Helsinki and Lyon have been selected as European Capitals of Smart Tourism in 2019 , the first edition of the EU 's competition . Of the 20 cities which applied to compete , the Finnish and French cities came out on top because of their commitments to four tourism - generated categories : accessibility , sustainability , digitalisation , and cultural diversity and creativity . They will be featured at the exhibition where several hundred participants from all over Europe can discover their best practices in smart tourism. As prizes , the two cities will receive expert communication and branding support , promotional videos and activities , along with a purpose - built hotel . Meanwhile , the individual winners of the four categories were announced alongside Helsinki and Lyon at the European Tourism Day event on 15 November 2018 .
Helsinki and Lyon have been selected as European Capitals of Smart Tourism in 2019 , the first edition of the EU 's competition . Of the 20 cities which applied to compete , the Finnish and French cities came out on top because of their commitments to four tourism - generated categories : accessibility , sustainability , digitalisation , and cultural diversity and creativity . As prizes , the two cities will receive expert communication and branding support , promotional videos and activities , along with a purpose - built hotel . Meanwhile , the individual winners of the four categories were announced alongside Helsinki and Lyon at the European Tourism Day event on 15 November 2018 .