Airbnb Co-Founder Nathan Blecharczyk to Address Nature Tourism at ITB Berlin Convention 2026

Airbnb will serve as the Premium Partner for ITB Berlin 2026, with co-founder Nathan Blecharczyk scheduled to speak on nature tourism and rural development at the event from March 3 to 5, 2026.

Airbnb has entered into a Premium Partnership with ITB Berlin for the 2026 edition of the travel trade show, which will take place from March 3 to 5, 2026, at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. The partnership aims to highlight the potential of nature tourism and support the development of rural regions.

Nathan Blecharczyk, Airbnb’s co-founder and chief strategy officer, is scheduled to speak at the ITB Berlin Convention on March 3, 2026, at 2 p.m. on the Orange stage. His presentation will address Airbnb’s approach to rural tourism and the role of nature travel in Europe, with a focus on Germany. Nature tourism will also be a central topic at Airbnb’s booth in Hall 9, Booth 319, and within the conference program. Additional contributions are planned from Kathrin Anselm, Country Manager Central and Eastern Europe, and Ellen Madeker, Head of Public Policy Central and Eastern Europe.

The collaboration between ITB Berlin and Airbnb will include joint communication activities on sustainable tourism, responsibility in tourism, and the future of travel. The 2026 event marks ITB Berlin’s sixtieth anniversary.

According to data referenced in the announcement, nights booked on Airbnb in rural accommodations across Europe increased by 88 percent between 2019 and 2024. The trend is attributed to travelers, particularly from Generation Z, seeking nature-focused experiences in rural communities. In Germany, Airbnb reports that more guests are choosing rural destinations over urban centers, as many rural areas offer limited hotel accommodation.

The ITB Berlin Convention will run concurrently with the trade show and feature speakers from business, science, and politics. Airbnb’s participation will focus on tourism flow management and the impact of nature tourism on sustainable travel.

ITB Berlin 2026 will be held as a business-to-business event. The event’s conference program will include sessions on tourism trends, sustainability, and future industry challenges. Online accreditation for press representatives and other attendees is available through the ITB Berlin website.