Support calls
08 April 2026
Explore Europe’s Gems: European Capitals of Tourism 2027 Competition Now Open
Support calls
08 April 2026
Adventure tourism
Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism
Cultural tourism
+19 more
Login / create an account to be able to react
-
21
The European Commission has officially announced the launch of the prestigious European Capitals of Tourism 2027 competition, inviting cities across Europe to participate in showcasing their innovative and sustainable tourism practices. This initiative aims to recognize and celebrate cities that are developing innovative, sustainable, and inclusive tourism offerings, setting benchmarks for smart tourism in Europe.
Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport
European Commission
Topics
EU-27
Destination Management & Marketing Organisations
Local Authorities
Regional Authorities
-
Specific types of tourism
-
-
Adventure tourism
-
Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism
-
Cultural tourism
-
Ecotourism
-
Education tourism
-
Festival tourism
-
Gastronomy tourism
-
Health and medical tourism
-
MICE tourism
-
Mountain tourism
-
Religious tourism
-
Rural tourism
-
Sports tourism
-
Urban/city tourism
-
Wellness tourism
-
-
Transition Pathway Strategic Areas
-
-
Best practices, peer learning and networking
-
Digitalisation of tourism SMEs and destinations
-
Funding and support measures
-
Governance of tourism destinations
-
Innovative tourism services
-
Tourism strategies
-
-
Business activities
-
-
Activities of associations and other organisations supporting tourism
-
Share
The European Capitals of Tourism competition seeks to highlight and promote cities that are pushing the boundaries of smart tourism through innovative digital, cultural, social, and environmental initiatives. Held annually, this esteemed competition acknowledges destinations that provide outstanding, intelligent, and innovative tourism experiences. Eligible applicants for the 2027 edition include cities from EU member states and non-EU countries that are part of the COSME programme. The competition encourages applications from cities with over 100,000 inhabitants, while in countries where no city meets this population, the largest city is eligible to apply.
Applications will be assessed based on performance in four crucial categories: Accessibility, fostering an environment open to all; Sustainability, focusing on environmental protection and sustainable urban development; Digitalization, utilizing digital tools for enhanced tourist experiences; and Cultural Heritage and Creativity, engaging local communities through cultural assets. Winning cities will gain international recognition, increased tourism, and strengthened city branding. Past winners have seen heightened visibility and media promotion on both European and global stages.
Cities interested in participating are encouraged to submit their applications by the deadline. For detailed information on the application process, evaluation criteria, and timeline, please visit the official European Capitals of Tourism 2027 website.
This is a unique opportunity to gain recognition for your city’s innovative approaches, reshaping the future of tourism in Europe. Don’t miss the chance to join this transformative journey. For further details and to apply, visit the official call page.
#European Capitals of Tourism #Sustainable tourism #Smart tourism #Sustainable destinations #Destination management
Comments (0)
Related content
See also
New Survey Launched: The FACILITATE EU project calls on stakeholders to help define the next era of tourism data
- Categories
- Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism Cultural tourism Ecotourism +64 more
TAIEX: the Technical Assistance and Information Exchange instrument of the European Commission
- Categories
- Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism Cultural tourism Ecotourism +64 more
Technical Support Instrument 2025 call for EU Member States
- Categories
- Coastal, maritime and inland water tourism Cultural tourism Ecotourism +64 more