About Rotterdam Ahoy
Rotterdam Ahoy is a world-class indoor arena and convention complex in the southern part of Rotterdam. Originally built as a post-war exhibition hall, its foundation was laid in 1950 with the port of Rotterdam’s reconstruction exhibition “Rotterdam Ahoy!” (www.ahoy.nl ). The modern Ahoy complex was constructed from 1968–71, combining a sports palace (with a cycling track) and exhibition halls (www.ahoy.nl ). It officially opened on 15 January 1971 (with Prince Claus presiding) and immediately became an iconic venue – its very first concert in 1971 was by Pink Floyd, putting “a legendary stage” on the Dutch map (www.ahoy.nl ) (www.ahoy.nl ). Today Ahoy can seat up to about 16,500 spectators for concerts and sports in its main arena (www.ahoy.nl ). The venue also includes six large exhibition halls and a newly built convention centre (opened 2020) to handle meetings and trade fairs. Its distinctive glass façade, newly revamped entrance and giant LED signage signal its role as a focal point for major events in the city. Long known as a “pop temple” of the Netherlands, Ahoy has hosted everything from top rock bands and jazz stars to world sports tournaments, making it a pillar of Rotterdam’s cultural life.
Events and Programming
Rotterdam Ahoy stages an extraordinarily wide range of events throughout the year. In music and entertainment, Ahoy hosts big concert tours (both international megastars and popular Dutch artists) as well as large-scale shows and family productions. For example, the venue regularly welcomes arena tours by U2, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars and others, and it has presented major shows like Cirque du Soleil and Holiday on Ice (www.ahoy.nl ). Musical theatre and family entertainment also appear here – in late 2022 Ahoy hosted Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats (44 shows over six days) after a successful earlier tour (www.ahoy.nl ). Comedians and pop acts (from Dutch funk bands to hip-hop artists) often play the new RTM Stage or the main Arena. Ahoy is also famous for Amsterdam Dance Event parties and large EDM events, and it was the site of the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2016 and the first UFC Fight Night held in the Netherlands in 2016 (www.ahoy.nl ) (www.ahoy.nl ).
On the sporting side, Ahoy is renowned as the home of the ATP tennis tournament (formerly the ABN AMRO Open), which has been held every February in the main arena since 1974. Other past sports highlights include European Championship basketball and volleyball finals, world table tennis and world gymnastics events, and even boxing (such as the European championships in the 1970s) (www.ahoy.nl ) (www.ahoy.nl ). In 2015 Ahoy set a Dutch record with nearly 11,000 fans attending the final of the Women’s European Volleyball Championship (www.ahoy.nl ). Martial arts fans saw history in 2016 when UFC made its Dutch debut at Ahoy and sold out in a day (www.ahoy.nl ).
Ahoy also regularly hosts major business and community events. National trade shows like the biannual InfraTech (infrastructure) conference and other expos fill the exhibition halls, and the adjacent Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre (opened 2020) adds 35 flexible meeting rooms for conferences and congresses (www.ahoy.nl ). Notably, the world’s largest indoor jazz festival – NN North Sea Jazz – relocated to Ahoy in 2006 and now uses almost all halls and stages, drawing over 30,000 music fans per day over its annual July edition (www.ahoy.nl ). In special cases Ahoy has even turned into a live TV studio venue: during the COVID-19 crisis Ahoy hosted EO’s “Concert van Hoop” (Concert of Hope) telecasts in 2020 and 2021, broadcast from an otherwise empty arena (www.ahoy.nl ) (www.ahoy.nl ). In 2025 it will welcome TwitchCon Europe, a two-day gaming and livestreaming festival, showing the venue’s appeal to new audiences (www.ahoy.nl ). With hundreds of events each year – concerts, shows, sporting finals, trade fairs and conferences – Ahoy’s program is constantly full and highly varied.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Ahoy events should be purchased through official channels or the venue’s own box office. Large concerts and sports specials usually have tickets on sale months in advance, often with fan or presales followed by general sale dates. For example, big productions like musical tours announce ticket sales well ahead of the performance dates. Because top events can sell out quickly (as noted for the Cats musical, “you must be out early to buy them” (www.ahoy.nl )), it’s wise to purchase early. On busy event days there is an Ahoy box office at the entrance plaza where remaining tickets or will-call pickups may be handled. Ticket prices vary widely by event and seating level. As a rough range, standard concerts and tournaments might start at a few tens of euros for distant seats or upper tiers, with premier seats/rings (and VIP packages) going up to well over €100. Standing and seated pricing tiers can differ sharply – for example, floor-standing general admission for a major rock show is usually less expensive than a front-row seat. Sports events and conventions likewise have tiered pricing. Authorized resellers and official partners supply Ahoy tickets; unoffical vendors and counterfeits should be avoided. In general, there are no walk-up extra tickets once an event is sold out. If you’re set on a particular show, it pays to watch for announcements of early bird sales or club presales well before the event, and buy promptly at release. (The venue or tour promoter often issues newsletters or social media updates for subscribers.) There is no system of free door giveaways – almost all tickets must be pre-bought or collected – so plan ahead rather than expecting to find entry at the last minute.
Seating and Layout
The main Ahoy Arena is a large oval hall with tiered seating wrapping around a central floor area. For concerts and shows, a stage is set at one end of the arena, so most seats face forward toward that stage. Seating is fully raked (steeply tiered), giving good line-of-sight even from higher rows. The Arena can be configured as “full house” (all 16,500 standing/seat capacity) or in smaller modes. For example, the Club Ahoy setting breaks out a segment of the arena into a more intimate 2,000–6,000 capacity layout, often used for corporate shows or smaller concerts (www.ahoy.nl ). The new RTM Stage (opened 2020) is a mid-sized concert hall attached to the complex – it holds up to 7,842 standing or balcony visitors, but it can also be converted to a pure theatre/auditorium format with around 2,816 fixed seats (expandable to 4,398 seats) for lectures or seated performances (www.ahoy.nl ).
Generally, the best viewing seats are in the center of a side block at mid-rows, where you have a balanced view and full sound. Floor standing areas (if used at a concert) bring you closest to the stage, though you will be standing and in the densest crowd. If seating is provided on the floor (as for some musicals or gala events), early-arrival usually means front-floor rows. In sports configuration (like tennis or volleyball), the court is often centered and seats surround it on all sides. Note that some extreme side or rear obstructions may exist around the very edges of the stage; if possible, avoid seats directly behind the stage or against palace walls. The RTM Stage theatre mode provides “theatre quality seats” and “sublime sightlines” by design (www.ahoy.nl ). Acoustics in both halls are state-of-the-art – during a 2009 renovation Ahoy’s roof was raised and a new sound system installed to “meet the requirements of rock tours” and ensure clarity even at full volume (www.avinteractive.com ). In practical terms, this means almost anywhere in the hall offers a full audio experience (though sitting in the arena balconies will have slightly more reverberation than lower stalls). For anyone concerned about sound exposure, earplugs (sold at €5 in the venue’s bars (www.ahoy.nl )) are recommended.
Getting There and Parking
Rotterdam Ahoy is located at Ahoyweg 10, 3084 BA Rotterdam (address shown on GPS devices (www.ahoy.nl )). It lies at the Zuidplein interchange in Zuid (South) Rotterdam. If travelling by public transit, the easiest route is via Rotterdam’s metro system: take RET Metro lines D or E to the Zuidplein station, which is about a 5-minute walk from the Ahoy Plaza (www.ahoy.nl ). These metro lines run from Rotterdam Centraal (central station) and also link to The Hague Central, making Ahoy reachable from the region. Several city buses also stop at Zuidplein – for example, RET lines 44 and 75 (among others) serve Zuidplein and hence Ahoy (moovitapp.com ). When using a navigation app, select Zuidplein or Ahoy Rotterdam to find the correct stop.
Driving: Ahoy is well connected to major roads (A4, A15, A16). The venue has an expansive parking estate with over 2,500 marked spaces (www.ahoy.nl ). On regular event days a parking ticket costs about €19.50 on site (www.ahoy.nl ). For high-profile events, it is strongly advised to book a parking guarantee in advance: this reserves a spot and allows drive-in/out via automated gates (www.ahoy.nl ). If you skip the advance booking, you still may drive into the car park on event day – but be aware that spaces can fill up. In case the Ahoy lots are full (especially on sold-out nights), traffic staff can guide you to nearby alternate parking (like Q-Park Zuidplein) (www.ahoy.nl ). Note also that if you are arriving by coach or large tour bus, a special bus parking rate and drop-off is arranged (coaches usually drop off at the north entrance and then park at a designated lot for ~€49/day) (www.ahoy.nl ). Charging electric cars is not available in the Ahoy parking, so plan to use public chargers if needed (www.ahoy.nl ).
For drop-offs or taxis, the main front entrance serves as the designated stand (you can tell drivers Ahoy’s “valet stand” or main entrance). Both visitors and disabled guests can be dropped off at the taxi bay by the Ahoy Plaza doors. If you’re cycling, bike parking areas are provided outside the venue entrances (as with most Rotterdam sites, space is allocated for cyclists). One convenient tip: if you arrive late on a Saturday night or during a major festival (like North Sea Jazz), be reassured that Rotterdam’s public transport often steps up service. For example, RET typically runs extra-large trains and keeps late-night metro running, and Dutch Railways adds midnight trains from Rotterdam Central (www.ahoy.nl ). So you can usually count on transit for your ride home.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival at Ahoy, you’ll enter through security checkpoints. Only valid tickets (paper or mobile) grant access; all patrons must pass through a bag check and possible frisking by staff (www.ahoy.nl ). Be prepared to show your ticket and ID if asked. A few items are strictly not allowed through security: outside food or drinks, large suitcases/backpacks larger than A4 size, weapons or sharp objects, and animals (except guide dogs) (www.ahoy.nl ). Cameras with removable lenses or pro recording gear are banned (www.ahoy.nl ), as are banners bigger than about A4 size or flagpoles over 1.5m (www.ahoy.nl ). (Small personal items and cell phones are generally okay unless an event has special rules.) If you arrive with prohibited items, you may forfeit them or, in some cases, rent a locker. Ahoy provides paid lockers in the foyer to securely stow valuables during an event (www.ahoy.nl ) (these take coins or card for rental). The management advises visitors not to bring large luggage since cloakrooms have long been phased out in favor of lockers (www.ahoy.nl ). The venue also uses RFID or token systems for crowd control and recycling – for instance, guests often receive a reusable drink token on entry which they can return at the bar to minimize waste (www.ahoy.nl ).
Inside, the atmosphere is modern and well-organized. Signs and maps in the Ahoy Plaza (the covered concourse linking all halls) clearly show where to find the Arena, RTM Stage, conference rooms, restrooms and food areas. There are ample restrooms on every level (including fully accessible toilets with alarms near each entrance) for both men and women, plus family/disabled restrooms. Food and drink options include two main sit-down restaurants: Bar/Restaurant Seventy One is a stylish venue located by the main entrance, serving full meals and drinks (note that it may only be open during certain events, so check ahead) (www.ahoy.nl ). Nearby is Restaurant RiVers , a self-service cafeteria in the Ahoy Plaza that offers sandwiches, soups, hot dishes and desserts for a quick bite (www.ahoy.nl ). During shows, numerous service bars around the Arena and RTM Stage sell beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks (these accept card payments only (www.ahoy.nl )). Fun fact: Ahoy even sells Alpine earplugs at the bars (for about €5) to help protect your hearing (www.ahoy.nl ). Coat rooms are minimal; only small cloak racks are operated on a paid basis, so it’s best to wear a coat or leave bulky gear in your car or locker instead.
The venue lighting and stage production are top-notch. The Ahoy Arena and RTM Stage are hung with modern concert lighting rigs and video screens. RTM Stage in particular was designed with LED wall accents and an integrated high-tech backstage (production offices, dressing rooms, green rooms) (www.ahoy.nl ). Artists stepping on to Ahoy often praise the facility, since the entire hall is designed for versatility (it can rapidly convert from sports court to dance floor to seated theatre). Expect a lively atmosphere on show nights: the audience areas can be darkened except for stage lights, and big screens project close-up views in the larger Arena. Staff and ushers are usually visible in black or grey polos, ready to guide you to your seats. If you need assistance (medical, loss/theft report, accessible seating issues, etc.), visit the volunteer station or an information desk, which are normally located near each major entrance. Keep your ticket handy in case you’re asked to verify your seat, and consider taking note of the exit nearest you upon seating – it helps at the end of a show. Finally, mobile phone reception inside is generally good (the venue is open-air enough inside to receive signals), but there is no free public Wi-Fi for guests, so if you rely on being online you should check for data plans or tether before you arrive.
Nearby Amenities
Ahoy lies adjacent to the large Zuidplein shopping and entertainment district, which offers many dining and hotel options. Within a few minutes’ walk you’ll find a range of eateries, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. For example, near the station is BeyMen , a popular Turkish grill serving wood-fired pides seven days a week (indebuurt.nl ). Nearby Lisa Café caters to all-day dining (from breakfast pastries and coffee to burgers, pasta and cocktails for dinner) (indebuurt.nl ). Across the street is Wawburger , known for gourmet burgers and fries just a short stroll from Ahoy. For Italian fare, Giacobbe at the Ibis hotel offers classic pizzas and pasta before or after shows (indebuurt.nl ). If you have time, a short walk takes you to a branch of the Nirvana Restaurant (for more upscale Dutch/International dishes) and a sandwich shop at the Theater Zuidplein (Restaurant Zed) if you’re catching a theatre show next door. The Zuidplein mall itself has cafes and fast-food outlets for quick snacks or pastry stops before an event.
For evening drinks or a late dinner, there are also bars and cafes in the neighborhood. The Plaza area has a few pubs and even a cinema complex if you arrive very early. Many attendees, however, use Ahoy’s proximity to metro lines to pop into central Rotterdam’s vibrant dining scene both before and after a show. If you’re staying overnight in Rotterdam, there are convenient hotels near Ahoy: the Ibis Styles Rotterdam Ahoy is directly across Jacob Kleiboerweg (a few minutes’ walk) – this modern hotel is built in the Ahoy district (all.accor.com ). Another option is the Hampton by Hilton or the new The Arcade Hotel, which are also nearby at Zuidplein. A little farther off, the Van der Valk Ridderkerk (just across the river, about a 10–15 min drive) is often used by convention-goers and sports teams. In summary, you won’t starve on the way to Ahoy – there are plentiful choices for a pre-show meal and post-show drinks in the immediate area. If arriving by car, allow extra time to navigate these roads on big event nights; if on foot, you can browse the mall or grab a coffee at Zuidplein before walking over (the route is level and clearly signed).
What Makes This Venue Special
Few venues combine as much history and versatility as Rotterdam Ahoy. Architecturally, it bridges Rotterdam’s practical “no-nonsense” style with modern flair. A major 2010s overhaul by ZJA architects raised the arena roof by several meters and added new interior galleries and hospitality zones, so that the 1971 scaffolding now feels spacious and contemporary (www.zja.nl ) (www.zja.nl ). Darkened ceilings and metal mesh walls with programmable LED lighting give a “starry-night” atmosphere inside (www.zja.nl ), while the new foyer entrance is bright glass with a giant LED screen, inviting passersby into what feels like a giant living room (www.zja.nl ). In other words, you literally enter a new world under the lights. Even after decades, Ahoy’s designers made each renovation to be subtle yet transformative – enhancing capacity and acoustics while improving the visitor flow through cinemas, eateries and lounges on each level (www.zja.nl ) (www.zja.nl ).
Culturally, Ahoy is woven into Dutch legend. It was where some of rock history unfolded (Pink Floyd’s first Dutch show here in 1971 (www.ahoy.nl ); Led Zeppelin’s final concert of any kind in 1973; Queen’s epic 1977 performance) and continues to host top talent. Local pop stars like Lee Towers (called “the king of Ahoy” for his 50+ appearances) and André Rieu have made a point of returning to this stage again and again. Meanwhile, Dutch national events (the King’s Day “Nacht van Oranje” music party, the ABN AMRO tennis legacy, etc.) only add to Ahoy’s identity as the country’s go-to arena. In Rotterdam itself, Ahoy has become a symbol of progress: it took a rundown area of the South and turned it into an “entertainment hub” that keeps the neighborhood lively well beyond office hours. The municipality’s “Hart van Zuid” master plan even ties new shops, homes and public spaces into the Ahoy district, all because the arena drives so much foot traffic and tourism (www.ahoy.nl ). That’s why Ahoy’s leaders often say they bring “business, fun and happiness” together in Rotterdam (www.ahoy.nl ) – and many locals will tell you Ahoy truly is a stage for both the city’s future and its history, uniting sports fans, music lovers and innovators under one roof.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Ahoy makes an effort to welcome everyone. There are marked drop-off points and taxi stands at the front entrance, and reserved parking for disabled guests close by (www.ahoy.nl ). Free wheelchairs are available at the Ahoy Plaza information desk (just show your ID) (www.ahoy.nl ). Inside, elevators/lifts connect all floors, and each hall has accessible toilets (with alarms). The Ahoy Arena offers dedicated wheelchair platforms, each with space for one companion (who must have a ticket too) (www.ahoy.nl ). If you need a wheelchair seat, mention it when booking so staff can reserve the marked area with your entry ticket. In general, all indoor areas and viewing levels are step-free. Staff and volunteers are trained to assist guests with mobility needs, and service animals are welcome. Note: if you require a hearing loop or large-text seating map, it’s wise to contact Ahoy in advance, as these special arrangements vary by event.
What to Bring: Only small bags are allowed. As noted, no large backpacks, suitcases or big souvenirs – these will be turned away at security (www.ahoy.nl ). Also pack light in terms of liquids (no outside alcohol or drinks) (www.ahoy.nl ); you can buy refreshments inside. Check your age/ID requirements – some night shows or concerts might be 18+ due to content. Have a photo ID handy if you plan to check coats or borrow a wheelchair, and keep your event ticket accessible for scanning. Because Ahoy is fully indoor, dress for comfort rather than rain gear – but you will likely want a jacket for outside and a bag to carry it. Most visitors stand or dance a lot at concerts, so wear comfortable shoes. For concerts, sunglasses isn’t necessary inside, but in daytime trade fairs UV protection isn’t a concern. Always bring some cash or a debit/credit card: note that cash is not accepted for purchases inside the venue (www.ahoy.nl ), so you won’t need bills on hand, but ensure your card is ready for any shopping. And earplugs: these €5 plugs sold at the bars (www.ahoy.nl ) can really enhance comfort if you’re sensitive to loud music.
Common Pitfalls: A few things to avoid: don’t assume you can drive and get a spot on the day without a plan – the parking often fills up for big shows, so either book ahead or park offsite and take the metro. On the same note, crowds can get heavy right after events, so consider grabbing a snack or browsing nearby for 10–15 minutes until the rush thins. Inside, the major mistake is bringing prohibited items – if in doubt, check the Ahoy house rules online. Never throw away your ticket stub; it is your exit permit as well. When seated, locate your exits (side doors at the end of rows) in case of an emergency. As with any arena, always stay aware of your belongings; keep phones and wallets secured. None of the festivals require formal attire, so jeans and a tee or casual shirt will generally work everywhere. Finally, be mindful of smoking rules: Ahoy forbids any smoking or vaping indoors (www.ahoy.nl ), with designated outdoor smokers’ areas outside the entrances.
Age Restrictions and Policies: Ahoy itself does not impose a blanket age limit, but each event might. Many music and family shows are all-ages, while certain club nights or expos might be 18+. If you’re bringing minors, check the event’s specific policy in advance. Children 3 or under often get in free if they sit on a parent’s lap, but again, confirm at ticket purchase. There is no strict dress code, but for very large events people tend to dress tidily (jeans/shirt for concerts, resort casual for galas and conventions). Security is professional – if you look under 16, you may be ID-checked at entrances. Photography rules are strict: personal cellphone photos are usually tolerated, but professional cameras or video recorders are not allowed per venue rules (www.ahoy.nl ). Flash photography for free is generally discouraged at concerts. In any case, follow the instructions of ushers and signs for which areas are photographed or restricted.
Re-entry and Timing: Doors usually open about 45–60 minutes before an event’s start time (some may even allow entry two hours early). Plan to arrive early enough to find your way and pass security without stress – popular shows can have longer lines. Re-entry (exiting and re-entering) during a show is usually not permitted, so once you’re inside, better stay put. However, restroom breaks or brief exits are fine if a security staff member notes your ticket. If you do need to step out, ask an usher and keep your ticket handy for scanning back in. As the event ends, the traffic coordination ensures an organized exit (follow the lighted signs and attendants to the nearest exit). Trains and metros often run extra late the night of a big event, but it’s wise to know the schedule or pre-book a taxi.
By remembering these tips and the venue’s rules, your visit to Ahoy should be smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re here for a slam dunk or a dance anthem, the stadium’s modern facilities and friendly staff will help you focus on the show, not the logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Rotterdam Ahoy Arena and RTM Stage?
The Ahoy Arena seats up to ~16,500 people when fully configured (around 16,426 for concerts) (www.ahoy.nl ). The newer RTM Stage can hold about 7,842 visitors (standing + balconies) in its full concert setup (www.ahoy.nl ). In theatre mode it has roughly 2,816 seats (expandable to 4,398 for a larger seated setup) (www.ahoy.nl ).
Where is Ahoy located and how do I get there by public transport?
Ahoy’s address is Ahoyweg 10, 3084 BA Rotterdam (www.ahoy.nl ). The venue is closest to the RET Zuidplein metro station – just a 5-minute walk away (www.ahoy.nl ). Metro lines D and E serve Zuidplein (connecting from Rotterdam Central or The Hague Central) (www.ahoy.nl ). There are also several city buses (for example, lines 44 and 75) that stop at Zuidplein (moovitapp.com ). Once at Zuidplein, follow the signs east to Ahoy. For travelers from out of town, take an intercity train to Rotterdam Centraal and then transfer to the metro for Zuidplein.
Is parking available at Ahoy and how much does it cost?
Yes. Ahoy has its own large parking complex (over 2,500 spaces) on-site (www.ahoy.nl ). On event days a parking ticket costs roughly €19.50. You can pre-book a guaranteed space (strongly recommended for busy days) which allows quick entry/exit. If you haven’t booked, you may still park if there are open spots. If Ahoy’s lots fill up, staff can direct you to nearby garages (like Q-Park Zuidplein) (www.ahoy.nl ). Coaches and tour buses use a special drop-off area; they pay a higher daily rate if parked on-site. Note: No EV charging is available in the Ahoy lot (www.ahoy.nl ), so plan accordingly.
What items are not allowed inside Rotterdam Ahoy?
Ahoy enforces strict safety rules. In general, no outside food or drink may be brought in (www.ahoy.nl ). Bags larger than A4 size (especially heavy backpacks or suitcases) are prohibited (www.ahoy.nl ). Weapons, sharp objects, and any glass or cans are banned. Illegal drugs and outside alcohol are also forbidden (www.ahoy.nl ). Small personal items (wallet, sunglasses, phone) are fine, but expect a security check. Other banned items include motorcycles, skateboards or scooters (www.ahoy.nl ), larger banners/signs beyond about A4, and professional photo/video equipment (www.ahoy.nl ). If you arrive with prohibited items, they may not be allowed entry. The venue provides coin lockers for purses or valuables if needed (for a fee) (www.ahoy.nl ).
Can I use my phone or camera at Ahoy?
You may certainly bring your smartphone or small camera for casual photos, but professional cameras/video cameras are not permitted (www.ahoy.nl ). In other words, point-and-shoot snapshots are usually fine, but any camera with a detachable lens, tripod, or large recording features is not allowed. Also be aware that some concerts discourage all flash photography. Your phone can serve as your ticket or payment method inside (Ahoy is cash-free), and it gets reception for calls and data. There is no free public Wi-Fi, so use your mobile plan if needed.
Are there food and drink facilities inside Ahoy?
Yes – Ahoy has a variety of dining options. At the entrance you’ll find “Seventy One” , a sit-down restaurant with a full menu (open to ticket holders during major events) (www.ahoy.nl ). In the Plaza area there is “RiVers” , a cafeteria-style self-service outlet with sandwiches, salads, hot meals and desserts (www.ahoy.nl ). During events, concession bars inside the Arena and RTM Stage sell beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks (www.ahoy.nl ). These bars also stock earplugs (for €5) to protect your hearing. Most food outlets take credit/debit card only (cash is not accepted inside) (www.ahoy.nl ). There are no cook-it-yourself kitchens or outside food allowed, but these options cover everything from fast bites to sit-down dining around the venue.
Is Rotterdam Ahoy wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The whole complex is wheelchair-friendly: the public walkways are level or ramped, and there are lifts to all main areas. The Ahoy Plaza has accessible restrooms and customer rest areas. In the Arena there is a dedicated wheelchair platform with space for one companion right beside it (www.ahoy.nl ). If you plan to book wheelchair seats, ask for them when purchasing your ticket. Reserved disabled parking and taxi drop-off are available right in front of the entrance (www.ahoy.nl ). The venue also lends out manual wheelchairs free of charge at the lobby (just bring your ID) (www.ahoy.nl ). If you need any assistance navigating, Ahoy staff can help upon request. In short, limited-mobility visitors are well-supported at Ahoy.
What time should I arrive before an event?
Doors usually open about 45–60 minutes before showtime for concerts, shows and sports events. If you have general admission (standing) tickets, arriving early can get you closer to the stage or a spot. For seated events, arriving 30–45 minutes early is usually enough to find your seat and get settled. If you plan to eat at an Ahoy restaurant or locker your belongings, factor in extra time. Avoid arriving just at showtime – lines can form at security. Also, allow time to find parking or navigate any transit changes. In short: plan to arrive roughly an hour early to enter comfortably and not miss the opening act.
Do I need to show ID to enter Rotterdam Ahoy?
You generally only need to present your event ticket to enter and possibly have it scanned. However, Ahoy security may ask for photo ID in certain cases – for example, if you try to enter with a ticket purchased on another person’s card, or if you are using a wheelchair accessible seat and need to show proof of eligibility. In addition, if you are renting a wheelchair or collecting a special pass, you must present a matching ID. It’s a good idea to carry an official ID along with your ticket, just in case staff request it. Note that if you look under age 16 or are entering a restricted show, you might be carded for age verification as per event policy.
Are smoking or vaping allowed inside Ahoy?
No. Ahoy is a completely non-smoking venue. All forms of smoking (tobacco, e-cigarettes or vaping) are prohibited indoors (www.ahoy.nl ). There are designated smoking areas outside the entrance and by certain exits; signs will direct you. If security sees someone smoking inside, they may be asked to leave. It’s safest to assume no smoking anywhere indoors and to use the outside areas for any smoking.
What is the origin of the name “Ahoy”?
The name comes from a post-World War II exhibition. In 1950 Rotterdam held an expo celebrating the rebuilt port, titled “Rotterdam Ahoy!” (stemming from the nautical greeting “ahoy”). That expo took place on what is now the Erasmus MC site (www.ahoy.nl ). When the current complex was later built, it kept the name Ahoy in honor of that history. Today “Ahoy” is just the brand of the venue, but it harks back to the city’s seafaring and rebuilding heritage.
What was the first concert ever at Ahoy?
The very first concert at Rotterdam Ahoy was by the British rock band Pink Floyd, back in 1971. This famous debut helped put Ahoy on the music map (as noted in Ahoy’s history) (www.ahoy.nl ). (Technically, Ahoy’s opening event was a 6-day cycling competition in January 1971, but the first live music act was Pink Floyd’s.
Does Ahoy host trade fairs and corporate events?
Yes – in addition to sports and music, Ahoy is a major expo and conference center. It has six large exhibition halls (totaling over 30,000 m2) and an attached Convention Centre (35 rooms opened in 2020) for corporate events (www.ahoy.nl ). Signature fairs here include InfraTech (for infrastructure professionals), Gastvrij Rotterdam (hospitality expo) and others. The space is highly versatile – for trade shows the halls can be configured into booths, and the RTM Stage or Pavilion areas can host keynote speeches or banquets. Ahoy itself produces events like the annual industrial expos and a women’s marathon; external organizations hold large conventions (for example, medical or education congresses) using the hybrid conference center. So it serves both entertainment and business functions.
Is there a coat check or lockers inside Ahoy?
Ahoy does not offer a free coatroom. However, there are paid lockers available inside the Plaza for storing smaller belongings (purses, jackets, etc.) (www.ahoy.nl ). These coin-operated lockers are typically located near the entrance area. Locking your bag before entry is recommended, as large items aren’t allowed through security. If you have a very large coat, you can often drape it over your chair or put it under it in seating areas.
What is the Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre (RACC)?
The RACC is a modern meeting and conference wing attached to Ahoy, opened in 2020. It added 35 flexible meeting rooms (of various sizes) and a grand auditorium to the complex (www.ahoy.nl ). In fact, the RTM Stage serves as the largest theatre/auditorium of the Netherlands with 2,816 fixed seats (www.ahoy.nl ). The idea was to give Ahoy a full convention center so all kinds of international conferences can be held. Since its opening, RACC has hosted big medical, tech and cultural congresses and works in tandem with the existing exhibition halls and arena. Visiting RACC means you enter through a separate lobby (near the main Ahoy entrance) with its own business-class lounge and signage.
Are there any age restrictions for shows at Ahoy?
Age rules depend on the event. Ahoy itself does not impose a blanket age limit. Family shows (circus, children’s concerts, musicals) typically allow all ages, and young kids can attend with a ticket. However, nightclubs, dance concerts or conventions may set an 18+ minimum. For sporting events there is usually no minimum age (though under-16s often need to be accompanied). Always check the specific event’s ticketing information – it will clearly state if anyone under 18 is not admitted. If minors are allowed, note that the Laura rule (zero-tolerance on underage drinking) still applies: don’t bring alcohol for anyone under 18.
Is the venue climate-controlled for weather?
Yes. All Ahoy facilities (the Arena, stages, exhibition halls and convention center) are fully indoor, temperature-controlled buildings. In summer, the air conditioning keeps the halls cool even if outside is hot. In winter or on rainy days, the heating or indoor climate makes the venue comfortable. There are no outdoor seating sections – every event is held indoors – so you won’t be exposed to sun or rain during a show. The main entrances have vestibules to avoid drafts. Typical advice: bring a sweater or light jacket just in case (some events can be chilly with air conditioning), but you won’t need any rain gear once inside. For smoking breaks or grabbing a bite from offsite, however, have an umbrella or jacket ready.
