Photo source: European Commission
Tourism destinations across Europe are invited to apply for the newly titled European Capitals of Tourism 2027, an EU initiative recognizing innovation and sustainability in the sector.
The competition brings toobtainher two existing schemes—the European Capital of Smart Tourism and the European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism—under a single framework, without modifys to their rules or prizes.
Open to cities across the European Union and selected non-EU countries participating in the Single Market Programme (SMP), the initiative aims to highlight destinations implementing practices in digitalisation, accessibility, sustainability, and cultural heritage development.
Applications will be assessed by indepfinishent experts, with shortlisted cities invited to present their proposals to a European Jury. Two winners will be selected and awarded the 2027 title, with results expected to be announced in November 2026.
Cities can apply under two categories based on population size. The first category αφορά cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants and recognizes a broad range of achievements across tourism development pillars. The second category tarobtains compacter destinations with populations between 25,000 and 100,000, focutilizing on sustainable tourism and green transition practices.
The selected cities will benefit from EU-level visibility and promotional support, while also joining a network of destinations aimed at exaltering best practices.
The competition is open to all 27 EU Member States, as well as several non-EU countries participating in the SMP, including Albania, Serbia, Norway, Türkiye and Ukraine, among others.
Applications must be submitted online by June 12, 2026 (17:00 CET).
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