The Biggest and Most Important European Cities for the Events Industry

The events industry has spread its many branches across the entire continent of Europe, but let’s focus on the biggest cities that host some of the best and most important trade shows across all sectors.

LONDON

London, best described as the pulsating heart of the United Kingdom, camps along the iconic River Thames. Boasting a population of 8.8 million in its city limit and 14,800 million across its sizable metropolitan area, the city is one of the most important cities over the past two thousand years. The ancient core, the City of London, founded by Romans as Londinium, retains its medieval boundaries and serves as the financial heartbeat. Yet, despite its grandeur and cosmopolitanism, each neighbourhood, each street corner, assumes a unique identity.

Central London, a shared space for the diverse groups inhabiting the city, becomes the common ground for nearly 20 million annual visitors. Iconic symbols - the Beefeaters, the bobbies, the red buses, the Royal Family – tell a story of great pageantry and history. Amidst the hustle and bustle, the stock market thrives, motorcycle messengers weave through traffic, and the air carries a distinct urban aroma. For those eager to explore, embarking on foot through Central London becomes an immersive journey. Despite Greater London sprawling more than 610 sq. miles, the central area surprises with its compactness. Walkers step in the footprints of history’s biggest figures guided by blue plaques marking their abodes.

The city is home to a spectacular lineup of trade shows - IFE, London Wine Fair, ICE London, PLASA, IFSEC, the TOY FAIR and DSEI to name a few.

BERLIN

The capital of Germany, Berlin, is a city known for its tumultuous past, which makes it one of the most exciting cities to visit. Described by its mayor as ‘poor but sexy,’ the city is nonetheless the country’s main cultural and business centres. The population exceeds 3.7 million, which earns it the title as Germany's largest city.

As a true global hub, Berlin encapsulates the essence of a melting pot shaped by the convergence of individuals from 193 countries, conversing in over 120 languages. 21% of Berlin’s population is foreign-born. While this has presented its own set of social challenges, the result is a breeding ground for innovation, creativity, and immense opportunities. For those returning after two decades, Berlin's evolving Bezirke (boroughs) are a revelation. Situated in the eastern part of Germany, the city sits in the embrace of the Grunewald forest and the Havel river. Berlin is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Its parks and open spaces rival those of Potsdam, a regal city to the West where palaces stand as echoes of past royalty.

Beyond the historical shifts, Berlin remains a thriving metropolis, a living canvas that echoes the resilience and adaptability of its people. From the vibrant energy of its diverse neighbourhoods to the lush tranquillity of its surrounding landscapes, Berlin beckons travellers to explore its kaleidoscope of cultures and ever-changing urban panoramas. The major trade shows that take place here include FRUIT LOGISTICS, CCW, ITB, DMEA, ILA, IFA, InnoTrans, COSMETICA and BOOT & FUN BERLIN.

MADRID

As the vibrant capital and most populous city of Spain, Madrid beckons visitors with promises of culture, entertainment and sporting endeavours. Madrid boasts almost 3.4 million inhabitants and a metropolitan population of 6.7 million, which places it as the second-largest city in the European Union, with a sprawling monocentric metropolitan area ranking second in the EU.

Nestled on the banks of the River Manzanares, Madrid unfolds in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, its landscape adorned at 650 metres above sea level. The city, covering 604.3 sq. kilometres, has an air of historical charm and the energy of modernity. For culture aficionados, Madrid is a treasure trove of attractions. The regal palace, the iconic Plaza Mayor, and numerous statuettes adorn the cityscape. Art enthusiasts can lose themselves in the hallowed halls of museums like Del Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen, showcasing masterpieces by Spanish luminaries such as Velazquez, Goya, Picasso and Miro.

Amidst these cultural gems, Madrid thrives on amusement. Two expansive amusement parks, including the Warner Bros park, captivate thrill-seekers. The city pulses with international concerts, bustling flea markets, lively parades, and an array of engaging activities.

It's only natural that the city would be host to some of the world’s most important trade fairs. We’re talking about GENERA, Intergift, ARCO, TECMA, SALON GOURMETS, MATELEC, Fitur and MOTORTEC AUTOMECHANIKA MADRID.

PARIS

Nestled along the Seine River, Paris, the enchanting capital of France, beckons with its timeless allure and rich cultural offerings. Boasting an estimated population of 2,102,650 residents across more than 105 sq. kilometres, it stands as the fourth-most populated city in the European Union. Since the 17th century, Paris has woven itself into the fabric of global history and culture, rising as a major centre for finance, diplomacy, commerce, culture, fashion and gastronomy. The title of ‘City of Light’ was bestowed upon it in the 19th century as a way to celebrate its pioneering role in arts, sciences and early street lighting.

For centuries, Paris has been a haven for artists, a sanctuary of freedom and inspiration. Today, as one of the most-visited cities globally, it continues to captivate millions of international visitors. From world-renowned art galleries and museums to architectural wonders, the city invites exploration. Its cuisine, celebrated worldwide, is a delectable journey through culinary excellence, while the fashion scene exudes elegance and style. The city pulses with nightlife, cinemas and an array of cultural offerings. Every corner echoes with the footsteps of history and the whispers of creativity. The city centre undergoes extensive renovation, while the Île-de-France Region charts its development path through 2040, promising a future that seamlessly blends modernity with the timeless charm that defines the essence of Paris.

The trade shows taking place here include Vinexpo Paris, Premiere Vision, JEC World, ART PARIS ART FAIR, TOLEXPO, INTERMAT, MAISON & OBJET, Foire de Paris, Interfiliere, SILMO Paris and SIAL.