The heart for cardiology will be beating again in Munich in 2026: The ESC is coming back to Messe München

Messe München will once again be an international hotspot of medical research and innovation. After eight years, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress is returning to the Bavarian capital in 2026. From August 28 to 31, 2026, the largest congress for cardiology, with over 30,000 participants, will take place at the ICM—International Congress Center Messe München and the Trade Fair Center Messe München.

The ESC Congress is considered as a major scientific event. The world´s largest cardiovascular congress brings together leading cardiologists and healthcare professionals from around the world aiming to shape the future of cardiovascular medicine, practice and patient outcomes. “We are delighted that such an important congress for medicine and science has chosen us. The last ESC Congress to be held at the Trade Fair Center Messe München was in 2018 with almost 32,000 participants. In 2026, it will once again turn Munich into the hot spot for the international cardiology community. We are also pleased that Messe München will additionally ensure higher revenue for the catering and hotel sectors, craft businesses, and taxi companies, thus boosting the economy. On average, exhibitors and visitors to trade fairs, congresses and conferences in Munich generate a total revenue of 3.29 billion euros each year throughout Germany,” as the CEOs Reinhard Pfeiffer and Stefan Rummel explain.

“Four ESC Congresses have taken place in Munich over the last two decades. Each time, we have innovated to give each congress its own special touch, while guaranteeing the best possible experience for our delegates. Very efficient ground transportation, a state-of-the-art venue with Messe München & ICM, and a great level of professionalism from the local teams is integral to that experience. We’re delighted to be coming back to Munich,” emphasizes Nata Nambatingué, Congress & Event Director, European Society of Cardiology.

All-round carefree package

The good cooperation between Messe München, the City of Munich and the hotel industry were convincing arguments for the guest organizer in the application. With this cooperation, Messe München offers an all-round carefree package—from traveling to Munich and being at the congress to leisure activities. Easy access to Munich by air and, above all, by train also played a role in the decision. Another aspect that convinced the guest organizer of the location was the ecological focus of the company and the state capital of Munich.

About the European Society of Cardiology

ESC is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit medical society. Its members and decision-makers are scientists, clinicians, nurses and allied professionals working in all fields of cardiology. ESC Congresses are at the forefront of science and innovation. They take place every year in a different European city.