Corporate Event Venues in Europe
There are many factors to consider when choosing the destination for your event—which city and in which country!
Destination choice is a crucial factor that can significantly impact the success and overall experience of the event.
Here Are Some Reasons Why The Chosen Destination Is Important
Objective
This should be at the forefront of every decision you make as an event planner, but especially when it comes to choosing which European destination will host your event. It’s important that your attendees feel comfortable and not awkward about the destination.
Accessibility/Logistics
The destination’s accessibility is crucial for ensuring that participants can easily reach the event venue. Proximity to transportation hubs, such as airports, train stations, or major roads, can contribute to an event’s success.
Check to see if any other similar industry events are taking place at your chosen destination at the same time as your event as this may affect your audience numbers.
Appeal
The visual appeal of the venue and its surroundings can significantly enhance the overall experience for attendees. Whether it’s a conference, dinner or teambuilding, a pleasing environment can contribute to a positive atmosphere.
Date:
The time of year can affect the choice of destination. Southern European cities can be more pleasant in the spring or autumn, while Northern Europe might be ideal for winter events.
Accommodation
Does the destination offer plenty of accommodation choice for your delegates, if required. Are these within easy access to your chosen venue and suit all budgets?
Budget – be realistic!
When organising events, it’s important to consider that certain European destinations may come with a higher price tag due to their prestige and amenities. As an event organiser, it is crucial to weigh up the benefits against any budget constraints.
Cultural and Legal Considerations:
Understanding and respecting these factors is essential for a successful and respectful event.
Visa requirements
Consider the visa requirements for attendees, especially if you expect participants from non-EU countries.
Target Audience:
Consider the demographics and preferences of the target audience. If the event is targeting a specific group the destination should align with their interests and expectations.
Site inspection:
A site inspection is strongly recommended so you can put yourself in the place of your delegates. It will help you understand the ease of getting around the destination and access to the venue.
Alternatively many venues offer virtual showrounds which can give you a good idea of the venue.
Popular European Destinations
Paris
The capital of France is still a popular European destination despite its high rates! Many companies still want to organise events in Paris because the name warrants success and high attendance. Having recently hosted both the Olympics and Paralympic Games this will no doubt add an extra layer of excitement and attention to the city, attracting even more visitors from around the world.
Madrid
The capital of Spain, Madrid is quite literally the beating heart of one of Europe’s most popular destinations. With excellent connections from locations all over the world offering more than 170 direct flights arriving into Madrid Barajas Airport and over 300 Hotels available there is plenty of choice for the event organiser. For a bit of classic Spanish culture try Madrid for your next event
Barcelona
Barcelona is a vibrant and culturally rich city with a lot to offer, making it an excellent choice for all types of events. Being one of the most visited destinations in Europe, this charming city has something for everyone.
Lisbon
Lisbon can be reached by air in approx 1-3 hours from most European cities and 5-8 hours from North America. The airport only a 15-minute transfer from the city centre. It is also the second-oldest European capital city and is also known as the city of the seven hills. There are a wide variety of venues and hotels to choose from to suit your budget and requirements.
Frankfurt
Frankfurt am Main is not only the city of banks, but also the largest city in Hessen and the fifth largest in Germany. Frankfurt Airport is the largest passenger airport in Germany and one of the biggest in Europe. From here, travellers fly to more than 300 destinations in over 100 countries. For accommodation there are 60,000 beds in more than 250 hotels available to suit all budgets.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam´s solid hotel infrastructure and communications network has made it one of the favourite European destinations among event planners around the world. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol serves over 300 direct global destinations and once you have arrived the city centre is just 15 minutes away by public transport
Berlin
Germany’s cool capital, Berlin, has a great deal to offer to delegates. Great transport links, a fascinating history, a relaxed vibe, and diverse architecture. The Berlin Brandenburg Airport is now the main international airport and has its own railway station directly below the terminal taking you directly into the city. Once you arrive there are over 300 hotels in Berlin ranging from budget to luxury, for your delegates to choose from.
Prague
The city of Prague is fast becoming a popular destination for both tourists and business travellers. Prague’s location in the heart of Europe makes the city easily accessible to travellers from almost every country. Sixty-nine airlines fly to 162 destinations in 54 countries from the Václav Havel Airport Prague, one of the busiest airports in Central Europe.
Valencia
With direct flights to València from over 90 overseas airports and more than 17,000 hotel rooms in the city, Valencia is an up-and-coming destination for the MICE market and the third largest city of Spain. It is the home of paella and Calatrava’s architectural masterpiece, the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences. The New York Times has named Valencia one of its 52 top destinations for ’24. This is impressive enough, but even more so when you consider it’s the only Spanish city to make this year’s list! Valencia also celebrates a new award, European Green Capital 2024, presented by the European Commission in recognition of the city’s efforts to improve the environment and quality of life of both its residents and visitors
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How much does destination matter?
More than you might realise!
When it comes to conference attendees, the destination is the second most important factor in their decision to attend, ranking even higher than networking opportunities, professional expectations, and cost.
So let us help you book your next event and don’t forget our venue finding service is free
About the Author – Lida DeSouza
With a background in pharmaceutical sales and international medical event planning, Lida founded DeSouza Associates in 1995 to bring her expertise in venue sourcing and event management to a wider audience.
She combines decades of experience with a personal passion for building strong client relationships and delivering seamless events across the UK and beyond.
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