*By Vicky Karantzavelou
The sustainable development of Greek tourism, product diversification and the role of silver tourism are analysed in a discussion on the country’s future prospects.
Source: traveldailynews.gr
The sustainable development of Greek tourism was the central theme of the discussion with Paris Chartas, Emeritus Professor of Tourism Development, with the aim of enhancing the quality and quantity of the country’s tourism offering, diversifying the range of experiences and adapting to international trends.
The evolution of Greece’s tourism potential
Greece is no longer reliant on a single major destination, but on a network of regions with different characteristics and resources. This diversity attracts a wide range of markets and requires more structured planning, clearly defined development boundaries and the use of financial instruments.
Over the last five to seven years, the following has been observed:
- Extending the tourist season beyond the summer months.
- Highlighting new geographical areas, such as mountainous destinations.
- Greece’s consistent presence amongst the top countries in terms of global demand.
This stability reinforces the country’s position as a destination with a long history of tourist activity.
Innovation and experience in modern tourism
The modern market places greater emphasis on experience and authenticity. The likelihood of repeat visits is a crucial factor, which makes it necessary to constantly renew and diversify the tourism product.
Over the last decade, forms of tourism have emerged that highlight less prominent aspects of Greek identity, such as:
- Gastronomic tourism
- wine tourism
- Low-impact sports (hiking, cycling, light mountaineering)
- Birdwatching
- Diving tourism
Although these markets are specialised, they show significant potential and contribute to the expansion of the country’s tourism portfolio. The sustainable development of Greek tourism is directly linked to the transformation of these elements into organised, competitive products.
Silver tourism and demographic changes
The ageing of the population worldwide has brought third- and fourth-age tourism to the fore as a distinct and dynamic market. This trend was already being recognised in a structured way 25 years ago, with the 65–85 age group being distinguished from the middle-aged.
The main characteristics of silver tourism include:
- Longer journeys
- Higher per capita spending
- Selection of off-peak periods
- Focus on accessibility and comfort
The tourism market has responded with improvements to infrastructure, road networks, hotel facilities and services. Greek hospitality and the variety of experiences on offer create the conditions for further development of this specific market, whilst strengthening the sustainable development of Greek tourism.
Sustainability and the management of overtourism
The debate on overtourism is not presented as a confrontation, but as a need to balance market forces with long-term planning. The emphasis on short-term economic benefits often undermines sustainability criteria.
The systematic promotion of positive examples of sustainable tourism, as well as the provision of equal investment incentives for sustainable products, are fundamental prerequisites. Sustainable investments must be treated on an equal footing with investments in mass tourism.
The sustainable development of Greek tourism requires ongoing planning, perseverance and the integration of environmental and social criteria at every stage of tourism policy.
Source: traveldailynews.gr