The six cities shortlisted for the 2024 European Capital of Smart Tourism award announced this week by the European Commission are: Cork; Dublin; Bremerhaven; Genoa; Helsingborg; and San Sebastián.
The European Capital of Smart Tourism recognises outstanding achievements by European cities as tourism destinations in four categories: sustainability, accessibility, digitalisation as well as cultural heritage and creativity. Pafos (Cyprus) and Seville (Spain) are the 2023 European Capitals of Smart Tourism.
Bremerhaven
Bremerhaven is a unique maritime tourist destination located on the North Sea coast, with a rich history as an important trading port. Today, the city is home to prestigious climate and energy research institutions and strives to share its knowledge with residents and visitors.
The city goes to great lengths to protect its coastal landscape and other ecologically sensitive areas and ensures its tourism model upholds the same sustainability goals. To preserve the natural beauty and diversity of the region, the city implements practices such as protecting habitats, reducing waste and using resources sparingly to help minimise environmental impacts.
‘City of science’
Bremerhaven has outstanding expertise in climate and resource protection. In 2005, Bremerhaven was the first German city to be awarded the title ‘City of Science‘. The coastal city is the German center for the offshore wind energy industry, but science and research extend to topics such as oceanography, climate research, port management, maritime transport, logistics and the food and fishing industry.
In addition to the PHÄNOMENTA Science Center, the newly opened 360° Fischbahnhof exhibition, the Historical Museum, the Zoo at the Sea with the North Sea Aquarium, the Climate House, the German Emigration Center and the German Maritime Museum are among the cultural and educational institutions that attract visitors from all over the region.
Bremerhaven has prioritised creating an accessible city for a smooth tourist experience. A tactile model of Bremerhaven's city centre and main railway station, also equipped with Braille, enables visually impaired people to find their way around.
Rental e-bikes are available for residents and visitors with wheelchairs, visual impairments, hearing loss, cognitive impairments and mobility impairments.
Fishing experience
The city's history and its importance as Europe's leading location for the fish and food industry shape the tourist and culinary experience in Bremerhaven. Bremerhaven's maritime tourist offer is reflected in events such as the international windjammer festival SAIL Bremerhaven, which takes place every five years and attracts over 1.2 million visitors.
The ‘Maritime Days‘ and ‘Fish Party‘ events offer a culinary festival for fish lovers and gourmets. The two-hour round trip ‘Tour de Fish’ and ‘Fish Bites Tour’ through the fishery harbour offer exciting travel experiences for different target groups.
The city has even developed special cycling tours for those with disabilities to allow everyone to enjoy environmentally friendly and outdoor activities.
Cork
Cork takes pride in its commitment to smart urban development and sustainability. With a diverse range of accolades and initiatives, Cork exemplifies how a city can seamlessly integrate responsible practices into its tourism model and daily life.
Leading by example
As a member of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities and a participant in the WHO European Healthy Cities Network, Cork's pioneering spirit is evident. Notably, it stands as one of the 100 EU Mission Cities striving to attain climate neutrality by 2030. To ensure the city is achieving its ambitious sustainability goals, Cork benchmarks its sustainability credentials with the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDSI). In the 2022 index, Cork ranked 22nd out of 69.
As part of Cork's commitment to reducing the city’s carbon footprint, and investing in smart technologies to achieve this, the ‘City Trees Project’ was launched in 2021. This included an investment of €350,000 for the installation of five "robotic trees", or Air Quality Moss Walls, in the city to filter pollutants generated by traffic and improve ambient air quality. Each unit can sift an amount of air, equivalent to that needed by up to 7,000 people, every hour.
The city is also expanding its cycling infrastructure, aiming to deliver over 100 km of upgraded cycle facilities by 2025. Initiatives such as the Cork City bike share scheme and the comprehensive Cork Cycle Map contribute to a range of environmentally friendly transportation alternatives.
‘City of welcomes’
Cork is devoted to being an open, welcoming and inclusive city. Cork was the first and only city on the island of Ireland to have become a member of the International Rainbow Cities Network, with a pledge to protect and enhance LGBTI+ rights and inclusion.
To increase its inclusivity, Cork is also committed to expanding accessibility measures. The creation of an 'Accessibility Guide' streamlines information about accessible attractions, transportation, hotels, and venues for visitors facing accessibility and mobility challenges.
Additionally, a tourism brochure by Cork City Council offers insights into various attractions, complete with accessibility information. Cork's commitment extends to fostering family-friendly experiences. Moreover, the 'Playful Pirate Culture Trail,' a collaborative endeavour among approximately 30 museums, galleries, and attractions, which makes cultural spaces more inviting, playful and family friendly.
Showcasing heritage
Morte than 1,100 buildings and structures in Cork are designated as protected structures. Many of these are opened to the public on Cork Heritage Open Day, which has been running for 16 years.
The traditional heritage sites have also been upgraded to incorporate new elements to expand the sites’ usage and attraction, such as the installation of a brand-new outdoor performance stage in the central courtyard of Elizabeth Fort in Cork City.
Cork is also an active participant in the national ‘Culture Night’ celebrations, running since 2006, during which arts and cultural organisations and venues across Ireland extend their opening hours to encourage and inspire public engagement, by running workshops, exhibitions and events free of charge.
The festival has grown year on year and includes a selection of online events to accommodate people who might not be able to get out into the city in person.
Dublin
Dublin, situated on Ireland's vibrant east coast, has a population of more than 1.5 million.
Bustling capital city that brings together community, tech and innovation
Dublin, situated on Ireland's vibrant east coast, has a population of more than 1.5 million. The bustling Irish capital is the fifth largest transport hub in Europe. Before the pandemic in 2019, tourism supported 68,000 jobs while the city welcome 8.6 million visitors, bringing €2.6bn in tourist spend.
To ensure a successful and sustainable future, Dublin has implemented a strategic smart tourism programme that brings together community, technology and innovation to co-create and transform the traditional tourism experience.
Universal accessibility in Dublin
Dublin strives to make accessibility the priority for the city’s Tourism Strategy. By 2028, Dublin has pledged to place universal accessibility at the centre of all of projects and activities in the city.
Dublin airport, for example, has taken the lead in creating an inclusive travel experience. Through a Disability Users Group, they engage representatives from diverse organisations to ensure decisions align with the needs of individuals with disabilities.
Initiatives like the 'important flyer wristbands and lanyards' enable self-identification of passengers needing extra support. The airport also created a sensory room to escape bustling surroundings, specifically catered to those with special needs or dementia.
Innovations extend to an assistance dog relief room, induction loop amplification points for those with hearing difficulties, and visual aids for passengers with autism to plan their airport journey. With more than 340,000 interactions in 2019, Dublin airport remains committed to enhancing accessibility and enriching the passenger experience.
Sustainability
Dublin is a green and sustainable city, ranked 11th in the Global Destination Sustainability Index. The city boasts an expanding public transport system that moves 268 million passengers yearly, along with a thriving bicycle sharing scheme with 25 million trips.
With more than 1,600 bikes and extensive cycling routes, exploring the city and coast by bike is encouraged. The Coastal Mobility Route, inaugurated in 2020, promotes sustainable transportation and has been successful in transforming how people navigate Dublin's coastline.
Notably, Dublin hosts the world's first carbon-neutral Convention Centre, eight beaches, and vast green spaces, including the enormous Phoenix Park. Dublin commits to reducing its carbon footprint by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This commitment is central to the new Tourism Strategy 2023-2028, aligning with national climate goals. Dublin leads in climate action as the first Irish city to sign the UN Glasgow Declaration on Sustainable Tourism and integrates UN Sustainable Development Goals into its strategies.
Cultural engagement
Dublin led by example as one of the earliest European cities to establish a dedicated Culture Company in 2015, driving cultural engagement. The Dublin City Council Culture Company manages city-wide cultural projects and venues, collaborating with individuals, communities, and organisations to enhance cultural involvement.
Notable among these is 14 Henrietta Street, a museum narrating architectural and social history. Since 2008, this 10-year endeavour to rescue, stabilise, and conserve the house has combined perspectives from former residents, architects, historians, artists, and more. Oral histories merge with academic research, forming a rich collection enriched by guided tours, poetry, digital archives, and personal narratives.
EPIC, situated in Dublin's historic CHQ Building, is a state-of-the-art attraction offering an interactive journey through Irish history. With touch screen galleries, motion sensor quizzes, and restored audio, the building shares and brings to life the stories of Irish emigrants.
Covering themes from religion to politics, and celebrating their global impact, EPIC shares the tales of more than 300 lesser-known emigrants. Notable exhibits include 'Blazing a Trail', highlighting pioneering Irish women, and 'Out in The World', showcasing LGBTQ+ diaspora stories. Due to its innovation and accessibility, EPIC has hosted more than 600,000 visitors and earned awards like Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction.
Genoa
Genoa, the capital city of the region Liguria, is renowned in Italy for its magnificence palaces and architecture.
Blending innovation with timeless charm
Genoa, the capital city of the region Liguria, is renowned in Italy for its magnificence palaces and architecture. For a long period, the city was an industrial and commercial hub, but has since restructured and undergone urban regeneration to restore its artistic and cultural heritage. Today, it blends innovation with timeless charm and is a growing, lively tourist and cruise destination striving to establish itself as a sustainable destination.
Accessibility in architecture
In recent years, the Municipality of Genoa has taken significant strides in redefining its approach to tourism by embracing innovative practices that prioritise accessibility and inclusivity.
At the heart of this transformation is the Genoa PEBA (Plan for the Elimination of Architectural Barriers), a comprehensive initiative that was set in motion in 2016.
Since its creation, the City of Genoa has been diligently working to develop smart, accessible, and environmentally sustainable mobility solutions. This initiative encompasses the expansion of pedestrian, cycling, and disabled-friendly pathways, the creation of more public spaces, and the implementation of advanced vehicle detection systems within the historic core of the city.
One of the city's prime focal points is the enhancement of its waterfront experience. Notably, Genoa has dedicated significant resources in collaboration with the municipal council for the disabled to the removal of architectural barriers on eight municipal beaches. The project entails the construction of slope ramps on paths, installation of handrails, placement of tactile maps, and the restoration of existing ramps using durable materials.
Exploring Genoa with technology
Genoa earned its reputation as a smart tourism pioneer due to the city’s early adoption of technology in the tourism sector. The city was at the forefront of digitising various aspects of the travel experience, such as online flight and hotel bookings.
Since then, the municipality’s commitment to technology is demonstrated in tools like the 'TourTax' web portal, which streamlines communication with about 3,000 accommodation providers.
The city's tourism map is consolidated through the 'Geoportale', an interactive platform full of useful information. This resource enables users to pinpoint and explore updated accommodation options registered with the TourTax portal, accessible both on desktops and mobile devices.
The 'Genova Outdoor' project comes equipped with essential safety information, GPS tracking, and detailed scale maps. What sets this project apart is its accessibility – all itineraries are designed to be reached and navigated using public transport and smart mobility options. Through this endeavour, Genoa aims to offer a model of cultural, sustainable, and eco-compatible tourism that aligns seamlessly with the city's digital and green identity.
Revitalising history
The National Museum of Italian Emigration (MEI) and the Museum of Natural History have embraced digitalisation, with MEI boasting impressive digital installations.
The museum has 70 multimedia stations, 25 laser projectors, and over 1,300 images spread across 2,800 square metres and three floors. The recent addition of 'DIGITAL MEI' has enriched the museum's digitisation efforts, providing an online platform for users to preview the exhibition itinerary and explore its 16 thematic areas through an intuitive interface.
Genoa’s revitalisation projects encompass urban regeneration, cultural preservation, and community development. Eleven squares have been revamped, historical walls have been restored, and seized properties have been repurposed for cultural and non-profit activities.
Publicly owned student residences have been established, and reduced rents have been offered to young couples and singles. The city has invested in upgrading public buildings, schools, and museums, with a focus on improving digital infrastructure.
Furthermore, initiatives such as a co-housing project for victims of violence against women and an ethical hotel managed by individuals with disabilities are planned, showcasing the city's commitment to social progress.
Helsingborg
Helsingborg is one of Sweden's oldest cities with close cultural and historical links with Helsingör, Denmark, which is situated a short 20-minutes ferry ride away across the Öresund.
Blending climate neutrality, technology and accessibility to create a smart tourist experience and improve quality of life for its community
Helsingborg is one of Sweden's oldest cities with close cultural and historical links with Helsingör, Denmark, which is situated a short 20-minutes ferry ride away across the Öresund. The vibrant city, located in the south of Sweden, prioritises climate neutrality, technology and accessibility to create a smart tourist experience and improve quality of life for its community.
In 2012, Helsingborg set itself a 2035 goal to make the city a creative, vibrant, united, global and balanced city for its residents and businesses. To achieve their ambitious vision, the city established a comprehensive quality-of-life programme focused on sustainable development, placing people at the core, with enhancements that directly impact the overall quality of life.
Championing climate neutrality
Helsingborg's was selected as one of Europe's pioneering cities in the drive towards climate neutrality by 2030. Through participation in initiatives like the Viable Cities and Cities Mission of the European Union, Helsingborg collaborates with other Swedish and European cities, businesses, academic institutions, and residents to pave the way for a climate-neutral future.
A notable accomplishment that sets Helsingborg apart is its complete transition to fossil fuel-free public transport since 2018. The city's buses are powered exclusively by renewable fuels, including biogas and certified renewable electricity.
Additionally, as early as 2009, regional train services switched to renewable electricity. Historic ferries that connect Helsingborg to Helsingör in Denmark, which have been operating since the mid-19th century, shifted to electric power in 2018, resulting in a substantial 65% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
Oceanhamnen: The future of sustainable living
In 2022, Helsingborg created a new, centrally located district out of an abandoned harbour area. The Oceanhamnen community is a testament to the city's commitment to sustainability and circularity, both for its residents and visitors.
Notably, the district utilises innovative and pioneering three-pipe technology to segregate water flows for different purposes. This approach offers possibilities for biogas production, reduced water consumption, and cleaner fertilisers.
Below the depths of Oceanhamnen, an artificial reef promotes marine biodiversity; smart solutions allow the city and nature to live in harmony. There is also a marine colony for mussel farming; soon, restaurants along the quayside will be able to serve mussels grown just below in the sea.
Empowering the next generation
Helsingborg’s understands that children are an essential part of the green transition and incorporates these important values in a playful and exciting way for younger residents. In 2022, the city introduced four superheroes to engage and educate children about the importance of protecting the planet.
These engaging characters have not only resonated with locals but also with visitors, enhancing the city's appeal. To connect with the history of the city, historical landmarks such as Kärnan, the famous 13th century tower, make use of VR technology to help younger visitors understand the historical context. In an app, children can immerse themselves in the medieval period around Kärnan and be part of life through a game.
San Sebastian
Located in the Basque Country of Spain, San Sebastián offers a blend of rich heritage, world-class gastronomy, and a welcoming lifestyle.
Rich heritage, world-class gastronomy and a welcoming lifestyle
Located in the Basque Country of Spain, San Sebastián offers a blend of rich heritage, world-class gastronomy, and a welcoming lifestyle. San Sebastián balances its unique and ancient history, defined by the enigmatic Basque language, with its innovative and sustainable initiatives that fosters an inclusive and vibrant community.
‘Capital of Social Economy’
San Sebastián ensures its residents’ interests are put first. The creation of San Sebastián's tourism strategy is a collaborative effort involving over 300 local SMEs, citizens, and public and private sector stakeholders.
The city places a strong emphasis on citizen awareness and participation, encouraging dialogue and soliciting suggestions for a comprehensive tourism plan that considers residents' perspectives.
A notable milestone is the introduction of a tourist tax, a step towards improving the city's infrastructure and resources. San Sebastian Tourism has also pioneered a Tourism Observatory that harnesses Big Data and Open Data, creating an interconnected repository of information from various municipal departments. This innovative approach to data management fuels informed decision-making and enhances both visitor and resident experiences.
An unmatched gastronomy scene
San Sebastián is home to a world-renowned gastronomy scene. The city celebrates its fishermen and farmers, and uses locally sourced, top-quality ingredients to deliver an extraordinary culinary experience. This gastronomic legacy has been elevated by visionary chefs, securing San Sebastián as the city with the second-highest density of Michelin stars per square metre globally.
The Basque Culinary Centre ensures that this legacy lives on for future generations. As the first Gastronomic University in Spain and second in Europe, it offers an unparalleled culinary education, complete with workshops, tasting menus, and even doctorate programs. This centre celebrates gastronomy's role in shaping the city's identity and extends its offerings to both residents and visitors.
Staying active
Beyond cuisine, San Sebastián residents and visitors enjoy a healthy lifestyle, where sports and outdoor activities are integral to daily life. Four beaches welcome surfers to ride the waves, while over 80 kilometres of biking lanes invite cyclists to explore the city's scenic vistas.
A vibrant running community participates in over 30 annual races, fostering an active community. The city also offers adapted surfing, ball, cycling, and other adapted sports to ensure everyone in the community can be included in an active lifestyle.