The pilot phase of the D3HUB Project has entered a new stage. From March to June 2025, all four thematic clusters successfully concluded their internal webinar series, creating a valuable platform for destinations to exchange knowledge, showcase good practices, and work together on solutions for sustainable and data-driven tourism.
The four clusters were designed around key challenges identified in the European tourism sector: redistributing visitor flows, balancing residents and visitors, adapting to climate change, and supporting emerging destinations. Each cluster explored these themes through tailored discussions and peer-to-peer learning.
Spotlight on Cluster 4 – Emerging Destinations
Cluster 4: Emerging Destinations was co-led by AnySolution and ARCTUR, with Urška Starc Peceny (ARCTUR) serving as moderator. This cluster brought together Varna, Rhodes, Parma–Piacenza–Reggio Emilia, Scheldevallei National Park, Zagreb County, Sicily’s islands, Northern Norway, Nordhessen, and San Benedetto del Tronto.
The four sessions highlighted diverse experiences and strategies:
- How to Attract Quality Visitors
- Sustainability & Resilience
- Branding & Promotion
- Skills, Local Ownership & the Future
Destination Action Plans
With the webinars now completed, all 40 pilot destinations across all clusters are invited to prepare their Destination Action Plans after the summer.
The Action Plans will:
- Summarise the main lessons and takeaways from the pilot activities.
- Identify the most effective solutions, adapted to each destination’s context.
- Provide a structured roadmap with clear objectives and actions.
These documents will ensure that the outcomes of the D3HUB pilot phase translate into long-term strategies for more resilient, sustainable, and data-driven tourism across Europe.
Looking Ahead
Running from February 2025 to February 2026, the D3HUB pilot tests the services that will shape the future European Competence Centre for Tourism. By addressing shared challenges, the project supports destinations in creating tourism models that are more sustainable, balanced, and future-proof.
In September 2025, the consortium will meet in Nova Gorica, where different Slovene stakeholders from tourism sector will join to discuss “Local Stakeholder Perspectives: Real-World Challenges in Data-Driven Tourism.” This gathering will provide practical insights into how destinations are addressing the green and digital transition.
The forthcoming Destination Action Plans will be the tangible legacy of the pilot, ensuring continuity and long-term impact for European tourism.
More information: D3HUB Competence Centre,
