Dual recognition for Turin – TIPS4PED lighthouse city named the European Capital of Innovation AND Smart Tourism

Turin has been awarded two prestigious European titles, positioning itself as a leader in innovation and sustainable urban development. The city has been named the European Capital of Innovation 2024-25 and the European Capital of Smart Tourism 2025, recognizing its commitment to accessibility, digital transformation, sustainability, and inclusive urban growth.

European Capital of Innovation 2024-25

Turin’s designation as the European Capital of Innovation recognizes its efforts in fostering a thriving ecosystem of startups, social enterprises, and research institutions, all while prioritizing sustainability and social inclusion. Some of the city’s key innovation-driven programs include: 

• Torino City Lab: A testbed for emerging technologies in mobility, AI, and green solutions, providing a collaborative platform for startups and researchers to develop smart and sustainable urban solutions. 

• Torino Social Impact: A network dedicated to advancing social entrepreneurship and impact investment, ensuring economic growth benefits all citizens, including marginalized communities. 

• Sustainable housing initiatives: Public-private partnerships are driving the development of affordable and energy-efficient housing, addressing social inequality and promoting eco-friendly urban living. 

• Smart and accessible mobility: The city is enhancing its public transportation system with electric buses, shared mobility services, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to reduce emissions and improve urban accessibility. 

• Academic and business partnerships: Collaborations between Torino Polytechnic, the University of Torino, LINKS Foundation, and local enterprises fuel technological advancements and workforce development. 

European Capital of Smart Tourism 2025

The European Commission has honored Turin with the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism 2025, highlighting its achievements in integrating culture, technology, and sustainable tourism practices. The city’s transformation from an industrial hub to a modern, visitor-friendly metropolis is evident in key initiatives: 

• Revitalization of historic sites: Former industrial spaces like the Lingotto Factory and Officine Grandi Riparazioni (OGR) have been repurposed into cultural and creative hubs that promote sustainable tourism and community engagement. 

• Sustainable and inclusive mobility for tourists: Extensive bike paths, pedestrian zones, and low-emission public transport options make the city more accessible and environmentally friendly for both visitors and residents. 

• Digital innovation in tourism: Smart applications and AI-enhanced museum experiences offer interactive and inclusive ways for visitors to explore the city, ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities. 

A blueprint for sustainable and inclusive cities

Turin’s dual recognition sets a benchmark for cities aiming to balance historical preservation with forward-thinking innovation. By integrating smart tourism initiatives with a dynamic innovation ecosystem, Turin serves as a model for sustainable urban development that enhances both visitor experiences and residents’ quality of life.

The TIPS4PED project celebrates the achievements of Turin, our project’s Lighthouse City. Indeed, many of the organizations that have played a key role in Turin’s success are also partners in the TIPS4PED Consortium, further strengthening the link between these achievements and our collaborative efforts. Turin’s holistic approach feeds perfectly into our project’s mission, demonstrating how technology and sustainability can transform urban spaces into more accessible, efficient, and inclusive environments.