Good practices

In recent years, Sofia has invested significantly in transforming its urban environment through integrated development projects that blend green infrastructure, public services, and recreational amenities. A key example is the creation of Park Vazrazhdane, located in the city’s central zone,...

Small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in driving sustainable tourism, yet they often face resource and knowledge constraints. Effective support systems and guidelines can help these businesses deliver meaningful environmental and community impact. Two key sources...

The European Commission’s “European Capital of Smart Tourism” initiative, launched in 2018, selects cities based on innovative and inclusive tourism practices. The Compendium of Best Practices is drawn from applications submitted by cities during the 2019 and 2020 competitions, collating...

Effective destination management benefits communities with meaningful visitor experiences. According to ICF, a more holistic, long-term strategy enables both groups to thrive together. What Is Sustainable Destination Management? ICF defines it as a strategic and integrated approach to managing all...

Adopted by EarthCheck in June 2023, a Destination Management Plan (DMP) - also known as a Tourism Action Plan or Stewardship Plan, provides the essential strategic foundation for sustainable tourism destinations. What Is a Destination Management Plan? A DMP is...

In September 2015, all United Nations Member States adopted the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, a universal commitment to end poverty, protect the environment, and promote prosperity for everyone. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and...

Justgood Tourism, founded in 2020 and based in Padova, Italy, is a multidisciplinary consultancy specializing in transforming tourist destinations, DMOs (Destination Management Organizations), and public bodies into proactive agents of sustainable tourism. Their mission is clear: shift the focus from...

The United Nations defines sustainable tourism as tourism that thoughtfully addresses the economic, social, and environmental impacts of travel—balancing the needs of visitors, industry, local communities, and the environment both today and in the future. It plays a crucial role...

The Toolkit for Tourism Destination Management, developed by Etifor (a University of Padova spin-off), adapts the European Tourism Indicator System (ETIS) to offer a practical, stakeholder-driven guide for sustainable destination management. It equips local leaders with hands-on tools to monitor,...

The European Capital of Smart Tourism initiative, run by the European Commission, showcases outstanding innovation in European tourism. Each year, cities compete and share their most successful practices across four key categories: Accessibility, Sustainability, Digitalisation, and Cultural Heritage & Creativity....