Rotterdam for MICE

Rotterdam, the second largest city in the Netherlands, is a vibrant and modern metropolis with a rich maritime history. This bustling city offers a unique blend of cutting-edge architecture, diverse culture, and easy accessibility.  It lends itself perfectly for meetings and events, and here is why…

Access:

Rotterdam is well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world. The Rotterdam The Hague Airport offers flights to various European destinations, while Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, just a short train ride away, provides access to international flights from all over the globe. Rotterdam is also easily accessible by train, with direct connections to major European cities like Paris, Brussels, and London. Additionally, the city’s strategic location on the Rhine River allows for easy access by boat, with many river cruises making stops in Rotterdam.

Culture and History:

Rotterdam has a fascinating history as a major port city. Despite being heavily bombed during World War II, the city has rebuilt itself with a focus on innovation and modern architecture. This is exemplified by landmarks such as the Cube Houses, the Markthal (Market Hall), and the iconic Erasmus Bridge. The city also boasts a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and the famous Kunsthal Rotterdam showcasing various exhibitions throughout the year.  This mix of culture and history is perfect for meetings and events with meaning.

Where to Stay & Meet:

When visiting Rotterdam, two unique hotel options stand out for their connection to the city’s maritime history: the SS Rotterdam Hotel and Hotel New York.

The SS Rotterdam Hotel is a former ocean liner turned hotel, permanently moored in Rotterdam’s Maashaven harbor. This one-of-a-kind hotel offers guests the opportunity to stay in a piece of maritime history, with 254 rooms ranging from standard cabins to spacious suites, all decorated in a vintage style reminiscent of the ship’s glory days. On board, guests can enjoy various amenities, including restaurants, bars, a spa, and a swimming pool.  For meetings and events, ss Rotterdam boasts 20 event spaces, with maximum event capacity of 3500.  Find out more here.

Hotel New York, located in the historic Kop van Zuid district, is housed in the former headquarters of the Holland America Line. This iconic hotel offers stunning views of the Maas River and the city skyline, and features 72 unique rooms and suites that blend modern comfort with vintage maritime décor. Guests can savor delicious seafood at the hotel’s popular restaurant, which also offers terrace seating for alfresco dining.  For meetings and events, 7 event spaces offer room enough for 150 guests.  Find out more here.

Both hotels provide a unique and immersive experience that celebrates Rotterdam’s rich maritime heritage while offering modern comfort and convenience.

Ease of Travel:

Getting around Rotterdam is a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transportation system. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and metro lines, making it easy to reach any destination within the city. Rotterdam is also very bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and plenty of rental options available. Many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it a pleasantly walkable city to explore.  For meetings and events, any additional activities to enhance that sense of place are easily accessible.

In conclusion, Rotterdam is a fascinating destination that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and modernity. With its excellent accessibility, stunning architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and unique accommodations like the SS Rotterdam Hotel and Hotel New York, Rotterdam is a city that should be on every meeting planner’s bucket list.

Get in touch to learn more about Rotterdam with your trusted MICE representation partner.

Learn more about WestCord Hotels.