Unlocking destination cultural reputation: the role of sustainable on-site activity involvement as moderator

Purpose. Questo lavoro di ricerca mira non solo a fornire una definizione precisa di Destination Cultural Reputation, ma anche a esplorare l’incidenza di tale reputazione sulla soddisfazione dei turisti, indagando la dinamica tra questi due elementi. Furthermore, the potential moderating role of on-site engagement in sustainable activities has been investigated, examining whether satisfaction prompts tourists to exhibit behaviors such as the intention to return and recommend the cultural destination. Design/Methodology/Approach. To achieve these objectives, a survey and a structural equation model, based on a sample of 647 visitors to an important UNESCO World Heritage site (i.e. Urbino), have been adopted. Findings. Findings confirm tourists’ recognition of the destination’s cultural reputation, supporting its relationship with visitor satisfaction. Additionally, tourist satisfaction is positively associated with destination loyalty. However, on-site sustainable activities negatively moderate the relationship between destination reputation and tourist satisfaction. This suggests that a favorable cultural reputation should align with quality sustainable activities in the destination to prevent tourist dissatisfaction. Originality. The study contributes to enhancing the understanding of the complex relationship between reputation, satisfaction, and loyalty in cultural destinations. In addiction it measures the reputation of tourist destination through the specific cultural dimension. Practical implications. The paper offers valuable practical insights for destination managers and policymakers aiming to enhance appeal and sustainability.