More than 100 participants from 15 countries, 85 scientific presentations and 3 thematic workshops
The Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) is hosting, at its Heraklion Campus from 21 to 23 September 2026, the 13th Sino-European International Tourism Conference – “Island & Coastal Tourism Futures 2026” (ICTF 2026), a major international scientific conference dedicated to the future of island and coastal tourism. The conference brings together more than 100 participants from 15 countries, who, through 85 research presentations, 3 interactive workshops, thematic panels and special sessions, will present and discuss contemporary research approaches and practices concerning the future of island and coastal destinations.
ICTF 2026 is organised by the Department of Business Administration and Tourism of the Hellenic Mediterranean University, in collaboration with Ningbo University in China and the University of Angers in France, strengthening international cooperation and dialogue between Europe and China in the field of tourism.
The central theme of the conference focuses on the future prospects of island and coastal tourism, with particular emphasis on issues such as sustainable development and destination resilience, climate change, the management of natural and cultural resources, the relationship between tourism and local communities, digital transformation and smart tourism, as well as new skills and human resources in the tourism sector.
A key feature of the programme is the connection between academic research, the tourism industry and destination stakeholders. Within this framework, two Academia & Industry Panels will bring together academics, institutional representatives and tourism professionals to discuss contemporary issues affecting island and coastal destinations.
At the same time, the conference’s three workshops will provide participants with the opportunity to engage with current tourism-related issues through more interactive forms of learning and exchange of experiences.
The conference is held under the auspices of the Region of Crete, the Regional Development Fund of Crete and the Municipality of Heraklion, with the kind support of the Heraklion Port Authority, Cretan Holidays, Sunweb, Cretaquarium and Tziolas Publications, further strengthening the conference’s links with the local community, institutional stakeholders and Crete as a tourism destination.
The international participation and thematic scope of ICTF 2026 highlight Crete’s importance as a meeting point for the academic community, the tourism industry and destination stakeholders, while also showcasing the significant work of the Hellenic Mediterranean University in developing international partnerships in the field of tourism and creating an academic and cultural “bridge” between Europe and China.
