The Influence of World Heritage Sites on Tourism Dynamics in the EU 27 Nations

Didem Kutlu (), Mehmet Zanbak, Sezer Soycan, Murad Alpaslan Kasalak and Zeynep Aktaş Çimen
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Didem Kutlu: Program of Tourism and Travel Services, Akdeniz University, 07030 Antalya, Türkiye
Mehmet Zanbak: Department of Econometrics, Akdeniz University, 07058 Antalya, Türkiye
Sezer Soycan: Department of Econometrics, Dokuz Eylül University, 35160 İzmir, Türkiye
Murad Alpaslan Kasalak: Department of Recreation Management, Akdeniz University, 07058 Antalya, Türkiye
Zeynep Aktaş Çimen: Program of Marketing, Akdeniz University, 07030 Antalya, Türkiye

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 20, 1-14

Abstract: Culture and tourism are crucial for economic growth and sustainable development, working together symbiotically. Culture boosts tourism by supporting heritage, production, and creativity, while cultural heritage, reflecting national identity and traditions, strengthens local economies. This study uses a panel data analysis to examine the impact of cultural factors on international tourist arrivals in 27 EU nations. The Driscoll–Kraay method reveals that UNESCO World Heritage Sites, government cultural expenditures, household recreation and cultural expenditures, real GDP per job, and bed capacity positively influence international tourist numbers. Regarding cultural factors, World Heritage Sites have the most significant influence, with each additional UNESCO site leading to a 0.22% rise in tourist numbers. The most crucial determinant of tourist arrivals is bed capacity, with a one percent increase leading to a 0.66% increase in tourist arrivals. Conversely, healthcare expenditures and political civil liberties have a negative impact on tourist arrivals. This study discusses managerial implications and offers recommendations for future research.

Keywords: culture; tourism; UNESCO; world heritage sites; panel data analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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