The Ministry of Tourism, Greece is implementing a national policy focusing on promoting the country as a global 365-Day Destination. 

This is on a long-term plan of five strategic pillars comprising of extending the official summer season, opening of new foreign markets, promoting new Greek destinations, developing thematic tourism products and travel experiences, and attracting new investment of added value.

The country saw more than 26 million in 2015 and 28 million in 2016 and Greek tourism has reached a new all-time high record in all tourism related figures in 2017, including international arrivals and revenue.

According to preliminary data collected by the ministry from all official statistical sources, international arrivals, comprising cruise arrivals, are projected to exceed 30 million by the end of the year, reflecting an increase of about 9% compared to the previous year.

In the first nine months of 2017, international air arrivals at Athens International Airport and 21 main regional airports across Greece, increased by 7.8% compared to the same period of 2016, while for the first 10 months of 2017, the overall number of seats on scheduled flights increased by at least one million, approximately 9% increase.

With a view to 365-days-a-year and sustainable tourism development, the Ministry of Tourism is implementing its national and regional tourism policy in cooperation with the ministries, all 13 Regions of Greece, local authorities, chambers, tour operators and the private sector.

The aim is to turn Greece into a year-round destination focusing on preserving the rich natural and cultural heritage, while actively engaging the local communities, creating new jobs and new tourism activity and promoting sustainability and prosperity for all.

Special focus is given on developing and promoting thematic experiences linked to cultural tourism, religious and pilgrimage tours, cruises, yachting, diving, outdoor & alternative activities in nature (e.g. hiking, mountain-climbing, rock-climbing, biking etc.), sports and recreation, health and wellness tourism, MICE, city tourism and Greek gastronomy, based on the healthy, tasty and nutritious Greek diet.

GNTO’s short film, “Greece- A 365- day destination”  showcases the opportunities and choices Greece offers as a diverse destination year-round, stressing out the importance of a sustainable future in tourism for all.