European Council endorses Commission's initiative to foster growth in European travel and tourism sector.
In a recent top-level dialogue, Dr. Michael Kern, the Mayor of Ingolstadt, expressed his agreement that a closer cooperation of the individual actors is needed to fully exploit the city's potential for local tourism. The dialogue, attended by approximately 25 participants, included representatives from the local tourism industry, the hotel and catering trade, Audi, Ingolstadt Village, IN-City, and municipal authorities.
The concrete measures being developed to boost Ingolstadt's tourism potential primarily involve leveraging innovative transportation projects in cooperation with major industry partners. These projects focus on next-generation clean and smart transport solutions such as electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) technologies and associated infrastructure development.
Ingolstadt is part of ongoing development initiatives involving testing of eVTOL aircraft and the construction of vertiports (specialized landing and takeoff sites for such aircraft). These efforts aim to position Ingolstadt as a hub for sustainable and futuristic transport options, attracting more visitors by improving connectivity and offering novel travel experiences.
The broader digital transformation in transport is also being emphasized, using AI and automation to enhance travel safety, reduce emissions, and improve urban comfort. The integrated approach to transport innovation indirectly supports tourism by making Ingolstadt more attractive and accessible.
While there is no explicit mention in the available sources of other direct tourism marketing or infrastructure projects discussed at the dialogue, the focus on transport modernization stands out as a key concrete measure to enhance Ingolstadt’s tourism potential.
Ingolstadt, known for its Fortress of the State, has a rich university history and connections with the story of Frankenstein. Another potential unique selling point is the Purity Law, which has a significant historical significance. Additionally, there are rumours of an association with the Illuminati, although no concrete evidence has been presented to support this claim.
Dr. Michael Kern expressed satisfaction with the constructive exchange, interesting perspectives, assessments, and creative input from the experts. He announced the formation of informal working groups on various topics to develop concrete measures. The Mayor also stated that the city cannot achieve this alone and needs strong partners, which he believes are present in Ingolstadt.
Another top-level dialogue will be held in half a year to discuss the results of the working groups. Until then, Ingolstadt continues to strive towards becoming a beacon of innovation and tourism in Germany.
- To further emphasize the tourist appeal of Ingolstadt, an initiative is being considered to showcase the city's lifestyle, home-and-garden, and travel aspects in a cohesive manner, highlighting unique attractions such as the Fortress of the State, university history, connections with Frankenstein, and potential links with the Illuminati, as well as the city's role in sustainability and futuristic transport options like eVTOL technologies.
- As Ingolstadt aspires to become a beacon of innovation and tourism in Germany, it is essential to leverage the city's strategic partnerships with key players in various sectors, including Audi, Ingolstadt Village, and IN-City, to develop comprehensive home-and-garden, travel, and lifestyle marketing strategies that promote the city's unique selling points and appeal to a wider audience.
