Day trips from Rotterdam

The European Conference on Interventional Oncology will be a jam-packed four days of learning everything there is to know about the latest advancements in interventional oncology. Rotterdam’s central location makes it an ideal hub for exploring the Netherlands and beyond, so consider staying in the region before or after the congress to make the most out of your trip to ECIO. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve also gathered exclusive tips from the Local Host Committee. Here are some destinations within two hours of Rotterdam that are well worth a visit.

Kinderdijk

Prof. Jurgen Fütterer suggests, “Just a short distance from Rotterdam, Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its iconic windmills. Visitors can explore the picturesque landscape by foot, bike, or boat, learning about the Netherlands’ historic water management systems.”

Kinderdijk is an hour away from Rotterdam on public transport and has two museums that reveal the inner workings of the mills.

Windmills in Kinderdijk – Copyright @ Helena Jankovičová Kováčová

Delft City Hall – Copyright @ Igor Passchier

Delft

Dr. Sorina Simon highly recommends Delft as one of the top day-trip destinations for ECIO attendees. The city offers historic canals, charming streets, and the famous Royal Delft Factory and it is the closest destination on our list, just 15 minutes away by train. Visitors can explore the Vermeer Centre, the Royal Delft Factory (admission: €15), and climb the Nieuwe Kerk for spectacular views, making it a must-visit for art and history lovers.

The Hague

Dr. Mark Burgmans and Dr. Simon suggest taking a trip to The Hague for its cultural and political significance. A short 20–30 minutes by train brings you there, which is home to the Dutch government and the International Court of Justice. Visit the Mauritshuis Museum to admire the famous painting The Girl with the Pearl Earring, stroll along the beach, or relax at diverse cafés in the city.

The Mauritshuis Museum in The Hague – Copyright @ Emre Acar

Sint Janskerk in Gouda – Copyright @ Manuel Meewezen

Gouda

Dr. Simon recommends visiting the city that is home to the famous cheese and hosts a lively cheese market. The town’s medieval city hall, picturesque old town, and stunning Sint Janskerk make it a perfect destination for foodies and history buffs. It only takes 20 minutes by train from Rotterdam to get there, so it is the perfect day trip adventure.

Leiden

A 35-minute train ride takes you to Leiden, known for its canals, the Netherlands’ oldest university, and cultural richness. Explore the National Museum of Antiquities, Naturalis Biodiversity Centre, and charming streets lined with historic architecture.

Leiden at night – Copyright @ Süha Boncukçu

Dom Tower in Utrecht – Copyright @ Ben Bender

Utrecht

Utrecht, only 40 minutes by train, offers a mini-Amsterdam experience with its canals. The city has been dubbed the UNESCO City of Literature and spoken word events, and book readings happen almost daily. Visit the iconic Dom Tower to get amazing views of the city or venture to the neo-Gothic De Haar Castle.

Amsterdam

Just under an hour by train, Amsterdam is a must-visit for those wanting to explore the vibrant capital. “You can explore the city centre, take a canal cruise, and visit museums like the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum,” says Dr. IJsbrand Zijlstra. “The RIJKS restaurant is one of my favourite lunch places.”

Antwerp, Belgium

A quick international trip, Antwerp is 1 hour and 10 minutes by train and brimming with Renaissance art, fashion, and culture. Highlights include the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Plantin-Moretus Museum, and the city’s renowned diamond district.

Antwerp – Copyright @ Laura Paredis

Scheveningen – Copyright @ Bráulio Jardim

Dutch beaches

For those who want to enjoy the sea breeze, Scheveningen, Hoek van Holland, and Monster are all excellent options. “For a peaceful walk along the beach, take a train to Scheveningen,” recommends IJsbrand Zijlstra. Dr. Burgmans and Dr. Eva de Graaf also suggest Scheveningen, Monster, and Hoek van Holland as top beach destinations in the Netherlands.

De Biesbosch National Park

Less than an hour away by public transit, De Biesbosch is one of the world’s few freshwater tidal wetlands. Dr. de Graaf notes that “Biesbosch is the biggest sweet water area in Europe with beautiful landscapes.” Visitors can explore its serene waterways by canoe, bike along its trails, or spot wildlife like beavers and white-tailed eagles. If you plan to visit, you take the train to Dordrecht Central Station. From the station, there are many bus routes that will lead you to various locations around the park. For more information visit here.

Keukenhof

As ECIO takes place in spring, Dr. Burgmans recommends Keukenhof, home to the world’s most beautiful flower beds. Located about an hour from Rotterdam, this world-famous garden bursts into colour with millions of tulips and other spring blooms each year.

Keukenhof – Copyright @ Marcelo Verfe

Maastricht – Copyright @ Giu Vicente

Maastricht

For those willing to venture a bit further, Dr. Christiaan van der Leij suggests Maastricht. “This charming city may be small, but it has everything: a beautiful historic city centre, great museums, excellent dining options, plenty of shops, and fantastic hotels. And of course, it’s the hometown of André Rieu!”