Titanic Belfast named Europe's best attraction at '˜Tourism Oscars'

Titanic Belfast has been crowned Europe's leading tourist attraction, beating out stiff competition from iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum.
By The Newsroom
Published 5th Sep 2016, 11:19 BST
Updated 5th Sep 2016, 12:26 BST
First Minister Arlene Foster joins celebrations with Titanic Belfasts Vice-Chairman Conal Harvey, Chief Executive Tim Husbands MBE and Titanic Foundation Limited's Kerrie Sweeney, as it is named as Europes Leading Visitor Attraction at the prestigious World Travel Awards. INNL 36-650-CONFirst Minister Arlene Foster joins celebrations with Titanic Belfasts Vice-Chairman Conal Harvey, Chief Executive Tim Husbands MBE and Titanic Foundation Limited's Kerrie Sweeney, as it is named as Europes Leading Visitor Attraction at the prestigious World Travel Awards. INNL 36-650-CON
First Minister Arlene Foster joins celebrations with Titanic Belfasts Vice-Chairman Conal Harvey, Chief Executive Tim Husbands MBE and Titanic Foundation Limited's Kerrie Sweeney, as it is named as Europes Leading Visitor Attraction at the prestigious World Travel Awards. INNL 36-650-CON

The accolade, which was presented at the prestigious World Travel Awards in Sardinia, Italy last night, is yet another feather in the cap for an attraction that has quickly earned its reputation as a world-class venue.

It also marks the first time an attraction in Northern Ireland has won the coveted prize at the ceremony – which has been dubbed the ‘Tourism Oscars’ – in its 23 year history.

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Titanic Belfast Chief Executive, Tim Husbands MBE said it was a “true honour” to clinch the top spot ahead of other renowned attractions, including the Acropolis in Athens, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, and London’s Buckingham Palace.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be Europe’s Best Tourist Attraction,” he added.

“We know what we offer at Titanic Belfast is something our city and country can be proud of and are so pleased that this is has been recognised on an international level.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the national and international visitors that this award will attract to Belfast and Northern Ireland. We would like to thank everyone who has supported and voted for us.”

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First Minister Arlene Foster said that, in just four short years, Titanic Belfast has become an iconic tourist attraction.

The former Tourism Minister added: “Titanic Belfast is now a global brand which has put Northern Ireland on the map for all the right reasons, so last night’s official confirmation that it is now Europe’s leading tourist attraction is well deserved.

“This award is further proof that the investment and imagination that went into this attraction keeps paying dividends for the whole of Northern Ireland.”

Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness described the award as a “phenomenal achievement”, adding: “The story of the Titanic is known around the globe and it is only right and proper we have a world class visitor attraction to match.

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“When we opened this building in 2012 we hoped it would enable the current and future generations to explore the story of The Titanic in an innovative and interactive manner. Titanic Belfast has been a resounding success and I thank everyone involved in making this local tourism attraction a global ‘must see.”

Since opening in 2012, Titanic Belfast has established itself as a world-class attraction on the local, national and international stage, and continues to go from strength to strength.

Last month, it welcomed its three-millionth visitor, having once again exceeded visitor number expectations. This milestone came during a record-breaking August, as the visitor attraction experienced its busiest day to date. The visitor experience has also experienced significant growth from France, Germany, USA and China year to date.

The award adds to Titanic Belfast accolades as it was recently included in Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travelist of 500 of the world’s most striking locations, featuring everything from imposing temples to hidden gems, after only a few years in operation. For more information, visit www.titanicbelfast.com

Related topics:EuropeNorthern IrelandMartin McGuinnessItalyArlene Foster