Cvent reveals the top meetings destinations and hotels for 2026

Large-scale convention infrastructure and fast RFP response performance are becoming increasingly important as competition for meetings and group business intensifies worldwide

Cvent has released its 2026 rankings for the world’s top meetings destinations and hotels, based on sourcing and search activity tied to a record USD 20 billion in event volume processed through its platform last year. The rankings underline the continued dominance of major convention cities such as Orlando, London and Singapore, while also highlighting strong momentum for destinations including Nashville, New York City, Vienna and Lisbon. On the hotel side, large-scale convention properties and integrated resort venues performed particularly well, reflecting strong demand for venues capable of handling complex group events efficiently. For hoteliers, the report reinforces the importance of responsiveness, scale, and destination appeal in capturing meetings and events business.

Key takeaways

• Orlando remains the dominant meetings destination: Orlando secured the number one position in North America for the 11th consecutive year, reinforcing its long-standing strength in large-scale meetings and convention business.
• Nashville and New York gained momentum: Nashville climbed to third place in North America while New York City jumped four spots into the top 10, signaling growing demand for diversified urban meeting destinations.
• London continues to lead Europe: London retained its position as Europe’s top meetings destination for the fourth consecutive year, ahead of Barcelona and Madrid, showing continued resilience in international group demand.
• Southern European cities are strengthening: Lisbon, Paris and Vienna all improved their rankings, reflecting growing interest in destinations that combine strong infrastructure with lifestyle appeal for attendees.
• Large convention hotels dominated the rankings: Properties such as the JW Marriott Austin, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center and Hilton London Metropole performed strongly due to their ability to support large and complex events.
• Las Vegas remains a meetings powerhouse: Multiple Las Vegas properties ranked among North America’s top meeting hotels, highlighting continued demand for integrated resort destinations with extensive event infrastructure.
• Asia Pacific and Middle East rankings remained stable: Singapore, Bangkok and Sydney held the top positions in Asia Pacific, while Dubai, Istanbul and Abu Dhabi maintained leadership in the Middle East, reflecting stable regional demand patterns.
• Operational responsiveness matters more than ever: Cvent said hotel rankings were influenced not only by RFP volume and awarded room nights, but also by proposal response rates and bid performance, emphasizing the growing importance of fast and effective sales processes for hotel groups and convention properties.

Source: Cvent

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