How can a destination know when and where large numbers of visitors gather? And how can it use this information to reduce overcrowding and protect attractions and residents’ daily lives? These issues were the focus of the meeting of the European TOURISMO project, held in Rhodes on October 14 and 15, 2026.
The meeting, organized by the Region of South Aegean – ENERGIAKI S.A. as the project leader, marked the beginning of a new phase: the knowledge and solutions tested in Rhodes and other tourist destinations will be adapted to the needs of three new regions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in France, and in Portugal.
TOURISMO is co-funded by the Interreg Euro-MED Program and leverages technology to help destinations better organize tourism activities. For example, tracking the number and movement of visitors can help authorities identify areas with high congestion and plan appropriate measures. The goal is to provide a better experience for visitors, while respecting local communities, the environment, and cultural heritage.
The meeting was attended by representatives from ENERGIAKIS S.A., the University of Florence, the University of Florence’s Research and Innovation Foundation, KiNNO Innovation Intermediaries, and the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions of Europe. Also participating were representatives from the regions that will benefit from the project’s experience: the Banja Luka City Development Agency, representing the Krupa na Vrbasu region in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Aspres–Thuir Tourism Office in France, and the Municipality of Vila Franca de Xira in Portugal.
On the first day, representatives from the new regions presented their needs and the challenges they face in managing tourist traffic. The discussion focused on how they can utilize the methods, digital tools, and practical guidelines developed through TOURISMO, adapting them to the specific characteristics of each location.
At the same time, they examined the training of the people who will use these tools, potential future investments, and the ways in which the solutions will continue to deliver benefits after the project’s completion. Particular emphasis was placed on collaboration between public authorities, businesses, and other local stakeholders, as through local collaboration groups, workshops, and informational events, they will have the opportunity to discuss the needs of their destination and participate in the design of practical solutions.
On the second day, a visit was made to the Medieval City of Rhodes, where TOURISMO solutions were implemented and tested. The visit gave participants the opportunity to connect what had been discussed with its application in a location with significant cultural heritage and heavy tourist traffic.
With ENERGIAKI S.A. coordinating the effort, TOURISMO aims to help more destinations put this experience into practice, by developing a better understanding of tourist traffic and more effective planning, and by creating better conditions for residents and visitors alike.
More information is available on the websites www.tourismo.interreg-euro-med.eu and www.readsa.gr.
