BizAway, the innovative Italian-based travel management scale-up, has unveiled its latest insights into the business travel landscape, identifying Madrid as the most sought-after destination among corporate travellers. According to the company’s latest data, other key cities—including Milan, Paris, London, and Barcelona—continue to reinforce their positions as pivotal corporate hubs, reflecting the enduring importance of in-person meetings in the global economy.
With a remarkable +47% increase in accommodation bookings and an impressive +57% surge in total reservations in 2024 compared to 2023, BizAway’s findings underscore the resilience and growth of the corporate travel industry. As organizations worldwide embrace digital transformation, face-to-face meetings remain indispensable, driving business negotiations, partnerships, and expansion.
“Europe continues to assert itself as a dominant force in business travel alongside the USA and China. Our data reaffirms the irreplaceable value of in-person interactions in a world that increasingly relies on virtual connectivity,” says Luca Carlucci, CEO of BizAway.
Sustainability Transforms Corporate Travel Strategies
As companies navigate the evolving landscape of corporate mobility, sustainability has emerged as a defining factor in business travel decisions. According to a recent Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) report, corporate travel spending reached a historic $1.48 trillion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $1.9 trillion by 2027, with Europe driving a significant share of this expansion.
In alignment with the broader shift towards eco-conscious travel, BizAway has reported a +60% surge in train bookings compared to the previous year, signalling a shift toward greener transportation alternatives. Madrid, Rome, and Paris have seen the highest adoption rates of sustainable travel solutions as companies increasingly prioritize reducing their carbon footprint.
“The corporate travel sector is embracing sustainability, technology, and cost-efficiency at an unprecedented pace. Companies are seeking smarter, eco-friendly options that align with both regulatory expectations and corporate responsibility goals,” adds Carlucci.
Top 10 Business Travel Destinations on BizAway’s Radar
Based on real-time booking trends, BizAway’s platform has pinpointed the most dynamic business travel destinations, reflecting where professionals are heading for high-stakes negotiations, conferences, and collaborations:
- Madrid (Leading financial and business hub)
- Milan (Italy’s powerhouse for finance and innovation)
- Paris (A central player in European business and diplomacy)
- London (Continued dominance despite Brexit implications)
- Barcelona (Thriving tech and startup ecosystem)
- Rome (Government and corporate meetings hotspot)
- Berlin (Germany’s innovation and business nerve centre)
- Amsterdam (Global commerce and trade leader)
- Frankfurt (The banking capital of Europe)
- Vienna (Influential in international relations and business)
Business Travel Outlook: Adapting to a Changing World
Despite discussions on remote work and virtual conferencing, business travel remains a pillar of global commerce. Companies are investing in tools that optimize travel efficiency while embracing sustainable alternatives. BizAway’s upward trajectory and ability to track booking patterns indicate a robust industry poised for continued evolution.
With demand expected to rise in 2025 and beyond, corporate travel strategies must balance convenience, cost-effectiveness, and environmental responsibility. Madrid’s reign as the top business destination signals the city’s growing influence on the corporate stage, making it a vital hub for professionals worldwide.
“As the industry evolves, businesses must continue to integrate technology, sustainability, and cost management to navigate the changing landscape effectively,” concludes Carlucci.
Written by: Soo James
