Every year, Rome reminds the world why it’s called the Eternal City—and in September 2025, it will also host one of the most important international exhibitions dedicated to cultural and heritage tourism: the World Tourism Event (WTE). From 25 to 26 September, the spotlight will be on UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the future of sustainable, meaningful travel.
The event takes place in a city that is itself a UNESCO treasure. Rome’s historic center, the Vatican City, and landmarks like the Colosseum and the Pantheon stand as timeless reminders of why heritage matters. This makes Rome not just the host of the event but also the perfect living stage for its themes.
What is the World Tourism Event?
The World Tourism Event is a specialized international exhibition with a clear mission: to connect people with cultural destinations and showcase the beauty of UNESCO sites worldwide. Over two exciting days, travelers, institutions, and professionals come together to:
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🌍 Discover new destinations: Tourism boards and operators present their UNESCO heritage sites, often unveiling hidden gems.
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📚 Attend conferences and workshops: Experts discuss topics like sustainable tourism, destination management, and heritage preservation.
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🎭 Enjoy cultural performances: Live events, book presentations, and artistic showcases enrich the program.
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🤝 Network with professionals: A chance for operators and institutions to exchange ideas and build future collaborations.
For travelers, this is more than an exhibition—it’s a journey across the globe without leaving Rome.
Why It Matters for Curious Travelers
Heritage tourism is no longer just about visiting a monument and snapping a photo. Today’s travelers seek stories, authenticity, and connection. The WTE invites visitors to:
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Explore destinations that value slow travel and respect for culture.
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Learn about lesser-known UNESCO sites that deserve attention.
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Reflect on how travel can be meaningful, sustainable, and enriching.
Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply curious about how cultures are preserved, the WTE is an inspiring event that bridges past, present, and future.
Rome and the WTE: A Perfect Match
Hosting the World Tourism Event in Rome feels natural. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with layers of history at every turn. During the event days, visitors can explore the exhibition and then step outside into the real thing—ancient ruins, Baroque squares, and Renaissance palaces.
Imagine spending your morning discovering UNESCO sites in faraway lands, and then your afternoon walking through Piazza Navona, standing in awe at the Pantheon, or watching the fountains of Piazza Venezia sparkle in the Roman sun. Rome’s heritage becomes an extension of the event itself.
Experiencing Rome Beyond the Event
If you’re visiting the World Tourism Event, it’s also a wonderful time to experience the Eternal City in a unique way. Many visitors love to explore Rome’s streets in the comfort of an electric tuk-tuk (ETuk)—an eco-friendly, silent, and intimate way to see the city.
After a day indoors at the exhibition, an ETuk ride offers:
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Fresh air and open views of the city’s landmarks.
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A chance to uncover hidden alleys and piazzas you might miss on foot.
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A relaxing way to see the Colosseum, Vatican, or Trastevere without the stress of navigating traffic.
It’s not part of the event itself, but it complements the theme: Rome’s heritage, lived and felt.
Final Thoughts
The World Tourism Event is more than an exhibition—it’s an invitation to travel deeper, with respect for culture and a sense of wonder. If you are in Rome in September 2025, don’t miss this opportunity to step into a world of UNESCO treasures while standing in one of the most beautiful cities on Earth.
✨ Rome tells its own story, and the WTE adds another chapter. When the exhibition closes for the day, the city outside keeps the magic alive.
👉 Planning to visit Rome during WTE 2025? Give yourself the gift of discovery both inside and outside the event—explore the Eternal City at your own pace, and let every corner surprise you.
