European Commission announces 2027 European Capitals of Tourism competition | News
Today the European Commission launches the 2027 edition of the European Capitals of Tourism competition1. Tourist destinations across Europe are invited to submit their innovative practices in smart and sustainable tourism and position themselves as leading examples in European tourism. As one of the EU’s largest economic sectors, tourism plays a key role in economic growth and job creation. The initiative recognizes cities that implement innovative solutions, including digitalization, accessibility, sustainability and support for cultural heritage, creativity and local talent.
Cities are invited to submit their applications online. The applications will be assessed by independent experts, followed by presentations to the European jury, which will select two winners who will be awarded the title ‘European Capitals of Tourism 2027’. The winners will be announced in November 2026.
Cities can apply for one of the following categories:
Category 1: Cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants: recognition of excellence in sustainability, accessibility, digitalization and cultural heritage and creativity.
Category 2: Cities with 25,000 to 100,000 inhabitants: recognition of smaller destinations that are leaders in sustainable tourism through green transition practices.
Both European Capitals of Tourism 2027 will benefit from promotion at EU level, including a promotional video, a hashtag sculpture and international visibility. The winners will also join a network of leading tourism destinations to share best practices.
The competition is open to EU cities and non-EU countries participating in the Single Market Program (SMP). Eligible countries include all 27 EU Member States and non-EU countries participating in the SMP, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Kosovo, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Türkiye and Ukraine.
For more information about cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants, please refer to the European Capital of Tourism – Guide for Applicants.
For more information about smaller destinations, please refer to the European Capital of Tourism – Guide for Applicants.
Applications must be received by:
June 12, 2026 at 5:00 PM CEST.
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