Málaga Renews Its Commitment as a Smart Tourism Destination

Málaga has renewed its distinction as a Smart Tourism Destination, a recognition that supports its tourism management model based on innovation, sustainability, accessibility, technology and governance.

The city has exceeded 80% of the requirements established by the Smart Tourism Destination methodology, developed by Spain’s Secretary of State for Tourism through SEGITTUR. This system evaluates destinations across five main areas using 97 requirements and 261 indicators.

Andalusia’s Only Full Smart Tourism Destination

With this renewal, Málaga strengthens its position as the only full Smart Tourism Destination in Andalusia and maintains the recognition it previously achieved as the first Andalusian destination to reach this category.

At national level, the distinction is also held by destinations such as Barcelona, Bilbao, Benidorm, Donostia/San Sebastián, Guara Somontano, Gijón/Xixón, Lloret de Mar, Santander, Valencia and Vitoria-Gasteiz.

A Model Based on Five Areas

The Smart Tourism Destination programme evaluates a destination’s ability to improve both its competitiveness and the quality of life of its residents.

The methodology is structured around five key areas:

Governance, to improve coordination and strategic planning.
Innovation, to introduce new solutions into tourism management.
Technology, to optimise information, services and the visitor experience.
Sustainability, to ensure balanced development of the destination.
Accessibility, to move towards a more inclusive destination for everyone.

Positive Progress Since 2024

The review and update of Málaga’s Smart Tourism Destination diagnosis has been coordinated by the city’s Tourism and Promotion Department, with the involvement of several municipal areas.

The comparison between the 2024 review and the current update shows positive progress across all five areas analysed. Málaga’s compliance level stands at around 80%, above the average of the more than 200 destinations assessed using this methodology.

Another Step in Málaga’s Tourism Strategy

The renewal of the distinction reinforces Málaga’s strategy as a competitive, responsible urban destination committed to continuous improvement.

The recognition highlights the technical work carried out by the City Council and strengthens Málaga’s position as a benchmark in smart tourism management. Its approach seeks not only to improve the visitor experience, but also to enhance the wellbeing of residents.

Practical Information

Recognition: Smart Tourism Destination
Destination: Málaga city
Distinction: Full Smart Tourism Destination
Methodology developed by: SEGITTUR
Areas assessed: Governance, innovation, technology, sustainability and accessibility
Indicators analysed: 97 requirements and 261 indicators
Compliance level: Above 80%
Position in Andalusia: Only full Smart Tourism Destination in the region

Official source: Visit Málaga