There is plenty to discover beyond the main business centres of Madrid and Barcelona.
Madrid and Barcelona may grab most of the headlines, but when it comes to business tourism in Spain, there are plenty of other exciting destinations to discover beyond these two business hubs.
Getting around is easy thanks to the fact that Spain boasts the world’s second largest high-speed rail network in the world (second only to China). It means delegates can land in Madrid and be in Seville two-and-a-half hours later – making multi-city itineraries more attractive.
Those willing to explore will be rewarded with stunning destinations, historic treasures and modern sustainable options that are fit for corporate travellers. We spotlight some of Spain’s most dynamic cities for business – with plenty of leisure options once meetings are concluded.
Valencia
Where better to start than the 2024 European Green Capital: Valencia. It’s clear why Valencia was recognised for its sustainable credentials as soon as you step foot in the city, with over two million sqm of gardens, including the Turia Garden and Parque Central, making it a leafy paradise.
The city received €350,000 from the EU as the European Green Capital for initiatives such as the 3,500 sqm Cabanyal Municipal Market, where air conditioning is now being supplied by solar panels on the roof. The city is also set to host 400 sustainable events this year, from international conferences such as the Annual Forum of Energy Cities in June to a green marathon in December.
Perched on the eastern coast of Spain, the country’s third most populous city is also a thriving destination with enticing incentive options and team-building activities. Think sailing on the Mediterranean, culinary tours to sample paella or exploring the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. This complex can hold more than 8,000 attendees and is home to Europe’s largest aquarium, an opera house, a digital 3D cinema, exhibition space, outdoor garden and concert halls.
Valencia also boasts modern conference facilities, including Feria Valencia, which features 19 pavilions and 24 conference rooms, and the Palacio de Congresos – both of which are a short trip from the airport.
The Veles e Vents, situated in the centre of the Marina de Valencia, is another standout venue. The ultramodern structure, known as America’s Cup Building, boasts 10,000 sqm of space, including outdoor terraces offering leisure facilities and harbour views.
As for hotels, the Accor-owned brand Novotel is entering Valencia with a new flagship hotel in the Turia Garden, located between the historic centre and the Palacio de Congresos. The 12-storey building, set to open later this year, is a conversion of the former Expo Hotel and will feature 370 rooms, a rooftop terrace and a large meeting and co-working area.
Seville
The rich history of Andalusia’s capital city of Seville, featuring picturesque Moorish, Christian and Jewish architecture in the south, makes it an attractive choice for delegates.
Seville offers unique incentive experiences that range from flamenco workshops and horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic centre to panoramic views from the Seville Tower and visits to the iconic Alcázar palace.
The FIBES Conference and Exhibition Centre has two buildings set across 50,000 sqm that differ in terms of style and functionality, and host everything from the MTV Music Awards to the Tourism Innovation Summit. The venue is well connected through Seville-San Pablo international airport and high-speed AVE train station, linking it to major cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.
The largest meetings venue is the Sevilla International Convention Centre, with more than 30 rooms for meetings. It is part of the five-star Barcelo Renacimiento Hotel, which features 295 renovated rooms. Nearby is Alameda de Hércules – a tree-lined boulevard that is home to Seville’s vibrant nightlife.
For the most decadent stay in Seville, look no further than Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel, located near the historic quarter of Santa Cruz. Another option is Hotel Silken Al-Andalus, featuring some 600 rooms, located near the Plaza de España and María Luisa Park. It boasts 15,000 sqm of gardens, a swimming pool and a piano bar with live music.
Córdoba
Seville’s neighbouring city of Córdoba is just two hours from Madrid on the high-speed train, and has plenty of delights to offer. Córdoba is the only city in the world with four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it a truly fascinating destination for delegates.
Standout event venues include the Palacio de Congresos de Córdoba, located in a historic 16th-century building. The conference centre is made up of eight rooms, including a modern auditorium with capacity for 757 people.
Sat opposite is the historic Mosque-Cathedral featuring a courtyard with orange, palm and cypress trees. Thirty years ago, UNESCO extended the title of World Heritage Site not only to the Mosque-Cathedral, but also to all the streets and buildings around it. It has since gained two further accolades, with the Medina Azahara and Courtyards Festival of Córdoba also receiving UNESCO status.
For hotel options, the Hospes Palacio del Bailío, located in Córdoba’s Historic Centre, stands out as an inviting choice. Featuring stylish Roman baths and dinner in the outdoor courtyard, the hotel has 53 rooms and suites, and five meeting rooms spread across 500 sqm.
