Publication Details
Abstract
The global tourism industry has undergone a significant transformation due to rapid technological advancement and digitalization. The smart tourism concept has emerged as an innovative framework integrating information and communication technologies (ICT), big data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and digital platforms into tourism management, service delivery, and decision-making processes. This paper investigates the innovative relevance of smart tourism in modern tourism evolution, exploring its operation, economic, and sustainable influence. method: The study followed a mixed-method approach, involving a systematic literature review, statistical analysis and comparative case studies to explore the effectiveness of smart tourism applications in destinations and their potential. Smart tourism contributes to operational efficiency, resource efficiency, tourist experience quality, competitive destinations and sustainable tourism practices. Moreover, the convergence of digital ecosystems supports real-time decision making and data-driven management that allows for adaptive strategies in volatile market environments. It presents a theoretical model connecting technological innovation with destination performance and proposes strategic implications for policy-makers, operators and stakeholders in the tourism industry aiming at maximizing the positive outcomes deriving from smart tourism initiatives.