European Chatbot & Conversational AI Summit 2026
John McIntyre Conference Centre, 18 Holyrood Park Road, John McIntyre Conference Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 5AY, Scotland, United Kingdom (view on Google Maps)
The sixth European Chatbot & Conversational AI Summit will take place 17–19 March 2026 at the University of Edinburgh’s John McIntyre Conference Centre. The summit is a leading forum for executives, product leaders, designers and researchers working in conversational interfaces, generative AI and multimodal agents.
According to the event announcement, it will draw more than 700 global leaders and feature over 50 speakers across three days. The programme is structured around keynote talks, panel discussions, workshops and startup showcases.
Sessions will cover topics such as mastering generative AI for customer engagement, designing voice‑first interfaces, implementing LLM‑powered agents, measuring ROI in conversational AI, understanding the EU’s AI Act and its implications for chatbots, and exploring ethical and human‑centric design. The summit emphasises practical insights: case studies will illustrate successful deployments in banking, retail, healthcare and public services, while hands‑on tutorials will teach attendees to build and fine‑tune conversational AI models.
Special tracks will explore supporting under‑represented languages, inclusive design, and the intersection of AI and regulatory compliance. The event also hosts a call‑for‑speakers and an exposition area where vendors present tools for natural language understanding, speech synthesis, analytics and chat management.
Networking sessions facilitate partnerships between enterprises, startups, researchers and policy makers. By convening Europe’s conversational AI community in a single venue and offering a broad curriculum – from technical deep dives to regulatory updates – the summit aims to accelerate responsible and innovative adoption of chatbots and conversational agents across industries.
Attendance type: In-person
How was the weather in Edinburgh around March?
2022
Min: 2°C
Max: 10°C
2023
Min: 3°C
Max: 9°C
2024
Min: 4°C
Max: 11°C
City Vibes
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Meanwhile, the New Town offers a striking contrast with its Georgian elegance, wide boulevards, and bustling cafes. Here, the city’s contemporary heartbeat is palpable—art galleries, trendy boutiques, and lively pubs fill the streets with an energetic buzz. Edinburgh’s atmosphere is undeniably intellectual, often dubbed the “Athens of the North,” thanks to its storied literary and academic heritage. The city’s many festivals, from the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe to the enchanting Christmas Market, infuse the streets with creativity, laughter, and a sense of celebration.
The city’s vibe is both cozy and invigorating. You can spend your mornings exploring historic sites, then unwind in a cozy pub listening to traditional folk music in the evening. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Holyrood Park, with its rugged terrain and panoramic views of the city skyline. At sunset, the city’s skyline—dominated by the castle and the majestic Arthur’s Seat—creates a stunning silhouette that embodies Edinburgh’s spirited soul.
Whether you’re wandering through ancient alleyways, sipping whiskey in a snug tavern, or soaking up the lively cultural scene, Edinburgh’s atmosphere is a captivating mix of old-world charm and modern energy. It’s a city that invites curiosity, sparks creativity, and leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve left its storied streets behind.
District Vibes
Prestonfield / Pollock Halls, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
The vibe here is a delightful mix of relaxed sophistication and youthful energy, thanks in part to the nearby University of Edinburgh’s Pollock Halls student accommodation. This gives the district a lively, dynamic feel — expect to see students bustling about, lively cafes, and a sense of youthful curiosity in the air. Yet, amidst this youthful buzz, there’s also a sense of tranquility, especially in the quiet streets lined with traditional Victorian and Edwardian homes.
For those seeking scenic views, the district offers several picturesque spots. From the vantage point of Arthur’s Seat, just a short ride away, you can enjoy sweeping panoramic vistas of Edinburgh’s skyline — a perfect backdrop for reflective walks or a picnic. The nearby Holyrood Park is another must-visit, offering rugged landscapes and a chance to connect with nature right in the city’s heart.
Dining options here tend to be cozy and unpretentious, with charming cafes and pubs where locals gather for a pint or a hearty meal. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites, enjoying the lush parks, or simply soaking up the neighborhood’s inviting atmosphere, Prestonfield / Pollock Halls embodies a quintessential Edinburgh experience — a perfect blend of history, greenery, and lively local life.
Looking for bars around the event?
We did our homework and found some great options for you.
JMCC Lounge Bar
Price range: $$
On-site bar perfect for evening chats, casual drinks, and quiet networking overlooking terraced gardens.
John McIntyre Conference Centre, Pollock Halls, Edinburgh (Approx. 0.0 km away from the event)
The Windsor
Price range: $
Classic Edinburgh pub with real ales and pub-grub comfort—ideal for unwinding in historic ambience after sessions.
Infirmary Street, Edinburgh (Approx. 1.5 km away from the event)
The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage
Price range: $$
Rooftop café/bar offering views across Old and New Town—quiet, green, sublime for inspiration or supper overlooking the city.
Calton Hill, Edinburgh (Approx. 1.2 km away from the event)
Or maybe a place to stay?
Looking for a place to stay? We found some great options for you.
Pollock Halls Campus Accommodation
Price range: $$
On-site four-star rooms within walking access of the venue and lush gardens—ideal for workshop teams and seamless logistics.
Pollock Halls, Edinburgh (Approx. 0.0 km away from the event)
The Glasshouse, Autograph Collection
Price range: $$$
Boutique luxury in the heart of the city offering panoramic views, quiet design, and refined comfort for VIP stays.
20 Greenside Place, Edinburgh (Approx. 1.8 km away from the event)
Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge
Price range: $
Reliable budget-friendly chain with modern rooms steps from the Royal Mile—straightforward and central.
South Bridge, Edinburgh (Approx. 1.7 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.
The Pollock Lounge & Restaurant
Price range: $$
Modern Scottish cooking right in the JMCC—refined, unfussy meals in an elegant campus dining room.
John McIntyre Conference Centre, Pollock Halls, Edinburgh (Approx. 0.0 km away from the event)
Contini Cannonball
Price range: $$$
Bright Italian-Scottish fusion spot under the one tree in Old Town—fresh pastas, whiskies, and local buzz.
Cockburn Street, Edinburgh (Approx. 1.6 km away from the event)
Oink
Price range: $
Counter-serve sandwich stall slinging hog roast in bun—quick, cheap, and irresistibly Edinburgh.
Victoria Street, Edinburgh (Approx. 1.4 km away from the event)
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