Religious tourism takes centre stage for Eastern Macedonia and Thrace at London travel fair
The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace promoted its tourism destinations and explored new international partnerships at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2026 in London, highlighting the potential of religious tourism. Thassos also received an award as an Emerging Destination at the Greek National Tourism Organisation's Travel Awards.
The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace participated in the World Travel Market (WTM) 2026 in London, holding a series of business meetings and promotional activities aimed at strengthening the region's international tourism profile and opening up new market opportunities.
During the exhibition, regional representatives held scheduled meetings with travel agents, tour operators and professionals from the international tourism industry to explore potential partnerships and increase the region's visibility in overseas markets.
On the sidelines of the event, Panagiotis Archontis, the region's Deputy Governor for Tourism, met with Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Deputy Tourism Minister Anna Karamanli. Discussions focused on promoting Eastern Macedonia and Thrace as a tourism destination, with particular emphasis on the potential for developing religious and pilgrimage tourism.
The regional delegation also took part in promotional events and activities, showcasing the area's diverse tourism offerings and destinations.
THASSOS RECOGNISED AS AN EMERGING DESTINATION
A highlight of the region's participation was the recognition of Thassos as an "Emerging Destination" at the Greek National Tourism Organisation's (GNTO) Travel Awards.
The award was jointly received by Archontis and Ioannis Markanos, Deputy Mayor of Thassos responsible for Tourism.
FOCUS ON NEW INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
Commenting on the region's participation in WTM London, Archontis said the objective went beyond simply attending international exhibitions, stressing the importance of establishing concrete partnerships and reaching new tourism markets.
"Our presence at WTM London represents another meaningful step in our efforts to strengthen the position of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace on the international tourism map. We do not simply attend exhibitions; we seek to build genuine partnerships, open up new markets and confidently showcase everything our region has to offer," he said.
He added that Eastern Macedonia and Thrace had the potential to play a leading role in the evolving tourism industry, highlighting planning, cooperation and international outreach as key priorities.
The region's participation in WTM forms part of its broader strategy to promote its destinations internationally and strengthen cooperation with organisations and professionals across the global tourism sector.
