It’s the final countdown for VisitScotland Connect 2026

Less than four weeks to go

With just under four weeks to go until VisitScotland Connect 2026, Scotland’s flagship travel trade event supported by Visit Glasgow, excitement is building as we get ready to welcome attendees to the SEC in host city Glasgow.  

A catalyst for tourism growth

VisitScotland Connect is designed to generate business opportunities and strengthen Scotland’s visitor economy. Since its inception, the event has brought Scottish tourism businesses together with international and domestic buyers for two full days of in-person meetings. But more than an event, VisitScotland Connect is a catalyst, opening doors to new markets, new relationships, and new opportunities that drive meaningful and sustainable tourism growth. 

Preparations are in full swing. Meeting diaries are filling up, pitches are being refined, and familiarisation trips across Scotland for global media partners are being finalised. Behind the scenes, the well-oiled operation of the event is also dialling up as we pass the four-week mark. 

Music, sweet music 

This year’s theme celebrates Scotland’s rich musical heritage and culture. And with Glasgow proudly recognised as a UNESCO City of Music, attendees can look forward to an exciting line-up of artists, bands and curated playlists - offering a taste of the city and Scotland’s vibrant music scene. 

Just as music connects people, so too does VisitScotland Connect. 

VisitScotland Connect - the impact

It’s not just the sound we’re amplifying this year, but the reach and impact of the event itself. 

Last year, VisitScotland Connect generated over 8,200 meetings, and this year, already, we’re seeing this number increase with over 9,300 meetings in diaries. 

We’re also welcoming a record 330 buyers and over 280 suppliers including 71 new Scottish tourism and events businesses.  

VisitScotland Connect venue for 2026 - The Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre. Credit VisitScotland / Stuart Brunton

Hear from Paisley Walking Tours, attending for the first time

One of those new businesses is Gavin Divers from Paisley Walking Tours, joining us at VisitScotland Connect for the first time. We caught up with Gavin to learn more about their business journey, how he’s developing his experience and ambitions for expanding into new markets.   

“As a first-time attendee at VisitScotland Connect, it’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase Paisley’s rich heritage and share stories that many visitors to Scotland haven’t yet discovered.

The VisitScotland webinars and resources have been really helpful in preparing for the event, and I’m looking forward to meeting travel trade partners who are interested in authentic Scottish experiences and bringing more visitors to Paisley.” 
Gavin Divers, Paisley Walking Tours 

Visitors on a guided heritage walk beside the River Cart with the historic Anchor Mill in the background, Paisley. Credit Paisley Tours / Gavin Divers

Working with travel trade

Throughout the year, our Intermediary Marketing Team promotes Scotland at major trade events, strengthening relationships with key intermediaries - such as tour operators, travel advisors and travel agents - across global markets. With more than half of international visitors planning and booking their travel through travel intermediaries, these engagements are vital.

We support intermediaries to develop Scotland products, such as experiences, packages or itineraries, while providing valuable insights that shape our understanding of what buyers are looking for. 

These insights help Scottish tourism and events businesses to develop and create experiences we know our visitors are looking for.

VisitScotland Connect creates opportunities for businesses to reach audiences they may not be able to access alone. They create relationships, partnerships and conversations, and continue long after the event has finished.  

Together with our partners and industry, we shine a spotlight on Scotland, one that positions Scotland as a must-visit, must-return, year-round destination.  
 
Put simply, VisitScotland Connect isn’t just a moment in time, it creates long term value.  

A gentle reminder that VisitScotland Connect is a closed event and registration is now closed. If you haven’t registered but would like to find out more about future events, we’d love to hear from you. 

Go to the VisitScotland Connect website for more information about the event.