Conclusion: the contribution of special interest tourism (SIT) to urban and rural development in Hungary

Purpose The purpose of this issue is to examine the role of special interest tourism (SIT) in urban and rural development in Hungary. This includes the creation of new products and services not only in the capital city, Budapest but also in other regions of the country, which would benefit from associated economic development. Design/methodology/approach This theme issue employs a thematic approach, incorporating both theoretical and empirical perspectives on SIT development. The research articles included in this issue utilize various qualitative and quantitative methodologies, such as statistical data analysis, surveys, interviews, observation, netnography and eye-tracking. Findings Special interest tourism can help to disperse tourist flows to less crowded areas of a city or a country, and it tends to attract smaller numbers of dedicated tourists who are interested in local culture, heritage, traditions and gastronomy. This helps to create a new or different image for a destination which is more in line with sustainable development, more responsible consumption and resident well-being or quality of life. Rural communities and ethnic minorities in underdeveloped regions can benefit economically and socially from getting involved in tourism, and it can also increase cultural pride. Originality/value There have been relatively few academic sources that explore a range of SIT products in depth, especially within one country. Hungary is a relatively unknown destination to an international readership, although many tourists are becoming familiar with the capital city, Budapest. It is interesting to understand the development trajectories of previous socialist countries like Hungary, which have developed in a different way from many Western countries.