Athens has been awarded the title of “World’s Leading Cultural City Destination” at the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2024 Grand Final Gala Ceremony, held on November 24 in Madeira, Portugal.
According to tovima.com, the Greek capital received the accolade for its rich cultural heritage and unique experiences, surpassing 14 global contenders, including London, New York, Paris, Rome, Kyoto, and Rio de Janeiro. The winners were determined through votes from travel professionals and the public.
Ioannis Georgizas, CEO of the Athens Development and Destination Management Agency (ADDMA), accepted the award on behalf of Athens. Mayor Haris Doukas expressed pride in the recognition. “This award underscores Athens as a powerful global brand in culture,” he said. “We will continue investing in cultural actions that connect people with the city’s rich past and dynamic present.”
Georgizas emphasized that the award reflects sustained efforts to promote Athens internationally. “Our goal is to attract high-quality tourism and boost the local economy,” he noted.
Established in 1993, the WTA celebrates excellence across travel, tourism, and hospitality, honoring achievements in categories like airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and destinations. Winning destinations are recognized for innovation and exceptional service, with Athens now solidifying its status as a premier global cultural hub.