The 4th International Conference “Historical Cities 3.0” has successfully concluded

The conference, initiated by the City of Kraków in 2018, has become a prominent international platform for dialogue and the exchange of best practices. Among its partners are cities such as Braga, Budapest, Edinburgh, Tbilisi, Antalya, as well as Polish cities like Gdańsk, Poznań, Wrocław, Lublin, and Zamość. The shared goal remains unchanged: finding ways to reconcile tourism development with the need to preserve heritage and improve residents’ quality of life.

 

Contemporary challenges at the heart of the debate

During the official opening, Stanisław Mazur, Deputy Mayor of Kraków, emphasized the relevance and importance of this year’s theme in his welcome speech:
“I’m glad that it is here in Kraków, a place I hold dear, where we can discuss the future of historic cities – how to care for them wisely, helping them flourish while addressing what often seems contradictory: the growing tourist influx and interest in visiting historic cities, and at the same time the protection of historic fabric and the quality of life for everyday residents.”

Mayor Mazur also recalled that the impulse to create the Historical Cities 3.0 initiative came from the need for a platform where local governments, scholars, and practitioners could exchange experiences related to heritage and urban space management.
“Previous editions have offered valuable discussions – for instance, about the tensions between the interests of residents and the needs of tourists, and how to strike a compromise. These tensions are even stronger today – which is why it’s crucial that our conversations focus on viable systemic solutions.” He also expressed hope that more cities would join the initiative in the future.

Associate Professor Piotr Zmyślony, who was responsible for the substantive concept of the conference, delivered his presentation next. He introduced the participants to the conference theme, providing detailed descriptions of the topics covered in each thematic block. He recalled that previous editions focused on exploration, with tourism always at the core of these investigations. “This year, in light of global changes, we will slightly shift our perspective – we are still searching for a viable balance, but we aim for tourism to integrate into what is currently happening in cities. The key lies in resisting pressure to embrace concepts that look good on paper and instead engaging in discussions about achieving a viable balance within these frameworks. We are witnessing a gradual revolution in cities, a multidimensional process. It’s not only about how the city functions but also about whom it serves and how it coexists with its ecosystems. Tourism is a sector that must embed itself in city strategies, and if wisely managed, it can become an ally in urban transformation,” he explained.

Four Panels – Many Perspectives

A historic city means its residents – those who for centuries have built its heritage, culture, and identity. It is primarily a place to live, as reflected in the motto of A Sustainable Tourism Policy for Kraków: “I’m lucky to live where others can only visit for a short time.” Today’s historic cities are undergoing a sustainable transformation that requires a paradigm shift in tourism development planning. Tourism is no longer an end in itself. It should be programmed to accompany other processes, complement them, fit into them – and certainly not harm them.

Associate Professor Zmyślony, the substantive concept supervisor, emphasized that, in this context, the concept of Historical Cities 3.0 – so far focused on supporting the value of tourists as consumers – should evolve toward the 4.0 approach, centred on tourism as a tool of sustainable urban transformation, aiming at well-being, high quality of life for residents, and environmental resilience of the urban ecosystem. The conference programme included four thematic panels, offering a broad space for reflection on the major processes shaping contemporary historic cities. Apart from analysing the profile of the tourist visiting historic cities, the panels addressed critical modern challenges for the development of historic cities: enhancing the natural potential of cities within a cultural heritage context, the sustainable development of nightlife, and the creation of new creative spaces. These issues are closely intertwined, as can be seen, for example, in the revitalised Wesoła district in Krakow, and tourism runs through all of them. We hope that tourism is playing an increasingly constructive role, bringing the positive outcomes of responsible development.

Localness Matters

The first discussions of the conference took place during Panel I, titled “Gen Tour – Who Are the Tourists Visiting Historical Cities?”, which focused entirely on tourism in cities with rich cultural heritage. The session was moderated by Dr. Bartłomiej Walas, an expert in tourism policy and marketing. The panellists analysed evolving expectations and behaviours of tourists, especially those from the youngest generations. They considered how cities can design offers that respond to the needs of Generation Z, which values authenticity, sustainability, and co-creation of spaces. Much attention was given to the concept of localness, which determined the uniqueness of a given destination.
One of the takeaways of the first discussion was that despite the growing volume and quality of data, historic cities still have limited knowledge about their visitors. In-depth studies should explore their behavioural profiles that consider complex motivations, expectations, and ways of experiencing and moving around the city. Only with such knowledge can cities effectively diversify tourist flows. Moreover, this kind of insight should be made available to all local businesses, becoming a practical tool for commercializing the city’s offer.

There is no single model of a tourist offer recipient in historic cities – each visitor sees something different in them. Meanwhile, communication based solely on highlighting the main attractions and monuments leads to uniform behaviour patterns. The result is the transformation of cities into amusement parks or open-air museums. Historic cities must learn to see themselves through the eyes of their visitors – communicating unique, local experiences and speaking the language of emotion. Local entrepreneurs, particularly those rooted in the cultural sector, play a vital role here – they can provide personalized forms of experiencing the city where tourists’ interests intersect with the cultural character of a place.

Authentic testimonies and stories shared by those who have already visited a city – especially through social media – are increasingly important in shaping perceptions. After all, experiences are meant to be shared. Moreover, cities must engage visitors by offering them a deeper understanding of the city rather than just traditional sightseeing. Classic city campaigns need to evolve in this direction. The challenge lies in designing an experience that is both high-quality and genuinely authentic – one that resonates with the visitor and creates lasting memories. A tourist is more likely to stay longer and spend more if they feel the authenticity of a place and connect with its local character. This was confirmed by research comparing participants of a major event like Milan Fashion Week with those of a small local food festival. Surprisingly, the smaller, local event generated higher per capita spending. The panel also addressed the topic of tourism data as well as the fact that traditional tourist segmentation is no longer possible. Today’s visitors can no longer be classified using simple categories. Today’s visitors can be grouped based on the values or purposes around which they gather – such as family trips or participation in sports events.

Case Study: Vilnius

Subsequently, conference participants had the opportunity to explore the case of Vilnius, presented by Anton Nikitin, Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of Vilnius. Vilnius has been named the European Green Capital for 2025 thanks to its commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection. The city is investing in green infrastructure, increasing the number of green areas, and promoting public and bicycle transport. Authorities are embracing modern ecological solutions, such as renewable energy and efficient waste management systems. Environmental education for residents is also a top priority for the city’s administration. Through these initiatives, Vilnius is significantly improving the quality of life and setting an example for other European cities.

Nature and Tourism

The second of the four panels focused on environmental issues, hence its title: “Natural Heritage and Tourism in Historic Cities – Exploring Synergies.” The session was moderated by Associate Professor Marta Derek, a researcher specialising in urban tourism, culinary tourism, and development of tourist facilities. This part of the conference addressed the integration of nature conservation with the preservation of cultural heritage.

Discussions revolved around how cities can develop eco-cultural tourism offers that serve both recreation and education while avoiding the excessive commercialization of natural resources. Participants reviewed the latest trends in urban nature design, noting a return to naturalistic approaches that respect existing ecosystems, both flora and fauna. It’s worth recognizing the opportunities nature provides to the city and occasionally giving it a helping hand. Whether green spaces are designed for tourists or residents, they are an integral part of the city.

While historic cities attract with their cultural richness and intricate narratives, they can also be overwhelming – for both residents and visitors – due to their dense, compact development. Green-cultural spaces enhance the appeal and quality of the tourist experience. The combination of cultural heritage with green areas offers a more sustainable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing way to experience a city. Green surroundings of monuments encourage contemplation, relaxation, and authentic engagement with the place – something that is increasingly important for so-called slow tourists and travellers seeking deeper values.
Ecological spaces near historic sites also support tourist education and awareness. Areas that blend nature and heritage can serve as platforms for educating tourists about local history, biodiversity, and sustainable development. Such places allow for engaging and accessible interpretation of heritage and ecology, fostering conscious attitudes among visitors and shaping more responsible travellers.
Sustainable urban spaces also strengthen the local tourism economy. Integrating greenery with monuments attracts tourists year-round, supports the diversification of offerings (such as nature-culture walks and urban ecotourism), and benefits local entrepreneurs operating beyond the main tourist routes. This approach allows for a more balanced distribution of tourist traffic and its benefits across the city.

The first day of the conference concluded with a gala dinner at the Wielopolski Palace, followed by a study walk with Krakow’s Night Mayor, Jacek Jordan. The walk began in front of the City Hall, with the group making its way along the Royal Route, admiring Wawel Castle and other landmarks, before arriving in the Kazimierz district. Along the way, the Night Mayor shared insights about the city’s history and its nightlife, which served as an introduction to the discussions planned for the second day of the conference.

The Night-time Economy in Historic Cities

The second day of the conference began with a lecture by Dr. Andreina Seijas, a Venezuelan researcher and international consultant in urban development and urban policy in Latin America, Australia, Europe, and the United States. Her talk focused on sustainable night-time economy in cities. The speaker emphasized that nightlife in cities is not limited to partying or sleeping – it encompasses various social and economic activities that should be managed with consideration for social, environmental, and economic factors. She also pointed out that urban nightlife is not exclusively for tourists but equally important for residents. Seijas noted that a well-planned night-time economy can support tourism, create jobs, and foster local culture, but it should be decentralized and inclusive. She presented examples from Paris and Barcelona, where night-time activities take into account the local community and natural environment. She also highlighted climate change as a factor influencing the rise in night-time activity and the need for a new approach to city planning after dark, including the appointment of “Night Mayors”.

Case Study: Berlin

Participants were then introduced to a case study of Berlin, presented by Emiko Gejic – a sociologist, activist, and board member of the Berlin Club Commission. Emiko highlighted the significant role club culture plays in the city. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, numerous abandoned spaces became hubs for the burgeoning club scene, which today is not only a symbol of Berlin’s identity but also an essential economic and tourist driver. The Berlin Club Commission has been active since 2001, supporting this scene through political lobbying, event organization, research, and educational initiatives.
One of its key projects is a fund for soundproofing clubs, financed by the Berlin Senate, aimed at addressing noise complaints from residents. The organization also runs the Awareness Academy – a program combating discrimination and supporting the mental health of nightlife industry workers. A particularly interesting initiative for participants was “Free Open Air,” which promotes the organization of outdoor events with respect for neighbourhoods and the environment. It is worth noting that in 2023, Berlin developed its first strategy for the night-time economy, providing recommendations for more sustainable, safe, and inclusive nightlife in the city.

The third panel continued the discussion on nightlife, titled “Building a Sustainable Night-time Economy.” Associate Professor Piotr Zmyślony was invited back to the stage to moderate the discussion. He highlighted that a sustainable night-time economy should minimize disruptive forms of entertainment, empower local artists, and promote equitable and safe practices. A responsible night-time economy in historic cities must balance the needs of cultural expression with care for the space and community. This involves fostering an inclusive night-time ecosystem – one that accounts for gender equality, safety, accessibility, and the rights of night workers – in line with the concept of a 15-minute city, even after dark.

Night tourism should be shaped thoughtfully, rather than simply consumed. Historic cities should create night-time experiences that align with their identity by supporting initiatives such as thematic walks, night-time waterfront tours, non-alcoholic bars, and urban stargazing. When the night is seen as a cultural resource, rather than just consumption time, it enables deeper connections between visitors and the city.
Sustainable night strategies must protect both the right to sleep and the right to culture. Sustainable night tourism requires mechanisms that minimize conflicts between nightlife and residents’ comfort – such as mediators, change agents, or decentralized cultural programming. A policy is needed to balance the rights of all city users after dark. We need to find not a golden but a silver mean, which, in Jacek Jordan’s view – the Night Mayor of Krakow – means that while not everyone will be fully satisfied, no one will have major complaints either
The panellists emphasized that the night is not just a time for entertainment but also a space for work, rest, creativity, and building relationships. Discussions centred on who has the right to the city at night and how to ensure inclusivity and safety – especially for young people, minorities, and shift workers. Preliminary findings from the latest research on Krakow’s night-time economy were also presented, revealing that most night-time offenses are committed by Polish tourists, challenging stereotypes that place blame on foreign visitors for night-time disturbances. A 24-hour city is unavoidable – it is already a reality. However, without strategic thinking, it risks becoming an unmanaged and neglected space.

The discussion highlighted the lack of a systemic approach to night-time policy and the need for cross-sectoral coordination, dialogue between local authorities, residents, and businesses, and greater inclusion of local community perspectives. Positive international examples, such as the role of the Night Mayor, were pointed out as potential inspirations for actions within the Polish context.
The debate made it clear that the night-time economy is not only an infrastructural or regulatory challenge but also a matter of the right to the city and quality of life. It requires a bold, long-term vision – based on participation, trust, and a genuine understanding of the needs of different users of urban spaces at night.

Case Study: Tallinn

In her presentation, Triin Tõrs-Ojari – an architectural historian and cultural heritage specialist – introduced the transformation of the post-industrial district of Telliskivi in Tallinn. Located adjacent to the UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town, the area has, over the past 15 years, evolved into a vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
Telliskivi is a former railway complex and brick factory, now protected as a heritage site. Instead of demolishing the historic buildings, the revitalization preserved their original character, creating a space where new functions coexist with respect for heritage. A key factor in this transformation was a grassroots “learning-by-doing” approach – a gradual development process based on testing various functions and being open to the needs of the local community.
The area does not include residential housing, which allows for greater freedom in organizing cultural and night-time events without generating conflict with residents. Today, Telliskivi hosts galleries, a theatre, a skatepark, the Fotografiska photography museum, restaurants, and spaces for micro-enterprises. Notably, around 20% of tenants are from the creative sector, and rental prices remain affordable thanks to a balance between commercial and cultural uses.
The creators of Telliskivi emphasize the importance of localness and authenticity – if a place attracts residents, it will attract tourists as well. Aesthetic choices like the “shabby chic” style, Instagrammable settings, and the absence of over-planning foster an atmosphere of an organically grown place. Importantly, Telliskivi is not an isolated island – it borders the residential district of Kalamaja and integrates well with the urban fabric, thanks to public investments in pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
The presentation concluded with the reflection that space is not merely a physical container, but a socially constructed phenomenon – shaped by relationships, narratives, and social media presence. In this light, Telliskivi may be seen both as a model for values-driven revitalization and as a kind of thematic urban park – an intentionally designed space where nightlife finds its harmonious niche.

Place-making – The Process of Creating Space Together

The fourth panel, titled “Towards Balanced Place-making and Creative Interventions,” was moderated by Łukasz Harat – an urban culture creator, socio-urbanist, and digital content producer. This final panel offered a platform for showcasing revitalization practices, from micro-interventions to participatory urban projects. The discussion emphasized the role of residents in co-creating the city and the influence such actions can have on a city’s tourism appeal.

The panel explored the concept of place-making as the shared creation of space. New place-making environments provide cultural tourists with deeper, more meaningful experiences rooted in local contexts. Cultural tourists increasingly seek authenticity, connection, and meaning – not just monuments, but also everyday culture and city life. Grassroots cultural hubs, transformed courtyards, revitalized marketplaces, and artistic interventions in historic areas offer a way to engage with contemporary urban life, its residents, and local narratives. When well-designed and effectively communicated, such spaces can serve as “gateways” to the city’s modern identity – accessible, non-invasive, and founded on mutual respect.
Sustainable place-making requires collaboration between residents, artists, and visitors – in a spirit of equality, not hierarchy. To understand what people want from a given space, it is essential to ask them and ensure they have the opportunity to express their views. Creative spaces should neither be elite enclaves nor mass attractions. The conclusions of the discussion emphasized that the key to success lies in transparency of the process, a clear vision, and shared responsibility – regardless of whether the initiative originates from grassroots actions or public institutions.

Creating creative spaces in historic cities is not just a design challenge; it is primarily about building new, local identity around neglected or underappreciated areas. Tourism can play an important role in this process – attracting attention, investment, and energy – but only if it does not override the needs of residents and creators. Excessive tourist exploitation can dilute the meaning of such places – or even displace the very communities that gave rise to them.
New places in historic cities must be protected not only from neglect but also from excessive success. Artistic interventions and revitalizations often begin with a desire for change, but too frequently end in gentrification or commercialization. Effective place-making policy must anticipate these dynamics and introduce protective mechanisms – such as regulations on short-term rentals, support for local creators and residents, or sustainable models of promotion. It was also concluded that for a creative space to be sustainable, it must be rooted rather than exported. This return to the idea of localness, which resonated during the first panel, provided a fitting closure to the conference

Tourism as a Tool for Transformation: Reflections and Conclusions from the Conference

The fourth edition of the “Historical Cities 3.0” conference confirmed how multifaceted and complex the issue of transforming historic cities is in the face of contemporary challenges. A shared reflection on the role of tourism in shaping urban ecosystems, local identities, and residents’ quality of life highlights the need for a change in approach – from managing tourism as a separate sector to viewing it as an integral tool supporting sustainable development.
The conference also reaffirmed that Kraków not only consistently implements its vision of a city combining heritage with modernity but also actively engages in building an international network of cooperation around shared values. The experiences gathered during the event will serve as a significant contribution to the ongoing development of urban policies in the areas of tourism, heritage, civic participation, climate, and the night-time economy.
Moreover, the event demonstrated that international cooperation and exchange of experiences are key to developing effective and scalable solutions. Cities facing similar challenges can and should work together to find answers – learning from one another, testing new approaches, and adapting them to their local contexts.

Participants agreed that the future of historic cities depends on a delicate balance: between preservation and accessibility, localness and global character, tradition and innovation. Tourism – when responsible, locally rooted, and integrated into urban development strategies – can become an ally in this transformation. This year’s edition of “Historical Cities 3.0” marks another step toward such thinking – and provides inspiration for further actions in the direction of a resilient, open, and inclusive city model. The conclusions drawn from the panels and discussions clearly emphasize the need to deepen understanding of tourist behaviours and motivations, to create data-driven public policies, and to develop strategies that support localness, cultural and natural diversity, and innovative forms of both daytime and night-time activity.

The conference was formally closed by Aleksander Miszalski, Mayor of the City of Kraków. He thanked the speakers and participants for their involvement and encouraged them to join the Historical Cities 3.0 project. “Tourists are here for the residents, and historic cities are historic because they were built by their residents. The goal is for tourists and locals to remain in balance,” he said. He also presented a letter of congratulations to Dr. Bartłomiej Walas, the initiator of the concept of the Historical Cities 3.0 project.

What’s Next?

In two years, we will return with the 5th edition of the conference – continuing the discussion on how tourism can help shape more sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant cities! In the meantime, we will have opportunities to meet during other initiatives related to the Historical Cities 3.0 project.
We encourage you to follow the Kraków – Historical Cities 3.0 website and Facebook profile. Cities interested in partnering in the project are invited to contact us at: miastahistoryczne3.0@um.krakow.pl. The membership declaration is available here: Kraków – Historical Cities 3.0