6 of the best cities in Europe for a team offsite

Organising a successful company offsite can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right location. With offsites often bringing together teams from different offices and countries, it’s important to select a location that suits all attendees. Choosing the right location can go a long way to ensuring an offsite is successful from a business perspective, and making it an enjoyable and motivating experience for attendees. 

We’ve put together a list of the best destinations in Europe for hosting an offsite meeting, carefully chosen to meet the needs of companies of all sizes, based on factors such as accessibility, infrastructure, and weather. As team building events are often as important as the main agenda, we’re also including some group activity ideas in each location.

Paris

The City of Lights remains one of the most popular destinations in Europe and the ideal setting for any corporate event thanks to its rich culture, fascinating history, and modern infrastructure. Paris offers a multitude of meeting venues, from luxury hotels to state-of-the-art conference spaces, and even a barge on the Seine! In addition, its location, multiple train stations, international airports, and comprehensive public transport network make it easily accessible from around Europe.

Team building activities in Paris:

• Wine tasting workshop. After a day of successful meetings, what better way to relax than by doing a wine tasting workshop with a professional sommelier? Check out the best workshops here. 
• Private city tour by segway. Give your teams an experience to remember and see the sights up close on a segway tour of Paris. Book your activity here.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant city that offers the perfect mix of business and pleasure. With its Mediterranean climate (and over 300 sunny days per year), beaches, and iconic monuments, the city inspires creativity and relaxation. Its diverse range of accommodation options and meeting venues make it an attractive choice for businesses looking to organise a memorable trip.

Team building activities in Barcelona:

• Catalan cooking class. Give team members the chance to learn how to prepare traditional Catalan dishes in the company of a local chef. This fun activity promotes collaboration and creativity, and the final tasting is a well-deserved reward after a day of work. Book your Catalan cooking class now.
• Sailing trip. Give attendees a different view of the city and an unforgettable experience with a sailing trip along the Barcelona coastline. Being out on the water can boost morale and leave attendees feeling refreshed. Reserve now.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam combines historical charm with a laid back atmosphere, making it a great option for a team offsite. Event organisers appreciate the city's size, infrastructure, and dynamic culture. The culturally exciting capital is easy to enjoy and discover in a few days. If your colleagues enjoy art, bikes, and boat trips, don't hesitate to plan your next offsite in the Dutch capital.

Team building activities in Amsterdam:

• Museum tour. Organise a guided tour of one of Amsterdam's world-leading museums, such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum. Browse the options here.
• Canal cruise. Navigate Amsterdam’s iconic canals and discover its many charms while relaxing after a day of workshops. Book now.

London

As one of Europe's most important business capitals, London has a wealth of options for team offsites. From sophisticated meeting rooms in world-renowned hotels to unique event spaces, the city meets the needs of businesses of all sizes. Additionally, London's cultural diversity makes it an attractive location for international participants.

Team building activities in London:

• Virtual reality escape game. Give your teams an immersive team bonding experience with a virtual reality escape game. Get them solving riddles and puzzles to escape from a virtual situation. Book your activity.
• Treasure hunt. Test the attendees' problem-solving skills as they roam around London’s many landmarks hunting for treasure. Many companies offer customised hunts so you can tailor it to your team’s preferences.

Munich

The people of Munich are known for their efficiency, punctuality, and organisation — valuable qualities in the world of business. At once innovative, dynamic and full of colourful traditions, Munich provides a refreshing change of scenery. Choose from a diverse selection of meeting locations, ranging from elegant conference rooms to historic breweries.

Team building activities in Munich:

• Brewery tour. Give your teams an authentic Bavarian experience by organising a tour of Munich's local breweries. Attendees can relax while discovering the city's centuries-old brewing tradition and tasting its delicious beers. Reserve now.
• Cooking class. Embrace Bavarian cuisine and boost teamwork by doing a cooking class where teams learn to prepare traditional dishes such as pretzels, schnitzel, and dumplings. See some options here.

Lisbon

Lisbon has become one of the hottest offsite destinations in Europe. With its sunny climate, picturesque streets, and relaxed atmosphere, the city inspires creativity and boosts team morale. Lisbon’s cuisine is delicious and affordable, and the city offers an exotic break for any employees accustomed to greyer, colder cities. After all, what’s better than a meeting room with a sea view? 

Team building activities in Lisbon:

• Urban scavenger hunt. Organise a scavenger hunt through the city's cobblestone streets. Teams follow clues to discover hidden treasures, creating healthy competition while exploring the beauty of the Portuguese capital. Book now.
• Photography challenge. A great way to appreciate the beauty of Lisbon and spark camaraderie is by having a photography challenge! Split into teams and give each a list of photography challenges or themes to capture during the tour. The best snaps get the most points!

Conclusion

These destinations are all excellent offsite locations in Europe, providing an inspiring balance of suitable accommodation, workspaces, and memorable team building activities. Whether Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam, London, Munich, or Lisbon, the cities offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and innovation, and are sure to get employees excited about the offsite.

A modern travel management platform and an effective travel policy will help you organise a successful offsite with ease. Find out about Navan’s offering here.