European Capitals of Tourism Presenting Best Tourism Practices at the Smart City Expo World Congress 2026

The 2026 European Capitals of Tourism will present innovative approaches to sustainable urban tourism in Barcelona, sharing how data, digital solutions and culture can create lasting value for destinations and their communities.

How can cities make tourism smarter, more sustainable and more beneficial for local communities? From 3 to 5 November, the European Capitals of Tourism initiative will bring practical answers to the Smart City Expo World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, where this year’s recognised destinations, Tampere (Finland) and Dubrovnik (Croatia), will showcase their approaches to urban tourism.

The European Capitals of Tourism initiative celebrates European destinations that are leading the way in smart, sustainable and innovative tourism. By recognising inspiring practices and sharing knowledge between cities, the initiative encourages destinations across Europe to develop tourism that strengthens local economies, enhances the visitor experience and benefits residents.

At the European Twinning & Citiverse Plaza (Hall 3, Stand D71), visitors can discover practical examples of how Tampere and Dubrovnik are putting these principles into action. The programme will feature dedicated demonstrations of Tampere Pulse and the Dubrovnik Pass, alongside city presentations and opportunities to learn more about the initiative and how to apply for its next edition.

Event participants can look forward to learning about the innovative practices established in both cities, with dedicated demo sessions at the stand, with a focus on ‘Tampere Pulse’ and the ‘Dubrovnik Pass’ platforms, helping the cities manage tourism flows and use data management to support local businesses. Tampere Pulse demonstrates how data and digital tools can help destinations better understand tourism activity and support informed decision-making. Dubrovnik Pass offers an integrated approach to visitor access and the city’s cultural attractions. Together, the examples illustrate how innovation can help destinations manage tourism more effectively while creating value for visitors, local businesses and residents.

Join us for the following sessions at the European Twinning & Citiverse Plaza:

• Tuesday, 3 November 2026 | 12:40–12:55 l Demo Session: ‘Tampere Pulse’ with Maiju Viiki, City of Tampere
• Thursday, 5 November 2026 I 11:55 – 12:10 I City Presentation, Dubrovnik
• Thursday, 5 November 2026 | 15:20–15:35 l Demo Session: ‘Dubrovnik Pass’ with Vlaho Margaretić, City of Dubrovnik
• Thursday, 5 November 2026 I 15:20 – 15:35 I City Presentation, Tampere

Tampere and Dubrovnik are joining the wider conversation at the Smart City Expo World Congress, by taking part in the Creative Cities sessions, focusing on urban tourism and the role of culture in the city identity. From rethinking how destinations create value through tourism to exploring how culture drives urban identity and economic vitality, the sessions will offer fresh insights into the challenges and opportunities facing European cities.

Don’t miss the Creative Cities sessions at the Impact Tech Stage:

• 05.11 Thursday I 10:50 – 11:10 I From Visitors to Value: Rethinking Urban Tourism, with Ana Hrnić, City of Dubrovnik
• 05.11 Thursday I 11:20 – 12:05 I How is Culture Driving Urban Identity and Economic Value in Cities, with Maiju Viiki, City of Tampere

Meet the 2026 European Capitals of Tourism in Barcelona to discover their initiatives, exchange ideas and find inspiration for the next generation of smart tourism destinations. Find out more about Tampere and Dubrovnik, and explore the full list of winners and finalists, here.