Rise of AI Conference 2026
Humboldt Carré, Behrenstraße 42, Humboldt Carré Konferenz- und Eventzentrum, Berlin, 10117, Berlin, Germany (view on Google Maps)
Rise of AI Conference 2026 celebrates the tenth anniversary of one of Europe’s most influential AI gatherings. Taking place on 5–6 May 2026 in Berlin, the hybrid event has evolved from a meetup of early adopters to a curated think‑tank for Europe’s AI ecosystem.
The 2026 edition combines an in‑person summit limited to about 300 seats at Humboldt Carré – an elegant event centre in central Berlin – with an unlimited virtual stream to ensure broad access. The organisers, led by serial AI entrepreneur Fabian Westerheide and the AI for Humans team, emphasise that this milestone edition will both reflect on a decade of European AI progress and chart a course for the next decade.
The programme invites back iconic speakers and researchers from previous editions alongside a new generation of AI builders, creating intergenerational dialogue. Topics span policy and regulation, ethical and trustworthy AI, the state of European AI startups and research, industrial adoption in sectors like healthcare, energy and mobility, and the opportunities and risks of generative models.
Sessions include keynote fireside chats, panel debates, deep‑dive workshops and an expo area showcasing European AI companies and research labs. A recurring theme is cross‑sector collaboration: attendees include researchers, founders, corporate innovation leaders, investors and public‑sector decision makers, and the agenda encourages long‑term thinking, networking and partnerships.
The conference emphasises Europe’s competitive advantage – its focus on human‑centric values and robust regulatory frameworks – and invites participants to help shape Europe’s AI sovereignty. Previous editions sold out quickly, so the organisers encourage early registration and participation in the online waiting list.
By offering both an intimate in‑person experience and a globally accessible stream, Rise of AI 2026 aims to accelerate collaboration across Europe’s fragmented AI community and celebrate a decade of achievements while looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of the next ten years.
Attendance type: Hybrid
How was the weather in Berlin around May?
2022
Min: 10°C
Max: 20°C
2023
Min: 9°C
Max: 21°C
2024
Min: 11°C
Max: 22°C
City Vibes
Berlin, Germany
The city’s vibe is undeniably youthful and rebellious, often felt in its diverse neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, where street art adorns every corner and indie cafes buzz with conversation. Berlin’s creative scene is alive in the air, inspiring visitors to explore its numerous galleries, underground clubs, and innovative theaters. The city’s openness fosters a sense of liberation—an invitation to express yourself freely, whether through fashion, music, or conversation.
Must-visit sights embody Berlin’s multifaceted personality. The iconic Brandenburg Gate stands as a symbol of unity, while the Holocaust Memorial offers a sobering reflection on history. The Reichstag’s modern glass dome invites awe, offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline. For a taste of Berlin’s alternative spirit, wander through the East Side Gallery, a 1.3 km stretch of the Berlin Wall covered in vibrant murals, or explore the bustling street food markets at Markthalle Neun.
Berlin’s atmosphere is both relaxed and energetic, welcoming all with its laid-back attitude and hearty spirit. Whether you’re lounging in a Biergarten, catching live music in a basement club, or simply people-watching from a café terrace, the city invites you to dive in and experience its ever-evolving rhythm. In Berlin, history and innovation collide in a city that’s as inspiring as it is unpredictable.
District Vibes
Mitte, Berlin, Germany
Mitte exudes a cosmopolitan vibe that’s both sophisticated and welcoming. Cobblestone streets, boutique cafes, and bustling markets create an atmosphere that’s lively yet laid-back. The district’s architecture narrates a tale of Berlin’s tumultuous history, from the remnants of the Berlin Wall to sleek contemporary structures. It’s a place where history buffs and modern explorers find common ground, each corner offering a new story to discover.
One of the highlights of Mitte is the iconic Brandenburg Gate, standing proudly as a symbol of unity and resilience. Nearby, the Reichstag building with its striking glass dome offers panoramic views of Berlin’s skyline—an absolute must-visit for breathtaking city vistas. Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts an impressive lineup of world-class museums, including the Pergamon Museum and Altes Museum, perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Strolling through Mitte’s streets, you’ll encounter a lively mix of locals and tourists savoring coffee in cozy cafes, shopping in trendy boutiques, or enjoying street performances. The district’s vibe effortlessly balances the gravitas of its historical sites with the energy of contemporary Berlin—think street art murals, hip galleries, and innovative eateries.
Whether you’re here to explore history, indulge in culture, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere, Mitte promises an engaging and authentic Berlin experience. It’s a district that invites you to see the city not just through its landmarks, but through its vibrant soul.
Looking for bars around the event?
We did our homework and found some great options for you.
Buck & Breck
Price range: $$$
Speakeasy with precision cocktails and hushed glamour—perfect for VIP wrap-ups or rare quiet connections in Berlin’s chamber music-quiet intensity.
Brunnenstraße 177, Berlin (Approx. 1.2 km away from the event)
Ganymed Brasserie
Price range: $$
Classic riverside brasserie with white tablecloths and German chops—elegance without effort, just around the corner by the Spree.
Junkerstraße 14, Berlin (Approx. 0.6 km away from the event)
Bar Zentral
Price range: $
Laid-back lounge bar with a bit of Berlin krautrock still in the air—low-key, connected, accessible.
Charlottenstraße 57, Berlin (Approx. 0.4 km away from the event)
Or maybe a place to stay?
Looking for a place to stay? We found some great options for you.
Hotel de Rome (Rocco Forte)
Price range: $$$
Opulent palace-hotel in a historic bank building—mind-bending service, marble lounges, and 1920s stature just steps away.
Behrenstraße 37, Berlin (Approx. 0.05 km away from the event)
NH Collection Berlin Mitte
Price range: $$
Modern comfort, clean lines, and reliable service in the middle of Mitte—good balance for mixed formal and informal stays.
Leipziger Straße area, Berlin (Approx. 0.5 km away from the event)
a&o Berlin Mitte
Price range: $
Budget-savvy hostel-style rooms and shared areas a short walk away—best for lean budgets without sacrificing district feel.
Invalidenstraße area, Berlin (Approx. 0.8 km away from the event)
If you're looking for a place to eat
We found some great options but you'll probably want to book in advance.
Cookies Cream
Price range: $$$
Hidden-gem vegetarian fine-dining behind a nondescript door—inventive, thoughtful tasting menus with Berlin swagger.
Behrenstraße 55, Berlin (Approx. 0.1 km away from the event)
Restaurant Amtsstube
Price range: $$
Unpretentious classic German cuisine in a cozy, heritage-lined space—comforting and dependable after heavy conference hours.
Gendarmenmarkt area, Berlin (Approx. 0.3 km away from the event)
Chinabrenner
Price range: $
Casual small-plates Chinese with a lively vibe and affordable prices—ideal for quick team dinners on a budget.
Rosenthaler Straße 72, Berlin (Approx. 0.7 km away from the event)
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