Published on
November 13, 2025
In November 2025, the 5th Bike Friendly Forum will return to Thessaloniki, reaffirming its crucial role in promoting cycling tourism in Greece. Taking place at the esteemed “Nikolaos Germanos” Conference Centre in TIF-Helexpo, this event remains a crucial gathering place for cycling enthusiasts, tourism professionals, and stakeholders dedicated to advancing cycling and sustainability as part of a more comprehensive eco-friendly tourism strategy. The Forum provides an essential forum for information exchange and cooperation by emphasizing sustainable mobility, cycling tourism best practices, and collaborations that promote the growth of thematic tourism.
Sustainable Mobility and Cycling Tourism
This year’s forum promises to explore the intersection of soft mobility, cycling tourism, and sustainable practices. Discussions will highlight how local authorities and businesses are integrating cycling into the tourism infrastructure to reduce carbon footprints and provide tourists with greener travel options. Sustainability remains a central theme, with a focus on integrating cycling experiences into daily life and leisure activities, encouraging both tourists and locals to adopt environmentally conscious mobility choices.
Event Details and Target Audience
Scheduled for 15 November 2025, the Forum will be held at Hall B of the TIF-Helexpo, Thessaloniki, from 11:00 a.m. The event will cater to a diverse audience, including tourism organisations, hoteliers, tourism attraction managers, cycling companies, travel agencies, and individuals interested in cycling as part of their daily routines or leisure travel. This diverse group of stakeholders will gather to discuss strategies for integrating cycling into the tourism sector and promoting the country as a prime destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Keynote Speakers and Opening Remarks
The event will be inaugurated with opening remarks from prominent figures in the Greek tourism sector. The President of the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) and a representative from the Thessaloniki Hotels Association will provide insights into the role of cycling tourism in Greece’s overarching tourism strategy. Their address will set the stage for the subsequent discussions and presentations.
Session Highlights
The Forum will feature three thematic sessions, each dedicated to various aspects of cycling tourism in Greece. These sessions are designed to share experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions for the development of cycling-friendly destinations and services.
Session 1: Bike Friendly Destinations & Cycling Cities in Greece
The first session will focus on local authorities’ efforts to promote cycling tourism and micromobility within their municipalities. Presenters will share the experiences and strategies implemented in their regions, showcasing initiatives that enhance local development through cycling. This session will feature speakers from popular Greek destinations, including Skiathos, Chios, Alexandroupolis, Rethymno, and Aristotle, all of whom are working to establish their regions as prime cycling destinations. These municipalities are committed to improving cycling infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and creating an attractive environment for cycling tourists.
Session 2: Hotels & Visitor Experiences
In the second session, the role of hotels and other hospitality businesses in supporting cycling tourism will be explored. Hotel chains, boutique accommodations, and even wineries will present innovative ways of integrating cycling into the visitor experience. These establishments are increasingly recognising the importance of sustainable tourism and are adopting cycling-friendly practices that contribute to the authenticity and local engagement of their guests. Topics covered will include how cycling can enhance the guest experience and how businesses can offer services that appeal to environmentally conscious tourists.
Session 3: Cycling Companies & Travel Agencies
The third session will feature cycling companies and travel agencies, who will present their models for integrating cycling into tourism programmes. These specialists offer cycling tours, adventure packages, and experiences that combine mobility with exploration and sports tourism. Attendees will learn about different services that leverage cycling to provide more meaningful visitor engagement with destinations, creating experiences that are both eco-friendly and immersive.
Moderation and Networking Opportunities
The Forum will be moderated by two renowned journalists who are familiar with the tourism and cycling sectors. The moderators will facilitate discussions, ensuring a smooth exchange of ideas, and help foster an interactive environment for networking. This unique opportunity will allow local authorities, tourism professionals, and cycling experts to collaborate and explore new avenues for developing cycling tourism in Greece.
The Role of the Bike Friendly Certification
A key component of the Forum’s agenda will be the discussion on the “Bike Friendly” certification. This certification helps identify businesses and services that are committed to providing exceptional services to cyclists, such as secure bike parking, cycling-friendly facilities, and tailored experiences. The certification supports the broader strategy of sustainable tourism by encouraging businesses to adopt environmentally responsible practices. This aligns with the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria that many tourism businesses are now integrating into their operations. The “Bike Friendly” label not only supports the local economy by attracting cycling tourists but also bolsters Greece’s position as a leader in eco-tourism.
The Importance of Cycling Tourism for Greece’s Economy
Cycling tourism plays an increasingly important role in the development of Greece’s tourism industry. As global trends shift towards more sustainable travel options, the demand for cycling tourism is on the rise. By leveraging cycling as a core element of the tourism experience, Greece can tap into a growing market of eco-conscious travellers who are looking for authentic, sustainable experiences. With its picturesque landscapes, ancient sites, and diverse natural terrain, Greece is an ideal destination for cycling tourism, offering an opportunity to explore the country in a way that is both sustainable and enriching.
Conclusion
The 5th Bike Friendly Forum in Thessaloniki offers a forum for exchanging best practices, gaining useful knowledge, and forming alliances that will support the expansion of cycling tourism in Greece. The occasion presents a stimulating chance for interested parties to work together and create plans that will make Greece a top cycling destination. Greece can continue to create a more environmentally friendly and inclusive tourism industry by embracing sustainable tourism practices and promoting cycling as a vital part of the visitor experience.
