Urban Tourism—Circular Economic Processes, Regeneration, Gentrification and Social Conflicts

This chapter explores the intersection of urban tourism, circular economy and socio-economic transformations, particularly focusing on gentrification and social conflicts. It examines how the clustering of creative industries and cultural consumption contributes to urban revitalization but may also exacerbate rent gaps and displacement. While circular economy principles promote resource efficiency through adaptive reuse of buildings and localized services, they can also drive speculative investment and reinforce gentrification. The chapter discusses how the cumulative impacts of short-term rentals and boutique hotels, often framed as sustainable initiatives, may widen socio-economic inequalities in tourism-driven cities. Drawing on the rent gap theory and urban economic geography, it highlights the dual nature of urban tourism—both as a regenerative force and a contributor to housing inflation and social polarization. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the need for policy frameworks that balance urban attractiveness, economic sustainability and social equity to mitigate tourism-driven conflicts in global cities.