#SmartTour Innovation, digitalisation and sustainable development – highlights of the meeting in Côtes-d’Armor

On 20–21 May 2026, partners of the  “Smart Tourism - Smart Destinations: Accessibility, Sustainability, Digitalization, Cultural Heritage, and Creativity (Smart Tour)” project, implemented under the Interreg Europe programme, held their third thematic workshop in the Côtes-d’Armor region (France), dedicated to the development of smart and sustainable tourism. The event brought together representatives of municipalities, tourism organisations, experts, and stakeholders from different European countries to discuss modern approaches to tourism destination management.

During the first day, participants focused on tourism statistics and sustainable tourism indicators. Through discussions and practical exchanges, partners shared experiences on how to effectively measure tourism flows, assess the impact of tourism on local communities, and use data to support management decisions. Particular attention was given to modern technologies for data collection and analysis, including the use of artificial intelligence and smartphone data to better understand visitor flows.

An important part of the programme included study visits to innovative sites in the region. Participants visited the EcoCounter company, which specialises in solutions for counting and analysing pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and explored examples of how digital technologies are being applied in tourism and visitor flow management. During the visit to Cité des télécoms, partners discovered how cultural heritage can be combined with innovation through virtual tours, digital twins, and inclusive technologies for people with hearing impairments.

The second day focused on research and innovation for digital tools and services in tourism. Discussions explored how emerging technologies can help expand the audience of tourist attractions, make travel more accessible, and improve interaction with visitors. The project Steering Committee meeting also took place, during which partners reviewed the project’s progress and discussed the next implementation steps.

Smart Tourism - Smart Destinations: Accessibility, Sustainability, Digitalisation, Cultural Heritage & Creativity (Smart Tour) project is implemented under the Interreg Europe Program, funded by the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the author. The management of the Interreg Europe Program is not responsible for any information contained in this publication.