Greece Sees Significant Increase in Tourist Arrivals Despite Global Crises

Strategic Insights -

Greece has recorded a substantial increase in tourist arrivals in June, with the Minister of Tourism Vassilis Kikilias attributing the growth to the country's strategic planning and cooperation with the private sector. In an interview with ERT1 and journalist Dimitris Kottarides, Kikilias stated that the arrivals this year in June have increased by a large margin compared to the same period last year, with 1,198,000 arrivals recorded. The Minister also highlighted the country's efforts to extend the tourist season, pointing to the success of attracting high-income travelers and the growth of cruises, which has seen a 280% increase in the port of Thessaloniki.

Key Takeaways:

  • The number of foreign arrivals at the "El. Venizelos" and Fraport airports in June has increased by 1,198,000 compared to the same period last year.
  • Tourist arrivals in June are also marginally increased compared to June 2019, with 3,477,900 arrivals recorded.
  • The Minister of Tourism has confirmed that the planning implemented by the Ministry of Tourism has led to a very satisfactory picture of tourist flows and travel revenues, with the goal of extending the period and attracting high-income travelers.
  • The tourism development in areas of Central and Western Macedonia has been notable, with the replacement of Russians and Ukrainians by other Balkan travelers achieved through targeted strategy and agreements with major touroperators and political actors of the Balkans.
  • The number of visitors to the Acropolis has increased, with 16,000 tourists visiting every day.
  • The Minister of Tourism has emphasized the need to extend the arrival of travelers until the beginning of winter, with a goal of ending the season in December 2022.

Statistics:

  • 1,198,000 foreign tourist arrivals at the "El. Venizelos" and Fraport airports in June.
  • 3,477,900 tourist arrivals in June 2019.
  • 280% increase in cruises at the port of Thessaloniki.
  • 16,000 tourists visiting the Acropolis every day.
  • 95% occupancy rate in hotels during the early period of the season.

Sources:

  • ERT1
  • Journalist Dimitris Kottarides
  • Al Bawaba (Albawaba.com) (c) 2022