Exploring Rotterdam

While your time at ECIO will be dedicated to cutting-edge insights in interventional oncology, Rotterdam offers a wealth of cultural and architectural wonders to explore beyond congress hours. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking city views, culinary delights, or enriching historical sites, Rotterdam has something for everyone.

For the skyline supporters – Euromast Tower:

Open daily from 10:00 to 22:00, this 185-meter-high landmark is the ultimate spot for panoramic views of Rotterdam. Take in the cityscape, snap some amazing photos, and even grab a drink at the tower’s café as you admire the skyline.

Foodie fans unite! – Markthal Rotterdam:

A true feast for the senses, the Markthal is the Netherlands’ first and largest indoor food market. Its horseshoe-shaped design by Winy Maas is adorned with the stunning “Cornucopia” ceiling, that was created by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam and is often called Rotterdam’s Sistine Chapel. The market is open until 20:00, but restaurants stay open later, so you can enjoy a meal after your congress sessions.

Markthal Rotterdam – Copyright @ Iris van den Broek

Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen – Copyright @ Iris van den Broek

For the museum maniacs – Museumpark:

This lush green space in the heart of the city is both a tranquil retreat and a gateway to some of Rotterdam’s premier cultural institutions.

• Kunsthal Rotterdam: Known for its ever-changing exhibits, this steel and glass museum keeps things fresh with no permanent collection.
• Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen: The world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility, housing 151,000 objects. Opt for a guided tour or wander through this innovative space on your own.
• Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen: A treasure trove of masterpieces from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.
• Other notable museums in the area include the Natural History Museum Rotterdam, the Chabot Museum, and the Nieuwe Instituut.

For the architecture aficionados – Cube Houses:

Architect Piet Blom’s unique vision turned traditional houses 45 degrees to create a forest-like structure. These iconic homes, built between 1982 and 1984, are mostly inhabited, but one is open for tours. Visit daily between 11:00 and 17:00 for just three Euros.

Cube Houses – Copyright @ Iris van den Broek

Old Harbour – Copyright @ Alexey Komissarov

For those motivated about maritime – Old Harbour (Oude Haven):

This historic harbour area is alive with bars, restaurants, and restored old ships. Adjacent to the Dutch Maritime Museum, it’s a perfect spot for a waterfront stroll after your congress day.

Habitués of history – Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk and Delfshaven:

Rotterdam’s only surviving medieval building, Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, is a Protestant church that was constructed between 1449 and 1525. Its imposing Gothic architecture offers a glimpse into the city’s pre-modern history.

Delfshaven escaped the devastation of the 1940 bombing and is rich in history, notably as the departure point of the Dutch Pilgrims who sailed to America on the Mayflower. It is a great neighbourhood to walk around in, and there are plenty of restaurants to check out.

Plants at the Arboretum Trompenburg – Copyright @ Roman Odintsov

Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk – Copyright @ Nathan Neve

For the nature nerds – Arboretum Trompenburg:

This peaceful botanical garden houses over 4,000 types of trees, shrubs, and plants. Known for its hostas, rhododendrons, and summer exhibits, it’s open from 12:00–17:00 on Mondays and 10:00–17:00 from Tuesday to Sunday, so plan an extra day before or after the Congress if this is on your to-do list! Admission is €12.50.