Greece Strengthens India Tourism Ties as Minister Visits New Delhi to Support its Direct Athens Flight and Long-Term Growth Strategy

Published on
January 27, 2026

Greece has made a progressive move to determine its future tourism development by launching a new direct flight from New Delhi to Athens, which is operated by IndiGo Airlines. The new direct flight is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing tourism relations between the two countries and establishing Greece as a major tourist destination in Europe for the growing outbound tourism market of India.

To celebrate the launch of the new direct flight, Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni visited New Delhi for a 24-hour working visit, which reflects the importance Greece attaches to India not only as a source market but also as a foundation for its future tourism diversification strategy.

Direct Connectivity Seen as a Catalyst for Future Tourism Demand

The introduction of direct air connectivity between the two capitals removes one of the biggest barriers to travel from India to Greece: long and complex transit routes. Until now, most Indian travelers relied on one- or two-stop connections through the Middle East or Europe, often adding cost and uncertainty.

With a nonstop option in place, tourism authorities expect a gradual but sustained rise in future arrivals from India, particularly in segments such as leisure travel, honeymoons, destination weddings, luxury holidays, and MICE tourism. Over time, the route is also expected to encourage repeat visits and longer stays, increasing tourism revenue beyond initial arrival numbers.

High-Level Talks Focus on Removing Future Travel Barriers

During meetings with Indian tourism officials, discussions were expected to focus on visa facilitation, a critical factor in shaping long-term tourism flows. Greece has acknowledged that improving visa access will be essential to fully unlock the future potential of the Indian market.

By addressing visa efficiency now, Greece aims to build a smoother visitor journey that supports future growth rather than reacting to demand after it materializes. Streamlined visa processes, expanded appointment capacity, and clearer communication can significantly influence destination choice for Indian travelers comparing multiple European options.

Consular Expansion to Support Long-Term Tourism Growth

Greece’s plan to open new consular offices in Mumbai and Bengaluru later this year signals a clear commitment to sustaining tourism growth beyond the initial launch of the flight. These cities are among India’s strongest outbound travel hubs, home to high-income travelers, technology professionals, and globally mobile families.

By strengthening its diplomatic and administrative presence, Greece is investing in infrastructure that will support future tourism demand, reduce bottlenecks, and build stronger relationships with Indian travel agents and tour operators. This approach reflects an understanding that future tourism growth depends on capacity-building as much as promotion.

India’s Role in Greece’s Long-Term Tourism Strategy

India is increasingly viewed as a strategic growth market within Greece’s broader tourism vision. While traditional European markets remain important, long-haul destinations like India offer opportunities to balance seasonality, increase average spending, and diversify visitor profiles.

Indian travelers are drawn to Greece’s blend of ancient heritage, Mediterranean culture, island experiences, and high-end hospitality. Athens, as a gateway, provides access to iconic destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, making Greece well-positioned to capture future demand as Indian international travel continues to expand.

Managing Short-Term Scrutiny While Advancing Long-Term Goals

The minister’s visit took place amid domestic political scrutiny, but tourism officials have emphasized that the India initiative is firmly rooted in national economic and tourism priorities. From a future-facing perspective, expanding air connectivity with India is seen as a structural investment that will deliver benefits over many years. Tourism strategies often span political cycles, and Greece’s engagement with India reflects a long-term outlook focused on competitiveness, resilience, and sustainable growth rather than short-term gains.

Future Tourism Impact Through Connectivity and Diversification

Globally, destinations that secure early access to high-growth markets tend to benefit disproportionately over time. By establishing direct flights, expanding consular capacity, and engaging in policy dialogue now, Greece is positioning itself to capture future travel demand as India’s outbound tourism market matures. This integrated approach enhances Greece’s ability to convert interest into arrivals, arrivals into spending, and spending into broader economic benefits across hospitality, transport, retail, and cultural sectors.

Outlook for Greece–India Tourism Relations

The New Delhi-Athens direct flight is more than just an addition to the aviation map between the two countries; it is the start of a long-term tourism route between Greece and India. With the right visa policies and promotion, the direct flight could become a crucial factor in the future tourism development of Greece.

With the growing middle class in India and the increasing accessibility of international travel, Greece’s early investment in connectivity and facilitation puts it in a prime position to capitalize on the demand. The recent developments indicate that Greece is not only keeping up with the times but is also shaping its future tourism industry with India at the forefront.