Dublin Named the 2024 European Smart Tourism Capital
Dublin, Ireland has been selected as the European Smart Tourism Capital for 2024 by the European Commission. The city was chosen for its outstanding commitment to sustainable, accessible, digital, and creative tourism policies and practices. The Smart Tourism Capital recognition, awarded annually since 2019, honours leading European destinations pioneering innovation in tourism.
In bestowing the 2024 title, judges highlighted Dublin’s new five-year tourism strategy centred on technology, inclusion, and environmental responsibility. The plan aims to spread tourism benefits across all communities while protecting local culture. Partnerships with other progressive cities allow Dublin to share best practices in areas like environmental data tracking and accessible urban design.
Accessibility initiatives provide services for visitors of all physical abilities, including accessible trails, sign language guides, and wheelchair-friendly transportation. Sustainability measures address climate impact, such as a program to cut tourism emissions by half within five years. Digital platforms like virtual queuing and augmented reality immerse visitors while reducing overcrowding.
As the first Irish city to receive the Smart Tourism Capital honour, Dublin continues to drive tourism innovation. The destination conjures images of classic literature, legendary folk music, and perfectly poured pints of Guinness. By blending this old-world charm with forward-thinking technology and inclusion, Dublin sets an inspiring model for responsible travel.
Smart tourism encourages sustainability while enhancing the visitor experience. According to the European Commission, technology and accessibility will shape the future of European urban tourism. By rewarding cities at the forefront of this vision, the Smart Tourism Capital Award motivates wider adoption of ethical, intelligent practices. As the 2024 winner, Dublin exemplifies the enormous potential of inclusive, eco-friendly, and visitor-centric tourism.
