Greece and Türkiye take major steps toward strong tourism cooperation
Greece and Türkiye are entering a new era of tourism collaboration, marked by a joint initiative stretching “from Chios to Ankara.” The Greek Embassy in Ankara hosted a major event on November 4 at the Ankara Hilton Hotel, bringing together Greek local authorities, tourism professionals, and Turkish officials.
A New Era and Opportunities in Tourism
The event focused on tourism potential, flight connectivity, destination strategies, and new cooperation opportunities between the two neighbors. Representatives from the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) Istanbul Office, Pegasus Airlines, and Enterprise Greece presented emerging opportunities in the tourism sector.
Officials from Sakız Island, Dedeağaç, and Gümülcine (Kumçiftliği) showcased destination marketing initiatives, while B2B meetings connected leading tourism stakeholders from both sides.
Strong Participation from Sakız Island to Ankara
Hosted by Greek Ambassador Theodoros Bizakis, the event saw strong representation from several Greek regions, led by Chios Island.
Deputy Mayor of Chios Giorgos Christakis highlighted Ankara’s growing short-trip market, announcing plans to intensify promotional campaigns targeting the Turkish capital.
Turkish officials from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and representatives of the Greek Tourism Office in Istanbul were also in attendance.
A Strategic Tourism Partnership
Ambassador Bizakis underscored the strategic importance of tourism cooperation between Greece and Türkiye.
Over 1.2 million Turkish tourists visited Greece in 2024, and that number is expected to rise even higher in 2025, supported by increased flights, new ferry routes, and simplified land-border crossings.
Rising Interest of Turkish Tourists in Greece
In the first eight months of 2025, air travel from Türkiye to Greece surged.
Athens remains the main entry point for Turkish visitors, while Selanik and the Greek islands — especially Crete, Mykonos, and Santorini — have seen significant growth in arrivals.
Ankara as a New Target Market
With a population of six million, Ankara has become a key market for short-term vacations.
Chios Island aims to strengthen its visibility in the Turkish capital, expanding direct marketing and collaboration with Turkish travel agencies.
“Visa on Arrival” Expansion Discussed
One key topic was the possible expansion of the “visa on arrival” program for Turkish citizens.
Chios representatives emphasized that streamlining visa procedures could further increase Turkish travel demand and strengthen the islands’ position in the Turkish market.
Sakız: A Turkish Favorite
Chios continues to be one of the most popular short-break destinations for Turkish travelers in summer, thanks to its culinary heritage, cultural charm, and proximity to Türkiye.
The island administration plans to intensify Ankara-based promotional efforts for the 2025 season.
Greece Invites Turkish Investment
Enterprise Greece representative Alisandratou introduced tourism infrastructure and real estate investment opportunities in Greece, inviting Turkish investors to explore them.
Pegasus Airlines representative Mert Yöntem Coşkun outlined new routes and destination plans aimed at strengthening connectivity.
Future Outlook: Record Tourism Numbers Expected
Kostas Moundros, President of the Chios Tourism Organization, emphasized the importance of such cross-border initiatives, predicting record Turkish visitor numbers in 2025:
“Chios continues to strengthen its position in the Turkish market each year.”
Giorgos Mylonadis, head of the Chios Rental Homes Association, confirmed plans for expanded flight and ferry capacity to meet rising demand:
“We are continuously increasing our accommodation capacity to welcome our Turkish guests.”
