European Congress on Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel

Bath Rd, Hounslow TW6 2AQ, United Kingdom

London stands as one of the world’s most influential and globally admired cities. Renowned for its strength across multiple sectors—including arts, commerce, education, entertainment, finance, healthcare, media, research, tourism, and transportation—London consistently ranks among the most powerful, visited, and investment-friendly cities worldwide. Economically, it is positioned among the top global metropolitan areas, with one of the largest GDPs and a leading role as an international financial centre. London also hosts the world’s busiest airport system by passenger volume and remains a top destination for international arrivals and global retail investment. In Europe, it is home to one of the highest concentrations of high-net-worth individuals.

The city boasts one of the greatest clusters of higher education institutions in Europe, including Imperial College London—renowned for science and engineering, the London School of Economics—distinguished in social sciences, and world-class comprehensive universities such as University College London and King's College London. London is also celebrated for its cultural diversity, with more than 300 languages spoken and a population exceeding 8.9 million within Greater London, making it one of Europe’s most populous metropolitan areas.

Key Attractions

Buckingham Palace:
The official London residence of the British monarch, known for its stately architecture and the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, which attracts visitors from around the world.

Tower of London:
A historic fortress on the River Thames with nearly a thousand years of history. It has served variously as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. Visitors can admire the Crown Jewels and learn about the famous ravens that reside there.

Tower Bridge:
An architectural masterpiece of the Victorian era, recognized for its striking Gothic design and unique bascule mechanism. The high-level walkways offer exceptional city views through a glass floor, while the engine rooms showcase its engineering heritage.

Palace of Westminster and Big Ben:
Home to the Houses of Parliament, this iconic landmark features remarkable Gothic Revival architecture. The adjoining Elizabeth Tower, housing the famous Big Ben, stands as a symbol of British democracy and is one of London’s most photographed monuments.

Safety and Efficiency:
London is regarded as a generally safe and efficiently managed city. The City of London, in particular, is noted for its low crime rate. Its efficiency is reflected in its extensive and well-connected public transportation network managed by Transport for London (TfL), comprising the Underground, buses, trams, and rail services. This integrated system enables convenient travel throughout the capital.

Events and Festivals:
London hosts a vibrant year-round programme of cultural and international events. Notable highlights include the Notting Hill Carnival, one of Europe’s largest celebrations of Caribbean culture; Trooping the Colour, marking the monarch’s official birthday; the Wimbledon Championships; the Chelsea Flower Show; the BBC Proms; Pride in London; and the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks on the Thames.