Smart Tourism in Tampere - A year of The European Capital of Smart Tourism officially kicks off

Tampere’s year as the European Capital of Smart Tourism officially began with a visit from representatives of the European Commission, who presented the city with a statues. This recognition comes at just the right time, as the EU is currently developing a Sustainable Tourism Strategy.

European Capital of Smart Tourism statue in Ratinanlinnanpuisto Tampere. *Picture: Laura Vanzo, source Visit Tampere*

In late 2025, Tampere was selected as the European Capital of Smart Tourism. The criteria for smart tourism include accessibility, sustainability, digitalisation, cultural history and creativity. Tampere advanced from the preliminary round in the fall to the final round held in Brussels, where a panel of experts made the final decision. 11. The year as the capital city kicked off in March 11, when a delegation from the European Commission arrived to visit Tampere. The commemorative statue shown in the photo was erected in Ratinanlinnanpuist to mark the achievement..

Tampere’s status as the capital is a recognition of the high-quality work that has been performed over many years. Tampere has the capacity for developing innovative solutions, and the city offers attractions for international audiences also. Technologically advanced solutions blend seamlessly with clean nature and high-quality services in Tampere. Well-known attractions include or course the Moomins and saunas. The Pulssi app helps tourists, local residents and businesses alike to navigate smoothly between different services and routes.

CEO of Visit Tampere Jari Ahjoharju introduces the city to European visitors. *Picture: Laura Vanzo, source Visit Tampere*

Receiving this award is wonderful recognition of our excellent, long-term work. It also opens up new opportunities for finding European partners and gives us a stronger position when applying for EU funding.

From a tourism perspective, this year is significant for Europe, as the Commission is expected to publish the Sustainable Tourism Strategy. The strategy focuses on tourism competitiveness, sustainability, digitalisation and resilience. Given its prominent position, Tampere now has a great opportunity to highlight its own priorities, as well as distinctive Finnish characteristics, which should be taken into account when preparing the European Sustainable Tourism Strategy.

Check the introductory video: European Capital of Smart Tourism 2026

Link to Visit Tampere’s article.