With a rich programme combining networking, learning, co-creation, and cultural discovery, the AGM will bring together regional leaders and destination managers, researchers and academics in tourism, EU institutional representatives, and innovators at a crucial moment for European tourism: the European Commission will publish its new European Tourism Strategy on 6 May, just days after our meeting. Be there to discuss its implications first!

2026 Theme: Tourism and Culture: from creation to legacy – building resilient and connected territories

Across three days, members will discuss NECSTouR’s core strategic themes, European level developments in sustainable tourism, and explore how culture can transform destinations, strengthen resilience, and generate long-term value for communities, an issue at the heart of Europe’s sustainable tourism agenda.

What to expect at this year’s AGM?

1. High-Level EU Institutional Insights

The Thematic Conference on Day 2 (23 April) will feature senior representatives from:

• European Commission – DG MOVE
• European Parliament
• European Committee of the Regions
• Regional and destination leaders from across Europe

Their interventions will offer key insights into EU priorities at a decisive moment for tourism’s green and digital transition with the new Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-34 on the horizon.

2. Showcase & Profile Your Region

With sessions focused on NECSTouR’s Governance, Climate, and Data Hub pathways, and the thematic speed networking session, the AGM provides multiple opportunities for regions to:

• present good practices and success stories
• build or reinforce European partnerships
• strengthen visibility within the network

3. Deep-Dive Exchanges & Practical Learning

The programme features:

• Living Labs on the Climate and Data Hub pathways
• a roundtable on Shaping a Destination through Culture featuring Centre-Val de Loire case studies
• strategic discussions on NECSTouR’s Work Programme and the Governance Hub

These sessions allow members to learn together and co-develop approaches to data-driven, climate-smart, and culturally vibrant tourism.

4. Exceptional Networking Moments

From the opening guided tour of Bourges’ historic centre to networking lunches and the gala dinner at the stunning Abbaye de Noirlac, participants will enjoy ample opportunities to connect in inspiring settings.

5. Experience Bourges 2028 First-Hand

The closing study visit offers an exclusive preview of Bourges’ transformation for the 2028 European Capital of Culture, led by the team behind the initiative. Members will discover how three of the city’s heritage and cultural sites of the city are being prepared to showcase Bourges for 2028.

6. Exceptional Venues

This year’s AGM will be hosted across Bourges’ most iconic locations, including:

• Villa Monin – an emblem of local gastronomic heritage and innovation
• Maison de la Culture – a newly renovated beacon of contemporary arts
• Abbaye de Noirlac – a masterpiece of Cistercian architecture and ecological design
• Brasserie des Beaux-Arts – an elegant Art Nouveau–Art Deco brasserie

Each venue reflects the meeting’s spirit: heritage, creativity, and forward-looking collaboration.

Registration closes on 23 March 2026 and is open exclusively to NECSTouR members.

Join us in Bourges to shape the future of European sustainable tourism and ensure your region’s voice is heard at a crucial time for the industry.