European Cities Marketing has announced the finalists for the European Cities Tourism Awards 2007 - new ward that aim to provide a benchmark for best practice among Europe’s tourist cities and tourism organisations.

Gothenburg, York and Valencia are nominated as European Tourism City of the Year.

The judges particularly wished to reflect the growth of less traditional European holiday destinations that have benefited from the growth of low cost flights in the last few years.

The nominated cities and organisations were also commended for demonstrating a strong customer focus, sustainable tourism development and performances based on economy, efficiency and effectiveness.

Valencia, which is now served by a wide range of low cost flights from Leeds Bradford, Manchester and other airports around the UK is a popular weekend break destination with its combination of nightlife and culture.