With Respect to Prague: Czech capital approves plan for sustainable tourism

The City Council of Prague has approved a new tourism strategy for the years 2024-2027. Building on previous efforts to change Prague's image from a destination for alcotourism, the new strategy, titled With Respect to Prague, aims to continue attracting high-profile, individual travelers who seek culture, monuments, and history.

Data analysis has confirmed that Prague has set a successful course in tourism in recent years, with the average spending of tourists increasing by 40 percent compared to 2019. Domestic tourism to the capital is also up to 20 percent, compared to 15 percent in 2019, and overall tourist satisfaction has grown by nine percent in that same span.

"Tourism in Prague has stabilized over the past two years, and data shows that we are moving in the right direction," Prague Deputy Mayor Jiří Pospíšil says through a press release. "The new strategy, supported across the political spectrum, confirms that Prague will continue to focus on sustainable and respectful tourism."

The strategy includes 29 specific projects that will be implemented over the next three years by the city, its partners, and Prague City Tourism. These projects aim to cultivate and stabilize tourism in Prague while ensuring it remains sustainable and beneficial for both visitors and residents.

"All our marketing campaigns target those who come to Prague for its sights, culture, and gastronomy, and who are willing to spend more time and money here," adds František Cipro, chairman of the board of Prague City Tourism, who emphasized the focus on individual travelers as opposed to larger groups.

One significant aspect of the strategy is its collaborative approach at the European level. Prague, along with other cities such as Amsterdam and Barcelona, will coordinate activities through the Alliance for Sustainable Tourism. This platform will facilitate the sharing of data and best practices to balance tourism and residents' interests.

Among the planned projects is a revision of the educational system for guide services, addressing issues related to short-term rentals, and the development of a new tourist application titled My Prague. These initiatives are designed to enhance the visitor experience while promoting sustainable tourism practices.

The city will also continue its marketing campaigns, which aim to attract both domestic and international tourists. These campaigns highlight cultural events, historical sites, and the new Olympic sport breakdancing, which will debut in Paris this year.

Additionally, the ongoing Enjoy Respect Prague campaign educates visitors on the rules and culture of behavior in the city, promoting respect for both tourists and local residents. This campaign covers topics such as public alcohol consumption and maintaining nighttime silence.