Sustainable city tourism—A systematic analysis of Budapest and Mumbai

International Tourist arrivals, guest nights and their contribution to GDP are key indicators reflecting a country’s actual perception. A growing percentage of tourists prioritize environmental awareness across tourism products and services each year. Destinations aiming to meet the expectations of eco conscious travellers must center sustainability in their branding strategies. This approach aligns with UNWTO (World Tourism Organization of United Nations) Agenda 2030 of sustainable tourism development. This paper examines various dimensions of sustainability in tourism, focusing on Mumbai and Budapest. Using specific sustainability indicators, it employs sustainability city index to compare international tourism in these cities, which face distinct environmental and infrastructural challenges. By using specific sustainability indicators such as: (1) Carbon Emissions: Measurement of the total greenhouse gases produced by the city. (2) Proportion of Green Public Spaces: Evaluation of the percentage of urban areas dedicated to parks and natural spaces. (3) State of Infrastructure: Assessment of the quality and sustainability of urban infrastructure, including transportation systems. (4) Water Usage: Analysis of the amount of water consumed by the city and its conservation practices. (5) Waste Management: Review of the city’s effectiveness in managing and recycling waste. (6) Air Pollution: Monitoring of the levels of pollutants in the air to assess environmental health. This research provides a comprehensive view of how cities can attract environmentally conscious tourists. The findings offer guidance for policy makers and tourism professionals to align strategies with sustainable development goals. This detailed assessment highlights each city’s commitment to sustainability and delivers actionable insights for improving tourism strategies in accordance with global standards. While valuable for tourism professionals, it is important to note that this research covers only six SCI factors, with incomplete data for studied countries. The practical and social implications indicate areas needing improvement to enhance tourist appeal, beneficial for industry professionals and educational purposes. This comparative analysis aids in promoting sustainable tourism and can guide governments in achieving sustainability goals with raising awareness of environmental quality and conscious living.