Paphos, together with the Spanish city of Seville, were selected as the 2023 winners of the European Capitals of Smart Tourism competition of the European Union, out of 29 cities from across 13 countries, according to an announcement issued by the European Commission.
The two European Capitals of Smart Tourism will receive promotional support, as well as a purpose-built sculpture for their city centres, which will be displayed prominently for the duration of their year as a European Capital of Smart Tourism.
Furthermore, the two cities will join part the growing network of smart tourism cities in Europe in view of sharing their experience and best practices.
Meanwhile, Kranj in Slovenia has been selected as the winner of the 2023 European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) competition, and will be promoted as a role model for sustainable tourism practices in Europe.
The European Capital of Smart Tourism, which was won by Paphos and Seville, is an EU initiative that promotes smart tourism in the EU by rewarding cities for their pioneering approaches in accessibility, digitalisation, sustainability, and cultural heritage and creativity. Similarly, the European Destinations of Excellence is an EU initiative that recognises and rewards smaller destinations that have put in place successful strategies to boost sustainable tourism.
For the 2023 competition, 29 cities from across 13 countries competed for the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism, while a total of 20 destinations competed for the title of European Destination of Excellence. The cities were evaluated by a jury on three criteria: the city’s programme of activities envisaged to implement in 2023; the city’s overall commitment to develop as a smart tourism destination; and the city’s capacity to act as a role model and inspiring other cities.
Source: Cyprus News Agency