European awarded cities present Smart Tourism Solutions at ITB Berlin 2026

The EU Smart Tourism project brings together destinations working on digital services, green mobility and visitor management.

At ITB Berlin 2026, Tampere and Dubrovnik will set the tone by showcasing their approaches to smart and sustainable tourism. The two cities are the 2026 winners of the EU Smart Tourism competitions which recognises European destinations that are leading in innovation, sustainability, accessibility and digitalisation in tourism. Representatives from both cities can be met at the EU Smart Tourism stand in Hall 1.1, Stand 207.

Tampere, 2026 European Capital of Smart Tourism, is recognized for linking smart tourism development with local wellbeing and strong knowledge-sharing across Europe. At ITB Berlin 2026, the city will bring this approach to the stage during the panel “The Painful Transition from Destination to Living Space Management” on March 4 (11:40am – 12:20pm, Hall 7.1b, Blue Stage), exploring tensions and opportunities in the shift toward more liveable destinations.

Dubrovnik, 2026 European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism, stands out for its forward-looking approach to sustainable tourism management, using data and visitor-flow balancing to strengthen its long-term resilience. At ITB Berlin 2026, Dubrovnik will share these insights during the panel “The Industry Outlook: Maintaining the Balance” on March 3 (4:40pm – 5:20pm, Hall 7.1a, Orange Stage), focusing on how destinations can effectively respond to tourism pressures while preserving local quality of life.

Tampere and Dubrovnik, the 2026 Capital and Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism, will join ITB Berlin’s Cultural Experiences of Tomorrow Guided Tour and present their initiatives at the EU Smart Tourism stand on March 5 (11:45am – 12:10pm, Hall 1.1, Stand 207).

Launch of the 2027 Competition

The next application round for both EU Smart Tourism competitions will be announced during ITB Berlin 2026. The competition is open to cities in EU Member States and non-EU countries participating in the Single Market Programme. Stay tuned for more information.

The European Commission at ITB Berlin

The European Commission will be strongly represented at ITB Berlin 2026. Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, will be present at the opening press conference on Monday, March 2. He will also deliver a keynote on the Orange Stage on Tuesday afternoon on March 3.

On March 4 (12:20pm – 1:15pm, Hall 7.1b, Blue Stage), the European Commission will participate in “City Destinations under Pressure,” a discussion with industry actors on vibrant and resilient urban areas.

T4T – The EU Tourism Platform

Visitors to the Smart Tourism stand can find out more about Together for EU Tourism (T4T), the EU Tourism Platform supporting the sector’s green and digital transition. The platform brings together tourism stakeholders in order to discuss sustainable practices, innovation and resilience, in line with the EU’s Transition Pathway for Tourism.

Visitors are welcome to visit the EU Smart Tourism stand to learn more about the EU Tourism Platform and speak with representatives of the European Commission and the 2026 winners of the EU Smart Tourism competitions.

Learn more about EU Smart Tourism or stop by the stand at ITB Berlin (Hall 1.1, Stand 207).

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