The Role of Food Markets in Urban Sustainable Tourism: A Case Study from Bucharest (Romania)

Iuliana Vijulie, Gabriel Vânău (), Mihaela Preda and Ana Maria Taloș
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Iuliana Vijulie: Faculty of Geography, University of Bucharest, 1 Blv. Nicolae Bălcescu, 010041 Bucharest, Romania
Gabriel Vânău: Faculty of Geography, University of Bucharest, 1 Blv. Nicolae Bălcescu, 010041 Bucharest, Romania
Mihaela Preda: Faculty of Geography, University of Bucharest, 1 Blv. Nicolae Bălcescu, 010041 Bucharest, Romania
Ana Maria Taloș: Faculty of Geography, University of Bucharest, 1 Blv. Nicolae Bălcescu, 010041 Bucharest, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 13, 1-24

Abstract: Urban food markets are increasingly being recognized not only as centres of cultural identity and tourism but also as pivotal spaces for promoting urban sustainability. This study explores the role of urban markets in advancing sustainable cultural tourism, using Obor Market in Bucharest as a case study. As a historic marketplace and cultural landmark, Obor Market embodies Bucharest’s traditional commercial practices and community-oriented values. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping and systematic surveys, we evaluate the location of markets, cultural authenticity, and visitor satisfaction. The quantitative findings reveal meaningful correlations between demographic factors (particularly nationality and age) and visitor perceptions, highlighting the market’s appeal through its authentic culinary offerings and immersive sensory experience. However, this study also identifies shortcomings in current promotional strategies employed by local stakeholders. The results suggest that urban food markets can serve as sustainable urban assets, fostering cross-cultural integration, supporting local economies, and encouraging environmentally conscious tourism behaviours. We argue for data-informed urban cultural policies that enhance the visibility, accessibility, and sustainability of such spaces, reinforcing their dual role as economic drivers and cultural touchstones.

Keywords: sustainable urban tourism; cultural heritage; street food; tourist experience (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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