Evgenios Vassilicos |President of the Athens- Attica and Argosaronic Islands, Hotel Association

ATHENS: SUCCESS WITH A PURPOSE

Greece is widely recognized for its history, landscape and culture. Today, it is also a country in motion, where cities are evolving, new experiences are emerging and local traditions are finding new relevance in contemporary travel.

Athens embodies this evolution. An established international destination, it combines ancient heritage with contemporary urban life – from its architecture and neighborhoods to its creative industries, gastronomy and vibrant cultural scene. Together with the greater Athens region and the islands, it offers a diverse destination to discover throughout the year.

The next chapter of this success depends on how wisely a destination develops. Infrastructure, technology and connectivity are increasingly important to the way cities operate and welcome visitors. Equally important is the human experience: preserving the character of the neighborhoods, the quality of hospitality and the cultural encounters that turn a visit into a lasting memory.

Beyond the city, Attica’s vineyards, indigenous grape varieties and local producers offer another dimension of the destination, rooted in a wine culture stretching back more than 3,000 years. Through our collaboration with the Wine Producers Association of Attica (ENOAA), we are helping connect hospitality with wine and gastronomy and encourage visitors to explore more of the region.

Hotels are central to this experience. They connect visitors with local businesses, culture and gastronomy, helping visitors discover the destination beyond its landmarks. By supporting tourism development that combines quality, innovation and collaboration, we work to create lasting value for visitors, businesses and local communities.

The World Travel Market brings the international tourism community together to exchange ideas, build partnerships and shape the future of travel. In this international setting, GRtraveller’s “The New Greece” edition offers a valuable platform to share the evolving story of Greek tourism with a global audience.

As we welcome the world to Athens and its greater region and islands, our purpose is clear: to build on our success by creating greater value for everyone it touches.

Athens has earned its place on the world tourism map. The challenge now is to make its success count -for everyone who visits, and for everyone who calls it home.

Evgenios Vassilicos

President of the Athens- Attica and Argosaronic Islands, Hotel Association