The European Commission has revealed the cities that are eligible for the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism 2023. The finalists chosen from 29 applicants from 13 countries are Aarhus (Denmark), Gijón (Spain), Pafos (Cyprus), Porto (Portugal), San Sebastián (Spain), Seville (Spain), and Zagreb (Croatia).
The competition was accessible to cities from the EU and non-EU nations. A panel of impartial professionals evaluated the applications. Finalists were chosen from among those who had the highest overall score across all categories.
The selected regions will be invited to present their bids to a European Jury, which will choose the European Capitals of Smart Tourism for 2023. With the designation of 2023 European Capital of Smart Tourism, the winners will get marketing and branding support for the whole year of 2023.
This includes an advertising film, a particularly designed hashtag sculpture for the city to display, and bespoke marketing efforts designed to increase visibility in the EU and worldwide while also raising tourist numbers.
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