Researchers, academics, cultural heritage experts, tourism professionals, policymakers and practitioners are invited to participate in the 8th International Conference on Cultural Sustainable Tourism (CST 2026), which will be held from 8–10 September 2026 at the Polytechnic University of Turin, Italy, with hybrid participation options available for international delegates. The conference is organized by IEREK in collaboration with the University of Maia (UMAIA) and other academic partners.
Building on the success of its previous editions, CST 2026 will explore the theme “Regenerative Models of Future Tourism,” reflecting the growing need to move beyond traditional sustainability approaches toward tourism models that actively restore cultural heritage, strengthen local communities and enhance environmental resilience. Organizers emphasize that contemporary tourism faces unprecedented challenges, including climate change, overtourism, cultural commodification and increasing demands for authentic visitor experiences.
The conference aims to examine how cultural tourism can become a catalyst for positive change by supporting cultural integrity, ecological regeneration and social equity. Discussions will focus on strategies that enable tourism destinations to leave a positive legacy while safeguarding cultural resources and improving the well-being of host communities.
CST 2026 will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions and scientific sessions covering a broad range of topics, including community-based tourism, cultural authenticity, heritage preservation, eco-tourism, climate resilience, sustainable governance, cultural landscapes, religious tourism, creative industries, gastronomy tourism and digital innovation. Special attention will also be given to emerging technologies, sustainable mobility, visitor management and regenerative tourism models for cultural destinations.
According to the organizers, the conference seeks to foster interdisciplinary collaboration among scholars, tourism practitioners, local communities, technology experts and cultural institutions. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the event aims to generate innovative solutions and practical strategies for shaping the future of responsible tourism.
Researchers interested in presenting their work should note that the paper submission deadline is 30 June 2026, while abstract registration closed earlier in May. Accepted contributions will be considered for publication in the Springer Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation (ASTI) Series, which is indexed in Scopus, as well as selected IEREK publications.
The conference is expected to attract participants from universities, research institutes, cultural organizations, tourism authorities and private-sector companies from around the world. Organizers believe the event will contribute to advancing international dialogue on sustainable and regenerative tourism practices at a time when destinations are increasingly seeking innovative approaches to balancing growth with cultural and environmental stewardship.
Conference at a Glance
Event: 8th International Conference on Cultural Sustainable Tourism (CST 2026)
Theme:Regenerative Models of Future Tourism
Dates: 8–10 September 2026
Venue: Polytechnic University of Turin
Location: Turin, Italy
Format: Hybrid (In-person and Online)
Organizers: IEREK and Universidade da Maia (UMAIA)
Main Topics: Cultural tourism, heritage preservation, community empowerment, regenerative tourism, eco-tourism, climate resilience, digital innovation, governance and sustainable destination management.
