The Spanish city of València has been named European Capital of Smart Tourism 2022.
The city’s candidacy has been chosen by a jury of the European Commission, specialising in accessibility, sustainability, digitisation, cultural heritage and creativity.
It recognises Valencia’s commitment to developing projects that promote smart tourism; networking and promoting the development of innovative, sustainable and inclusive tourism.
A total of 30 applications from 16 different countries submitted initiatives, including Bordeaux (France), Copenhagen (Denmark), Dublin (Ireland), Florence (Italy) and Palma (Spain).
It ”represents recognition of the work on sustainability that the Valencia destination is developing, together with the business sector,’ said Councillor for Tourism of the Valencia City Council, Emiliano García.
"Valencia is positioning itself as a cosmopolitan, intelligent and sustainable tourist destination. We are leading pioneering projects in terms of sustainability, such as the one relating to the calculation, certification and reduction of carbon and water footprints; or the development of a complete Tourist Intelligence System."
Valencia plans a promotional video, a large sculpture including a hashtag that will be installed in a prominent place in the city and various promotional activities within the EU to support visibility and awareness of the award in 2022.
