This article outlines basic concepts, issues, and key challenges to competitive and sustainable urban tourist destinations. Given the complex nature of cities, it is argued that the promotion of urban tourist destinations requires a citywide integrated management approach based on governance principles and strategic vision of competitiveness. The discussion in the article centers on global challenges, a review of the literature, and an assessment of emerging trends, needs, and opportunities for city destinations. There is a focus on key constructs promoted by the First World Forum of Urban Tourism in 2005: competitiveness, sustainability, value, and quality. New paradigms of successful destination management are defined with regard to a conceptual approach to competitiveness, cultural heritage tourism, city branding, visitor perception, and urban quality of life. A conclusion is made that promotion of tourist cities should be redefined to creating a city appeal that is aspiring to all stakeholders—tourists, businesses, and citizens.
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