As FITUR integrated experiential tourism into its panel of segments for the 2026 edition, the Creative Tourism Network® brilliantly demonstrated the maturity, relevance, and adaptability of the sector, confirming its leading role in the evolution of tourism models worldwide. This official recognition comes at a time when creative tourism is emerging as an innovative and concrete response to challenges such as seasonality, community empowerment, accessibility, territorial attractiveness, and climate change.
Visitors experienced this dynamic through a particularly vibrant presence. Labeled CreativeFriendly destinations such as Barcelos (Portugal) hosted immersive creative workshops at their stands, showcasing the power of co‑creation and community involvement.
New destinations — whose names will be announced soon — also joined the network, confirming its ongoing international expansion.
Among the highlights, the presentation of Tunisia’s Culinary Route during the press conference “Tunisia Reinvents Itself” generated strong interest.
The Creative Tourism Network® also took part as a member of the jury for the FITUR4All Accessible Tourism Awards, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive tourism.
Finally, the signing of new strategic agreements paves the way for a highly promising 2026 for the network and its member destinations.
Creative tourism confirms more than ever its essential role in the positive and sustainable transformation of territories, and stands as a multifunctional tool serving regenerative sustainable tourism as well as the creative and circular economy.
Upcoming milestones:
- Official announcement of the World Creative Tourism Awards winners
- Launch of the call for applications for new CreativeFriendly destinations
- Opening of applications to host upcoming Creative Tourism Network® international conferences
And continuously:
- Ongoing promotion of member destinations
- Announcement of new strategic partnerships
Creative tourism continues to grow, driven by an engaged and visionary international community. Stay connected — and feel free to contact us to share your co‑creation projects!
Wath the interview with Caroline Couret, by @BreakingTravelNews
www.breakingtravelnews.com/focus/article/trend-report-fitur-2026
