PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce findings of comparative analysis and various models based on cultural heritage resources to foster regional development.Design/methodology/approachComparison of operational schemes, market positions and branding of three successful cultural heritage centers in Germany, Great Britain and Russia demonstrates a variety of regional development models based on cultural resources and tourism development, and reveals their advantages and disadvantages.FindingsThe paper evidences the potential of cultural resources and the tourism sector as drivers for regional development, and helps formulate basic recommendations for the Russian situation requiring elaboration of adequate financial and social instruments.Originality/valueThe paper provides a complex analysis of different operational models in three European countries with regard to specific national situations and specificity of heritage operational management.