The RDA Group Travel Expo 2026 is already fully booked two months before the start of the exhibition. On April 28th + 29th, 2026, Cologne will once again become the central meeting place for the bus and group tourism industry. Over 350 exhibitors from 25 countries will present new travel ideas and destinations, digital marketing solutions and the latest industry trends. For the first time, the event will take place in the new Hall 1, Koelnmesse's most modern hall. Over 1,500 trade visitors are expected to attend on both days of the exhibition.
RDA President Benedikt Esser explains: ‘The fact that we have once again been able to increase the number of exhibitors and the exhibition space, as in previous years, is remarkable in view of the overall economic downturn. This is a great start for the RDA Group Travel Expo 2026 and a strong sign for our industry!’
Partner region South Bohemia: Inspiration from nature, culture and cuisine
In 2026, there will be a special focus on the partner region of South Bohemia. The region inspires with its picturesque landscapes, diverse art and cultural offerings, exciting history and lively beer brewing tradition. On the first day of the exhibition, South Bohemia will present itself in the RDA TrendForum and provide in-depth tourist insights into nature, art, culture, history and cuisine.
RDA TrendForum: Impulses from practice, market and law
On the second day of the exhibition, the RDA TrendForum will focus on topics that are currently affecting the industry. Among other things, the following presentations are planned: Impulse for the application of artificial intelligence in coach tourism by Alexander Mirschel; Driving and rest times from a practical perspective by Thomas Fritz (TF-Insitut für Verkehr); presentation of the latest findings from the Reiseanalyse 2026 by Astrid Koch; final settlement of the ‘Überbrückungshilfen’ by tax advisor Sören Münch; analysis of the new EU Package Travel Directive by lawyer Dr. Stefanie Bergmann; the new MAN e-coach by Heinz Kiess.
RDA Expo Night: Networking in a premium atmosphere on the Rhine
Once again this year, the RDA Group Travel Expo is making a mark in networking. The RDA Expo Night will again take place at the Rheinterrassen in Cologne. The premium location directly on the Rhine offers an impressive view of Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine backdrop. Guests can look forward to high-quality buffets with selected specialities from Bohemian cuisine. A DJ will provide musical entertainment throughout the evening until the early hours of the morning. Around 800 participants are expected to attend what is likely to become the biggest industry party of the year.
Tickets and information
Trade visitor tickets as well as tickets for the RDA Expo Night are available online at www.rda-expo.de/en/tickets.
The exhibitor directory is available at www.rda-expo.de/en/cologne.