ITB Berlin 2026 positions LGBTQ+ inclusion as a driver of growth in global tourism
With new strategic partners, a strong Spanish presence, and an agenda focused on safety, resilience, and business, the LGBTQ+ Tourism Pavilion reinforces its role as one of the most dynamic segments of the industry
From March 3 to 5, 2026, the LGBTQ+ Tourism Pavilion will once again take center stage at ITB Berlin in Hall 4.1, bringing together destinations, businesses, and media around a program that solidifies LGBTQ+ tourism as an established and growing market. The initiative aims to demonstrate that diversity and inclusion are not only social values but also key drivers of economic success in a context of changing travel habits and global conditions.
Among the main new features is the addition of Booking.com as an exhibitor and supporting partner for the first time. Queer Destinations and Valencia, host city of the 2026 Gay Games, are also joining as supporting partners, while Grindr is participating for the first time as the presenting partner of the LGBTQ+ Tourism Lounge. München Tourismus will be the Premium Partner for this edition.
Spain will have a prominent presence in the pavilion, reinforcing its position as an LGBTQ+ friendly destination. Queer Destinations debuts as a supporting partner alongside the Basque Country and Salou, while Valencia returns accompanied by Benidorm, also presenting an international preview of the Gay Games 2026. JN Global Project will be present alongside destinations such as Madrid, Torremolinos, Gandia, and Gran Canaria.
On Tuesday morning, the LGBTQ+ Media Brunch will take place, a meeting space for the press and pavilion partners, where trends, international projects, and developments in the segment will be shared. Within this framework, Turespaña and the city of Seville will officially present the IGLTA Convention, to be held in Seville in November 2026, marking a new step in Spain's strategy to gain international visibility in this market.
The agenda will also extend to the ITB Berlin Convention, with the panel “From Risks to Resilience: Practical Steps for Inclusive LGBTQ+ Travel in the Future,” which will address how destinations and companies can ensure inclusive experiences in the face of restrictive policies, social tensions, and security challenges. Representatives from Turespaña, Hotelbeds HBC Group, A3M Global Monitoring, and Grindr will participate.
In parallel, ITB Berlin is conducting an international survey in partnership with A3M Global Monitoring and Diversity Tourism on the risks and experiences of LGBTQ+ travelers. The results will be incorporated into the next update of the LGBTQ+ Travel Risk Map, scheduled for publication during Pride Month 2026.
The pavilion's program will also include sessions on the economic impact of inclusion, industry networking, and the LGBTQ+ Business Summit, which will analyze the role of inclusive standards in MICE decisions, corporate travel, and employer branding. The Gender Equality Awards will also be presented, and the ITB Diversity Gala Reception & LGBTQ+ Awards Ceremony 2026 will be held in Berlin.
Since 2018, ITB Berlin has recognized those who promote the visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ tourism through the ITB LGBTQ+ Pioneer Award, which in 2026 will be awarded to Russell Lord of Kenes Tours (Israel). In addition, the ITB LGBTQ+ Tourism Award will recognize Basquetour, from the Basque Country, as a leading destination for its sustainable commitment to this segment.
Source:
ITB Berlin