The Algarve has launched a major new effort to modernise the way the region plans, manages and lives with tourism.
The SmartVITATUR project, led by the University of the Algarve, officially got underway on November 14 at the Real Marina Hotel in Olhão, where experts, researchers and municipal representatives gathered to map out the region’s next big transformation.
SmartVITATUR aims to take the successful Spanish Smart Tourism Destination model – now recognised worldwide – and adapt it to the Algarve, making tourism smarter, more sustainable and better aligned with the everyday life and well-being of residents.
All 16 Algarve municipalities are on board. Each will receive a full analysis of its quality-of-life indicators and current level of “smart tourism” readiness, followed by a tailor-made action plan to guide its next steps. Strategic recommendations will also be delivered to help shape future public policies and local development initiatives.
A key piece of the project is the creation of the SmartVITATUR Network, a new platform designed to keep municipalities connected and learning from one another.
Spanish destinations with years of experience in the Smart Tourism model will share practical tools, methods and lessons learned, helping Algarve towns fast-track their own progress.
