October 18, 2026
Not just the iconic, but  also the off-beat Greece

Not just the iconic, but also the off-beat Greece

The launch of direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Athens in early 2026 are an
opportunity to experience Greece not just as a photostop but immerse yourself in its
unique blend of culture, nature and timelessness. It will bring ideas, economies and
people together of two ancient civilisations, says Aliki Koutsomitopoulou,
the ambassador of Greece to India.


By Ambassador Aliki
Koutsomitopoulou

The launch of direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to
Athens commencing in the beginning of 2026 mark
a new chapter in Indo-Greek connectivity, and a
wonderful opportunity for Indian travellers to discover some
of Greece’s lesser-known facets. Plans of Aegean Airlines and
IndiGo for weekly non-stop flights will offer the option of less
time in transit and more time exploring.

Indian visitors will have a direct link to Greece’s capital
without the hassle of multiple lay-overs — translating
into travel that is more convenient, cost-efficient and timesaving. For Indian travellers, this route does much more than
open Greece. It connects two ancient civilisations, invites
deeper cultural exchange, and stimulates tourism to novel
destinations. Greece offers not only archaeological marvels
and blue-domed churches, but also off-beat islands, wild
mountains, regional traditions, and landscapes that feel
refreshingly untouched.

The commencement of direct flights marks a milestone
in our bilateral relationship, also deepening economic
bonds. This direct air link will significantly enhance
trade and investment opportunities, facilitating smoother
business exchanges and encouraging greater participation
of enterprises from both nations in sectors such as tourism,
shipping, renewable energy, and science and technology.
Direct flights will also facilitate and simplify labour mobility
between the two countries. Together, these developments
embody our shared vision for a dynamic and future-oriented
partnership — one that connects our people, markets, and
ideas more closely than ever before.

Athens, the cultural heart of Greece, celebrates its rich heritage through year-round festivals that blend history, art, and tradition. From Athens you can branch out to islands, countryside and nature reserves, combining heritage with leisure. Once you land in Athens, your gateway truly opens. From the capital you can easily travel onward to some of Greece’s most iconic yet still mystic locations. Each region reveals a unique blend of culture, nature, and timeless charm. Every journey is a story waiting to be lived. With the launch of this direct link, Indian travellers are presented with a golden opportunity to experience Greece not just as a photo stop, but as a fully immersive destination.
The journey promises discovery, culture and the delight of going beyond the ordinary. Here’s to new wings, new journeys — and Greece, re-imagined for the Indian traveller.
(Aliki Koutsomitopoulou is a curious mind with a flair for diplomacy. Equally at ease drafting policy notes or designing festive Diwali cards, she blends Greek resilience with global perspective. Aliki thrives on narrating compelling stories about her beloved hometown Kalamata— ideally over strong coffee).
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