World Congress of Cardiology to Be Held in Munich Once Again

At the end of August, Messe München will become the hub of international cardiology. From August 28 to 31, 2026, the ESC Congress—one of Europe’s largest medical conferences—will return to the Bavarian capital for the fifth time. More than 30,000 participants are expected at the exhibition grounds in Riem.

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress brings together leading experts in cardiology, science, medicine, and healthcare from around the world to present the latest research findings and actively shape the future of cardiovascular medicine. In addition to the full spectrum of cardiovascular medicine, the 2026 conference will place a special emphasis on the theme “Artificial Intelligence in Cardiology.” The primary focus will be on how AI can be used as a “co-pilot” in cardiovascular care in the future. 

International Attention for Munich as a Hub of Knowledge 

“We are very pleased to once again welcome the ESC Congress 2026 to Munich. This will once again make Messe München an international hub for science, innovation, and medical progress, reinforcing its position as one of the top 10 venues for major congresses in Europe. At the same time, the hotel and restaurant industries, retail, and numerous service providers in the city and region will benefit from the economic boost generated by an event of this magnitude. Every euro spent at Messe München generates an average of over 10 euros in revenue nationwide,” explain Messe München’s CEOs, Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer and Stefan Rummel.

For the world’s largest cardiology conference, the ICM – International Congress Center Messe München—and six exhibition halls at the Trade Fair Center Messe München will be reserved in August 2026. 

A Proven Venue for International Congresses 

With excellent international connections, a high-quality hotel and transportation infrastructure, and its convention center, Munich offers the ideal conditions for hosting the ESC Congress. The return of the world’s largest cardiology congress underscores the long-standing partnership between the European Society of Cardiology and the city of Munich. 

Nata Nambatingué, Congress & Event Director of the European Society of Cardiology, emphasizes: “Munich is one of Europe’s leading life sciences hubs. At the same time, the city has the infrastructure, capacity, and organizational experience required for a congress of this magnitude. Messe München enables us to efficiently integrate the scientific program, the trade exhibition, and attendee management. We look forward to welcoming the international cardiology community back to Munich.” 

A Strong Year for Conferences at Messe München

The ESC Congress is part of what has been an exceptionally strong year for conferences at Messe München. With events such as the ESCMID Global Congress (April 2026), the ESMO Gastrointestinal Cancers Congress (July 2026), and the ECNP Congress (October 2026), Munich will host additional leading international conferences in the fields of medicine, health sciences, and future technologies this year. Together, they will bring tens of thousands of industry professionals from around the world to the Bavarian capital, a hub of economic strength and scientific excellence. 

The city of Munich considers Messe München’s strong congress business an important catalyst for Munich’s position as a leading center for science, research, and economic activity. 

Dr. Christian Scharpf, Head of Munich’s Department of Labor and Economic Development, explains: “It fills me with joy and pride that our city is once again becoming a hotspot for the international cardiology community and is once more positioning itself as a European hub for cardiovascular research and innovation. The main theme of the ESC Congress—artificial intelligence—is of the utmost relevance to Munich as a hub for business, science, and innovation. My goal as the Commissioner for Economic Affairs is to make Munich a model city for artificial intelligence. The organizers’ decision to choose Munich underscores the city’s importance as a hub for medical excellence and international scientific exchange. Major conferences such as the 2026 ESC Congress are also an important economic driver for the city. They generate economic value and secure numerous jobs.”