Cultural tourism

27.5.2015

Question for written answer E-008397-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
György Hölvényi (PPE)

Europe’s cultural heritage makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Cultural tourism accounts for 40% of European tourism and is crucially important for stimulating growth and employment. In order to preserve the current levels and attract new tourists to Europe, it is absolutely necessary to safeguard and emphasise the European cultural and natural heritage. In order to do this, a proper balance must be struck between expanding tourism and protecting cultural heritage.

What steps does the Commission intend to take to make European cultural tourism even more attractive?

Does the Commission have any intention to bolster Europe’s existing cultural tourism and cultural heritage initiatives and programmes?

Is the Commission planning, for example, to introduce a European culture card that would provide easier admission or other discounts or benefits for visitors to European museums, monuments, archaeological sites, libraries and theatres?