Ainsa, Spain. Credit: Instagram @saintlary
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has unveiled its Best Tourism Villages 2024, recognising 55 rural destinations worldwide that champion sustainable tourism and community development.
Spain stands out in the UNWTO’s ‘Best Tourism Villages 2024’
This year, two picturesque Spanish villages, have joined this prestigious list:
Aínsa, Aragon
Located in the Aragonese Pyrenees, Aínsa is a medieval treasure of a town. Known for its cobblestone streets, arcaded Plaza Mayor, and the imposing castle, Aínsa is a gateway to natural wonders like the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Park. Visitors can explore its Romanesque Church of Santa María and the surrounding Sobrarbe region, rich in heritage and outdoor activities.
Mura, Catalonia
Just 60 kilometres from Barcelona, Mura offers an idyllic escape into Catalonia’s rural heart. Located near the Sant Llorenç de Munt i l’Obac Natural Park, this small yet charming village boasts medieval streets, stone houses, and the serene Gorg del Pare waterfall. Mura also celebrates its cultural traditions with the Tió Festival, a unique Catalan Christmas event that enchants visitors during the festive season.
How does the UNWTO pick the Best Tourism Villages?
The UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages initiative was launched in 2021, and it recognises rural communities that use tourism to preserve cultural heritage, protect biodiversity, and empower local economies. Villages are assessed on key criteria, including:
- Cultural and natural resource preservation
- Economic, social, and environmental sustainability
- Tourism infrastructure and value chain integration
The programme consists of three pillars:
- Best Tourism Villages Recognition: Honours villages meeting high standards of sustainability and innovation.
- Upgrade Programme: Supports villages aiming to enhance their practises.
- Best Tourism Villages Network: Connects destinations to share expertise and promote sustainable tourism.
With this year’s additions, the network now includes 254 villages.
Spain’s recognition for sustainable tourism
Spain has become a leader in sustainable rural tourism, with 12 villages now part of the UNWTO network. Alongside Aínsa and Mura, villages like Morella (Castellón), Rupit (Barcelona), and Cantavieja (Teruel) have received accolades in previous years. In addition, Pals, a stunning medieval village near Girona, is part of the Upgrade Programme.
For expats living in Spain, these destinations represent more than picturesque holiday spots – they are opportunities to explore authentic Spanish culture, connect with local communities, and contribute to sustainable tourism. Whether it’s enjoying festive traditions or delving into history, these charming villages offer enriching experiences off the beaten track. Another initiative for sustainable tourism is something dubbed ‘Destination Dupes.’
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said, “Tourism is a vital tool for inclusion, empowering rural communities to protect and value their rich cultural heritage while driving sustainable development.”
The 55 Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism 2024
- Abo Noghta Castles & Historic Tabab, Saudi Arabia
- Abu Ghosoun, Egypt
- Aínsa, Spain
- Amagi, Japan
- Anogeia, Greece
- Azheke, China
- Bo Suak, Thailand
- Capulálpam de Méndez, Mexico
- Caviahue-Copahue, Argentina
- Cuatro Ciénegas de Carranza, Mexico
- El Tambo, Ecuador
- El Valle de Antón, Panama
- Esfahak, Islamic Republic of Iran
- Gaiman, Argentina
- Gharb Suhayl, Egypt
- Grand Baie, Mauritius
- Guanyang, China
- Huancaya, Peru
- Jardín, Colombia
- Jatiluwih, Indonesia
- Kalopanagiotis, Cyprus
- Leymebamba, Peru
- Mindo, Ecuador
- Mura, Spain
- Nishikawa, Japan
- Óbidos, Portugal
- Ormana, Türkiye
- Palizada, Mexico
- Pissouri, Cyprus
- Portobelo, Panama
- Pueblo de Maras, Peru
- Quinua, Peru
- Ralco, Chile
- Roches Noires, Mauritius
- Romoos, Switzerland
- Ruboni, Uganda
- San Casciano dei Bagni, Italy
- San Juan del Obispo, Guatemala
- San Rafael de la Laguna, Ecuador
- Santa Cruz da Graciosa, Portugal
- Shibadong, China
- Sibayo, Peru
- Splügen, Switzerland
- St. Johann in Tirol, Austria
- Taoping, China
- Tra Que Vegetable Village, Viet Nam
- Trevelin, Argentina
- Uaxactún, Guatemala
- Urych, Ukraine
- Villa Tulumba, Argentina
- Vorokhta, Ukraine
- Wukirsari, Indonesia
- Xiaogang, China
- Xitou, China
- Yandunjiao, China.
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