Speaker
Description
Tourism in urban areas, particularly in European destinations, has grown significantly over the years, often surpassing expert predictions. This growth has increased the use of urban spaces where place consumption practices occur, sometimes creating functional challenges that disrupt the balance between local needs and tourist demands, potentially impacting residents' quality of life. Despite the strong link between cities and urban tourism, studies addressing sustainable tourism management in post-industrial European destinations remain limited.
This study examines the role of urban elements in shaping place consumption experiences and analyzes urban planning and tourism management strategies in three post-industrial European cities: Bilbao, Rotterdam, and Copenhagen. It addresses two key questions: (1) What physical and functional characteristics of urban elements influence tourist practices? and (2) How have place branding strategies been used to promote these cultural hubs as sustainable destinations?
The findings highlight how bottom-up strategies prioritizing residents' well-being over tourist demands—viewing tourism as a means rather than an end—can foster sustainable urban planning. Additionally, promoting alternative activities and off-the-beaten-path attractions helps manage crowding and mitigates the expansion of tourism infrastructure in vulnerable areas. These insights guide urban planning and tourism management stakeholders in making informed, sustainable decisions, contributing to resilient cities
| Keywords | sustainable urban tourism; Post-industrial destination: Place branding; urban elements |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | Yes |
