Key Tourism Figures 2016: Dimitrios Tryfonopoulos, Secretary General Greek National Tourism Organization

Official Tourism Message

In the years 2015 and 2016, Greek Tourism has proven to be the key driver of the future. Tourism outgoes any situation whatsoever. Against the global crisis, last year around 26 million tourists visited our country. This year, international arrivals between January- August grew by six percent in comparison with 2015 respective months and more than 1.4m UK visitors enjoyed their stay in Greece.

A steady increase in visitor numbers in the shoulder months April and October discloses our secret: that Greece is not just another sea and sun destination, but a country with a wide variety of holidays on offer, which are becoming popular to different types of tourists.

Using both online and offline channels and through tailor-made campaigns, we got down to business formulating a cohesive media plan and marketing strategy with the aim of promoting our enriched tourism product: authentic Greek experiences, off the beaten track destinations especially during the lesser visited months, places and high quality services for sports, culture, luxury, shopping, health, business, food and wine, happiness, fun and adventure. Yachting and sailing, theme travel, maritime tourism, agricultural tourism, cruises, tours in the mountains of Greece and the gastronomy experience are just a few perks of the real Greek experience.

To further enhance our strategy, we are working together with our colleagues at the Ministry of Tourism towards promoting Foreign Direct Investments and, thus, modernizing our tourist infrastructures and services provided. We invite anyone that embraces our vision to visit our country and watch the story unfold.

Greece is a year-round safe destination where visitors are spoilt for choice whether they choose to visit the Greek islands or the mainland and its cities.

For 2017, we are looking forward to welcoming you to enjoy Greece’s unique hospitality and inimitable experiences.