The promotion of Thessaloniki and Eastern Halkidiki as ideal destinations for educational tourism was the focus of a familiarization (fam) trip held from July 15 to 20, 2025. The trip involved two representatives from Italian travel agencies specializing in school tourism.
The fam trip was organized by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) Office in Italy, in collaboration with the Thessaloniki Tourism Organization (TTO), the Hellenic-Italian Chamber of Commerce of Thessaloniki, and the Municipality of Aristotle in Eastern Halkidiki. The Italian agents were accompanied by Antonella Papanicola, a representative of the GNTO Office in Italy.
During their stay, representatives from the agencies Ibla Europe Viaggi and Capeland Viaggi participated in a city tour of Thessaloniki and a food tour guided by a professional chef, discovering the city’s rich culture and unique gastronomic heritage. In Halkidiki, they visited the House of Zorbas, walked the Zorbas Trail, and sampled local wines—experiencing the region’s diverse alternative tourism offerings. They also met with TTO General Director Kyriaki Oudatzi, tourism marketing advisor for the Municipality of Aristotle Maria Pappa, and Marco della Puppa, Secretary General of the Hellenic-Italian Chamber of Commerce of Thessaloniki.
The European PCTO Program
The aim of the trip was to promote Thessaloniki and Eastern Halkidiki within the European PCTO program (Percorsi per le Competenze Trasversali e l’Orientamento), formerly known as “Alternanza Scuola-Lavoro.” This program is a mandatory part of secondary education in Italy, focused on developing soft skills and offering students hands-on experience through internships, workshops, business simulations, or group projects.
Attracting students throughout the year to Thessaloniki and the surrounding region is expected to contribute significantly to extending the tourist season. With its multicultural identity, strong university presence, and rich history, Thessaloniki offers an ideal setting for educational trips and internships—combining learning with the experience of a city break. Additionally, it has the potential to foster a network of “ambassadors,” strengthening cultural exchange and bilateral relations.
It is worth noting that similar initiatives are being planned for other destinations in Northern Greece in the near future.
