Record-Breaking Numbers at the 2026 Cycle Tourism Fair in Padua
The fifth edition of the Cycle Tourism Fair, organized by Bikenomist, concluded on March 29, 2026, at the Padua Exhibition Centre. This event has solidified its position as Italy’s premier showcase for two-wheeled holidays, attracting a diverse international audience.
Event Highlights
-
Over 27,000 Visitors: The fair attracted more than 27,000 visitors over its three-day duration, with 700 attendees queuing at the gates on the morning of March 28.
-
268 Exhibitors and Co-Exhibitors: A total of 268 exhibitors and co-exhibitors from 20 foreign countries and 12 Italian regions participated, highlighting the event’s global appeal.
-
128 Tour Operators: Representing 28 nations, these operators showcased a wide array of cycling tour options, catering to diverse preferences.
-
210 Accredited Journalists: The fair garnered significant media attention, with 210 journalists covering the event’s developments.
-
Over 60 Talks and Appointments: Featuring 120 authoritative speakers, the event offered a comprehensive program of discussions and presentations.
-
5,000 Professionals at B2B Day: The business-to-business day facilitated 1,112 pre-arranged meetings, fostering valuable industry connections.
International Appeal
Pinar Pinzuti, Director of the Cycle Tourism Fair, expressed satisfaction with the event’s success:
“The fifth edition has achieved excellent results in terms of both public attendance and exhibitors. We are pleased to have attracted more people to the wonderful world of cycling holidays.”
The fair’s international focus was evident, with numerous international operators participating, underscoring the growing global interest in cycle tourism.
Italian Regions and Iconic Routes
Twelve Italian regions showcased their unique cycling offerings, presenting not only routes but also services, technologies, and equipment tailored for every type of traveler. Notable highlights included:
-
Treviso-Ostiglia Cycle Path: The world’s first cycle path to receive the prestigious GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification for sustainability.
-
Ciclovia Meridiana: A new and captivating route in Basilicata connecting Potenza to the Pollino Park, traversing the Lucanian Apennine National Park.
-
Ciclovia Alpe Adria: A well-appreciated route equipped with excellent bike-bus intermodality services.
-
Marche Region: Offering 24 fully georeferenced loop trails.
-
Tuscany: A paradise with 20,000 km of itineraries, including iconic routes like the Strade Bianche and L’Eroica.
Forum del Cicloturismo with B2B Focus
The event also featured the Forum del Cicloturismo, a B2B event focusing on the numbers and prospects of the sector. The matching between tourism operators saw 80 supply-side operators and 40 demand-side operators from 20 countries, resulting in 1,112 pre-organized meetings. This professional workshop offered international buyers and sellers the opportunity to establish new and crucial partnerships.
Family-Friendly Initiatives
The fair catered to families and young explorers by offering the official guide with a treasure hunt. By collecting stamps along the route, participants received a final prize and the coveted little cyclist’s passport.
Made in Italy Excellence
The public showed strong interest in Italian craftsmanship and innovation. Renowned Italian frame builders, such as Bixxis, Cicli Galetti, Ottotubi, Clorofilla, Cicli Barco, and Grandis, showcased their masterpieces. The accessory sector also drew attention, with Miss Grape revolutionizing the bikepacking world, and the e-bike sector highlighted by platforms like WD99, Lombardo, and Olympia, alongside innovative off-grid charging technologies presented by HyCharge and Pradella Sistemi.
Successful Bike Parking at the Fair
Emphasizing its commitment to cycling mobility, the fair set up a large bicycle parking area at the entrance, supported by Trenitalia, the Official Green Carrier of the event. The result? Over 2,000 bicycles securely parked.
Pinar Pinzuti highlighted the environmental benefits:
“The presence of a guarded bicycle parking allowed us to make our event less impactful on the city that generously hosts us. Every bicycle is one less car, and therefore less traffic and less pollution.”
Looking Ahead
The Cycle Tourism Fair continues to be the ideal platform where demand and supply meet to shape the active tourism of tomorrow and find inspiration for bicycle holidays. The next edition is already scheduled for March 2027, again in Padua.
For more information and updates on the Cycle Tourism Fair, visit www.fieradelcicloturismo.it.