In recent issues of HQ Magazine, readers have been discovering the stories behind the destinations that make up the EU CVB Network. Last but not least, Lyon and Gothenburg are shining examples of Europe’s dynamic second-tier destinations, combining strategic locations, scientific and industrial excellence, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Both cities leverage collaboration, innovation, and local expertise to create unforgettable experiences for association and business events.
Lyon: France’s Capital of Innovation and Hospitality
Located at the crossroads of northern and southern Europe, Lyon has a long-standing tradition of hospitality and commerce. Its UNESCO-listed architectural heritage, rich gastronomy, and compact city centre make it ideal for conferences and networking. The Lyon Convention Centre, strategically located between the Parc de la Tête d’Or and the Rhône River, exemplifies the city’s state-of-the-art venues and sustainable event management, holding ISO 20121 certification.
Lyon is also a hub for scientific and economic excellence. Its diversified economy, research centres, universities, hospitals, and biotech clusters such as Lyonbiopôle provide fertile ground for knowledge-driven events. Association conferences in life sciences and biotechnology account for over half of the region’s congresses, enabling the city to foster synergies between academia and industry.
Major infrastructure developments, including the expansion of Lyon Part-Dieu railway station and a renovated airport terminal, alongside nearly 19,200 hotel rooms in the metropolitan area, enhance the city’s accessibility and capacity. Lyon’s commitment to sustainable tourism is reflected in its pioneering development plan, ISO 20121 certification for venues, and support for eco-certification of hotels, positioning it as the highest-ranked French city in the GDS-Index 2025.
Gothenburg: Collaboration as a Superpower
As Sweden’s largest non-capital city, Gothenburg excels through collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector. Its main venue, the Swedish Exhibition & Congress Centre with Gothia Towers, alongside new conference hotels and unique locations such as the World of Volvo, Liseberg amusement park, and Universeum science centre, offers organisers convenience, character, and scale.
Gothenburg consistently ranks among the top cities in the Global Destination Sustainability Index and hosts initiatives such as the UN Sustainable Lifestyle Hub. Its Destination Development Programme 2023–2030 and dedicated Action Plan for Meetings ensure environmental, social, and economic objectives are integrated into daily practice. The city actively attracts events aligned with its strengths in electromobility, life sciences, ICT, and logistics, turning conferences into catalysts for knowledge transfer, innovation, and urban development.
Legacy projects, such as initiatives launched during EVS38 and the ISCoS Annual Scientific Meeting, demonstrate Gothenburg’s commitment to creating lasting social and economic impact. Data-driven decision-making, resident engagement, and systematic evaluation allow the city to balance visitor economy growth with local wellbeing.
Shared Values and the EU CVB Network
Both Lyon and Gothenburg exemplify how second-tier cities can combine scientific excellence, hospitality, and sustainability to create world-class conference experiences. Through the EU CVB Network, these destinations share knowledge, best practices, and case studies, amplifying their international visibility and strengthening collaboration across Europe. By fostering innovation, supporting local economies, and ensuring positive social and environmental impact, Lyon and Gothenburg set new standards for purpose-driven, memorable, and sustainable events.
