Managing tourism impact on world heritage cities : the case of Valletta

Abstract

This study examines the effects of tourism on World Heritage Cities and focusing on Valletta, Malta. It addresses challenges such as rising tourist volumes, urban congestion and the risk of cultural commodification, while evaluating international best practices for balancing heritage preservation with socio economic benefits. Using a mixed methods approach combining literature review and policy analysis, the research assesses selected international best practices through the ATLAS framework and SWOT analysis, and adapting them to Valletta’s specific urban, cultural and economic context. The proposed strategies emphasis decentralizing visitor flows, enhancing community engagement and strengthening cross sector governance to foster a balanced relationship between tourism growth and heritage conservation. The study contributes to the wider discourse on sustainable urban tourism by presenting a replicable methodological framework for World Heritage Cities facing similar pressures.