The tourism sector plays an important role in generating growth and jobs in the EU. It still holds unexploited potential, especially in smart tourism. Innovation, accessibility and sustainability comprise the future of tourism, and the European Commission aims to keep European tourism ahead of the curve. The COVID-19 pandemic has upset the tourism ecosystem. With many cities and destinations looking forward to recover and grow strong, it is important to develop and implement smart tourism practices in keeping with green and digital evolution.
The European Capital of Smart Tourism is an EU initiative, currently financed under the COSME Programme. The competition is open to cities across both the EU, along with the non-EU countries that take part in the COSME programme. The initiative aims to reinforce tourism-generated innovative development in European cities and their surroundings, increase their beauty and also support economic growth and job creation.
For competing in the 2022 European Capital of Smart Tourism title, cities have to display their innovative tourism practices in five areas: accessibility, sustainability, digitalization, cultural heritage and creativity. Applications will first be assessed by a panel of independent experts. In the second step, 7 shortlisted cities will have to present their city’s candidature in front of the European Jury. The European Jury will select two winners, the European Capitals of Smart Tourism 2022, which will be announced in November 2021.
Both winning cities will receive expert communication and branding support all through 2022.
Tags: European Commission
