Long recognised as one of Poland’s premier MICE destinations, Kraków has reached a new stage of development in 2024, reinforcing its position on the European meetings and business events map. The latest edition of the report “The Meetings Industry in Kraków”, published by the Foundation of the Cracow University of Economics in cooperation with the Kraków Convention Bureau, presents robust data that highlights the city’s growing importance within the B2B sector.
Surge in Events and a Stronger International Outlook
In the past year, Kraków hosted 4,647 business events involving groups of more than 50 participants – an increase of 6.4% year-on-year and 1.5 times more than in 2022.
Particularly noteworthy is the rise in international meetings, which now account for 20% of all events (up from 18% in 2023). Additionally, a growing number of these events extend over three days or more – a sign not only of their increasing scale, but also of Kraków’s credibility as a trusted partner for global congresses, conferences, and corporate gatherings.
Record Attendance Driven by International Delegates
The total number of attendees rose by an impressive 35.3% year-on-year. Domestic events saw an 8% increase in participation, while the number of international delegates nearly tripled. These figures demonstrate Kraków’s ability to attract global attention and engage an increasingly international audience.
Return to In-Person Meetings and Top-Tier Infrastructure
An overwhelming 99% of registered events in 2024 were held in-person, a strong signal that both organisers and delegates are returning to face-to-face formats. The city boasts excellent conference facilities, including 68 four-star and 23 five-star hotels, state-of-the-art congress centres, and well-developed transport infrastructure, including international air links.
Kraków Draws Both Delegates and Investors
In addition to data analysis, the report serves as a practical resource for companies planning events in Kraków. It includes listings of recommended Professional Congress Organisers (PCOs), Destination Management Companies (DMCs), and incentive travel providers, offering a comprehensive planning toolkit for event organisers and investors alike.
Business Tourism Fuels the Local Economy
In 2024, Kraków welcomed 14.72 million visitors – a 7.1% increase over the previous year. Domestic tourism grew particularly strongly (+9.8%), as did demand for high-end accommodation, with bookings up by nearly 16% in four-star hotels and an impressive 25% in five-star establishments.
While overall visitor spend declined to 9.05 billion PLN, a substantial portion still came from MICE delegates. The average international participant spent over 2,200 PLN during their stay, underlining their strong purchasing power and economic impact on the city.
Kraków – A Strategic Player in the European MICE Market
The conclusions of the report leave no doubt: Kraków has not only regained momentum following the pandemic but is also thriving as a dynamic European hub for business events. The synergy of professional infrastructure, a rich cultural offering, and experienced service providers makes Kraków an ideal setting for both domestic and international meetings.
For planners and investors alike, choosing Kraków is a data-driven decision, supported by strong international interest and rapid development across MICE-related services. It’s also a call to co-create the future of Europe’s meetings industry, with Kraków taking centre stage.
Kraków Climbing Global Rankings
Kraków continues to affirm its strong international standing as a compelling and competitive destination for business events. Data from leading global industry reports highlight its rapid growth in the meetings sector, as well as an increasing focus on sustainability and investment appeal.
ICCA Globe Watch: Business Analytics 2024
Kraków ranked 42nd globally for the number of international association meetings (49 events), and an impressive 26th in Europe according to ICCA, confirming its position among the continent’s key congress destinations.
UIA – International Meetings Statistics Report 2024
According to the 65th edition of the UIA report (June 2024), Kraków hosted 32 international association events, placing 42nd worldwide ICCA`s 2024 Globe Watch Business Analytics Report – evidence of its consistent presence among top global meeting locations.
GDS-Index 2024 – “Wave of Transformation”
Kraków advanced by eight places to 72nd in the Global Destination Sustainability Index. This ranking evaluates cities on environmental, social, and economic sustainability policies within the MICE industry, confirming the city’s commitment to responsible development.
European Cities and Regions of the Future 2024 – fDi Intelligence / Financial Times
Kraków was recognised in four major categories for large European cities:
- 1st for business friendliness
- 1st for human capital and lifestyle
- 4th overall among large cities
- 6th for economic potential
These accolades underline Kraków’s reputation as a leader in Central and Eastern Europe – a prime location for investment, innovation, and international events.
The full report, compiled in collaboration with the Kraków Convention Bureau, including a directory of recommended PCOs, DMCs, and incentive travel organisers, is available for download here: https://convention.krakow.pl/english/news_from_krakow/296299,251,komunikat,the_mice_industry_in_krakow_is_going_from_strength_to_strength_.html
Source: Kraków Convention Bureau; Compiled by: Jarosław Marciuk
