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Rural Tourism Cluster

WTA: Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Nominated for Europe’s Leading Emerging Destination 2025

The Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace has been nominated for “Europe’s Leading Emerging Destination 2025” at the World Travel Awards, a prestigious global platform known as the Oscars of the tourism industry.

Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards (WTA) recognize excellence across all sectors of tourism and are regarded as one of the highest accolades in the global travel industry. Winners are seen as setting the benchmark for quality and innovation in tourism worldwide.

“Eastern Macedonia and Thrace is ready to stand out by offering something authentic and meaningful,” said Regional Governor Christodoulos Topsidis.

The Greek region is competing against 10 other destinations for the coveted title, including Bad Ischl in Austria, Baião and Sines in Portugal, Ljubljana in Slovenia, Matera in Italy, Mljet in Croatia, Bansko in Bulgaria, and Tartu in Estonia.

According to Topsidis, the nomination signals a growing international recognition of the region’s potential.

“This destination is no longer Greece’s well-kept secret — it is becoming a distinctive brand on the European tourism map”, he said.

He added that Eastern Macedonia and Thrace offers a rare blend of natural and cultural diversity. “It’s a place where the landscape shifts from sea to mountain within a few kilometers, where history comes alive, and hospitality is part of everyday life”.

Voting is now open, and travelers can support the region by casting their vote through the official WTA website.

Source: news.gtp.gr