Greece Aims To Make Central Macedonia An Irresistible Attraction For Tourists

Photo © Anastasios71

The Region of Central Macedonia can become an irresistible attraction for tourists from around the world once scheduled infrastructure projects are complete, according to Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras. Central Macedonia is the second most populous region in Greece after Attica.

Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras. Photo © GTP

While speaking recently at a campaign rally in Thessaloniki, the Prime Minister said that “investments have begun to arrive” and referred to new hotels under construction in Halkidiki. When referring to the region’s alternative forms of tourism, he made particular reference to religious tourism that “will bring many Russian visitors to Macedonia.”

In regards to new infrastructure projects in the region, he referred to the expansion project soon to begin at Macedonia Airport. The airport’s expansion is expected to give a big boost to Northern Greece’s tourism. “As of 2016, the airport will receive transatlantic flights,” he said.

Mr. Samaras referred to the construction of the vertical axis of Egnatia Odos motorway, Thessaloniki-Promahona, which “will be the most important passage to and from Eastern Europe.”

He also referred to the works for the underground railway crossing in the Menemeni area that are expected to begin in the near future.

Thessaloniki Metro

The Greek PM also mentioned the works in process for the construction of the Thessaloniki Metro. “A project with huge character development continues, despite the huge problems we encountered,” he said. The Thessaloniki Metro will be a 9.6 km network with 13 modern stations.

According to Attiko Metro, until the present day, 73 percent of the Metro base line tunnels has been completed, while the archaeological works have been completed by 88 percent.

The PM added that the Government’s goal is for Thessaloniki and Macedonia to become an international gateway to Eastern Europe for countries such as China, India and Australia.