- The Region of Central Macedonia participated in three major global tourism expos in Munich, Bucharest, and Belgrade.
- Munich’s F.RE.E. expo showcased Macedonia’s alternative tourism options, like hiking Mount Olympus and culinary adventures.
- Bucharest’s TTR 2025 highlighted the region’s appeal to Romanian visitors, particularly for summer vacations and religious tourism.
- In Belgrade, the IFT expo promoted Macedonia’s blend of natural beauty and local traditions, with authentic regional products stealing the spotlight.
What happens when you mix Bavarian efficiency, Romanian devotion, and Serbian curiosity? You get three very different audiences going wild for the Region of Central Macedonia at global travel expos. This wasn’t just a casual “set up a booth and collect business cards” kind of participation. Nope. Central Macedonia came armed with brochures, traditional delicacies, and enough hidden gems to make even the savviest tourists do a double take. Macedonia is also a country that attracts an increasing number of tourists, and there are also many foreign entrepreneurs who come to open businesses here.
Munich: Hiking, History, and Hearty Meals
The Region of Central Macedonia made a bold first impression at Munich’s F.RE.E. tourism expo—aka Bavaria’s biggest yearly travel party. With around 1,000 exhibitors and over 120,000 visitors, it was like a giant speed-dating event for vacation spots. Somehow, Macedonia stood out.
Visitors couldn’t get enough of the region’s offerings: outdoor adventures on Mount Olympus, ancient ruins like Aigai and Vergina, and traditional dishes that might make you rethink your life choices (for the better). Germans love a good nature and culture combo, especially when they can fit it into a long weekend.
The affair went beyond the usual “sun and sea” narrative, showing Macedonia as a four-season wonderland. Spring and fall? Perfect for hiking, exploring archaeological sites, and stuffing your face with local gastronomy. And let’s not even get started on the cheese-stuffed pies.
Bucharest: Where Beaches and Beliefs Collide
Over at the TTR 2025 expo in Bucharest, something fascinating came to light: Romanians can’t resist Central Macedonia. Seriously. It’s practically a second home to them. This place is like the vacation trifecta, between the golden beaches of Halkidiki and Pieria, Mount Olympus, and Thessaloniki’s bustling vibe.
Religious tourism is big in Romania (Greek Orthodox solidarity, anyone?), so Macedonia’s sacred spots were a significant draw. It turns out that wandering through monasteries and historic churches gives Romanians the spiritual recharge they crave. Who needs a wellness retreat when you have Byzantine mosaics?
Belgrade: From Gastrotourism to Good Vibes
Fast forward to Belgrade’s IFT expo, a top-tier travel showcase for Southeast Europe. Here, Central Macedonia again turned on the charm, pulling in professional travel planners, journalists, and wide-eyed wanderers attracted by a mix of stunning visuals and mouthwatering samples. Local favourites like the Serres-style alkanes (a sweet treat that’s heaven in a bite) left people buzzing long after they left the booth.
Conclusion
By showing up at these three distinct expos, the Region of Central Macedonia proved it’s not just some Mediterranean sidekick—it’s a main character. The strategy here isn’t just about luring people in for peak summer—it’s about creating year-round opportunities for sustainable tourism.
As Deputy Governor for Tourism Vicky Chatzivasileiou put it, “Central Macedonia remains a top destination for Romanian and Serbian tourists, especially for its beaches. But the interest we saw in Munich for alternative forms of travel is a game changer for expanding the season.” Translation: They’re playing the long game, and it’s paying off.
So, whether it’s Germans hiking mythical mountains, Romanians chasing history and faith, or Serbs snagging their fill of regional snacks, Macedonia is proving it’s got what tourists want. Sunny beaches? Sure. But also everything else.
