Join the conversation: cities co-design the future of sustainable and inclusive tourism
Is it the number of visitors it attracts or the quality of experience it creates for both residents and travellers?
Tourism is one of Europe’s most important economic sectors. According to the European Commission, tourism accounts for around 10% of the EU’s GDP and supports more than 22 million jobs across the Union. Cities remain at the heart of this ecosystem, welcoming millions of visitors each year while also facing increasing pressures on housing, infrastructure, public space and local communities.
At the same time, tourism patterns are rapidly changing. Cities are seeking new ways to reduce seasonality, diversify visitor experiences, support local businesses and ensure that destinations remain liveable and accessible for everyone.
To support this transition, the Urban Agenda for the EU Partnership on Sustainable Tourism is inviting tourism professionals, public authorities, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to contribute their experience through two surveys addressing key challenges faced by urban destinations today.
Two key topics for the future of urban tourism
The surveys are part of the work carried out under two actions of the Partnership's Action Plan:
Action 04 – More Resilient and Sustainable Destinations through Diversification of Tourism Offer
Many destinations still rely heavily on seasonal tourism flows. According to Eurostat, over 40% of annual tourism nights in several European regions occur during the summer months, creating strong seasonal peaks. Diversifying tourism offer, through cultural, nature-based, gastronomic or community-led experiences, can help destinations spread visitor flows more evenly throughout the year while strengthening local economies.
Action 05 – Destinations Accessible for All
Accessibility is another key priority. The European Commission estimates that over 87 million people in the EU live with some form of disability, while an even larger number of travellers face temporary mobility limitations due to age, injury or family circumstances. Improving accessibility in tourism therefore benefits not only specific groups but a much wider share of society.
Creating destinations that are accessible to everyone contributes to inclusive urban environments, better visitor experiences and stronger local economies.
Turning experience into practical tools for cities
The insights gathered through these surveys will feed into the preparation of two practical Handbooks for cities across Europe. These publications will include:
- concrete policy recommendations for urban authorities
- inspiring case studies and good practices from European cities
- practical tools to support tourism diversification and accessibility
- guidance for strengthening the resilience of urban tourism ecosystems.
The work reflects the multilevel governance approach of the Urban Agenda for the EU, which connects cities, Member States, European institutions and stakeholders to co-create solutions to common urban challenges.
Your experience matters
Tourism professionals, entrepreneurs, public authorities, accessibility experts and civil society organisations are invited to share their knowledge and experiences.
By participating in the surveys, stakeholders can contribute to shaping future tools and recommendations that will support cities in developing more resilient, inclusive and sustainable tourism models.
Both surveys will remain open until the end of March 2026, and all responses will be treated confidentially and anonymously.
Click the links below to take part in the survey:
Action 04 – Diversification of Tourism Offer
Action 05 - Destination Accessible for All
Together, we can help ensure that tourism continues to support vibrant, inclusive and sustainable European cities.