2023 marked a turning point for the tourism sector, symbolising a recovery after years of disruption. With increased visitor numbers at attractions and museums, as well as a notable rise in hotel occupancy rates, Brussels demonstrated its ability to return to performances close to the record year of 2019, while bringing its prices in line with those of other European cities. 2023 also saw the return of business tourism, once again balancing the leisure and business segments. These advances are in line with visit.brussels' objective of stimulating the local economy and creating jobs, without neglecting the importance of preventing overtourism.

For visit.brussels, 2023 was the year we reaffirmed our commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism.  Our strategy of co-creation, in close collaboration with all the players in the sector, proved its effectiveness, transforming Brussels into an attractive destination that fulfils the expectations of visitors without neglecting the needs of its residents. The acceleration of our digital transition has strengthened our internal cohesion and enhanced our external impact, signalling a successful transition to an approach adapted to new tourism consumption habits. Lastly, the successful completion of the city marketing project and the BRUSSELS brand demonstrates the effectiveness of public-private partnerships and underlines the value of working together to create a unified destination.

As we look ahead to 2024, we remain focused on reducing our environmental footprint and on the power of tourism to bring cultures together, especially in these times of international tension. visit.brussels has reduced its environmental footprint by implementing several measures, including reducing its production of paper brochures, promoting sustainable mobility through bicycle touring, including the STIB transport network map in its publications and supporting partners as they adopt practices ecologically responsable practices. What’s more, the association has encouraged the use of reusable materials and obtained the Green Key eco-label for its BIP Meeting Centre, demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability.