2025 European Capital and Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism awards

Turin has been awarded a prestigious international recognition, being proclaimed the "European Capital of Smart Tourism" for 2025, while the title of Green Pioneer, designed to recognize and award smaller destinations, has been assigned to Benidorm (Spain).

But what exactly does Smart Tourism mean and why is it important for cities? Smart tourism is an innovative approach to the tourism sector that relies on the use of digital technologies and sustainability. The goal is to create a more personalized, efficient, and environmentally friendly tourist experience, involving both visitors and local communities.

The characteristics of smart tourism:

• Digitalization: Use of apps, online platforms, and sensors to provide personalized information, facilitate service booking, and improve the management of tourist destinations.
• Sustainability: Reduction of environmental impact through sustainable practices, such as the use of renewable energy, promotion of public transport, and valorization of local cultural heritage.
• Accessibility: Ensuring access to all tourism services, regardless of physical abilities or individual preferences.
• Participation: Active involvement of citizens and local businesses in the creation and management of the tourism offer.
• Innovation: Experimentation with new technologies and solutions to improve the tourist experience and meet the needs of visitors.

The benefits of smart tourism:

• Increased competitiveness: Positioning as a cutting-edge tourist destination, attractive to the most demanding travelers.
• Economic development: Smart tourism generates new job opportunities and stimulates the local economy.
• Improved quality of life: The city becomes more livable and sustainable thanks to initiatives such as reducing traffic and enhancing green spaces.
• Preservation of cultural heritage: Digital technologies allow for the enhancement and protection of the city's artistic and architectural heritage.