Can urban destinations remain liveable for their residents?

Every visit to a destination is also a visit to the community that inhabits it. As urban areas become increasingly shaped by tourism, many cities risk losing their distinctive character, cultural fabric, and liveability. The processes of touristification and overtourism can displace residents, strain local resources, and erode community wellbeing.

Ensuring that urban destinations remain liveable requires more than just managing tourist numbers—it calls for inclusive planning that centres the voices and experiences of local communities. When residents are actively involved in shaping tourism, they are more likely to support it, fostering a more balanced and welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.

In line with Sustainable Development Goals 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), sustainable urban tourism depends on strong, collaborative partnerships between residents, public institutions, and private stakeholders. By prioritising community participation and equitable governance, cities can protect their identity while building more resilient and inclusive tourism futures.