Lisbon was most popular destination for international congresses in 2025

Lisbon was the place to go in the world for international congresses and conventions, hosting 188 of them last year, overtaking Paris and Barcelona.

This is according to the global ranking ICCA – International Congress and Convention Association.

This achievement reinforces Lisbon’s growing role as an international hub for investment, innovation, talent, and knowledge exchange, especially in the medical, technology and scientific sectors.

With these international events bringing in around 100,000 participants a year, they have a significant economic impact for the capital, not only its hotels, but also restaurants, shops, taxis, and bars.

The ranking highlights Portugal’s strong connectivity, its quality infrastructure and its ability to host world class international events.

Portugal also maintained a strong footing in the global top 10, retaining 8th place in the country-level rankings.

As for the other countries which made the top 10 they are: Lisbon (Portugal) – 188 meetings
Paris (France) – 174 meetings; Barcelona (Spain) – 166 meetings; Vienna (Austria) – 159 meetings; Singapore – 156 meetings; Prague (Czech Republic) – 133 meetings; Copenhagen (Denmark) – 131 meetings; London (United Kingdom) – 124 meetings; Seoul (South Korea) – 121 meetings, and Tokyo (Japan) – 119 meetings

Source: IICA; Credits: