Greece invites Turkish tourists for winter tourism as air links expand
At a promotional event unveiling Aegean Airlines’ 2026 flight schedule, new plans aimed at boosting winter tourism between Türkiye and Greece were presented to the public. The event was organized in cooperation with the Tourism Office of the Greek Consulate General in Istanbul and Aegean Airlines, and took place at the historic Şişmanoğlu Megaro Building on Istiklal Avenue.
Following strong interest from Turkish travelers to Greek islands and cities during the summer months, Greece’s flagship carrier Aegean Airlines announced an increase in flight frequencies between the two countries. The event was attended by Greek Consul General in Istanbul Konstantin Koutras, Tourism Attaché Maria Rachmanidou, the President of TÜRSAB, representatives of leading travel agencies, and executives from TAL Aviation, Aegean Airlines’ General Sales Agent in Türkiye.
TAL Aviation General Manager Mirey Goldag and Customer Relations Manager Çiğdem Eruz provided detailed briefings on the expanding flight network, new destinations, and special advantages offered to travel agencies. The program concluded with a raffle in which two participants won Aegean Airlines flight tickets.
Invitation for the Winter Season
Speaking at the event, Consul General Konstantin Koutras highlighted the significant contribution of Turkish tourists to the Greek economy during the summer season and expressed Greece’s eagerness to welcome Turkish visitors throughout the winter months as well.
Tourism Attaché Maria Rachmanidou emphasized that Turkish travelers hold strategic importance for Greece’s tourism sector.
Flight Frequencies on the Rise
According to Aegean Airlines’ 2026 planning, the updated flight schedule includes:
- Istanbul – Athens: 4 flights per week
- Izmir – Athens: 5 flights per week
- Istanbul – Thessaloniki: 2 flights per week (launched as of November 24, 2025)
- Istanbul – Mykonos: 4 flights per week
- Izmir – Thessaloniki: 1 flight per week starting June 1
- Istanbul – Crete: 2 flights per week from February 9, increasing to 3 per week after April 4
- Crete Emerges as a Winter Tourism Hub
Mirey Goldag drew attention to Crete’s winter tourism potential, noting that the island’s mild climate allows year-round travel. Key attractions include Chania’s historic center, the Venetian Harbor, the Palace of Knossos, the Lasithi Plateau, canyon hiking routes, local gastronomy experiences, spa centers, and nature-based activities.
It was also highlighted that several Greek islands offer golf courses and venues for exclusive events, further diversifying winter tourism options.
Special Incentives for Travel Agencies
Çiğdem Eruz outlined a range of incentives for travel agencies, including fixed-price wholesale tickets, mileage and bonus programs, free ticket changes and seat selection, discounted extra baggage options, and benefits provided through the Farelogix system.
