Athens Classic Marathon: A Guaranteed Tourism Attraction

Hellenic Chamber of Hotels President Yiorgos Tsakiris

The 31st Athens Classic Marathon held on 10 November without doubt contributed to Athens’ image as a tourism destination as it was broadcast all over the world. The Greek capital itself hosted all athletes and their supporters in the best possible way and proved that Athens is a destination suitable for hosting major events.

When asked to comment on the event, the president of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, Yiorgos Tsakiris, referred to an “absolutely successful” event.

“At a time outside of the peak season, 15,000 foreign visitors participated in the events and the marathon, giving a boost to the city’s economic and tourism activity,” the chamber’s president said.

Mr. Tsakiris reminded how important and effective the contribution of major sport and cultural events is for the tourism promotion and development of a destination and the effort for the extension of Greece’s tourism season.

The Greek Tourism Ministry also supported the Athens Classic Marathon as it was considered a major sporting event for attracting more tourists to the Greek capital.

“The Athens Classic Marathon is the best advertisement for Greek tourism as it places Athens in the center of global public attention,” Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni had said at a press conference held some time before the event.