EU Plans for Sustainable, Digital, and Resilient Tourism

On May 28, 2026, the Council of the European Union adopted new strategic guidelines for the tourism sector in Europe. These guidelines aim to enhance the attractiveness, sustainability, competitiveness, and digital transformation of tourism, while also narrowing the gap between heavily visited destinations and lesser-known regions.

For travelers, this means that in the future they may be able to discover a wider range of destinations that are less crowded. Promoting less-visited places could help reduce pressure on heavily visited destinations while strengthening the local economy in lesser-known regions.

Another key aspect of the new guidelines is the digital transformation of the tourism sector. Travelers can expect improved digital infrastructure that makes it easier to access information and services. This could make planning and booking trips more efficient and provide a better travel experience.

The EU also plans to make tourism more sustainable. This could be achieved through initiatives that promote environmentally friendly practices and minimize the impact of tourism on the environment. Travelers could be encouraged to make eco-conscious choices, such as using public transportation or choosing sustainable accommodations.

The new guidelines also aim to strengthen the competitiveness of the European tourism sector. This could mean that travelers benefit from improved services and offers tailored to their needs. The EU wants to ensure that Europe remains an attractive travel destination, even in the face of global competition.

Overall, the EU’s new guidelines could help future-proof the tourism sector in Europe. Travelers can look forward to a more diverse, sustainable, and digitally supported travel experience that encompasses both Europe’s well-known and lesser-known treasures.