Thessaloniki Shows its Best at Tourism Expos in Greece and London

Halkidiki Tourism Organization (HTO) President Grigoris Tasios and TTO Representative Kyriaki Oudatzi with members of the region’s delegation at the WTM 2024. Photo source: TTO

Thessaloniki in Northern Greece is “sailing” for international markets participating in Greek and foreign tourism expos to highlight its unique offerings.

To enhance its city promotion efforts, the Thessaloniki Tourism Organization (TTO) participated in the WTM London 2024 exhibition alongside the Central Macedonia Region, focusing on attracting British travelers and tourism professionals.

In addition, the TTO emphasized strengthening existing partnerships and building new ones at the 39th Philoxenia-Hotelia International Tourism and Hotel Equipment Exhibition.

“The TTO’s participation in internationally renowned tourism exhibitions, combined with its close collaboration with institutional, public, private, and other regional stakeholders, reinforces the goal of establishing Thessaloniki as a premier tourist destination,” said Kyriaki Oudatzi, a TTO representative.

Philoxenia-Hotelia: A field to engage with tourism professionals

Photo source: TTO

Just before the exhibition’s official opening, the organization’s representatives showcased Thessaloniki to over 100 hosted buyers from around the world attending Philoxenia.

Tourism professionals were provided with promotional materials showcasing the city’s offerings and were guided through the historical and commercial center via specially designed routes featuring key monuments and popular tourist spots.

During the exhibition, the TTO delegation conducted numerous B2B meetings with Greek and international professionals, presenting the destination’s tourism offerings through tailored presentations and activities.

Photo source: TTO

“The synergies and dynamic alliances we foster aim to establish new partnerships and attract emerging markets and tourism professionals,” Oudatzi added.

The organization further stood out with an innovative 360° Photo Booth, engaging hundreds of visitors to promote Thessaloniki on social media.

The experience culminated in a gastronomy event where Thessaloniki Mayor Stelios Angeloudis, alongside municipal officials, crafted a giant meringue heart shaped like the organization’s logo.

Thessaloniki takes center stage at the Greek Travel Awards

TTO Representative Kyriaki Oudatzi with Head of GNTO UK & Ireland Office Eleni Skarveli. Photo source: TTO

In collaboration with the Central Macedonia Region, the city’s tourism board presented its offerings to British travelers and professionals at the WTM 2024 London fair. Officials highlighted Thessaloniki’s and the surrounding area’s potential to support a new year-round tourism model.

“Addressing seasonality and bolstering our region remain our top priorities,” stated Vice-Regional Governor for Tourism Vicky Hatzivasileiou.

On the event’s sidelines, Thessaloniki gained prominence at the Greek Travel Awards, hosted by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO).

Renowned for its vibrant gastronomy scene, the city was named “Best Culinary Destination 2024”, recognized for its strong digital presence, updated tourism offerings, collaboration with local stakeholders, and impactful promotional campaigns.

“We are deeply honored by this distinction,” said Oudatzi, emphasizing that it reflects a collective effort to make Thessaloniki an even more appealing destination for global tourism.