Thessaloniki Overnight Stays Reach 2.4 Million in 2018

Thessaloniki, northern Greece. Photo Source: Visit Greece/H.Kakarouhas

Thessaloniki recorded 2.4 million overnight stays in 2018 with the Central Macedonia Region accounting for 27 percent of all arrivals to Greece, according to data presented by the Thessaloniki Hotels Association (THA) at its annual New Year’s ‘Vasilopita’ Cutting ceremony.

More specifically, the northern port city saw overnight stays reach 2.4 million with 48 percent of the total made by Greeks and 52 percent by foreign travelers.

The Central Macedonia Region, meanwhile, welcomed more visitors in 2018 than Attica, the Ionian and Aegean regions.

Addressing the event held at the Electra Palace Thessaloniki, THA President Andreas Mandrinos presented the data for 2018, adding that “disparity with Athens is becoming greater”.

“Despite a 5.5 percent rise in average room rate from 70 euros in 2017 to 74 euros in 2018, the average price in Athens is 105 euros,” said Mandrinos, adding that there was also a 6.1 percent increase in revenue per available room from 50 euros in 2017 to 53 euros in 2018, against a 10 percent increase in Athens.

Mandrinos underlined the importance of hard work and coordination and proposed creating a similar project in Thessaloniki in the example of the “This is Athens” project, announcing in the meantime that the THA has submitted a plan for employee training budgeted at 500,000 euros and awaiting approval from the Macedonia Region.

Macedonia Regional Governor Apostolos Tzitzikostas underlined the important role of the Thessaloniki Tourism Organization, adding that with the guidance of the city’s hoteliers, the regional authority was able to realize and promote its offerings.

On his part, Thessaloniki Mayor Yiannis Boutaris underlined the importance of a central strategic three-year plan to be drawn up by private stakeholders.