The goal is to promote Agios Nikolaos as a quality and authentic destination and to extend the tourist season
The Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, through the Municipal Public Company of Agios Nikolaos (DAEAN), presents the Tourism Promotion Program for 2026, which is part of the Municipality’s overall strategy for Tourism.
The Program was unanimously approved at the last Board of Directors of DAEAN and is a continuation of the strategy of previous years, based on the positive results of 2025. DAEAN’s active participation in the organization of successful events, targeted advertising and participation in international exhibitions have substantially contributed to enhancing the recognition of the destination. At the same time, the Marina of Agios Nikolaos continued to be an important attraction for marine tourism, while the nautical and sporting events in which it participated attracted international interest.
The DAEAN Tourism Promotion Program 2026, which is also strategically aligned with the Tourism Promotion Program of the Region of Crete and the Promotion Strategy of the Greek National Tourist Organization, reinforces the strategy of the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos. And with sustainable development, authenticity and quality in mind, it aims to further develop and consolidate our place as an important marine and alternative tourist destination in eastern Crete – ensuring high recognition and aiming to extend the tourist season and strengthen the local economy through the diversification of the tourist product.
Strategic Objectives
This Program for 2026 seeks to:
- Promote the region as an authentic and quality holiday destination.
- Enrich the tourism product through the promotion of marine, sports and walking tourism.
- Strengthen the relationship with the target audience through events, online campaigns and direct communication.
- Extend the tourist season, promoting the destination throughout the year.
- Promote the natural and cultural monuments, as well as the marine and underwater wealth of the region.
- Maintain and improve the quality of services, ensuring authenticity and natural beauty.
Strategic Approach
DAEAN adopts an integrated communication strategy that combines traditional and digital media, based on event marketing. Events create a direct connection with the destination and enhance visitor loyalty, while actions are aligned with international trends and political and economic conditions.
Markets – Targets
The main gateway for the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos is Heraklion Airport (less than 1 hour from the city), targeting:
- Germany, United Kingdom, France, Poland, Netherlands, Israel, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Austria, Czech Republic, Romania, Moldova, Lithuania, Denmark.
- Strategic markets from the USA and Canada, with a high average per capita expenditure (€1,400-1,800 per trip).
Tourism Promotion Actions 2026
- Participation in Exhibitions:
- International Yachting and Marine Tourism Exhibitions
- General Tourism Exhibitions
- Alternative Tourism Exhibitions
- Budget: €4,000
Production of Advertising Material:
- Multilingual publications, maps, photographic and video material
- Promotional material: bags, posters, hats, banners
- Budget: €45,000
Event Organization:
- Adventure Fest Merabelo (April): mountain and outdoor activities
- Agios Nikolaos on SUP (September): international SUP event
- Sailing Races (October): Agios Nikolaos Marina
- World Dance Cup Qualifier (October): international dance event
- Additional events: Christmas and Easter at the marina, Marina festival, children’s festival, Blue Flags
- Budget: €51,000
Digital Advertising and Internet:
- Social media, YouTube, promotional videos, e-marketing
- Website maintenance, applications, electronic screens
- Budget: €80,200
Collaborations:
- Association of Greek Marinas, Chamber of Commerce & Hotels of Crete, Region of Crete, Greek National Tourist Organization, local bodies and clubs
Total Budget: €180,200
As stated in a statement by the Mayor of Agios Nikolaos, Manolis Menegakis:
“The Municipal Authority, in collaboration with DAEAN, is planning a tourism promotion program for 2026, for the further development and promotion of Agios Nikolaos as a leading international destination. We are building on the positive results of 2025 and continue to invest in marine, sports and alternative tourism, strengthening the local economy and creating sustainable opportunities for all citizens. Over the course of next year, the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos will add other promotion and outreach actions to enhance the result.”
DAEAN President Giorgos Astroulakis states:
“As DAEAN, we implement a comprehensive tourism promotion strategy within the framework of the Municipality’s general strategy for tourism. Events, international participation and digital promotion enhance the recognition of the destination, attract new markets and promote the place as a destination for authentic experiences throughout the year.”
Source: cretalive.gr