Warsaw to host international conference on sustainable river tourism

Warsaw will host the first international conference, ‘United by Rivers: Flow, Friction, Future’, on September 3–4, 2026, at the Copernicus Science Centre. Organized as an EU Local Dialogue in connection with the European Committee of the Regions, the event focuses on the future of urban rivers and the balance between development and ecology.

The conference aims to address how cities can enhance waterfront accessibility and tourism without compromising environmental protection or climate resilience. Participants, including local authorities, experts, and residents, will discuss urban planning, public spaces, and sustainable tourism models.

A primary focus will be the Vistula River, specifically examining how Polish municipalities can cooperate to create a unified tourism route. Discussions will cover the promotion of Warsaw’s riverfront, the role of the river in sports and recreation, and the preservation of cultural heritage, such as traditional wooden boats and inland navigation.