AGORA INSIGHTS

Agora Insights brings together experts from tourism, culture, and innovation to discuss the forces shaping Athens and other destinations. These panel discussions will dive into topics like sustainable tourism, the impact of film and culture, and how Athens is adapting to the changing business landscape. Join us for conversations with industry leaders, policymakers, and creatives as we explore Athens’ growing role in sustainability, culture, and innovative tourism. It’s a chance to share ideas, learn, and connect.

MODERATOR

Andriana Paraskevopoulou, Journalist

Andriana Paraskevopoulou, Journalist

DATE

April 7, 2025

TIME

09:30 - 10:15

Contributors

Andriana Paraskevopoulou, Journalist

Haris Doukas

Mayor @ City of Athens

Andriana Paraskevopoulou, Journalist

Tim Fairhust

Director General @ European Tourism Association

Andriana Paraskevopoulou, Journalist

Yiannis Paraschis

President @ Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE)

Discussion topics include:

The critical role of DMMOs (Destination Management & Marketing Organizations) and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

Insights from Athens' groundbreaking carrying capacity study.

Balancing tourism growth with preservation and resident well-being.

Leveraging tourism for positive urban transformation.

Data-driven strategies for sustainable destination management.

This session highlights Athens' leadership in urban and regenerative tourism, providing valuable insights for industry leaders and policymakers.

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MODERATOR

Stathis Kalogeropoulos, Athens Film Officer

Stathis Kalogeropoulos, Athens Film Officer

DATE

April 7, 2025

TIME

10:15 - 11:00

Contributors

Stathis Kalogeropoulos, Athens Film Officer

Teija Raninen

Film Commissioner @ West Finland Film Commission

Stathis Kalogeropoulos, Athens Film Officer

Orestis Plakias

Head of Cinema Department @ Foss Productions

Stathis Kalogeropoulos, Athens Film Officer

Leon Olsberg

CEO @ Olsberg•SPI

Experts will discuss:
Film’s role in reshaping perceptions and rebranding Athens as a dynamic, multifaceted city.
The draw of iconic locations, from ancient ruins to modern cityscapes.
Successful case studies and strategies for leveraging film tourism.
Broader impacts on urban development and cultural preservation.
Join us for insights into the transformative power of film in shaping Athens’ identity and appeal.

Powered by This is Athens - Film Office

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DATE

April 7, 2025

TIME

14:15 - 14:30

Contributors

Stathis Kalogeropoulos, Athens Film Officer

Alex Trimis

Founder & CEO @ Welcome Pickups

A breakdown of booking timelines by age group and location, using data to reveal key planning patterns. Useful insights for understanding traveler behavior across markets.

Session Powered by Endeavor Greece

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MODERATOR

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

DATE

April 7, 2025

TIME

14:30 - 15:05

Contributors

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Panos Palaiologos

Founder & CEO @ HotelBrain Group

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Dimitris Kossyfas

Chief Commercial Officer @ hoper

As Greece’s tourism landscape evolves, pioneers are redefining the sector with innovative business models and cutting-edge solutions. This panel brings together Panos Paleologos, Founder & President of HotelBrain, and Dimitris Kossyfas, Co-founder and COO of hoper, to explore the forces reshaping travel and hospitality.
From a one-stop shop solution for hospitality to the first ever helicopter airline in Greece, our speakers will discuss how their ventures are transforming the industry, the role of technology and upskilling, and the shifts in traveler expectations. Furthermore, together we will explore Athens’ challenges and opportunities in becoming a hub for sustainable and smart tourism

Session Powered by Endeavor Greece

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DATE

April 8, 2025

TIME

11:30 - 12:15

Contributors

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Manos Vougioukas

Secretary-General@ European Cultural Tourism Network (ECTN)

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Nikos Patrinos

CEO @ Technopolis City of Athens

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Athena Balopoulou

Chief Strategy and Development Officer @Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC)

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Ioannis Kaplanis

Director General @ Athens Epidaurus Festival

This engaging discussion will examine the evolving relationship between Athens' rich heritage and its vibrant creative landscape, offering insights into:

The interplay between historical legacy and contemporary innovation.

Athens' rise as a global cultural hub and a magnet for creative talent

The role played by cultural institutions in preserving heritage and fostering destination growth.

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DATE

April 8, 2025

TIME

12:15 - 12:30

Contributors

Maria Christina Grelloni, Head of Growth @ Endeavor Greece

Vangelis Skouras

Founder @Long Lust

Event Wrap-Up

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