The Business End
TRADITIONALLY THE ATHENIAN
economy was based on trade, leveraging its access to the sea with the development of one of the world’s most active ports.
The country exchanged honey, olive oil, silver and often art such as pottery for wood, grain and other fundamental resources.
Today, however, Athens has established itself as the financial capital of Greece, accounting for nearly half of the country’s entire GDP. Further, the city is considered a major economic power of Europe more generally, emphasised by the proximity of the Port of Piraeus – an area that captures substantial attention and investment.
Alongside the financial sector having somewhat recovered from the national debt-crises, tourism is another substantial contributor to supporting Athens’ livelihood, considered to be a top destination for city-breaks and excursions to either the surrounding islands or mainland.
“The city is expanding its meeting and accommodation facilities, investing in enriching what visitors can experience in terms of its culture, culinary and nightlife scenes,” explains Alexis Galinos, Managing Director of the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“With 300 days of sunshine per year, having an outlet like the Athenian Riviera close by makes all the difference, while new hotel developments and modern landmarks are changing the face of the city.”
Attracting well over 30 million visitors last year alone, Greece has remained one of the world’s most visited countries, with Athens having welcomed approximately five million of these travellers.
FROM FAMOUS CULTURAL
attractions and natural beauty to modern amenities and a diverse entertainment portfolio, Athens really is a destination like no other.
The city is the only capital to have 14 Blue Flag Beaches, an international award that recognises cleanliness, safety and environmental standards, spanning 50 kilometres of coastline that becomes truly idyllic in the Greek sun.
Further, favourable weather conditions often allow tourists to explore in comfort, with average temperatures not exceeding 27 degrees Celsius even in the hottest month of July and rarely dropping below 15 degrees Celsius outside of the winter months.
From cobbled streets to modern, sleek, award-winning hotels, it’s a destination that suits a diverse range of travelling demands with ease, providing offerings across the entire tourism spectrum.
“Athens is unique in so many ways,” Galinos reveals. “It’s a city where the ancient and modern coexist, where you can walk into a contemporary art gallery and as you’re walking in, catch a glimpse of the Acropolis.
“The food and drink scenes are taking off, concerts and festivals keep multiplying as each summer comes around, and the Athens Riviera with its beaches, marinas, and world-class hotels is just a short drive from the centre.
“There’s so much to see and do in this city, for every type of traveller.”