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Why Rotterdam resonates with an international audience
Rotterdam is increasingly recognised as a destination of global relevance and a dynamic part of the Dutch visitor economy. As the Netherlands tourism rebounds and grows, Rotterdam stands out as one of the country’s fastest-evolving urban destinations. Rotterdam is currently the second-largest urban tourism destination in the Netherlands when measured by nights spent by visitors, reflecting sustained international interest and growth in visitor stays.
Rotterdam’s appeal extends beyond traditional tourist imagery; it offers innovative urbanism, cultural diversity, and progressive city-making that resonate with visitors from across the world. The city’s mix of modern architecture, creative culture and vibrant public life makes it a compelling choice for international travellers seeking fresh European city experiences.
A city shaped by innovation and international exchange
Historically a gateway between Europe and the wider world, Rotterdam has long been shaped by global connectivity and commerce. Today, that heritage is visible in its cosmopolitan character — the city is home to more than 170 nationalities, giving it rich cultural diversity and a truly international feel.
Rotterdam’s ongoing transformation into a well-connected, experimental urban hub appeals to international professionals, researchers and delegates. Visitors are drawn not only by cultural institutions and architecture, but also by an environment that reflects modern European values: openness, creativity, cross-disciplinary collaboration and innovation.
Easy to reach, easy to navigate1
Rotterdam’s international accessibility is a key strength. The city benefits from excellent rail 2connectivity within the Netherlands and across Europe, including high-speed services such as:
- Eurostar services linking Rotterdam directly with London, Brussels and Paris, integrating the city into the main north-west European high-speed rail corridor.
- ICE (InterCity Express) connections providing direct routes to Germany, including Cologne and Frankfurt.
- Frequent Dutch Intercity and Sprinter services operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen, enabling fast travel across the Netherlands.
- Direct rail connections from Rotterdam Centraal to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol in approximately 25–30 minutes, offering seamless access to one of Europe’s largest global aviation hubs.
Together, these links place Rotterdam firmly within the core European transport network, making it an efficient and convenient destination for international delegates travelling by rail or air.
For international travellers arriving by air3, Rotterdam also benefits from proximity to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, one of Europe’s largest and busiest international hubs. Schiphol is reachable from Rotterdam Centraal Station in around 25–30 minutes by frequent direct trains, making seamless connections to and from global flight networks straightforward for delegates.
In addition, Rotterdam The Hague Airport serves regional European destinations and is located just outside the city centre. Combined with the city’s well-connected public transport system and compact layout, Rotterdam offers a smooth and efficient travel experience for international visitors moving between airports, congress venues, hotels and cultural attractions.
An ideal setting for Euroanaesthesia 2026
As host city for Euroanaesthesia 2026, Rotterdam provides an apt backdrop for Europe’s leading event in anaesthesiology and intensive care. Its emphasis on innovation, multidisciplinary thinking and a global outlook aligns with the goals of the ESAIC and the international community it convenes.
Rotterdam is not simply a destination — it is a place where ideas meet, disciplines connect, and global expertise can advance the future of healthcare.
