Tourists vs. residents: Nested logit analysis of mode choices for environmental sustainability

Urban short-distance transportation is crucial for environmental sustainability in metropolitan areas. Although mode choice behavioral differences between tourists and residents have been noted, a comprehensive investigation is lacking. This study addresses this gap using discrete choice modeling to compare mode preferences between tourists and residents. Results reveal that residents emphasize time-saving, while tourists prioritize service quality and convenience. Employed residents attach extra importance to in-vehicle time, and tourists have low tolerance for crowded conditions. Gender impacts only residents’ choices, whereas reduced transfers enhance public transport’s appeal to tourists. Income and environmental consciousness affect both groups, while trip-related factors such as travel purpose and stay duration shape tourists’ choices. These findings offer novel insights into group-specific determinants of mode choice and inform targeted strategies to promote low-carbon public transportation, including tailored pricing incentives, infrastructure improvements, and AI-powered real-time transport and parking applications, thereby facilitating sustainable development in transportation, tourism, and environment.