Managing tourist flows using a sustainable, context-sensitive approach to mobility
The Tigullio Gulf and the Paradiso Gulf, along the Ligurian coast in north-west Italy, are among the region’s most important tourism destinations. The area attracts growing numbers of visitors every year, driven in particular by the expansion of the cruise sector and the international appeal of its coastal towns and landscapes.
This rapid growth of tourism and cruise-related travel has intensified congestion across the region, impacting accessibility, public space quality, and environmental conditions.
The territory’s mobility challenges are closely linked to its sensitive urban and geographic context, characterised by historic town centres, narrow and winding road networks, limited pedestrian accessibility, and infrastructure with restricted capacity. These conditions place increasing pressure on local communities, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
Systematica developed an Integrated Tourism Mobility Plan for the municipalities of the Gulfs’ area, aimed at improving the management of visitor flows through a coordinated and sustainable mobility strategy.
The plan supports the long-term development of the tourism and cruise sector while protecting the environmental balance of the territory and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The strategy was developed through a comprehensive analysis of mobility services, transport demand, and generated and attracted travel flows, with a specific focus on cruise tourism dynamics.
The proposed mobility framework includes:
- A network of suburban mobility hubs located along major access corridors
- Urban intermodal hubs positioned near ferry terminals and town centres
- Dedicated shuttle connections between hubs and key destinations
- Improved integration between road, maritime, and local public transport systems
The suburban hubs are designed to intercept private vehicles and tourist coaches before entering congested urban areas, while the urban hubs strengthen connections to local ferry services and pedestrian areas.
The Integrated Tourism Mobility Plan provides an efficient strategy to reduce road congestion, improve intermodality, and enhance accessibility across the area of Tigullio Gulf and Paradiso Gulf.
By optimising tourist flows and strengthening sustainable transport connections, the plan supports a more resilient and liveable coastal region, improving the experience for visitors while safeguarding the quality of life of local communities and the natural environment.
