📍 What we learned from 2024’s top events – and where to go next
If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that location matters more than ever when planning an industry-leading conference. The right city boosts attendance, enhances networking, and creates an unforgettable experience.
We analysed the top-performing conference destinations based on:
✔️ Event volume – Where the most international conferences were held.
✔️ Attendee engagement – Which cities drove the highest delegate interest.
✔️ Venue quality & logistics – How well cities handled large-scale events.
After reviewing the biggest events of 2024, these are the top 10 conference cities we’re recommending for 2025.
1️⃣ London, UK 🇬🇧
Europe’s #1 Business and Conference Capital
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Six international airports, the Eurostar, and world-class venues make London the most accessible meeting point in Europe. It’s a powerhouse in finance, tech, and travel, attracting flagship events like World Travel Market (43,000+ attendees).
✅ Pros:
- Unmatched connectivity—direct flights from almost anywhere.
- Massive venue options—ExCeL London, Olympia, QEII Centre.
- English-language advantage for global events.
❌ Cons:
- Costs are high—hotels from £175/night, premium venue rates.
- Transport strikes & traffic—factor in extra travel time.
🕑 Best Times: April–June, September–November.
💡 Tip: Negotiate group hotel rates early, and consider venues in Canary Wharf for lower prices than central London.
2️⃣ Paris, France 🇫🇷
The World’s #1 Congress City
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Paris hosted 156 international association conferences in 2023, more than any other city. Its mix of elegance and efficiency makes it a magnet for tech, medical, and luxury brand events.
✅ Pros:
- Cultural draw—attendees are eager to visit.
- Paris Expo Porte de Versailles—Europe’s largest exhibition centre.
- Government support—Paris actively welcomes events.
❌ Cons:
- Costs are steep—average hotel rates hit €184/night.
- Strikes and protests can disrupt transport.
🕑 Best Times: April–June, September–November.
💡 Tip: Book in La Défense for lower hotel rates while staying close to key venues.
3️⃣ Barcelona, Spain 🇪🇸
The Tech & Innovation Powerhouse
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Mobile World Congress (88,500 attendees) and Smart City Expo highlight Barcelona’s strength in tech and telecom events. Sun, sea, and modern venues make it a high-attendance destination.
✅ Pros:
- Fira Gran Via—one of Europe’s largest venues.
- Affordable compared to London/Paris.
- Delegates love the beachside setting.
❌ Cons:
- Hotels fill up fast during peak conferences.
- Pickpocketing issues—remind attendees to stay alert.
🕑 Best Times: February–June, September–November.
💡 Tip: Plan early! Prices surge during major tech events like MWC.
4️⃣ Berlin, Germany 🇩🇪
Scale Meets Affordability
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Berlin offers massive conference spaces at 20–30% lower costs than London or Paris. It’s a major hub for tech, media, and finance events like ITB Berlin (90,000 attendees).
✅ Pros:
- Messe Berlin—huge capacity, ideal for mega-events.
- Hotel rates are reasonable (€134–170 per night).
- Strong government support for sustainable conferences.
❌ Cons:
- Cold winters—fewer outdoor networking opportunities.
- City size = travel time—choose venues near public transport.
🕑 Best Times: March–June, September–November.
💡 Tip: Use Berlin’s excellent public transport to reduce logistics costs.
5️⃣ Dubai, UAE 🇦🇪
The Middle East’s Business & Conference Titan
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Dubai’s Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) hosts some of the world’s biggest expos, from GITEX Global (170,000 attendees) to Arab Health. Strategic location and luxury experiences make it a top choice.
✅ Pros:
- Global accessibility—260+ direct flight routes.
- Cutting-edge venues—DWTC, Expo City, Coca-Cola Arena.
- Safe, high-end infrastructure.
❌ Cons:
- Extreme heat (June–Aug) limits outdoor events.
- Regulated alcohol policies—consider venue restrictions.
🕑 Best Times: October–April.
💡 Tip: Leverage Dubai Business Events for potential event subsidies.
6️⃣ Amsterdam, Netherlands 🇳🇱
Compact, Efficient, and Tech-Savvy
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Amsterdam’s RAI Convention Centre is one of Europe’s most advanced venues, hosting events like IBC (43,000 attendees). It’s a favourite for fintech, life sciences, and creative industries.
✅ Pros:
- Superb transport—Schiphol Airport just 15 min from downtown.
- Walkable city = great networking spots.
- Sustainability focus—ideal for eco-conscious events.
❌ Cons:
- Hotels are expensive (€205/night on average).
- Weather is unpredictable in winter.
🕑 Best Times: May–June, September–October.
💡 Tip: Look at La Défense-style business districts to save on hotel costs.
7️⃣ Madrid, Spain 🇪🇸
Spain’s Rising Conference Star
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Madrid is an affordable alternative to Barcelona, hosting large expos at IFEMA and soon Web Summit (70,000+ attendees).
✅ Pros:
- Lower costs than Western Europe’s capitals.
- Sunny climate & vibrant social scene.
- Growing reputation as a tech & business hub.
❌ Cons:
- Summer heat (35°C+ July–Aug) is intense.
- Traffic can be heavy—choose central venues.
🕑 Best Times: April–June, September–November.
💡 Tip: Use Madrid’s efficient metro system to avoid traffic delays.
8️⃣ Istanbul, Turkey 🇹🇷
The Ultimate East-Meets-West Hub
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Istanbul connects Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it a prime location for international congresses. With massive venues like Istanbul Congress Center, it’s an affordable alternative to Western capitals.
✅ Pros:
- Low costs—5-star hotels for under $200/night.
- Rich cultural appeal = strong attendance draw.
- New Istanbul Airport (IST)—direct flights to 300+ cities.
❌ Cons:
- Traffic congestion is severe—plan carefully.
- Political/economic fluctuations—monitor event timing.
🕑 Best Times: April–June, September–November.
💡 Tip: Offer Bosphorus networking cruises for a unique experience.
9️⃣ Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹
Europe’s Hottest New Event Destination
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Lisbon’s sunny weather, affordable pricing, and rising tech scene (home to Web Summit) make it a conference favourite.
✅ Pros:
- Mild climate year-round.
- Cost-effective venues—great ROI.
- Compact, walkable city = easy logistics.
❌ Cons:
- Airport nearing capacity—book flights early.
- Tourism boom = hotel demand is high.
🕑 Best Times: March–June, September–November.
💡 Tip: Consider Almada (across the river) for cheaper accommodation.
🔟 Cape Town, South Africa 🇿🇦
Africa’s Premier Conference Destination
🔹 Why it’s a Hub: Cape Town is Africa’s #1 international conference city, with world-class venues like CTICC and a stunning setting that boosts attendance.
✅ Pros:
- Incredible scenery—Table Mountain, vineyards, beaches.
- Lower costs than Europe—$80/night for 4-star hotels.
- English-speaking, business-friendly.
❌ Cons:
- Long-haul flights required for most attendees.
- Winter (June–Aug) is rainy & cool.
🕑 Best Times: February–March, October–November.
💡 Tip: Offer safari/wine tours to encourage longer stays.
✈️ Which city is your next event destination? Let’s make it unforgettable! 🎤✨