Europe’s most influential digital marketing event is back. DMEXCO 2026 takes place on September 23 and 24 in Cologne, Germany. It is the premier gathering for professionals in digital business, marketing technology, and the broader digital economy. Each year, it draws thousands of decision-makers, innovators, and brand leaders under one roof.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee, planning ahead makes a big difference. This guide covers everything you need to know, from buying tickets and getting to Cologne to understanding the speaker lineup and key topics on the agenda.
What Is DMEXCO and Why Does It Matter?
DMEXCO stands for Digital Marketing Exposition and Conference. It has grown into the world’s leading platform for the digital economy since its founding. The event combines a vast expo floor with a packed conference programme. Thousands of professionals attend each year to discover new trends, close business deals, and build lasting connections.
In 2025, the event attracted around 40,000 visitors, 700 partner companies, and over 1,000 speakers. Additionally, 65 percent of attendees hold purchasing power, and 27 percent occupy C-level roles. Therefore, DMEXCO is not just a trade show. It is a genuine business platform where meaningful conversations and real deals happen.
The 2026 edition continues this tradition. It is held at Koelnmesse, Cologne’s internationally renowned exhibition centre. The event brings together leaders from media, marketing, advertising technology, commerce, and digital innovation.
DMEXCO 2026 Dates, Venue and Opening Hours
The event runs across two days. Day one is Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Day two is Thursday, September 24, 2026. Both days are packed with sessions, panels, and expo activities.
The venue is Koelnmesse, located in central Cologne. It is one of Europe’s most accessible exhibition centres. Visitors can reach it quickly by car, rail, or air. The Köln Messe/Deutz train station sits directly next to the grounds, making arrival straightforward for those travelling by rail.
It is worth noting that all admission tickets for 2026 are digital. There are no physical tickets. You must purchase your ticket or redeem a voucher code before arriving. Your ticket will be available exclusively in the DMEXCO app’s ticket wallet. Therefore, downloading the app before the event is essential.
Tickets: Prices, Types and How to Buy
Tickets for DMEXCO 2026 range in price and cater to different types of visitors. Here is an overview of what is available:
- The standard visitor ticket grants full access to the expo floor and conference programme, including keynotes, panels, and masterclasses.
- The Young Leader Ticket is priced at €69 and is designed for early-career professionals. It provides two full days of access and is ideal for those looking to build their network and discover the industry.
- The Student Ticket offers the same full access as a standard ticket but at a reduced rate. It requires proof of current enrolment at a college, university, or apprenticeship programme.
Standard tickets typically range from €99 to €599, depending on the package and timing of purchase. Early-bird pricing is usually available, so buying tickets well in advance is the most cost-effective approach.
Tickets are personalised upon purchase. They cannot be transferred to another person, and changes to personal details are not possible after the ticket is issued. All ticket purchases are managed through the official DMEXCO website at dmexco.com.
The Conference Programme: Stages, Summits and Masterclasses
The conference is the beating heart of DMEXCO. In 2026, the programme spans 17 themed stages and features over 220 hours of content. Approximately 1,000 influential speakers are expected to take part. This makes it one of the most content-rich events on the global marketing calendar.
Conference Stages and Topic Areas
Each stage at DMEXCO focuses on a specific theme or sector. The Topic Stages bring together industry experts, innovators, and company leaders to share knowledge and discuss the latest developments. Sessions range from keynote addresses and debate panels to highly practical masterclasses.
Masterclasses are particularly valuable for professionals who want hands-on learning. They incorporate presentations, case studies, live demonstrations, and interactive product tests. These are not passive sessions. They are designed to foster dialogue and immediate application of ideas.
Additionally, the Innovation Stage gives entrepreneurs and start-ups a dedicated platform. This is where new business models and emerging technologies are showcased. It offers a genuine look at the ideas that will shape digital business in the coming years.
DMEXCO Summits 2026
The DMEXCO Summits are a highlight of the conference programme. They cover themes including AI-driven marketing, retail media, the creator economy, commerce, AdTech, and MarTech. Global thought leaders, brands, agencies, and technology pioneers gather at these summit sessions to explore the trends transforming the digital landscape.
The summits are a strong reason to arrive early on both days. They are curated to deliver exclusive insights and meaningful networking with the people driving the industry forward.
Key Speakers at DMEXCO 2026
The speaker lineup for DMEXCO 2026 is already taking shape. Confirmed speakers represent some of the most recognisable names in European and global marketing.
Ulrich Klenke, Chief Brand Officer at Deutsche Telekom AG, is among the prominent voices on the agenda. Boris Dolkhani, CMO at Robert Bosch GmbH, will also be speaking. Organizers have additionally confirmed Rik Strubel, CMO at Douglas, and Sabine Jünger, Vice President at OTTO Advertising.
Other notable speakers include Kristin Fracchia, Chief Marketing Officer at Gamma, and Christian Schmidt, also known as Rezo, a prominent content creator and founder of Nindo GmbH. Dr. Boris Ewenstein, CEO at OTTO GmbH and Co. KGaA, and Jan Flemming of REWE Group round out a lineup that spans brand marketing, e-commerce, and digital content creation.
In 2026, AI and its real-world applications are expected to dominate the conversation. Sustainability, ethics in digital marketing, and cross-sector collaboration are also confirmed as key themes. Therefore, the agenda is both technically rich and strategically relevant for any professional working in the digital economy today.
The Expo Floor: DMEXCO Worlds and Exhibitor Highlights
The expo floor at DMEXCO is vast and carefully organised. In 2026, it features over 700 partner companies across multiple themed zones called DMEXCO Worlds. These include the World of Agencies, the World of Commerce, the World of Media, and the World of Tech.
Each DMEXCO World is designed to help visitors navigate the exhibition halls efficiently. Rather than wandering through an undifferentiated floor, attendees can head directly to the zone most relevant to their business needs.
The Start-up Area is one of the most energetic sections of the expo. Start-ups present their solutions to investors, potential partners, and clients. The area also incorporates focused sessions on topics like social media strategy and technology innovation. It is an excellent place to discover the next generation of digital marketing tools and platforms.
With 65 percent of visitors holding purchasing power and 24 percent coming from international markets, the expo floor is a serious business environment. Conversations here often lead to real commercial outcomes.
Travel Tips: Getting to Cologne for DMEXCO
Cologne is well-positioned for international travel. It is served by Cologne Bonn Airport, which offers direct flights from many European cities. Frankfurt Airport, one of Europe’s largest hubs, is approximately one hour away by train. Therefore, visitors travelling from outside Europe also have strong connectivity options.
Koelnmesse itself is exceptionally easy to reach. The Köln Messe/Deutz station for high-speed trains is located directly next to the exhibition grounds. From Cologne Central Station, the journey takes just a few minutes by S-Bahn or local train.
Here are some practical travel tips to help you plan your visit:
- Book train tickets in advance through Deutsche Bahn. DMEXCO typically offers a special Deutsche Bahn discount for registered attendees, so check the official website for the current deal.
- Arrange hotel accommodation as early as possible. Cologne fills up quickly around major trade events. Hotels near Messe Cologne, Cologne Central Station, and the airport are all convenient options.
- Download the DMEXCO app before you arrive. It contains your digital ticket, an interactive hall plan, a personalised agenda planner, and networking features.
- Wear comfortable footwear. The exhibition halls are extensive, and two full days of walking across the venue requires practical planning.
- Register for the sessions and summits you most want to attend in advance. Popular masterclasses and summit sessions can reach capacity quickly.
Networking at DMEXCO: Making the Most of Two Days
DMEXCO attracts some of the most senior professionals in digital marketing and technology. The opportunity to meet potential partners, clients, and collaborators in one place is exceptional. However, effective networking at large events requires a strategy.
The DMEXCO app includes dedicated networking tools. You can connect with other attendees, scan badges digitally, and arrange meetings before or during the event. Additionally, the app allows you to plan your individual agenda, ensuring you attend the sessions that matter most to your goals.
Evening events, partner parties, and stand-side networking sessions extend the experience beyond the official conference hours. These informal settings are often where the most valuable connections are made.
Conclusion
DMEXCO 2026 is set to be two of the most valuable days on any digital marketing professional’s calendar. Taking place on September 23 and 24 at Koelnmesse in Cologne, the event brings together 40,000 attendees, over 700 exhibitors, and approximately 1,000 speakers across 17 themed stages. From exclusive game-changing keynotes and AI-focused summits to hands-on masterclasses and a vibrant expo floor, the programme is built for professionals who want to stay ahead. Tickets are digital and personalised, so early purchase is essential. Booking travel and accommodation early will save both money and stress. With the right preparation, DMEXCO 2026 offers an unmatched combination of insight, connection, and business opportunity. Mark the dates, plan your agenda, and arrive ready to engage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When and where is DMEXCO 2026?
DMEXCO 2026 takes place on Wednesday, September 23, and Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany. Both days feature a full programme of expo activities, conference sessions, and networking opportunities.
How much do DMEXCO 2026 tickets cost?
Standard visitor tickets range from €99 to €599, depending on the type and timing of purchase. A Young Leader Ticket is available for €69 for early-career professionals. Student tickets are available at a reduced rate for those currently enrolled in education or apprenticeship programmes. All tickets are purchased through the official website at dmexco.com.
Are DMEXCO 2026 tickets physical or digital?
All admission tickets for DMEXCO 2026 are digital only. You must purchase or redeem your ticket before the event and access it through the ticket wallet in the official DMEXCO app. Physical tickets will not be issued.
Who are some of the key speakers at DMEXCO 2026?
Confirmed speakers include Ulrich Klenke (Chief Brand Officer, Deutsche Telekom AG), Boris Dolkhani (CMO, Robert Bosch GmbH), Rik Strubel (CMO, Douglas), and Kristin Fracchia (CMO, Gamma), among many others. The full speaker guide is available at dmexco.com/speakers-guide.
What topics will be covered at DMEXCO 2026?
The conference focuses on themes including artificial intelligence in marketing, retail media, the creator economy, AdTech, MarTech, sustainability, brand growth, e-commerce, and marketing measurement. Over 220 hours of content will be delivered across 17 themed stages by approximately 1,000 speakers.
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