Published on
November 15, 2025
The 40th International Tourism Fair, Philoxenia–Hotelia, opened its gates in Thessaloniki with unparalleled enthusiasm, marking four decades of shaping and revealcasing Greek tourism. This year’s edition, enriched by the FOOD & DRINKS by Detrop exhibition, was characterized not only as a celebration of hospitality but also as a reflection of the tourism evolution of Greece, its international appeal, and strategic direction for the future. The prestigious inauguration was given by European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni, and Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Food Ioannis Andrianos, who underlined the importance of the fair for both Greece’s tourism identity and its global partnerships.
Apostolos Tzitzikostas: Philoxenia–Hotelia Is a Symbol of Greek Identity and Europe’s Tourism Future
Commissioner Tzitzikostas emphasized that Philoxenia–Hotelia is Greece’s largest and most influential tourism exhibition, serving as a benchmark for hospitality excellence. He praised Greece’s rare, deeply rooted spirit of filoxenia (hospitality), declaring it a living cultural value that continues to attract global travelers. In a major announcement, he revealed that in April 2026, the EU will introduce its first-ever comprehensive European Tourism Strategy, a landmark development for sustainability, competitiveness, digital transformation, and cross-border cooperation. During the 40th Anniversary Philoxenia Dinner, he also underscored that the upcoming renovation of the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Center will elevate the fair’s global importance.
Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni: A Legacy of Dialogue and Future Growth
Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni highlighted that Philoxenia has served as a hub of dialogue, professional networking, and knowledge-sharing for four decades. She praised the anniversary as a milestone in Greek tourism, especially as 2025 reveals strong growth in both arrivals and revenue. Kefalogianni emphasized that Greece is laying a resilient foundation for sustainable, high-quality tourism and expanding its appeal across all seasons.
Gastronomy, Agriculture, and Tourism: A Powerful Triad
Deputy Minister Ioannis Andrianos noted the inseparable link between tourism, agriculture, and gastronomy. He stressed the importance of strengthening Greece’s gastronomic identity by integrating local products and culinary traditions into the national tourism brand, responding to growing traveler interest in authentic food experiences.
Tourism, Culture, and Regional Promotion
Deputy Minister Costas Gkoulekas emphasized the synergy between tourism and culture, calling cultural tourism one of Greece’s strongest competitive assets. He also announced a new initiative to promote Greek destinations in neighboring Balkan countries, aiming to boost cross-border tourism flows and strengthen regional cooperation.
Thessaloniki’s Strategic Role
Regional Governor Athena Aidona praised Philoxenia–Hotelia as a prestigious institution that has placed Thessaloniki and Central Macedonia firmly on the global exhibition map. Thessaloniki Mayor Stelios Angeloudis highlighted sustainable tourism as a strategic priority for the city, noting efforts to secure a direct air connection with the USA, a milestone expected to significantly enhance transatlantic arrivals.
A Pillar of Greek Tourism: GNTO’s Perspective
Angela Varela, President of the Greek National Tourism Organization, reflected on Philoxenia–Hotelia’s enormous contribution to Greek tourism development. She outlined the fair’s 40-year history and the key figures who envisioned its role as a platform for national tourism advancement and dialogue.
Tasos Tzikas, President of TIF–HELEXPO, announced that the 2025 edition welcomed 550 exhibitors and facilitated 4,350 business appointments, demonstrating the fair’s importance for tourism professionals and its expanding global influence.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter of Greek Tourism
Presenting Greece’s evolving tourism model, the 40th-anniversary edition underlined sustainable destination management, innovation in the apply of digital tools, extension of cultural and gastronomic tourism, and international synergies. Philoxenia–Hotelia continues to mirror the dynamic growth of Greek tourism and shape its trajectory for decades to come while reinforcing Greece’s reputation as a leading year-round destination.
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