Application of GIS Technologies in Tourism Planning and Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Gelnica
Department of Geotourism and Mining Tourism, Institute of Earth Resources, Faculty of Mining, Ecology, Process Control and Geotechnology, Technical University of Košice, Letná 9, 042 00 Košice, Slovakia
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Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(3), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14030120
Submission received: 16 January 2025
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Revised: 3 March 2025
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Accepted: 5 March 2025
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Published: 6 March 2025
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Figure 1
<p>Administrative localisation of Gelnica at the macro level (1:2,000,000).</p> "> Figure 2
<p>Spatial distribution of primary and secondary tourism resources at the micro-level (1:25,000). 1—Mining Museum in Gelnica; 2—Gelnica Castle; 3—Jozef Shaft; 4—Turzov Lake; 5—Gloriet Viewpoint; 7—Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary; 8—Swing in Countryside; 9—Guesthouse Pod Hradom; 10—Turzov Guesthouse; 11—Private accommodation Biela Ruža; 12—Dino Apartments; 13—Viktória Cottage; 15—Bowling Pizzeria; 16—Culinarium Gelnica; 17—Mimóza Confectionery; 18—Morning Smile Café and Bistro; 19—Tatran Restaurant; 20—AB Caffe; 21—Restaurant Gelnické Mňamky; 22—Café Pod Lesom; 23—Restaurant Biergarten; 24—Emporio Casino Pizza Pub; 25—Bowling Bar; 27—Tourist Information Center.</p> "> Figure 3
<p>Heat map of primary and secondary tourism resources about the intersections of the shortest walkable paths with hiking trails and cycling paths (1:20 000).</p> ">
Versions Notes
<p>Administrative localisation of Gelnica at the macro level (1:2,000,000).</p> "> Figure 2
<p>Spatial distribution of primary and secondary tourism resources at the micro-level (1:25,000). 1—Mining Museum in Gelnica; 2—Gelnica Castle; 3—Jozef Shaft; 4—Turzov Lake; 5—Gloriet Viewpoint; 7—Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary; 8—Swing in Countryside; 9—Guesthouse Pod Hradom; 10—Turzov Guesthouse; 11—Private accommodation Biela Ruža; 12—Dino Apartments; 13—Viktória Cottage; 15—Bowling Pizzeria; 16—Culinarium Gelnica; 17—Mimóza Confectionery; 18—Morning Smile Café and Bistro; 19—Tatran Restaurant; 20—AB Caffe; 21—Restaurant Gelnické Mňamky; 22—Café Pod Lesom; 23—Restaurant Biergarten; 24—Emporio Casino Pizza Pub; 25—Bowling Bar; 27—Tourist Information Center.</p> "> Figure 3
<p>Heat map of primary and secondary tourism resources about the intersections of the shortest walkable paths with hiking trails and cycling paths (1:20 000).</p> ">
Abstract
:This study examines the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in tourism planning and sustainable destination management, using Gelnica, Slovakia, as a case study. The research highlights a key challenge—the absence of systematic visitor data collection—which hinders tourism market analysis, demand assessment, and strategic decision-making. The study integrates alternative data sources, including the Google Places API, to address this gap to analyse Points of Interest (POIs) based on user-generated reviews, ratings, and spatial attributes. The methodological framework combines data acquisition, spatial analysis, and GIS-based visualisation, employing thematic and heat maps to assess tourism resources and visitor behaviour. The findings reveal critical spatial patterns and tourism dynamics, identifying high-demand zones and underutilised locations. Results underscore the potential of GIS to optimise tourism infrastructure, enhance visitor management, and inform evidence-based decision-making. This study advocates for systematically integrating GIS technologies with visitor monitoring and digital tools to improve destination competitiveness and sustainability. The proposed GIS-driven approach offers a scalable and transferable model for data-informed tourism planning in similar historic and environmentally sensitive regions.
1. Introduction
Integrating geographical information systems (GIS) into tourism development yields numerous significant benefits in optimising and effectively managing tourism activities. GIS provides comprehensive tools for processing, analysing, and visualising spatial data, offering a detailed overview of available locations, natural and cultural resources, infrastructure, and potential tourist routes [1,2]. Its increasing integration into tourism planning contributes to maximising economic benefits, minimising adverse environmental impacts, and promoting the sustainable development of destinations. GIS offers analytical tools and methodologies that facilitate the assessment, planning, and management of tourist sites based on precise data [3]. GIS encompasses various processes in tourism, including spatial modelling, mapping, and data analysis, which are crucial for identifying tourism potential and effectively addressing environmental challenges [4,5]. It enables the study of the accessibility and attractiveness of different locations, assisting in creating routes that enhance visitor convenience while mitigating ecological impacts [6,7]. Using hotspot analysis tools, GIS can identify areas with high visitor concentrations, facilitating more effective management of tourist flows, preventing site overuse, and mitigating risks of erosion and degradation in natural regions [8]. This approach alleviates pressure on natural resources and redistributes visitors to less frequented areas. Furthermore, GIS-based analyses support the development of environmental conservation strategies by identifying ecologically sensitive areas and zones with restricted access [9,10]. Additionally, GIS enables the simulation of various development scenarios, assessing potential impacts on local ecosystems and informing the planning of tourist routes and infrastructure by sustainability principles [11,12]. In destination planning, GIS can be employed to monitor and model the environmental impacts of tourism, effectively tracking changes in natural ecosystems over time, including soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and alterations in air or water quality. These insights are subsequently utilised in planning initiatives aimed at minimising tourism’s environmental footprint, ensuring that development aligns with the principles of sustainable tourism.
This study aims to explore the utilisation of GIS in the planning and managing of tourism in the town of Gelnica. Gelnica is a historic mining town in eastern Slovakia in the Košice Region. This location was selected as the study area due to its unique combination of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, which remain underutilised in tourism planning. Additionally, its compact geographical size makes it an ideal candidate for demonstrating the capabilities of open-source GIS tools, such as QGIS, in a practical setting. The research employs advanced GIS tools for spatial data analysis to assess Points of Interest (POIs). This study’s primary objectives include visualising the spatial distribution of primary and secondary tourist attractions through thematic and heat maps, providing insights into their appeal and potential clustering. Recognising that successful tourism planning necessitates not only an analysis of tourism resources but also an understanding of the tourist market, this study aims to integrate both dimensions. This combined approach facilitates the identification of locations with high demand while ensuring that tourism planning aligns with visitor preferences and regional strengths. Furthermore, this study identifies the strengths and weaknesses of the region’s tourism infrastructure and proposes specific recommendations to enhance its attractiveness and functionality. Integrating GIS into tourism planning in Gelnica presents unique opportunities for the effective management and long-term preservation of the natural and cultural resources that constitute an integral part of the region’s identity. GIS integration promotes sustainable tourism development in Gelnica, benefiting the local community, economy, and environment. Gelnica holds significant cultural heritage value. Its rich mining history, well-preserved historical monuments, and natural environment make it an attractive destination requiring careful planning and management [13]. Once a prominent mining centre in the Spiš region, Gelnica faces challenges as a lesser-known and less-visited area. Integrating GIS into tourism planning and management provides a robust empirical foundation for formulating concrete proposals for tourism development in this locality. GIS technologies efficiently identify regions with high tourism potential, encompassing cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and hiking and cycling tourism opportunities. Moreover, GIS supports monitoring and regulating visitor flows in sensitive ecosystems and historical sites, preventing damage and overuse [14,15]. Within Gelnica, GIS can facilitate the development of various forms of tourism, including geotourism, mining tourism, cultural tourism, ecotourism, active tourism, and recreational tourism. For geotourism and ecotourism, GIS assists in identifying natural sites that can attract visitors while ensuring minimal disturbance and degradation of these areas [16]. In contrast, mining and cultural tourism can focus on the region’s historical and mining heritage. GIS enables the design and optimisation of thematic tourist routes and the sustainable utilisation of cultural–historical assets [17]. These routes can effectively connect landmarks, museums, and other tourist attractions, supporting a holistic approach to presenting cultural heritage and enhancing its accessibility for visitors [18], with the potential to engage diverse target audiences.
2. Literature Review
Integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) into tourism planning and sustainable development has been recognised as a highly effective approach for optimising resource utilisation and safeguarding ecologically sensitive regions, particularly in areas with significant natural and cultural heritage. The scientific literature highlights a range of techniques and methodologies for leveraging GIS in support of sustainable tourism, underscoring its critical role in strategic destination planning and management [19,20,21]. Ramaano [19] examines the application of GIS within sustainable tourism, emphasising its utility in mapping tourist attractions and evaluating environmental impacts. His findings illustrate how GIS facilitates the identification of areas suitable for both development and conservation, ensuring a balanced approach that aligns economic tourism objectives with ecological preservation. Abdollahi et al. [20] integrate GIS with multi-criteria analysis to identify optimal ecotourism sites, incorporating environmental and socio-economic factors into the decision-making process. Their approach exemplifies best practices in sustainable planning for environmentally sensitive areas and provides essential decision-support tools for destination managers. The capacity of GIS to process and analyse large volumes of spatial data is further demonstrated by Feizizadeh et al. [22], who employ a combination of GIS and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to enhance decision-making in tourism development. Choi et al. [23] investigated the suitability of various locations for tourism expansion, utilising GIS to assess key environmental and infrastructural determinants. Similarly, Van de Merwe and Van Niekerk [24] showcase the global applicability of GIS in analysing tourism potential and identifying priority areas for development, highlighting the versatility and adaptability of these technologies. At a more localised scale, Bozdağ [25] explores the use of GIS in optimising tourist routes and infrastructure planning, demonstrating its contribution to more efficient resource allocation and improved visitor experiences. Ruda [26] further emphasises the pivotal role of GIS in managing tourism activities within protected areas, ensuring the long-term sustainability of such regions. Collectively, these studies underscore the capability of GIS to monitor and analyse tourism dynamics, enabling effective management strategies aligned with sustainability principles. Such applications are particularly critical in ecologically valuable regions, where a delicate balance must be maintained between environmental conservation and meeting tourism demands. Beyond its role in planning and conservation, GIS is also an essential tool for marketing and managing tourist destinations. Wei [27] and Hvizdák et al. [28] highlight the advantages of GIS in creating interactive maps and digital applications that enhance visitor engagement, providing improved access to information on attractions, routes, transportation, and accommodation. These applications facilitate more effective destination marketing and enable targeted promotional campaigns based on visitor preferences and behavioural insights [21]. Furthermore, GIS supports the monitoring and analysis of tourist behaviour and movement patterns [29]. Technologies such as ArcGIS Tracker and Google Location Services provide anonymised GPS data, allowing for the identification of frequently visited sites and popular travel routes [30]. Unlike many studies focusing on well-documented tourist destinations, this research presents a novel approach by examining a historically significant yet underrepresented region, such as Gelnica. Integrating GIS with data sources, including OpenStreetMap and the Google Places API, facilitates more precise mapping of tourism assets and visitor activity, offering a replicable framework for similar destinations. This methodological advancement contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of tourism dynamics and supports the development of sustainable tourism strategies in lesser-known regions.
3. Materials and Methods
3.1. Study Area
Gelnica is a historic mining town in eastern Slovakia, within the Košice Region, situated in the Hnilec River valley amidst the Volovské Hills (Figure 1). Its geographically advantageous position provides access to abundant natural resources and diverse recreational opportunities.
Gelnica’s historical significance extends to the medieval period when it emerged as one of Slovakia’s foremost mining centres [31]. The region has historically been a significant source of valuable minerals, including silver, copper, mercury, and iron, playing a crucial role in the economic framework of the Kingdom of Hungary. This rich mining heritage is preserved in several cultural landmarks and institutions, most notably the Mining Museum, which documents the region’s mining traditions and socio-economic evolution. Among Gelnica’s key attractions are the ruins of Gelnica Castle, strategically positioned on a hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Jozef mining tunnel and the open-air exhibits associated with the Mining Museum facilitate an in-depth exploration of historical mining practices and subterranean structures. Turzovské Lake, initially constructed as a reservoir to support mining operations, has since evolved into a prominent recreational site [32,33]. Despite its wealth of historical, cultural, and natural resources, Gelnica’s tourism infrastructure and promotional strategies remain underdeveloped, limiting its potential to attract visitors and contribute to regional economic growth [13]. Addressing this gap necessitates a systematic approach to identifying and integrating these assets into sustainable tourism initiatives. Empirical research in this domain can provide actionable insights for Gelnica and other small historic towns seeking to strengthen their position within the tourism sector. To support these claims, rigorous data collection and case study analyses are essential in evaluating the town’s tourism potential, infrastructural constraints, and strategic opportunities for sustainable development.
3.2. Methods
The research methodology was systematically designed to assess the tourism potential of Gelnica through the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial data analysis. The selected methods were tailored to the study area’s specific characteristics, ensuring the results’ practical applicability and reliability. The methodology was structured into four principal stages:
- 1.
- Data Collection and Preparation
This initial stage involved acquiring spatial and attribute data on Points of Interest (POIs) from publicly accessible sources, including OpenStreetMap (OSM) and Google Places API. OSM, a community-driven, open-access database, extensively covers tourist attractions, infrastructure, and natural features [34,35]. However, the completeness and accuracy of OSM data vary, as the platform relies on voluntary contributions and periodic updates [36]. While data quality is high in regions with active contributor communities, less-mapped areas, such as Gelnica, often exhibit gaps in documentation, particularly concerning historic mining sites and lesser-known landmarks. To address these limitations, OSM data were supplemented with information from the Google Places API, which offers up-to-date data on locations, user reviews, and additional attributes relevant to tourism analysis. The selected data sources were chosen for their accessibility and their ability to provide current and detailed insights into tourist sites. The collected information was further validated and supplemented through field surveys to ensure data accuracy and completeness.
- 2.
- Integration into GIS
The collected datasets were integrated into QGIS, an open-source GIS platform that facilitates spatial layering, visualisation, and analytical processing [37,38,39]. This integration enabled a structured examination of Gelnica’s tourism assets, supporting identifying spatial relationships and patterns relevant to tourism development.
- 3.
- Categorisation and Analysis
POIs were systematically classified into thematic categories reflecting distinct aspects of the tourism offer. As outlined in Table 1, this categorisation provided a structured framework for evaluating tourism resources’ attractiveness and spatial clustering. Data from Google Places API was utilised to analyse visitor preferences and market trends, offering insights into the popularity of individual POIs based on review counts and average user ratings. These indicators served as proxies for visitor demand, enabling the identification of high-priority locations for tourism development. The analysis focused on three primary criteria:
- Accessibility: Evaluating the ease of reaching specific POIs.
- Attractiveness: Assessing visitor interest through user-generated ratings.
- Density of POIs: Identifying spatial clusters with high tourism potential.
This analytical approach facilitated the prioritisation of key tourism zones, considering visitor behaviour and the region’s broader development potential.
- 4.
- Visualisation and Interpretation
The results were presented through thematic and heat maps, illustrating the spatial distribution and clustering of POIs. These visualisations provided actionable insights into the most significant areas for tourism development, supporting data-driven decision-making in tourism planning and management.
Individual Points of Interest (POIs) attractiveness ratings were derived from Google Places API data, incorporating key parameters such as the average visitor rating, the total number of reviews, and the distance from a designated reference point. Each POI identified via Google Places API was assigned a weight reflecting its relative significance for tourism. The evaluation was based on three primary criteria: the average visitor rating (rating_avg), extracted directly from the Google Places platform, where POIs are systematically assigned scores ranging from 1 to 5 based on user-generated reviews; the number of reviews (ratings_n), representing the level of visitor engagement and popularity; and accessibility, defined by the distance from the Gelnica Municipal Office, centrally located within the town. A five-point scale (1–5) was applied to ensure a systematic assessment of POI significance, where 1 denotes the lowest significance level and five represents the highest (Table 2 and Table 3). The rating_avg values were obtained directly from the Google Places API, ensuring methodological consistency and comparability across all evaluated POIs.
For subsequent analytical processing, weighted values were assigned to each criterion to reflect their relative significance. The highest weight was attributed to the average visitor rating (rating_avg), which indicated user satisfaction and perceived attractiveness. A lower weight was allocated to accessibility, reflecting its secondary influence on visitor engagement. The number of reviews (ratings_n), considered the least significant criterion, was assigned to the lowest weight, as it primarily indicates the volume of visitor feedback rather than the intrinsic quality of the POI (Table 4).
The calculation of the attractiveness of POIs based on the weighted average is performed using the following formula [40]:
where the individual variables in the formula represent the following:
A = (Rn × w1) + (Ravg × w2) + (D × w3)
A = Evaluation of attractiveness,
Rn = Ratings_n value,
Ravg = Rating_avg value,
D = Distance value,
w1 = Ratings_n weight,
w2= Rating_avg weight,
w3 = Distance weight.
In the final stage, spatial visualisation and analysis of the identified Points of Interest (POIs) were performed to assess their spatial distribution and clustering systematically. This phase involved the generation of thematic heat maps to represent spatial patterns and effectively highlight areas of significance for tourism. Thematic maps delineated the distribution of key POI categories, including historical landmarks, natural sites, and protected areas, thereby facilitating a structured analysis of their spatial organisation. Concurrently, heat maps were employed to identify high-density zones with the most significant tourism potential, providing a data-driven basis for strategic tourism planning and development.
4. Results
A series of thematic maps was developed to facilitate the spatial analysis and visualisation of Gelnica’s territory. These maps comprehensively represent the spatial distribution of primary and secondary elements within the local tourism landscape. The dataset consists of multiple layers, each delineating specific categories of Points of Interest (POIs), including natural features, protected areas, and other elements relevant to strategic tourism planning and regional development.
All processed data and cartographic outputs are publicly accessible via the interactive platform https://cases.idoaba.eu/gl/ (accessed on 15 November 2024), a decision-support tool for regional analysis and sustainable development. Based on the information published on this platform, a printed thematic map was subsequently produced to depict the spatial distribution of POIs within Gelnica (Figure 2). This map highlights key components of the tourism offer, with POIs systematically classified into thematic categories, including Accommodation, Bodies of Water, Cultural Services, Food and Beverage, Intermediary Services, Outdoor Landscapes, Recreational Services, Tangible Cultural Heritage, Hiking Trails, and Cycling Paths.
The analysis further incorporated an assessment of protected areas within the region to mitigate potential conflicts between tourism development and ecosystem conservation. In the case of Gelnica, the Bird Protection Area was identified as the sole officially designated protected site, underscoring its critical role in informing future development strategies and conservation policies.
The study provides insights into key tourism assets’ concentration, dispersion, and spatial relationships by examining the spatial distribution of primary and secondary tourism resources. Primary tourism resources (points 1 to 8 in Figure 2) are evenly distributed across the Gelnica region, with certain attractions, such as the Mining Museum in Gelnica (no. 1) and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (no. 7), located in the town centre. In contrast, other key sites, including Gelnica Castle (no. 2), the Jozef Tunnel (no. 3), and Turzovské Lake (no. 4), are positioned on the town’s periphery or in proximity to natural landmarks. This spatial arrangement enables a diverse tourism experience, combining cultural and historical attractions within the urban setting with recreational opportunities in natural environments. Secondary tourism resources (points 9 to 27) are predominantly concentrated in the central part of Gelnica, aligning with the town’s urban morphology. This pattern is characteristic of urbanised areas, where secondary services—such as restaurants, cultural venues, and intermediary services—are strategically positioned to cater to visitors and local residents.
Calculation of the Attractiveness Rating of POIs
Calculating attractiveness ratings for Points of Interest (POIs) enables an objective, data-driven comparison of individual tourist attractions and services based on predefined evaluation criteria. The primary determinants of attractiveness include the number of reviews, average visitor ratings, and proximity to a designated reference point. This analytical approach identifies the most frequently visited and highly rated locations from a tourist perspective and highlights underutilised or less accessible sites, presenting opportunities for strategic enhancement.
The results of this assessment facilitate the prioritisation of investment and development initiatives in high-potential tourism areas while simultaneously identifying locations where service provision requires improvement. Potential enhancements may encompass infrastructure expansion, qualitative upgrades to tourism offerings, and targeted promotional strategies to attract a broader visitor demographic. Addressing these deficiencies enables the integration of lesser-visited sites into the broader tourism portfolio, thereby promoting a more balanced spatial distribution of visitors and fostering the sustainable development of the entire destination.
Table 5 and Table 6 present the evaluations of primary and secondary tourism resources within Gelnica, assessed using three key indicators: the number of reviews (Rating_n), the average visitor rating (Rating_avg), and the distance from the reference point (Distance).
The primary tourism assets consist of cultural, historical, and natural landmarks, including the Mining Museum in Gelnica, Gelnica Castle, and Lake Turzov, collectively forming the core of the destination’s tourism appeal. In contrast, secondary tourism offerings encompass supporting services and facilities, such as accommodation, dining establishments, and recreational venues, which enhance the overall visitor experience. Notable examples include Pension Turzov, Morning Smile Café and Bistro, and Bowling Pizzeria, which provide essential amenities that complement the primary attractions. These establishments and services play a pivotal role in augmenting the quality, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of the tourism experience, thereby increasing the overall competitiveness and attractiveness of the destination. The calculated values assigned to individual tourism assets are summarised in Table 7 and Table 8 under the “Total Calculation” column.
Table 6 presents the weighted ratings of primary tourist attractions, evaluated based on three key criteria: the number of reviews (Rn), the average visitor rating (Ravg), and the distance (D) in metres. Each criterion is assigned a corresponding weight (w₁, w₂, w₃) to reflect its relative significance in determining the total attraction score (Total Calculation). These results provide a data-driven basis for prioritising attractions according to their popularity, quality, and accessibility. Notably, the Mining Museum in Gelnica attained the highest overall score, followed by Gelnica Castle, which ranked second.
Table 7 comprehensively evaluates secondary tourism services in Gelnica, focusing on supporting facilities and amenities that enhance the overall visitor experience. Among accommodation providers, Pension Pod Hradom Gelnica received the highest overall score (3.92), indicating a well-balanced combination of service quality, visitor popularity, and accessibility. In the dining category, Morning Smile Café & Bistro scored the highest (4.84), reflecting superior visitor ratings. Conversely, establishments such as Our Spot in Turzov and Viktoria Cottage, which received lower scores, exhibited limitations in specific evaluation criteria, particularly regarding service quality or accessibility. This systematic assessment serves as a valuable tool for prioritising investments and formulating targeted marketing strategies to ensure that secondary tourism infrastructure in Gelnica aligns with visitor expectations and enhances the overall competitiveness of the destination.
A heat map was generated to spatially visualise the distribution and density of primary and secondary tourism offerings within Gelnica (Figure 3). This analytical approach facilitated the identification of geographic clusters of high-value tourism assets and supporting infrastructure by integrating assessment outcomes related to quality, popularity, and accessibility of individual Points of Interest (POIs). The heat map delineates key tourism zones, including the city centre, a focal point for significant cultural and historical landmarks, and areas adjacent to high-ranking tourism facilities, such as Pension Pod Hradom Gelnica and Morning Smile Café & Bistro. By providing a spatial representation of tourism concentration and service distribution, this visualisation tool offers critical insights for strategic spatial planning and tourism management. The results support evidence-based decision-making by facilitating the optimisation of investment allocation and prioritising infrastructure enhancements in areas exhibiting the most significant tourism potential.
5. Discussion
The findings of this study underscore the potential of integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies into the planning and management of tourism in Gelnica. Such an approach offers a data-driven framework for optimising tourism infrastructure and aligning strategic development with visitor demand. Tourism planning traditionally relies on two fundamental components: tourism resources and the tourist market. While tourism resources define the range of products and experiences that can be developed, the tourist market shapes the design and positioning of these offerings based on visitor preferences and demand [41].
A key limitation identified in this study is the absence of a systematic approach to visitor data collection in Gelnica. This presents a significant barrier to conducting a comprehensive tourism market analysis. The lack of official visitor statistics hinders the ability to perform the following:
- o
- Assess tourist behaviour and movement patterns.
- o
- Identify preferred destinations.
- o
- Accurately evaluate demand for individual attractions.
The only available statistical data were obtained from the Mining Museum in Gelnica. Still, these figures provide a limited perspective, reflecting only a tiny subset of visitor activities in the region. To address these data deficiencies, an alternative methodological framework was developed to gather essential insights into the tourism market and visitor behaviour.
To supplement the lack of official visitor data, this study utilised Google Places API, which offers real-time and accessible data on Points of Interest (POIs). The tourism market analysis focused on two key indicators:
- o
- The volume of reviews for individual POIs, which reflects visitor engagement.
- o
- The average visitor rating serves as a proxy for visitor satisfaction.
These user-generated reviews, retrieved from Google Places API, function as empirical indicators of the tourism market, capturing visitor preferences, perceptions, and behaviours. This data-driven approach enabled the identification of key characteristics of Gelnica’s tourism market, highlighting the most attractive locations and the perceived quality of tourist sites.
The absence of structured visitor monitoring in Gelnica underscores the urgent need to implement a comprehensive system for tracking visitor activity. Establishing such a framework would the following:
- o
- Facilitate more precise tourism market analysis.
- o
- Enable predictive modelling of visitor trends.
- o
- Provide empirical data for long-term strategic planning.
Such an initiative is crucial for ensuring sustainable regional development and optimising resource allocation to enhance Gelnica’s competitiveness as a tourist destination.
As part of this study, a comprehensive GIS-based tourism planning model was developed, integrating tourism resource assessment with tourist market analysis. This model consists of four key phases:
- (1)
- Resource Identification: Mapping and categorising primary and secondary tourist attractions.
- (2)
- Tourism Market Analysis: This involves collecting visitor preferences, behaviour, and demand data through digital platforms and structured surveys.
- (3)
- GIS Integration: Consolidating spatial and market data into a single analytical platform to support decision-making.
- (4)
- Strategic Planning: Prioritising infrastructure development in underutilised areas, enhancing digital promotion, and leveraging local applications to improve visitor experience.
This integrated approach applies to Gelnica and other historic towns with significant cultural heritage that remain underutilised as tourist destinations. Additionally, it can serve regions with high ecological value, where tourism planning must balance visitor accessibility with environmental conservation.
The findings of this study highlight several critical policy and management interventions necessary for the effective planning and sustainable development of tourism in Gelnica:
- 1.
- Implementation of a Visitor-Monitoring System
The lack of structured visitor data collection remains a significant obstacle to effective tourism planning in Gelnica. Currently, no systematic data are gathered on visitor flows, limiting the ability to assess demand trends, anticipate visitor needs, and allocate resources efficiently. This limitation hinders the evaluation of both existing and proposed tourism initiatives. As Zhang et al. [30] argued, visitor flow analysis is essential for sustainable destination planning. A structured monitoring system would provide a robust empirical foundation for long-term tourism management.
- 2.
- Enhancing Digital Promotion and Visibility
Another critical issue is the limited use of digital platforms for destination marketing. This study revealed that among Gelnica’s primary attractions, only the Mining Museum [42] is listed on TripAdvisor, severely restricting digital visibility. Given that global travel planning is now predominantly driven by digital engagement, it is imperative to integrate Gelnica’s tourism promotion efforts into major online platforms. As Wei [27] asserts, interactive tools and digital applications enhance visitor experience and enable data collection on tourist behaviour, facilitating strategic tourism management.
- 3.
- Development of Digital Tools for Visitor Engagement
Implementing local digital applications could provide tourists with real-time information on attractions, routes, and services while collecting valuable visitor data. These data could be leveraged to optimise tourism management and enhance service quality.
- 4.
- Infrastructure Development in Less-Visited Locations
Infrastructure and service quality investments in less-frequented areas can help redistribute visitor flows, increase the attractiveness of lesser-known sites, and alleviate pressure on overvisited locations.
Once implemented, these strategic interventions will enhance Gelnica’s competitiveness as a tourist destination while providing a replicable framework for other regions with similar characteristics. Integrating GIS technologies, digital tools, and systematic visitor monitoring represents a data-driven approach to balancing tourism development with resource conservation, ensuring the destination’s long-term sustainability and resilience.
6. Conclusions
This study examines the potential application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in tourism planning, with a particular focus on their role in the efficient management of tourist destinations, as exemplified by the case of Gelnica. While GIS technologies facilitate comprehensive spatial analyses of Points of Interest (POIs) and support the identification of strategic development priorities, the findings of this study also reveal notable limitations in visitor monitoring and digital promotion. Addressing these challenges is essential to fully unlocking the potential for local tourism development and ensuring a data-driven approach to destination management.
Gelnica currently faces significant challenges in adopting modern tools and strategies to enhance its competitiveness within the tourism market. Overcoming these constraints necessitates a proactive approach to leveraging data analytics, improving the visibility of tourist attractions on global digital platforms, and implementing evidence-based marketing strategies. These measures are critical for enhancing the visitor experience and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the destination.
For future development, Gelnica should prioritise an integrated strategy that synergistically combines its historical heritage, natural assets, and digital technologies. Such an approach would facilitate more effective tourism planning, stronger economic integration of the tourism sector, and greater alignment with contemporary trends in destination management. A key component of this strategy will be active community engagement in the planning and decision-making processes, fostering inclusive and sustainable regional development.
The findings of this study indicate that Gelnica has the potential to serve as a model for leveraging digital innovation to enhance the appeal of lesser-known destinations. Strengthening the coordination between strategic planning, natural resource conservation, and digital tourism promotion could significantly improve its position as a competitive tourist destination in Slovakia. Furthermore, this methodological approach provides a replicable framework for other cities and regions seeking to implement responsible and sustainable tourism development practices, particularly in historically and ecologically significant locations.
Author Contributions
Conceptualization, Marieta Šoltésová, Barbora Iannaccone, Ľubomír Štrba and Csaba Sidor; methodology, Marieta Šoltésová, Barbora Iannaccone, Ľubomír Štrba and Csaba Sidor; validation Marieta Šoltésová, Barbora Iannaccone, Ľubomír Štrba, and Csaba Sidor; formal analysis, Marieta Šoltésová and Barbora Iannaccone; investigation Marieta Šoltésová, Barbora Iannaccone, Ľubomír Štrba and Csaba Sidor; resources, Marieta Šoltésová and Barbora Iannaccone; data curation, Csaba Sidor; writing—original draft preparation, Marieta Šoltésová and Barbora Iannaccone; writing—review and editing, Marieta Šoltésová, Barbora Iannaccone, Ľubomír Štrba and Csaba Sidor; visualisation, Marieta Šoltésová, Barbora Iannaccone, Ľubomír Štrba and Csaba Sidor. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding
This research received no external funding.
Data Availability Statement
Data are contained within the article.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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Figure 1.
Administrative localisation of Gelnica at the macro level (1:2,000,000).
Figure 2.
Spatial distribution of primary and secondary tourism resources at the micro-level (1:25,000). 1—Mining Museum in Gelnica; 2—Gelnica Castle; 3—Jozef Shaft; 4—Turzov Lake; 5—Gloriet Viewpoint; 7—Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary; 8—Swing in Countryside; 9—Guesthouse Pod Hradom; 10—Turzov Guesthouse; 11—Private accommodation Biela Ruža; 12—Dino Apartments; 13—Viktória Cottage; 15—Bowling Pizzeria; 16—Culinarium Gelnica; 17—Mimóza Confectionery; 18—Morning Smile Café and Bistro; 19—Tatran Restaurant; 20—AB Caffe; 21—Restaurant Gelnické Mňamky; 22—Café Pod Lesom; 23—Restaurant Biergarten; 24—Emporio Casino Pizza Pub; 25—Bowling Bar; 27—Tourist Information Center.
Figure 2.
Spatial distribution of primary and secondary tourism resources at the micro-level (1:25,000). 1—Mining Museum in Gelnica; 2—Gelnica Castle; 3—Jozef Shaft; 4—Turzov Lake; 5—Gloriet Viewpoint; 7—Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary; 8—Swing in Countryside; 9—Guesthouse Pod Hradom; 10—Turzov Guesthouse; 11—Private accommodation Biela Ruža; 12—Dino Apartments; 13—Viktória Cottage; 15—Bowling Pizzeria; 16—Culinarium Gelnica; 17—Mimóza Confectionery; 18—Morning Smile Café and Bistro; 19—Tatran Restaurant; 20—AB Caffe; 21—Restaurant Gelnické Mňamky; 22—Café Pod Lesom; 23—Restaurant Biergarten; 24—Emporio Casino Pizza Pub; 25—Bowling Bar; 27—Tourist Information Center.
Figure 3.
Heat map of primary and secondary tourism resources about the intersections of the shortest walkable paths with hiking trails and cycling paths (1:20 000).
Figure 3.
Heat map of primary and secondary tourism resources about the intersections of the shortest walkable paths with hiking trails and cycling paths (1:20 000).
Table 1.
Categorisation and specification of POIs in Gelnica.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Identified POIs | Accommodation; Bodies of water; Cultural services; Food and Beverage; Intermediary services; Outdoor landscapes; Services of individual recreation; Tangible cultural heritage |
| OSM nodes with tourism TAG | Artwork; Attraction; Chatel; Information; Museum; Picnic site; Viewpoint |
| National cultural monuments (MoC SR) | Administrative buildings; Apartment houses; Bridges and tunnels; Churches; Industrial buildings; Medical; Mining heritage; Pharisees, calvaries and manor-houses; Peasant houses; Spa, swimming-pool and bath houses; Town hall and offices; Townhouses; Vilas; Water tanks |
| Old mines | Shaft; Tunnels; Ping, ping move; Heap; Another type of object |
| Google place API (tourism-related POIs) | Bar; Cafe; Church; Landmark; Lodging; Museum; Park; Restaurant; Tourist attraction |
| Hiking Trails | all, without specification |
| Cycling Paths | all, without specification |
| Protection areas | all, without specification |
Table 2.
Values of the distance criterion.
| Distance (m) | Value |
|---|---|
| 1–499 | 5 |
| 500–999 | 4 |
| 1000–1499 | 3 |
| 1500–1999 | 2 |
| more than 2000 | 1 |
Table 3.
Values of the review count criterion.
| Ratings_n | Value |
|---|---|
| more than 250 | 5 |
| 200–249 | 4 |
| 150–199 | 3 |
| 100–149 | 2 |
| 1–99 | 1 |
Table 4.
Criteria weights.
| Criteria | Weights |
|---|---|
| Ratings_n | 0.25 |
| Rating_avg | 0.4 |
| Distance | 0.35 |
Table 5.
Primary tourism resources in the city of Gelnica.
| Primary Resources | Ratings_n | Rating_avg | Distance (m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mining Museum in Gelnica | 55 | 4.7 | 83.2 |
| Gelnica Castle | 75 | 5 | 261 |
| Jozef Shaft | 24 | 4.8 | 2052.9 |
| Turzov Lake | 2 | 5 | 2499.1 |
| Glóriet Viewpoint | 9 | 4.2 | 2067.8 |
| Klimo Observation Tower | 11 | 5 | 1588.8 |
| Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary | 43 | 4.4 | 206 |
| Swing in the Countryside | 28 | 4.6 | 2255.4 |
Table 6.
Secondary tourism resources in the city of Gelnica.
| Secondary Resources | Ratings_n | Rating_avg | Distance (m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guesthouse Pod Hradom Gelnica | 35 | 4.8 | 220.5 |
| Turzov Guesthouse | 139 | 4.4 | 2217.5 |
| Private Accommodation Biela Ruža | 19 | 4.1 | 843.3 |
| Dino Apartments | 15 | 5.0 | 802.3 |
| Viktória Cottage | 6 | 3.0 | 2087.7 |
| Restaurant in Turzov Guesthouse | 139 | 4.4 | 2217.5 |
| Bowling Pizzeria | 3 | 3.7 | 134.8 |
| Cullinarium Gelnica | 7 | 4.3 | 65.1 |
| Mimoza Confectionery | 24 | 4 | 254.4 |
| Morning Smile Cafe & Bistro | 299 | 4.6 | 393.5 |
| Tatran Restaurant | 159 | 4.3 | 695.4 |
| AB Cafe | 9 | 4.9 | 565.6 |
| Gelnica Treats | 4 | 4 | 570.1 |
| Forest Cafe | 32 | 4.6 | 887.2 |
| Biergarten Restaurant | 195 | 4.7 | 1476.8 |
| Emporio Casino Pizza Pub | 242 | 4.2 | 1497.1 |
| Bowling bar | 80 | 4.1 | 1525.4 |
| Snack bar U nás na Turzove | 5 | 3.2 | 2424.7 |
Table 7.
Evaluation of the attractiveness of the primary offer in the city of Gelnica.
| Primary Offer | Rn | Ravg | D | w1 | w2 | w3 | Total Calculation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mining Museum in Gelnica | 1 | 4.7 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.88 |
| Gelnica Castle | 1 | 5 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.8 |
| Jozef Shaft | 1 | 4.8 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.52 |
| Turzov Lake | 1 | 5 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.6 |
| Glóriet Viewpoint | 1 | 4.2 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.28 |
| Klimo Observation Tower | 1 | 5 | 2 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.79 |
| Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary | 1 | 4.4 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.76 |
| Swing in the Countryside | 1 | 4.6 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.44 |
Table 8.
Evaluation of the attractiveness of the secondary offer in the city of Gelnica.
| Secondary Offer | Rn | Ravg | D | w1 | w2 | w3 | Total Calculation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guesthouse Pod Hradom Gelnica | 1 | 4.8 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.92 |
| Turzov Guesthouse | 2 | 4.4 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.61 |
| Private Accommodation Biela Ruža | 1 | 4.1 | 4 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.29 |
| Dino Apartments | 1 | 5.0 | 4 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.65 |
| Viktória Cottage | 1 | 3.0 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 1.8 |
| Restaurant in Turzov Guesthouse | 2 | 4.4 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.61 |
| Bowling Pizzeria | 1 | 3.7 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.48 |
| Cullinarium Gelnica | 1 | 4.3 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.72 |
| Mimoza Confectionery | 1 | 4 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.68 |
| Morning Smile Cafe & Bistro | 5 | 4.6 | 5 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 4.84 |
| Tatran Restaurant | 3 | 4.3 | 4 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.87 |
| AB Cafe | 1 | 4.9 | 4 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.61 |
| Restaurant Gelnické mňamky | 1 | 4 | 4 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.25 |
| Cafe Pod Lesom | 1 | 4.6 | 4 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.49 |
| Biergarten Restaurant | 3 | 4.7 | 3 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.68 |
| Emporio Casino Pizza Pub | 4 | 4.2 | 3 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 3.73 |
| Bowling bar | 1 | 4.1 | 2 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 2.59 |
| Snack bar U nás na Turzove | 1 | 3.2 | 1 | 0.25 | 0.4 | 0.35 | 1.88 |
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Šoltésová, M.; Iannaccone, B.; Štrba, Ľ.; Sidor, C. Application of GIS Technologies in Tourism Planning and Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Gelnica. ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14, 120. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14030120
AMA Style
Šoltésová M, Iannaccone B, Štrba Ľ, Sidor C. Application of GIS Technologies in Tourism Planning and Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Gelnica. ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information. 2025; 14(3):120. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14030120
Chicago/Turabian StyleŠoltésová, Marieta, Barbora Iannaccone, Ľubomír Štrba, and Csaba Sidor. 2025. "Application of GIS Technologies in Tourism Planning and Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Gelnica" ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information 14, no. 3: 120. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14030120
APA StyleŠoltésová, M., Iannaccone, B., Štrba, Ľ., & Sidor, C. (2025). Application of GIS Technologies in Tourism Planning and Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Gelnica. ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information, 14(3), 120. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14030120
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