- Prominent figures shared insights at the “This is Athens – Agora” conference.
- Athens tourism has tripled in the last ten years, attracting global recognition.
- The city will see record-breaking flights from the U.S. in 2025.
- Concerns about U.S. tariffs and their ripple effects were discussed.
- Experts highlighted Athens’ goals for environmental sustainability and broader visitor satisfaction.
- Over 100 business meetings are taking place during the event to bolster opportunities.
A City on the Rise (Literally Packed with Tourists)
Over the last decade, Athens has figured out the secret to popularity: tourists, and lots of them. The numbers don’t lie—what was once a modest flow of about 2.5 million visitors a year has turned into a flood. By 2024, the city welcomed 7.9 million tourists, and 2025 promises even more. That’s not just impressive; it’s borderline crowded.
This transformation was spotlighted during the “This is Athens – Agora” event at Zappeion Hall. Organized by the Athens Development and Destination Management Agency, the event highlighted how the city has evolved into a global attraction. Big wigs like Athens’ Mayor Haris Doukas, Aegean Airlines President Eftychios Vassilakis, and other heavyweights showed up to share their thoughts.
Key stats that prove Athens is slaying in the tourism game:
- 2.5 million visitors a decade ago? Cute.
- Nearly 8 million visitors in 2024 alone? Now we’re talking.
- The U.S. West Coast, specifically Los Angeles, will soon have direct flights to Athens.
But it wasn’t just cheers and statistics. As is tradition, someone had to bring up potential spoilers for the party. The looming impact of U.S. tariffs under former President Trump’s policies got a lot of side-eyes. Nothing is ever smooth sailing.
Sunshine, Sustainability, and a Splash of Skepticism
While people are lining up to visit, the next challenge seems to be making sure Athens doesn’t collapse under its own popularity. Mayor Doukas said the city needs to tackle its weather-related woes head-on. Extreme weather and climate challenges have been rocking the boat, and Athens isn’t about to take it lying down.
“We’re working on striking a balance—a city visitors love that still feels liveable for its residents,” Doukas said. Environmentally and socially, the focus remains on big-impact actions that serve everyone, not just the selfie-takers by the Acropolis.
Meanwhile, Ioannis Paraschis, airport head honcho and S.E.T.E. president struck a less-than-rosy tone. “Anyone pretending there’s no turbulence must be living in la-la land,” he quipped. While U.S. tourism to Greece has been thriving, Paraschis emphasized the need to stay on guard. “We’ve bounced back from crises, but we’re always two steps from chaos.” Well, that’s comforting.
There’s also a strategic eye on Asian travelers. Experts hope expanding connections with Asian markets will soften any turbulence caused by Western market instability.
Business, but Make It 100 Meetings at Once
The “This is Athens – Agora” gathering isn’t just a casual hangout. Over 100 business meetings are scheduled to happen in the space of two days. Ioannis Georgizas, head of the Athens Development Agency, proudly pointed out Athens’ rank as the 15th top global city for conferences and 10th in Europe. Not too shabby for a city balancing ancient ruins and modern chaos.
Eftychios Vassilakis of Aegean Airlines reminded attendees that Athens isn’t the only gem Greece has to offer. While the city shines as a primary destination, spreading the tourism wave across the country is key. After all, there’s only so much ground in the Plaka district before it feels like a theme park.
Details in Greek: Η τουριστική άνθιση της Αθήνας και οι δασμοί Τραμπ – Οι επιφυλάξεις των αρμοδίων
