A mobile app becomes the central hub for information, navigation, and inspiration – but only if it is built around the actual needs of visitors and the strategic goals of the destination. Instead of simply replicating brochure content, the app structures information by context: where the user is, how much time they have, and what they are interested in. This means that key stories, recommendations, and practical instructions appear at the right moment, without unnecessary noise. In practice, within just a few taps, a visitor receives precise suggestions on what to see, how to get there, and what to expect on-site, with clear details about opening hours, prices, and availability. For tourism boards, it is a tool for controlling messaging in real time, independent of external platforms or algorithms. Another benefit is quality control: editorial workflows and versioning prevent outdated or inaccurate data. The app is optimised for on-site use, minimising the steps needed to start navigation, purchase tickets, or save points of interest. This approach reduces friction, increases visitor satisfaction, and directly supports destination goals such as dispersing visitors, extending stays, and increasing spending.
Interactive maps and themed routes
Maps are more than just spatial visualisation – they define how visitors move through the destination. An interactive map allows filtering points of interest by theme (culture, nature, gastronomy, family activities), foot traffic levels, and proximity to the user. Themed routes can be linear or modular, allowing users to follow a suggested trail or build their own from pre-defined segments. Offline support includes caching map tiles and essential information (descriptions, images, directions), ensuring functionality even in low-connectivity areas. GPS navigation is enriched with contextual notes: safety instructions, weather alerts, and temporary changes (e.g., closed sections). In dense urban areas, we support indoor positioning via beacons, guiding visitors through museums or complex buildings. With Ionic and Capacitor, we integrate native mapping SDKs and device sensors without compromising performance. Administrators manage map layers and geo-objects via a CMS, so new routes and points appear instantly without requiring a new app store release.
Multimedia content and augmented reality
Multimedia adds depth to the story: high-resolution images, short-form videos, and structured audio guides enhance the visit without slowing it down. For locations with limited connectivity, we implement progressive loading and adaptive quality to ensure smooth playback. Augmented Reality (AR) is used purposefully: reconstructing historical scenes, overlaying informational layers on real environments, or offering interactive games for children at key points. AR integration relies on proven libraries and native modules, optimised for battery efficiency and with clearly marked activation points. Copyrights and credits are managed at the CMS level, with each asset carrying metadata and usage permissions. Editors can schedule content, localise it into multiple languages, and prepare seasonal campaigns without involving developers. Analytics track engagement with media, completion of audio tours, and AR interactions, providing insights into what truly attracts visitors. All features work consistently across Android and iOS thanks to Ionic, with native extensions when needed.
Personalised itineraries and recommendations
Personalisation only works when it is based on clear signals and transparency with users. The app collects preferences through simple prompts (interested in museums, nature, local cuisine) and context (arrival time, budget, mobility), then generates itineraries that fit realistic timeframes. The algorithm accounts for distances, opening hours, breaks, and expected crowds, offering variations such as quick walks, half-day plans, or full-day tours. Users can lock specific priorities (e.g., “must see this museum”), and the app adapts without losing route coherence. If conditions change – weather, roadworks, special events – the itinerary is re-planned with a clear explanation of changes. Privacy is built in: personalisation is opt-in, data is anonymised, and stored only as long as necessary. Users can save multiple plans, share them with companions, and sync them across devices. Since Ionic allows a single codebase, the same personalisation logic and interface work consistently on Android and iOS, with quick iteration for new rules and seasonal recommendations.
Event calendar and real-time notifications
A calendar is only valuable if it is current, contextual, and action-oriented. Events in the app come from central systems (CMS/CRM) and external feeds, pass validation, and are displayed with practical details: map location, start times, ticket availability, and expected duration. Filters allow sorting by theme, audience, and language, while “what’s near me now” highlights truly feasible options. Push notifications are controlled and relevant, sent based on interest and location, with frequency limits to avoid notification fatigue. In critical cases (schedule changes, weather alerts, road closures), messages are prioritised and clearly marked as urgent. Organisers can enter and update events directly, while destination editors approve them – shortening the time from announcement to availability in the app. Statistics track opens, attendance conversions, and ticket sales, aiding future event planning. Integration with device calendars lets users add events with one tap, including reminders that work offline.
Technology, integrations, and development process
We use the Ionic framework with Capacitor to combine fast hybrid development with access to native device capabilities (location, camera, beacons, Apple/Google Pay, push notifications). A single codebase reduces maintenance costs and allows simultaneous delivery for Android and iOS, with consistent design and performance. Our modular architecture includes a content layer (CMS), an integration layer (APIs for maps, weather, ticketing, loyalty), and a presentation layer optimised for readability in the field. Offline-first design ensures that key data and routes remain available, with background sync when a connection is present and conflict resolution at record level. The delivery process includes stakeholder workshops, MVP definition, UX prototyping, implementation, device testing, and a limited pilot before full release on Google Play and the App Store. Automated QA covers performance, battery usage, multilingual support, and accessibility (contrast, font size, screen reader support). After launch, we provide stability monitoring, event telemetry, A/B testing for recommendations, and a versioning plan that supports seasonal campaigns without service interruptions. Security and privacy are standard: HTTPS, access control, data minimisation, and GDPR compliance, with clear user communication on data use.
Privacy, accessibility, and measuring impact
Long-term app success depends on trust and usability. Privacy policies are written in plain language, and settings allow granular control over location, notifications, and personalisation. The interface follows accessibility principles: large touch targets, adjustable text size, high contrast, and voice-over support. Metrics go beyond vanity stats – we track route usage, tour completion, conversions to purchases, and actual visits via geofencing (with consent). Reports help destinations adapt content, redistribute visitors away from overcrowded areas, and optimise event scheduling. Localisation covers translations, date and currency formats, and cultural nuances in recommendations. Performance is continuously monitored, including app size, launch times, and stability on older devices, with battery-saving modes for full-day use. Together, these measures make the app a reliable bridge between the destination’s vision and the visitor’s real-world experience.