Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
International Journal of Tourism Cities, cilt.1, ss.1-15, 2026 (Scopus)
In this study, Akyaka – one of Turkey’s prominent Cittaslow destinations – was selected to examine the perceived effects of Cittaslow practices on the destination. Data were collected through in-depth interviews. The positive impacts identified include improvements in urban planning, social development, economic growth, ecological balance, psychological well-being, sustainable development, and the preservation of gastronomic heritage. However, findings also indicate that the implementation of Cittaslow principles can lead to certain challenges. These challenges were categorised under the themes of urban planning, social development, ecological sustainability, socio-psychological issues, and management control.From the perspective of urban tourism, Cittaslow practices contribute to the formation of destinations that prioritise urban liveability, local identity, and quality of life over mass tourism growth. In this context, Akyaka stands as a representative example of small-scale tourism cities striving to balance tourism development with sustainable urban management.The study provides an original contribution to the existing body of knowledge in urban tourism by integrating the Cittaslow concept into the analytical framework of tourism cities. It expands the understanding of how ‘slow city’ practices influence urban transformation, spatial development, and destination image in emerging tourism cities. The data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted in Akyaka and analysed by coding themes within a phenomenological framework. The findings also emphasise the importance of developing integrated urban tourism strategies that align slow living principles with urban competitiveness and sustainability goals.