This report describes the hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) activity in Europe in 2006 by indication, donor type and stem cell source. It illustrates differences compared to previous years and concentrates on the use of cord blood transplants. In 2006, there were 25 050 first HSCT, 9661 allogeneic (39%), 15 389 autologous (61%) and 3690 additional re- or multiple transplants reported from 605 centers in 43 participating countries. Main indications were leukemias (7963 (32%; 85% allogeneic)); lymphomas (14 169 (56%; 89% autologous)); solid tumors (1564 (6%; 95% autologous)); non-malignant disorders (1242 (5%; 90% allogeneic)) and non-classified 'others' (112 (1%)). There was an increase in allogeneic HSCT of 9% when compared to 2005, while autologous HSCT numbers remained similar. There were 544 allogeneic cord blood HSCT, which corresponds to 5% of all allogeneic HSCT. The majority, 67%, were used for patients with leukemia. The highest percentage of cord blood transplants, 27%, was seen for inherited disorders of metabolism. No autologous cord blood transplants were reported. The highest increase in allogeneic HSCT was observed for AML, which comprises 31% of all allogeneic HSCT. Numbers of autologous HSCT remained similar in most main indications. This data provide an update of the current HSCT experience in Europe.