New Spatial Planning Scheme to Enhance Greek Tourism Product

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni at the 5th “Greek Tourism – A National Affair” / Photo source: Ministry of Tourism

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni said a new spatial planning framework to be finalized in the first quarter of 2024 will create the conditions for a more sustainable tourism product.

Addressing the opening of the 5th “Greek Tourism – A National Affair” conference on Tuesday, Kefalogianni said the country was making efforts to attract investments in this direction with the ultimate goal to become a frontrunner in sustainable tourism practices while ensuring resilience to crisis and market shocks.

“We are working rigorously and with a detailed plan to lay strong foundations for the future of Greek tourism and to create today the conditions for a new round of development focusing on sustainability,” she said.

Key considerations now, she said, are moderation and balance, strengthening social cohesion, respecting people and local communities and protecting the natural and cultural environment.

Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni Addressing the opening of the 5th “Greek Tourism – A National Affair” / Photo source: Ministry of Tourism

Kefalogianni went on to add that Greece’s tourism industry was developing into a key pillar of the economy thanks to strong investor interest in the hospitality and infrastructure sectors.

Among others, the minister said resilience funds were being channeled into marina and port upgrades, the creation of mountain tourism facilities, the promotion of special interest tourism products such as health, wellness, diving and agrotourism, the provision of specialized training and upskilling opportunities for tourism staff, and the digital transformation of the Greek National Tourism Organization.

Lastly, Kefalogianni said 2023 would come to a close with an “exceptional” performance both in terms of revenues and arrivals establishing Greece as a leading global destination.