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November 22, 2024 | 1 minute

City marketing only for big cities? No way!

Spain's Estepona proves that even smaller cities can become a European example with a smart approach.

City marketing only for big cities? No way!

The small coastal town has been transformed over the past decade into a pearl on Spain's Costa del Sol. 🇪🇸

With a focus on "the urban garden of the Costa del Sol," Estepona has invested in green areas, pedestrian boulevards and improved infrastructure.

The historic center was given a fresh look: colorful flowers, renovated squares, car-free streets and an open-air museum with more than 60 murals.

The result? An attractive place for tourists and a better living environment for residents!This success did not go unnoticed: Estepona was a finalist for the prestigious European City of the Year Award 2023.

In the end, Estepona was awarded the second best city in Europe (Helsinki came in first), with the jury calling the city "inspiring" and "an example.

Estepona is now praised for its sustainable and inclusive approach, in which economic growth goes hand in hand with respect for the environment and local culture.

They show that city marketing is not just about big cities, but mainly about acting smartly and strategically.

Perhaps an inspiration for Dutch coastal towns 😉