working with local authorities in Eastern Macedonia and with the private sector to showcase the region’s tourism offerings.

“Our goal to extend the tourist season is becoming a reality,” said Kikilias, adding that “the promotion of alternative destinations even in the off season can create added value for local economies.

Ancient Theater of Filippi. Photo source: Ministry of Culture

Welcoming the Kikilias’ visit to the region, Kavala Hoteliers Association President Antonis Mitzalis said it was a very good step towards the inclusion of the region on the international tourist radar.

“We have a very significant growth potential which has remained untapped. We had an excellent year and now steps must be taken to formulate the next decade’s tourism strategy,” Mitzalis added.