Venue and transportation

Rotterdam

Rotterdam, the Netherlands’ second-largest city, is known for its modern architecture, innovation, and cultural diversity. The city is home to world-class research institutions and universities, fostering a dynamic scientific community. The city’s vibrant activity, set against a backdrop of a rich maritime heritage and a striking skyline, makes it a dynamic destination. Its extensive network of waterways, parks, and urban spaces provides a captivating setting for any congress.

At the heart of this bustling city lies the Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre, a premier venue for scientific meetings. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and versatile event spaces, Ahoy caters to gatherings of all sizes, from intimate meetings to large international events. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, the centre provides an exceptional environment for learning, networking, and exchanging ideas.

Copyright: Iris van den Broek

Copyright: Johan Van Geijl

Copyright: Iris van den Broek

Copyright: Iris van den Broek

Road closure: Sunday, April 13

Due to the Rotterdam Marathon, Rotterdam Ahoy will be inaccessible by car or taxi between 8:00 and 15:00 on Sunday, April 13.

We recommend arriving by public transit before 10:30. Runners will be passing along the road from 10:45 to 12:30. While crossing the road during this time is possible, it may be very busy.

Please also note that public transportation will be crowded on this day as well as the stop ‘Stadhuis’ located in the city centre.

Rotterdam transportation

To and from the airport (RTM and AMS)

The closest airport to Rotterdam is the Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) located north of the city. To get to the city centre or to Ahoy Rotterdam, take Bus 33 to the metro station Meijersplein. From there you can take the E metro line into the city which travels further on to the Ahoy Rotterdam convention centre. There are also taxis available at the airport and will post between 40-50 Euros to travel into the city.

Schiphol Airport (AMS) is easily connected to Rotterdam Central Station via the Intercity Direct train, which only takes 25 minutes. Intercity Direct requires buying a supplement ticket (€3) and tickets can be purchased onsite at the ticket machines, online, or via their app. There are multiple connections throughout the day (approximately four to five per hour). Please note that when flying out of Schiphol Airport, you can book a time slot for free to get through security faster. You can reserve a time slot on the Schiphol website three days before your departure date.

For a helpful video on how to get from Schiphol Airport to Rotterdam, please click here.

Around the city

Rotterdam has an excellent public transport system, provided by the RET. You can get all over the city by bus, tram, and metro. Single ride tickets can be purchased at the ticket machines in metro stations as well as on buses and trams. Alternatively, you can download the RET app and purchase mobile tickets directly on to your phone or use your debit card to tap in/tap out at the start and end of your journey. Check the prices of the public transport card on the RET website.

Metro

The closest metro station to the Rotterdam Ahoy convention centre is Zuidplein station which has metro lines D and E that will connect to the city centre.

There are five lines (routes), each marked with their own letter (A-E). Beurs station is the biggest metro hub, where all the lines intersect in the city centre. Line E (RandstadRail) connects Rotterdam with The Hague.

Rotterdam City Card

This card allows to get discounts on many tourist attractions in and around Rotterdam and it can be combined with a 1, 2 or 3 day public transport ticket. Learn more about the Rotterdam city card here.