Spatial classification of tourism routes in Isfahan Province, Iran

Abstract

Tourism, as one of the most dynamic economic activities of recent years, plays a significant role in the economic development of human societies. One of the most essential bases of tourism development is the existence of natural and cultural-historical attractions, an efficient system of facilities services, and tourism facilities. Therefore, the current study has levelled tourism routes of Isfahan province in terms of having attractions and facilities to provide a better serving system for tourists according to the capacity of each tourism axis and its appropriate management to meet their needs. This study uses the descriptive-analytical method. The entropy weight method, cluster analysis (Ward method), and SWOT analysis were utilised. The study results indicated that the Isfahan-Semirom, Isfahan-Kashan, and Isfahan-Fereydunshahr tourism routes were the best in terms of tourism attractions and facilities. In fact, Isfahan province's central, westnorth, and west tourist routes have more tourist attractions, and the need for facilities and services is felt in these routes. The final result of the SWOT analysis shows that it has more tourism strengths and opportunities than weaknesses and threats. Therefore, more services and facilities should be provided to develop tourism on this route. These findings suggest that the increase in services and facilities should occur more in the western and southern routes of the province.