World Tourism Day 2025!

World Tourism Day is an annual event that is celebrated every year on September 27th. It was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in 1980, to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value.

This day is dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism, fostering global understanding and appreciating the cultural heritage and diversity that tourism brings to the world. Tourism is a powerful engine of opportunity. It creates jobs and strengthens bonds between people and places, reminding us of our shared humanity. Tourism is more than an economic sector, it is a catalyst for social progress, delivering education, employment and creating new opportunities for all!

Why is World Tourism Day important?:

• It supports 1 in 10 jobs worldwide

• In 2024, the sector contributed over 11 trillion to the world economy!

• In 2024, the sector supported 357 million jobs worldwide!

• It drives sustainable development and environmental protection

As Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth exemplifies the transformative power of tourism. With over 5.2 million visitors annually, the city’s tourism sector contributes significantly to the local economy, generating more than £337 million in visitor spend, and supporting nearly 8,000 jobs. Plymouth’s Visitor Plan 2020–2030 sets ambitious goals to grow visitor numbers to 6 million and increase spend to £450 million by 2030.

This years theme is "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation"

Plymouth’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its support for the Green Tourism scheme, its designation as the UK’s first National Marine Park and its efforts to promote eco-conscious travel and marine conservation. Plymouth’s tourism strategy aligns closely with the values of World Tourism Day—placing resilience, sustainability, and inclusivity at the heart of its development.

There are several ways to participate in World Tourism Day:

• Explore Local Tourism: Visit local landmarks, museums or cultural sites in your area to support local tourism and learn more about your own community’s heritage

• Travel Responsibly: Practice sustainable tourism by minimizing your environmental footprint, respecting local cultures and supporting local economies

• Join Events: Participate in World Tourism Day events, such as conferences, workshops or cultural festivals that focus on the significance of tourism

• Share Your Travels: Use social media to share your travel experiences, tips and stories, highlighting the beauty and diversity of different cultures.

  
  

Want to learn more about our fabulous city? Click here to learn about our history, read the Plymouth Visitor Plan, check out events across the year and discover some great attractions to visit!