Crete Increases Appeal for Travelers with Emphasis on Gastronomy, Culture and Luxury Travel to Greece

Crete, one of Greece’s most popular and diverse islands, is making strides to increase its visibility and appeal to the Indian market. At the 2026 OTM (Outbound Travel Mart) tourism exhibition in Mumbai, the Region of Crete presented its tourism offerings, meeting with Indian travel agents and operators to strengthen ties and enhance its position as a sought-after destination for luxury and leisure travel.

Targeting the Growing Outbound Market

India continues to emerge as one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets. According to recent data, approximately 70% of Indian travelers are planning to travel abroad within the next 12 months. This growing interest in international destinations has led to a surge in the demand for high-end, personalized travel experiences, making India a strategic focus for tourism boards worldwide.

Crete’s participation in the OTM 2026 event is part of a targeted effort to capture a larger share of this growing market. The island has already made significant progress in its rankings within the Indian market, climbing 13 positions in recent years. This achievement reflects the increasing recognition of Greece as a preferred destination for Indian travelers seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

Luxury Tourism: Crete’s Premium Offering

A key focus of Crete’s efforts to grow its presence in India is the luxury travel segment. As part of its strategy, Crete took part in the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop, which was held just prior to the OTM exhibition. During the workshop, the Region of Crete’s representatives met with Indian travel agents, highlighting the island’s high-end offerings, including luxury leisure travel, meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), as well as wedding tourism and cultural experiences.

Crete’s premium offerings have become increasingly popular among affluent travelers seeking bespoke experiences. The island’s combination of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and world-class hospitality provides the perfect backdrop for luxury vacations, making it a standout choice for Indian tourists looking to indulge in memorable travel experiences.

Cultural and Culinary Experiences on Crete

Crete’s tourism strategy is further strengthened by its designation as the European Region of Gastronomy for 2026. The island’s unique culinary heritage, which is centered around the famous Cretan diet, forms a central component of its promotional efforts. Indian tourists with an interest in gastronomy will find Crete’s food scene particularly appealing, as it offers a variety of authentic, locally-sourced dishes that reflect the island’s rich cultural history.

In addition to culinary offerings, Crete’s historical and cultural experiences, such as visits to ancient ruins, museums, and UNESCO-listed sites, make it an attractive destination for travelers seeking a more enriching holiday. For Indian travelers interested in history, culture, and gastronomy, Crete offers a wide array of options that combine these elements into an unforgettable experience.

Air Connectivity Drives Tourism Growth

Air connectivity plays a crucial role in driving the growth of international tourism, and the development of new flight routes between India and Greece is expected to significantly boost tourism to Crete. Recently, Indian airline IndiGo launched direct flights from Mumbai and New Delhi to Athens, Greece, making it easier for Indian travelers to reach Greece, including Crete, in less time and with greater convenience.

Additionally, Aegean Airlines is expected to introduce services to Crete in the near future, which will further enhance the island’s accessibility for Indian tourists. With the anticipated opening of the new international airport in Kasteli, Crete is poised to see even more international flights, further increasing its connectivity to key global markets.

Crete’s Strategic Focus on the Indian Market

Given India’s rising demand for international travel and the increasing interest in luxury experiences, Crete is strategically positioning itself as a premier destination for Indian tourists. The island’s combination of luxury offerings, rich culture, and natural beauty appeals to a wide range of travelers, from honeymooners and families to business travelers and those seeking cultural immersion.

The Region of Crete is also focusing on strengthening its relationship with Indian travel agencies, tour operators, and influencers to build greater awareness of the island’s tourism offerings. The island’s participation in major travel exhibitions like OTM is helping to establish Crete as a key destination for Indian tourists, while creating new opportunities for local businesses and stakeholders in the tourism sector.

A Sustainable and Thriving Destination

Crete’s tourism strategy is rooted in sustainability, ensuring that tourism development supports both environmental protection and cultural preservation. The island is committed to sustainable tourism practices, including eco-friendly initiatives, responsible development, and supporting local communities. These efforts align with global trends towards responsible travel, which are particularly important to eco-conscious Indian travelers.

As the demand for sustainable travel continues to grow, Crete’s focus on eco-friendly tourism, combined with its rich cultural offerings, will make it an even more attractive destination for tourists from India and beyond.

A Bright Future for Crete’s Tourism Sector

With its growing presence in the Indian market, strategic partnerships, and focus on luxury and sustainable tourism, Crete is well-positioned to become one of the top destinations for Indian travelers in the coming years. By continuing to develop its infrastructure, strengthen its cultural connections, and expand its luxury offerings, Crete is set to play an important role in shaping the future of Mediterranean tourism. The island’s unique combination of history, culture, and sustainability makes it a compelling destination for Indian tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation.