Central Macedonia Region Winning Over Traveling Crowds Year Round

Greece’s Central Macedonia Region is winning over the traveling crowds welcoming 7.9 million tourists in 2018, up by 22 percent against 2016, and accounting for 22 percent of all visits to the country, making it the leading region welcoming the country’s international arrivals recent data revealed.

More specifically, according to first edition of INSETE’s Greek regions competitive study, the region recorded a 35 percent rise in tourism-related revenue to 2.3 billion euros compared to 2016.

Israel has evolved into a key source market for Central Macedonia with nearly 1 million Israelis holidaying in the region last year attracted primarily by Thessaloniki’s Jewish history.

According to feedback from this year’s International Mediterranean Tourism Market (ΙΜΤΜ) held in Tel Aviv, earlier this month, Israeli travelers also showed an increased in interest in outdoor and adventure activities.

Authorities are already promoting the region through participation in a number of international expos as well as through the organization of workshops and events in France and Bulgaria.

“Bank of Greece and INSETE findings confirm that for the last four years Central Macedonia has been at the forefront of international arrivals and has achieved a significant increase in tourism revenue,” said Central Macedonia’s vice governor for tourism, Alexandros Thanos.

“The Central Macedonia Region is an ideal destination for visitors all year round. By organizing targeted events and participating in major international exhibitions, we are aiming to establish Central Macedonia as a diverse and multi-themed tourist destination, offering unique visitor experiences,” he added.