New Strategic Cooperation Between Greece and Cuba to Enhance Tourism Growth

Published on December 20, 2025

A significant step towards strengthening the tourism flows between Greece and Cuba was taken through a strategic working meeting held by the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Travel & Tourist Agencies (FedHATTA). The meeting, which included representatives from both Greek and Cuban diplomatic and tourism delegations, focused on exploring new channels of cooperation aimed at boosting travel and tourism between the two countries.

This collaboration marks a critical turning point in fostering stronger tourism ties between Greece, a leading Mediterranean destination, and Cuba, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant landscapes, and historical significance. The strategic cooperation aims to increase travel opportunities for citizens of both nations, leveraging the strengths of each country’s tourism offerings.

Promoting Greek Tourism in Cuba and Vice Versa

At the core of the cooperation lies the goal of enhancing mutual awareness of each country’s tourism offerings. For Greece, with its renowned ancient landmarks, pristine islands, and Mediterranean charm, increasing awareness of the country’s diverse travel options is vital. Similarly, Cuba’s diverse tourism attractions, such as its beaches, colonial cities, and world-class cultural experiences, have long been an alluring draw for travelers. The goal of this new partnership is to further increase tourism exchanges by creating stronger, more accessible travel pathways between the two nations.

FedHATTA, a significant player in Greece’s tourism sector, aims to facilitate the promotion of Cuba’s rich history, cultural heritage, and tourist attractions within the Greek market. By establishing a closer relationship between Greek travel agencies and Cuban tourism officials, this partnership is expected to drive more Greek tourists to explore Cuba. In return, Cuba is eager to share its tourism offerings with Greek tourists, focusing on cultural exchanges, and promoting its unique attractions, such as its tropical beaches, vibrant cities like Havana, and cultural festivals.

Improved Travel Connections: Opening New Routes and Facilitating Visits

One of the primary objectives of the working meeting was to establish practical frameworks for improving travel connectivity between Greece and Cuba. This includes exploring new air routes that would make it easier for travelers from both countries to visit one another. Direct flights between key cities, such as Athens and Havana, could be a potential outcome of the partnership, reducing travel time and costs for tourists, which could, in turn, increase travel flow and facilitate more frequent visits.

In addition to direct flight routes, the meeting also highlighted the potential for increasing bilateral tourism marketing efforts. These efforts will focus on showcasing the distinct experiences each country offers, from Greece’s famed ancient ruins, such as the Acropolis and Delphi, to Cuba’s colonial-era architecture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and its lively music scene. The collaboration would encourage more tourism initiatives, cultural exchanges, and collaborations between the tourism sectors of both countries.

Cultural and Educational Tourism as a Focus Area

Another key aspect of the cooperation between Greece and Cuba focuses on cultural and educational tourism. Both countries are known for their rich cultural legacies, and the exchange of tourists interested in exploring each other’s history, art, and traditions could prove to be a highly attractive offering. Greece, with its ancient ruins, art, and theater, and Cuba, with its unique blend of African, Spanish, and indigenous influences, present opportunities for cultural tours that combine sightseeing with educational experiences.

The promotion of cultural tourism will not only help boost visitor numbers but also create long-term opportunities for collaboration in areas such as arts, history, and heritage preservation. Programs that promote educational travel between Greece and Cuba are expected to focus on deepening mutual understanding between the people of both nations, with collaborative workshops, educational exchanges, and tourism events showcasing local traditions.

Increased Investment in Tourism Infrastructure

As part of the strategic cooperation between Greece and Cuba, there will likely be an increase in investment aimed at enhancing the infrastructure that supports tourism. From upgrading hotel accommodations to modernizing transport networks, both nations will benefit from the improvements made to better accommodate international tourists. Investments in infrastructure will not only improve the travel experience for tourists but will also provide significant economic benefits by generating employment and promoting local businesses.

For Cuba, particularly, the tourism sector is a vital contributor to the national economy. The Cuban government is eager to continue diversifying its tourism offerings and building relationships with key international markets. By working with Greece, Cuba is set to gain increased access to European tourists, especially those from Greece, who are increasingly looking for unique and exotic travel destinations.

Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

Sustainability is an essential consideration in any international tourism partnership, and the cooperation between Greece and Cuba is no exception. As both countries are increasingly focused on maintaining their natural beauty and cultural heritage, sustainable tourism practices are a priority. Ensuring that tourism development is environmentally responsible, respects local cultures, and benefits local communities is central to this initiative.

FedHATTA, together with the Cuban tourism officials, will explore sustainable tourism practices that help mitigate environmental impact while also promoting responsible tourism. This could include promoting eco-friendly tours, supporting local artisans, and advocating for tourism that benefits both visitors and the local communities they visit.

The Future of Greece-Cuba Tourism Cooperation

The strategic cooperation between Greece and Cuba is expected to be mutually beneficial, as it offers both countries new opportunities to expand their tourism sectors and create more dynamic travel experiences for international visitors. With the establishment of more accessible travel routes, the promotion of cultural tourism, and the focus on sustainability, both countries will continue to attract more tourists from around the world, enriching their economies and enhancing global cultural exchange.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in strengthening tourism relations between two of the world’s most culturally rich destinations. As both nations work together to increase tourism flows, it is anticipated that this will lead to even greater opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth in the tourism sector.