Dublin City Council proudly unveiled the city’s official status as the 2024 European Capital of Smart Tourism, following its triumph in winning an esteemed EU award.

Rising above 29 other cities, Dublin clinched the recognition due to its pioneering innovations and steadfast dedication to sustainability in tourism.

The prestigious honor was marked with a dazzling display as the iconic Samuel Beckett Bridge shimmered under the European flag’s glow in celebration of this accolade.

Dublin, having previously been shortlisted for the award in 2021, stands out as one of the few European cities to foster a comprehensive Smart Tourism Programme.

Expressing her jubilation, Minister for Tourism and Culture Catherine Martin commended Dublin’s achievement, emphasizing the City Council’s commitment to establishing Dublin as a global, sustainable, and culturally vibrant destination. She lauded the recognition as an inspiration for other regions to strive for excellence in sustainable tourism practices, aiming for positive environmental, social, and economic impacts.

The city’s Smart Tourism Programme is set to host a spectrum of events, engagements, and activities centered on championing sustainable tourism best practices. Notably, the initiative will see collaborative exchanges with representatives from leading European tourism destinations, fostering an environment of mutual learning and idea sharing.

A pivotal focus in Dublin’s agenda for the year is bolstering collaboration with other EU cities, aiming to cultivate stronger ties and mutual growth.

Richard Shakespeare, Chief Executive of Dublin City Council, expressed delight at Dublin’s crowning as the European Capital of Smart Tourism for 2024.

He highlighted the city’s steadfast commitment to crafting a greener, more accessible, inclusive, and innovative Dublin for residents and visitors alike.

Leveraging the momentum of this designation, Dublin aims to spearhead an innovative approach to tourism, building upon shared learnings from the city’s Smart Tourism program established in 2019 and enshrined in their new Tourism Strategy 2023-2023.