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Trendy and well-connected MICE destinations in Central Europe

Frankfurt view

Germany: business powerhouse with unmatched connectivity

Berlin – innovation meets history 

Germany’s capital is a leading MICE destination, known for its vibrant business scene and extensive transport connections. The city’s international airport and high-speed rail links make it a hub for international conferences. 

Trendy and well-connected MICE destinations in central europe

For meeting and event planners, connectivity and trendiness are key factors when selecting a MICE destination.

Central Europe, with its blend of historic charm and modern infrastructure, offers a plethora of cities that are both accessible and exciting. Germany, Austria and Switzerland are home to dynamic business hubs with excellent transport links, state-of-the-art meeting facilities and inspiring cultural and team-building opportunities. Accor’s extensive hotel network ensures a seamless experience for business travellers, offering well-equipped venues and top-tier services. Let’s explore some unmissable MICE destinations in these three countries. 

Berlin view

Germany: business powerhouse with unmatched connectivity

Berlin – innovation meets history 

Germany’s capital is a leading MICE destination, known for its vibrant business scene and extensive transport connections. The city’s international airport and high-speed rail links make it a hub for international conferences. 

Where to Stay: Pullman Berlin Schweizerhof, centrally located near Ku’damm and the Berlin Zoo, offers 18 flexible meeting rooms with natural light, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a Fit&SPA lounge for relaxation. Mercure Hotel MOA Berlin, located just an 8-minute drive or a 20-minute tram ride from the main train station, is ideal for large-scale events with 40 meeting rooms, including a grand 2,400m² space. 

Incentive Activities: Attendees can explore the historic Reichstag, take a guided street art tour, or unwind at one of the many rooftop bars overlooking the Berlin skyline such as Klunkerkranich. 

Hannover – the underrated MICE gem 

Often overlooked, Hannover provides strong transport links, including an international airport and high-speed rail connections. Hannover has been proudly recognized as a UNESCO City of Music since 2014, celebrating its dynamic local music scene and rich cultural traditions. It is also known for hosting some of the world’s largest trade fairs, making it a key business destination in Germany. The excellent tram and bus connections make it easy to navigate the city, while direct transport links to the Hannover Messe exhibition grounds and the airport ensure seamless travel for business travellers. 

Where to Stay: Novotel Hannover, situated near the congress centre, features contemporary meeting spaces and a wellness area. The hotel is ideal for combining business with leisure, thanks to its proximity to the Herrenhausen Gardens and the Maschsee Lake. 

Incentive Activities: A visit to the historic Bahlsen Steam Engine Hall or an evening at the opera provides unique team-building opportunities. Alternatively, teams can explore the vibrant Linden district, known for its eclectic mix of cafés, street art and cultural hotspots. 

 

Frankfurt – the financial hub 

Frankfurt is the heart of European finance and a top choice for business meetings. With one of the world’s busiest airports and excellent public transport, it’s a prime location for international events. 

Where to Stay: Mövenpick Hotel Frankfurt City located directly at the exhibition grounds, with Kap Europa conference centre and the expansive Festhalle convention centre right at your doorstep. The main train station and financial district are a 10-minute walk from the hotel and the city center can be reached by public transport in just 15 minutes. The hotel provides 12 modern meeting rooms with cutting-edge technology, a panoramic rooftop terrace and a 130m² gym offering relaxation after a day of meetings. 

Incentive Activities: Visit Frankfurt’s sights such as the Palmengarten, the Goethe House, the historic Römer quarter or take a river cruise on the Main. 

Munich – the business and cultural hub 

Munich blends a strong business environment with rich cultural heritage, making it an excellent MICE destination. Munich Airport offers extensive international connections, while the city’s efficient U-Bahn and S-Bahn network ensures quick access to the Messe München exhibition centre, business districts, and key attractions. 

Where to Stay: Novotel München Messe is a top choice for business travellers, located directly next to the Messe München exhibition centre. The hotel features nine modern meeting rooms with natural light, a lounge bar with a terrace, and a fitness area for relaxation. With a shopping mall next door and the subway just steps away, it provides easy access to central Munich and key business locations. 

Incentive Activities: Attendees can explore the historic Marienplatz, take a guided brewery tour to experience Munich’s famous beer culture or visit the Deutsches Museum for an inspiring look at science and innovation. For outdoor enthusiasts, a stroll through the English Garden or a jog around Bugapark provides a refreshing break from meetings. 

 

Hamburg – A maritime business hub 

Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest city, offers a unique mix of business and leisure. With excellent air and rail links, it’s an ideal MICE location. As a major port city, Hamburg is also a centre for trade, innovation and culture, offering diverse venues and networking opportunities for professionals from various industries. 

Where to Stay: Novotel Hamburg Central Station, located in the city centre, is perfect for corporate events with five high-tech meeting rooms and a 24/7 fitness area. Its proximity to the Speicherstadt and the Elbphilharmonie makes post-meeting excursions effortless. 

Incentive Activities: Attendees can take a boat tour through the picturesque harbour, indulge in fresh seafood at the famous Fischmarkt, explore the historic Speicherstadt or enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Elbphilharmonie Plaza. 

Austria: A perfect blend of heritage and modernity

Vienna – imperial grandeur meets MICE excellence 

As one of Europe’s most prestigious congress cities, Vienna boasts world-class event venues and great transport connectivity via Vienna International Airport. The city’s well-integrated public transport system, including an extensive metro, tram and bus network, ensures quick and efficient access to key business districts, exhibition centres, and cultural landmarks. 

Where to Stay: SO/ Vienna offers eight stylish meeting rooms with panoramic city views and a luxurious spa for post-event relaxation, while Novotel Wien Hauptbahnhof, conveniently located near the main station, provides flexible event spaces for up to 450 people and a rooftop fitness area with stunning city views. Hotel Mercure Wien Westbahnhof provides six well-equipped meeting rooms in a prime location, along with an on-site restaurant serving modern Viennese cuisine. 

Incentive Activities: Attendees can enjoy a classical concert at Schönbrunn Palace, a wine-tasting session in the Wachau Valley, a Danube River cruise or explore Vienna’s historic coffeehouses for an authentic taste of the city’s café culture. 

 

Salzburg – A scenic business destination 

Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, offers a picturesque setting for corporate meetings, combining historic charm with modern infrastructure. With excellent transport links, including Salzburg Airport and a well-connected railway network, the city is easily accessible for international events. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Mercure Salzburg City is a prime choice, featuring modern conference facilities and flexible meeting spaces. Its central location, just a short walk from the historic Old Town, ensures easy access to cultural landmarks, restaurants, and shopping areas, making it ideal for both business and leisure. 

Incentive Activities: Attendees can explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress for stunning city views, take a guided Sound of Music tour, or enjoy an alpine excursion to the nearby Salzkammergut region, known for its breathtaking lakes and mountains.  

aerial view

Graz – austria’s creative capital 

Graz, a UNESCO City of Design, is a rising star in the MICE sector with strong rail and air connections. The city effortlessly blends historical charm with cutting-edge creativity, making it an ideal destination for innovative business events. Its compact size ensures that major venues, hotels, and cultural sites are all easily accessible. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Mercure Graz City, located in the trendy Lend district, offers stylish meeting spaces with modern amenities, making it an excellent choice for corporate gatherings. The hotel’s proximity to the Schlossberg and the Mur River allows attendees to experience the city’s scenic beauty during their stay.  

Incentive Activities: A guided culinary tour through the farmer’s market introduces attendees to regional specialties and local flavors. For a more immersive experience, attendees can take a guided tour of the historic Eggenberg Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or enjoy a scenic walk through the Schlossberg, offering panoramic views of the city. 

Switzerland: sophistication and efficiency

Zurich – the financial powerhouse 

Switzerland’s largest city is a premier MICE destination, offering world-class infrastructure and excellent connectivity. Zurich Airport provides direct flights to global hubs, while the city’s efficient public transport network ensures easy access to business districts and event venues. 

Where to Stay: Novotel Zurich City-West, near the Technopark, features nine high-tech meeting rooms and a swimming pool for post-conference relaxation. Novotel Zurich Airport Messe, with direct tram links to the airport and city centre, offers modern meeting spaces and a well-equipped fitness area. 

Incentive Activities: Attendees can take a scenic boat tour of Lake Zurich, visit the FIFA Museum, explore the historic Old Town or experience an immersive escape room challenge. 

 

Geneva – the global diplomatic hub 

Home to international organisations and major summits, Geneva is an ideal location for high-profile corporate events. Geneva Airport offers extensive international connections, while an efficient tram and bus network provides quick access to key venues. 

Where to Stay: Novotel Genève Centre offers five versatile meeting rooms, a wellness area and easy access to Lake Geneva. Its location near Cornavin train station ensures smooth travel to other Swiss cities. 

Incentive Activities: Attendees can tour the United Nations headquarters, enjoy fine dining by the lake, explore Geneva’s historic Old Town or take a scenic boat cruise across Lake Geneva.

Montreux – the ultimate incentive retreat 

Nestled between Lake Geneva and the Alps, Montreux is a stunning location for corporate retreats. Well-connected by rail to Geneva Airport, it offers an inspiring mix of business and leisure opportunities. 

Where to Stay: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, a Belle Époque landmark, features 20 sophisticated meeting rooms and a luxury spa, providing an elegant setting for executive gatherings. This hotel also has breathtaking lakefront terraces, perfect for exclusive networking events and private receptions. 

Incentive Activities: A visit to Chillon Castle, a scenic train ride to Glacier 3000, attending the Montreux Jazz Festival or a wine tasting experience in the nearby Lavaux vineyards will create unforgettable memories for attendees. 

Conclusion

Central Europe presents a wealth of opportunities for MICE events, combining top-tier connectivity with trendy and inspiring settings. Whether it’s a large-scale conference in Frankfurt, an incentive trip to Montreux or an exclusive board meeting in Vienna, Accor’s diverse hotel portfolio ensures a perfect match for every event. By choosing one of these vibrant destinations, meeting planners can create memorable and productive experiences while enjoying the ease of connectivity and world-class hospitality.