The Ministry of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism (MEDAT) has launched the selection process for the localities that will represent Romania in the international “Best Tourism Villages” competition, organized by UN Tourism, according to Romania Journal.
“We are launching the selection for Romanian localities that will have the chance to represent our country in the international ‘Best Tourism Villages’ competition, organized by UN Tourism. This is a real opportunity for rural communities to gain international recognition and attract tourists, investments, and partnerships,” announced the Minister of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, Irineu Darău, in a post on his Facebook page.
Applications are open until May 4, and Romania will select a maximum of eight destinations for the international stage.
“We are looking for localities that preserve authenticity, traditions, and local identity, and that can show the world what Romania has to offer in rural areas. (…) Past examples show that it’s possible: Rășinari was designated a ‘Best Tourism Village,’ and other Romanian communities have joined international development programs. I invite all eligible communities to apply!” the minister added.
According to MEDAT, Romania, a UN Tourism (World Tourism Organization) member since 1975, actively participates in the organization’s working structures—such as the European Commission, the Southeast Europe Working Group, the Committee on the International Code for Safe Tourism, and the Health and Tourism Partner Coalition.
Additionally, Romania is involved in the “Best Tourism Villages” program, which promotes authentic and sustainable rural destinations, with notable examples including Rășinari, Ciocănești, Breb, and Polovragi.
As of April 2026, the “Best Tourism Villages” network has expanded to include over 200 destinations across nearly 80 countries. What began as a strategic response to the pandemic’s impact on travel has transformed into a powerful engine for rural regeneration, stemming the tide of depopulation and preserving ancestral traditions that were once on the brink of extinction.
The Anatomy of Excellence: More Than Just a Pretty View
The competition is famously rigorous. To earn the coveted seal, a village must do more than simply offer picturesque landscapes. It must demonstrate a holistic commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Each applicant is evaluated across nine key pillars, ensuring that tourism acts as a catalyst for growth rather than a source of disruption.
| Evaluation Pillar | Focus Area |
| Cultural Resources | Preservation of intangible heritage (festivals, crafts, folklore). |
| Economic Sustainability | Local job creation and support for small-scale entrepreneurs. |
| Environmental Protection | Waste management, biodiversity, and carbon footprint reduction. |
| Social Well-being | Ensuring the community benefits directly from tourist revenue. |
| Policy & Governance | Transparent management and safety infrastructure. |
From Transylvania to the Andes: 2026 Success Stories
In the latest cycle of 2025-2026, the network welcomed several diverse new members, highlighting the staggering variety of global rural life.
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Rășinari, Romania: Celebrated for its deep-rooted pastoral traditions and the unique preservation of the “Transhumance” way of life, it has become a model for Eastern European ecotourism.
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Chacas, Peru: Recognised for its extraordinary blend of Andean scenery and the fine craftsmanship of wood carving, sustained by community cooperatives.
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Oleria, Japan: Noted for its innovative “Smart Village” approach, using tech to manage rural logistics while maintaining a serene, traditional atmosphere.
The “Upgrade Programme”: Leaving No Village Behind
One of the most praised aspects of the competition is the Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme. Not every village meets all criteria on the first attempt. Those that show immense potential but fall slightly short are granted access to a mentorship network.
This initiative provides:
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Direct Investment Advice: Connecting rural leaders with sustainable infrastructure funding.
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Marketing Masterclasses: Teaching local communities how to manage their digital presence without losing their authenticity.
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Knowledge Sharing: A global “Hoinar” (wandering) spirit where a village in Switzerland can share water management tips with a village in the dry highlands of Ethiopia.
Why It Matters: Countering the Overtourism Crisis
As major cities like Venice or Barcelona grapple with protests against mass tourism, the Best Tourism Villages initiative offers a release valve. By promoting “slow travel” and off-season visits, it redistributes wealth and visitors.
Experts suggest that by 2030, rural tourism will account for a significantly larger share of the global travel market. Travellers are no longer just looking for a photo opportunity; they are seeking transformative experiences—the chance to bake bread in a communal oven, learn a dying dialect, or participate in a harvest.
Photo: Wikipedia
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