Helsinki and Lyon have been selected as European Capitals of Smart Tourism in 2019, the first edition of the EU's competition. Of the 38 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 heritage and creativity. Both cities will receive expert communication and branding support, which will include the production of promotional videos, the installation of a purpose-built sculpture and bespoke promotional activities. The city with the most votes will be awarded a prize of €1 million (US$1.27 million), while the other finalists are expected to receive between €500,000 (US$600,000) and €2 million. Meanwhile, the individual winners of the four categories were featured alongside Helsinki and Lyon at the European Tourism Day event on 7 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 38 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 heritage and creativity. The city with the most votes will be awarded a prize of €1 million (US$1.27 million), while the other finalists are expected to receive between €500,000 (US$600,000) and €2 million. Meanwhile, the individual winners of the four categories were featured alongside Helsinki and Lyon at the European Tourism Day event on 7 November 2018.