Athens, tourism all year round | Strategic alliance between the Ministry of Tourism and EXAA

The Minister of Tourism, Olga Kefalogianni, participated today in the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Association of Hoteliers of Athens, Attica and Argosaronic (EXAA), in a meeting focused on strengthening the tourism potential of Athens and the wider region, with the aim of making them top and sustainable destinations internationally.

During the meeting, critical issues were raised, including the new institutional framework for short-term rentals, the need to strengthen security in areas of the center of Athens, the improvement of the interconnection of the islands of the Argosaronic with the capital and with each other, as well as the promotion of the sustainability and resilience of tourist destinations.

Regulatory framework for short-term rentals

Particular emphasis was placed on the issue of short-term rentals, with the Minister highlighting the progress achieved with the institutionalization of the new legal framework. As of October 1, 2025, new operational and insurance standards will come into force, which will be monitored by the competent authorities. Ms. Kefalogianni underlined that the new framework ensures transparency and prevents unfair competition, enhancing the quality of the services offered and ensuring the safety of visitors.

The Hellenic Tourism Association (HTA) expressed its satisfaction with the regulation, considering it an important step towards balancing the terms of competition in the hospitality sector, especially in the center of Athens, where the pressures from short-term rentals are intense.

Visitor and resident safety

On the security front, there was a common understanding that it remains a critical issue for the visitor experience and for the daily lives of residents. The Minister stressed the importance of continuous cooperation between institutional bodies and the State for immediate information on phenomena that affect the image of the city, so that coordinated interventions can be activated by the relevant ministries. As she noted, the security image is a key factor in shaping travel demand.

Athens - Argosaronic Gulf interconnection

The progress that has been made in terms of interconnecting the islands of the Argosaronic Gulf with Athens, as well as between them, was also positively assessed. Ms. Kefalogianni pointed out that improvements in sea and land transport upgrade the overall tourist experience and enhance the uniqueness of the "Athens" brand. Increased accessibility contributes significantly to extending the length of stay of visitors, which is a key issue for the sustainable development of the destination.

Sustainability and resilience of tourism

The Minister also referred to the policies implemented by the Ministry of Tourism for the sustainability and resilience of destinations, with measures such as:

The new system for classifying tourist accommodation based on its environmental footprint.

Infrastructure modernization projects, financed by the Recovery and Resilience Fund.

The establishment of Destination Management and Promotion Organizations (DMMOs), a new model of local tourism governance.

As she underlined, the aim is to ensure that tourism development remains sustainable, protecting the natural resources and cultural heritage of the regions.

Collaboration for the Future of Athens

Ms. Kefalogianni closed the discussion by emphasizing the importance of the Ministry's close collaboration with the Hellenic Tourism Authority, especially in addressing the challenges facing Athens. The capital, she said, has already achieved a unique position on the international tourism map, as a year-round destination, and with this dynamic, it is a "key" for approaching new, large tourism markets.