Home » European Travel News » Rimini to Host Velo-city 2026 World Cycling Summit, Shaping the Future of Sustainable Tourism
Published on
November 23, 2025
Rimini, a vibrant city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, will host the Velo-city 2026 World Cycling Summit from June 16 to 19, 2026. Organized by the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), this international event will mark the first time the summit returns to Italy since Milan hosted it in 1991. Velo-city 2026 is poised to be a milestone event for Italy’s cycling tourism and sustainable mobility efforts across the country.
The summit will take place at Rimini’s Palacongressi (IEG Expo), the primary venue for the four-day event. As a hub for cycling enthusiasts and active mobility advocates, the city’s selection as the host underscores the growing focus on eco-tourism, cycling infrastructure, and green transportation. With an emphasis on sustainability, the summit is expected to provide an international platform for policy discussions and innovations in cycling, urban planning, and the role of cycling in promoting sustainable tourism.
A Global Platform for Cycling Advocacy
Velo-city is widely recognized as the leading international conference for cycling advocacy, attracting thought leaders, urban planners, policymakers, and innovators to discuss ways to integrate cycling as a key component of sustainable transportation. The 2026 edition of the summit will focus on various critical issues, including urban mobility, green tourism, and the role of cycling in shaping the cities of the future. The event will feature over 400 speakers, more than 80 sessions, and more than 100 exhibitors. Topics will range from cycling infrastructure to the latest tourism trends, offering valuable insights for both public and private sector stakeholders.
One of the standout events of the summit will be the much-anticipated Bike Parade. Delegates, local residents, and visitors will participate in a 10-kilometer bike ride through Rimini’s historic center, extending along its scenic coastline. This symbolic event will highlight the positive impact of cycling on urban environments and will serve as a live demonstration of how cycling can enhance the livability and sustainability of cities.
Rimini: A Natural Hub for Cycling Tourism
Rimini’s selection as the venue for Velo-city 2026 reflects the city’s rich cycling culture and commitment to sustainable tourism. The city, located along Italy’s Adriatic coast, boasts excellent cycling routes that attract cyclists from around the globe. Rimini’s combination of flat coastal paths and rolling hills in the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region provides cyclists with diverse and scenic routes for all levels of riders, making it an ideal destination for cycling tourism.
The region’s infrastructure has long been friendly to cyclists, with dedicated bike lanes, cycling-friendly accommodations, and an increasing number of cycling tours. As a result, Rimini is becoming a key player in Italy’s growing cycling tourism market. Velo-city 2026 will further spotlight the city’s efforts to integrate cycling into its broader sustainable travel vision and will serve as a catalyst for continued growth in cycling tourism.
Emilia-Romagna’s Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Emilia-Romagna, known for its commitment to sustainability, is actively promoting cycling tourism as part of its larger strategy to become a leading eco-friendly destination in Europe. The region has invested heavily in enhancing its cycling infrastructure, supporting bike tours, and creating pedestrian-friendly spaces. These efforts are designed to reduce the environmental impact of tourism while providing visitors with active, environmentally-conscious ways to explore the region.
Rimini plays a crucial role in these efforts, with tourism initiatives focused on increasing bike-friendly infrastructure. The city’s growing reputation as a cycling destination is enhanced by sustainable tourism packages that cater to eco-conscious travelers. The Velo-city 2026 summit will help to further this initiative by raising global awareness about the potential of cycling tourism in driving sustainable travel.
Economic and Tourism Impact of Velo-city 2026
The Velo-city 2026 summit is expected to have a significant economic impact on both Rimini and the wider Emilia-Romagna region. The event is anticipated to attract around 1,600 delegates from over 60 countries, providing a valuable opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products and services to an international audience. Local hotels, restaurants, cycling equipment suppliers, and tour operators will benefit from the influx of delegates and attendees, further boosting the local economy.
The event also provides an opportunity for international networking, allowing local authorities and tourism professionals to explore new partnerships and collaborations in cycling tourism. These partnerships will help further Rimini’s status as a leading cycling tourism destination and encourage sustainable development across the region.
Looking Forward to Velo-city 2026
Velo-city 2026 represents a critical moment for both Italy’s cycling tourism and the future of sustainable travel. The summit will spotlight Rimini’s efforts to integrate cycling into its broader tourism strategies and promote eco-friendly transport solutions. With a rich history in cycling and a deep commitment to sustainability, Rimini is poised to become a global leader in sustainable tourism as it prepares to host this prestigious international event.
