Switzerland, widely acknowledged for its picturesque landscapes, political neutrality, and innovation, has steadily positioned itself as a leading venue for hosting diverse events. From significant cultural occasions to major sporting competitions, the nation’s proficiency in accommodating high-profile events reflects its robust capacity, advanced infrastructure, and considerable expertise. It therefore comes as no surprise that Switzerland continues to maintain its position at the top. For the third year in a row, and for a seventh time overall, the country returned to the No.1 position in the U.S News Best Country Ranking 2024, evaluating 80 countries across various metrics. Underlining the polls, the reality is that in 2024, Switzerland enjoyed a record year in tourism. The number of overnight stays rose by 2.6% to a record 42.8 million in 2024.
All this is tribute to the fact that Switzerland is valued for its high standard of living, ranking third in the Human Development Index. It has low crime rates, excellent infrastructure, and a scenic backdrop of the Alps.
Whereas cities like Zurich and Geneva may often steal the limelight in terms of international renown, the fact remains that numerous other cities such as Basel, Lucerne, St Gallen, Lausanne offer comparable access to both nature and urban amenities, enhancing both personal and academic excellence.
Switzerland’s 2025 calendar is packed with noteworthy events, including the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel this coming May and the UEFA Women’s Euro (WEURO) across multiple Swiss cities in July. These events offer Switzerland opportunities to showcase its multifaceted appeal to the world, demonstrating the country’s readiness to host international congresses and global entertainment spectacles.
The Eurovision Song Contest, renowned for its significant viewer-ship (over 160 million viewers globally) and cultural impact, will provide Basel with an opportunity to present its modern venues and efficient organization. Similarly, the WEURO, hosted in multiple Swiss cities, will emphasize Switzerland’s ability to manage large-scale, multi-location events. This championship, bringing together teams and fans from across Europe, will not only focus on football but also on displaying Switzerland’s connectivity, efficient public transport, and hospitality.
The environment impacts the development of future leaders. Switzerland’s safety, organization, and scenery provide favorable conditions for achieving excellence. The country’s commitment to sustainability, appropriately termed ‘Swisstainability’, further enhances its appeal, as more event organisers prioritise environmentally conscious practices. Venues across Switzerland incorporate green technologies, such as the energy-efficient design of the Palexpo in Geneva, which has installed extensive solar panels, and the Kongresshaus Zurich, which uses innovative systems to minimize energy consumption. Additionally, public transport options like Switzerland’s extensive train network further reduce the carbon footprint of large gatherings.
New this year is the SBB Congress Ticket for event planners hosting congresses with 300 or more delegates. This special fare allows participants to travel seamlessly from the Swiss border or airport to their event location and back.
According to the Global Destination Sustainability Index, Swiss cities consistently rank among the most eco-friendly event destinations in the world.
Education is a strong pillar of the Swiss system, highly regarded in global assessments. Switzerland’s education system stands out as one of the most advanced and diverse in the world. The country’s approach to learning reflects its commitment to excellence and adaptability. Switzerland boasts several world-renowned universi- ties that attract students from across the globe.
These institutions focus on academic research and theoretical knowledge. Apart from the federal institutes of technology in Zurich and Lausanne, which rank among the best in the world, the University of Bern that makes the headlines due to its involvement in space missions and the University of St Gallen which was ranked by The Financial Times as a top 10 European University for business studies, Switzerland has many other universities scattered within its borders.
In summary, Switzerland’s stability, high living standards, and emphasis on education contribute to its recognition as a leading country globally and a most attractive one for Professional Congress Organisers.
”We also invite you to browse the unique Conferences Agenda and inform yourself even more precisely of all professional conferences organized in Switzerland.
That is the most comprehensive Swiss platform that provides data on any and all conferences, congresses and symposiums.
Swiss Convention Centres is the umbrella organisation that brings together the ten largest and best-equipped congress centres in Switzerland.
For all these reasons the Swiss Convention Centres are your quality partners.
