- Represented by Tourism Advisor Konstantinos Gasparakis on behalf of the Region of Crete, the Municipality of Rethymno showcased its offerings at the IFTM Top Resa international tourism expo in Paris.
- Discussions with international travel professionals centered heavily on alternative tourism models, including cycling routes, hiking trails, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) travel.
- French travelers showed strong demand for authentic, experiential travel and shoulder-season visits, supported by ongoing direct flight connectivity between Paris and Heraklion.
- Local wine production and Cretan olive oil took center stage as key components of the region’s cultural identity and growing culinary tourism sector.
The Municipality of Rethymno took part in IFTM Top Resa in Paris from September 15–17, as part of the wider Cretan presence coordinated by the Region of Crete. The international tourism trade show brought together more than 34,000 tourism professionals this year, making it considerably more than another round of officials standing beside a destination banner.
During a packed schedule of B2B meetings, the Cretan delegation highlighted active tourism formats such as regional hiking networks and cycling paths, alongside targeted conference infrastructure. French tour operators and travel professionals expressed sustained enthusiasm for localized culture, nature, and heritage travel—particularly in autumn and winter, supported by remaining direct flights linking Paris to Heraklion.
Gastronomy emerged as another core pillar of Rethymno’s presentation. Local winemaking traditions, regional vineyards, and the nutritional profile of Cretan extra virgin olive oil drew strong interest from international buyers looking to offer clients authentic culinary journeys rooted in the Mediterranean diet.
Municipal leaders stressed that coordinated regional participation at major European fairs remains vital for extending the tourist season and securing long-term economic benefits for local communities across the island.
