Serbian Tour Operators Seek to Resume Direct Charters from Belgrade to Chios After the Successful Fam Trip, Boosting Greece–Serbia Tourism

Serbian tour operators are considering the resumption of direct charter flights from Belgrade to Chios, after a successful fam trip to one of the North Aegean’s most authentic destinations. The visit, which took place from October 19 to 23, was organized by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) office in Serbia, in cooperation with the Municipality of Chios and the Chios Chamber of Commerce. This is a milestone event in Greek-Serbian tourism relations, as it showcases the cultural richness of Chios, as well as its local hospitality and gastronomic excellence, further developing the island as an emerging destination for travelers interested in authentic and experiential holidays.

A Step Toward Renewed Connectivity Between Greece and Serbia

The GNTO’s initiative to bring leading Serbian tour operators and travel influencers to Chios aligns with Greece’s broader tourism strategy to deepen its partnerships with Balkan markets and diversify tourist arrivals. Participants in the fam trip included representatives from Filip Travel, Argus Tours, and Ponte Travel—three of Serbia’s most established travel agencies—along with Serbian travel bloggers who specialize in cultural tourism and destination storytelling.

The Serbian delegation was hosted by George Kakoutis, Head of the GNTO Office in Serbia, George Christakis, Deputy Mayor for Tourism of Chios, and George Passas from the Chios Chamber of Commerce. During the trip, the group discussed opportunities to reinstate direct seasonal charter connections between Belgrade and Chios, a route that previously supported steady visitor flows before being suspended.

Immersive Experiences in Chios: A Gateway to Culture and Heritage

Over five days, the Serbian delegation explored Chios’ rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, including visits to Anavatos, Avgonyma, Kambos, Pyrgi, and the famed Mastiha Villages—renowned for producing the island’s world-famous mastic resin, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

They also visited Mavra Volia Beach, known for its unique volcanic black pebbles; the Nea Moni Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and the Chios Mastic Museum, which showcases the island’s agricultural heritage and craftsmanship.

Throughout the visit, the delegation engaged with local hoteliers, tourism associations, and business owners, holding discussions on cooperation opportunities, tourism promotion, and sustainable visitor experiences. The Serbian visitors described the trip as a journey through authentic Greece, praising the island’s warmth, authenticity, and strong sense of identity. Their coverage through travel blogs, social media posts, and feature articles is already generating positive visibility for Chios among Serbian travelers.

Cultural and Culinary Highlights Captivate Serbian Visitors

Chios’ gastronomy proved to be one of the biggest highlights for the Serbian guests. From traditional mastic-flavored delicacies and olive-based dishes to seafood specialties, the culinary experiences deeply resonated with the Serbian travel professionals and bloggers.

According to Filip Travel’s representative, the island’s local cuisine offers a strong selling point for cultural and experiential travelers seeking destinations that blend authenticity with quality. The hospitality and high standards of accommodation also left a strong impression, with participants emphasizing that Chios could become a top choice for Serbian tourists looking for peaceful, culture-driven vacations away from mass tourism destinations.

A Path Toward Renewed Air Connectivity and Growth

The GNTO confirmed that the familiarization trip not only strengthened bilateral tourism relations but also reignited discussions about reintroducing direct Belgrade–Chios charter flights. If realized, the connection could launch as early as the 2026 summer season, helping to increase visitor arrivals from Serbia and stimulate regional tourism growth in the North Aegean.

Local stakeholders, including Chios Mayor Stratis Karmoiris and Chamber President George Passas, expressed optimism that this initiative would strengthen the island’s position on the international tourism map. They highlighted the importance of collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and foreign travel partners to develop long-term tourism partnerships.

Chios: A Sustainable, Experience-Led Destination

As part of Greece’s push toward sustainable and experience-based tourism, Chios is emerging as a model destination. With its focus on cultural preservation, local craftsmanship, and eco-tourism, the island is positioning itself as a sustainable alternative to more commercialized destinations.

Chios cultural routes, religious tourism sites, and craft villages offer immense potential for thematic tourism—a market segment that appeals strongly to travelers from Serbia, where interest in faith tourism, culinary travel, and heritage tours is growing rapidly.

Strengthening Greece–Serbia Tourism Cooperation

The success of the Chios familiarization trip reflects the deepening tourism partnership between Greece and Serbia. For Serbian travelers, Greece remains one of the top international destinations, while Greek authorities are working to expand tourism ties beyond the well-known islands such as Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu, toward lesser-explored destinations like Chios, Lesvos, and Samos.

This collaboration is part of abroader Balkan tourism strategy spearheaded by GNTO, which seeks to encourage regional tourism flows, cross-cultural exchange, and shared economic benefits. Future initiatives will include joint promotional campaigns, travel exhibitions, and exchange programs between Greek and Serbian travel agencies.

Looking Ahead: A Stronger Future for North Aegean Tourism

The success of this initiative ushers in a new era for North Aegean tourism, where collaboration and authentic experiences play a central role in shaping the future of the region. With its rich heritage, vivid traditions, and diversified landscapes, Chios is an immediately appealing alternative to travelers seeking culture, authenticity, and natural beauty. The resumption of direct charter flights from Belgrade to Chios can lead to a much stronger inflow of visitors, diversify tourism in the North Aegean, and strengthen the long-standing friendship between Greece and Serbia.

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