Best city for conferences

Rotterdam’s scale and infrastructure make it one of the best cities for conferences in Europe. The city’s conference venues are designed to meet the needs of associations, Professional Congress Organizers (PCOs), and international institutions seeking a reliable, future-focused host destination.

Rotterdam has a diverse range of event venues ready to accommodate conference delegates in their thousands, including the Netherlands’ largest auditorium with 4,400 seats. Combining capacity, accessibility, and reputation, Rotterdam delivers on all fronts. 

  • Large plenary halls and breakout rooms for events of every size

  • Hotels within walking distance or integrated with venues

  • Reputation for quality, sustainability, and impact

  • Unmatched travel convenience - #1 Connected large European city

Sustainable conferences: venues and services

Rotterdam embeds climate responsibility across its conference ecosystem. Hosting your event here means aligning with a destination committed to green venues, sustainable catering, and eco-friendly mobility.
  • Fossil-free venues: Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre leads the way with solar rooftops, urban water buffers, and gas-free operations.
  • Eco-conscious hotels: Many properties are Green Key certified and initiatives like Hotel Neutraal drive CO₂-neutral operations.
  • Sustainable transport: Delegates benefit from high-speed rail links, 600 km of cycling routes, e-scooters, and electric public transport systems.
  • Circular catering: Venues and hotels have adopted sustainable catering practices with plant-based menus, locally sourced products, and zero-waste dining. 
Floating Farm in Rotterdam’s M4H district with cows grazing nearby and a modern floating barn on the water.

Hybrid conference venues

Rotterdam’s convention centres are designed for large-scale hybrid events. Plenary halls support live-streamed keynotes, parallel breakout sessions can be broadcast globally.
  • Hybrid-ready auditoriums: Large plenary halls equipped for live-streaming keynotes to thousands of delegates worldwide.
  • Parallel sessions: Breakout rooms designed for simultaneous broadcasts and interactive Q&A.
  • Advanced AV & IT support: Venues partner with expert teams to manage streaming, translation, and audience engagement.
  • Future-proof infrastructure: High-speed internet and robust IT systems across all major conference venues.
Photo of a meeting setting at 42workspace, with several people around a conference table.

Dedicated support for conference organisers

Rotterdam Partners’ Convention Bureau is your official local partner, providing expert advice and support for international conferences:

  • Venue hire and selection guidance.
  • Access to 190+ industry partners.
  • Financial support through the national Pre-Financing & Guarantee Fund (VGF).
  • Access to various marketing resources
Wij staan voor jullie klaar, plan jouw evenement met onze hulp.