Amsterdam top rankings

Updated 5 June 2025 at 12:53

Every year, Amsterdam tops different rankings from smart mobility and connectivity to sustainability and language proficiency. Let the facts and figures speak for themselves. This is how Amsterdam ranks globally as a conference destination:

#1 most popular Dutch meetings destination

ICCA Country and City Rankings for 2024 compile a global ranking of destination’s performance in attracting international conferences. As the most popular Dutch destination, Amsterdam placed 17th globally and 13th in Europe, delivering €230 million in economic impact. The Netherlands secured the #8 position worldwide with 295 meetings.

>> See the 2024 ICCA Country and City Rankings

#4 most popular European meetings destination

Cvent compiles the Meeting Destinations Rankings, looking at destinations' performance in attracting international conferences. Amsterdam placed #4 in Europe out of 25 destinations, an improvement from #6 in the previous year's ranking.

>> See the Cvent Top 25 Meeting Destinations in Europe Rankings

Sustainability

#1 most sustainable city globally

The Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index recognizes Amsterdam as the most sustainable city in the world in 2024. Out of 100 cities assessed, Amsterdam ranked first overall, reflecting a strong and balanced performance across environmental, social, and economic indicators. The ranking highlights the city’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, including ambitious climate goals, increased renewable energy use, and plans to significantly reduce energy consumption by 2030.

>> Download the Arcadis Sustainable Cities Index 2024

#1 most sustainable European city

Ranking over 50 cities based on 13 equally weighted environmental policies, Schroders European Sustainable Cities index covers subjects like renewable energy, cleaner public transport, electric vehicle charging, single-use plastic, air quality, climate plans, carbon neutrality goals and waste policy. Amsterdam secured the #1 position in 2021.

>> Read the full article here

Connectivity

#2 direct connectivity and hub connectivity

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe publishes the Airport Industry Connectivity Report yearly. Amsterdam took the #2 spot in 2024 and has been a top performer throughout the pandemic, ranking #3 for global hub connectivity among European airports.

>> See the 2024 Airport Industry Connectivity Report

#5 for Urban Mobility Readiness

In a study of 70 global cities’ readiness for the future of mobility, Amsterdam ranked #5 overall in 2024. The city also secured the 3rd spot in the Sustainable Mobility sub-index, highlighting its leadership in areas such as cycling infrastructure, electric vehicle adoption, and efforts to reduce car dependency.

>> See the 2024 Urban Mobility Readiness Index

Knowledge

#1 proficiency in English

The Netherlands ranks #1 in Europe and worldwide with very high proficiency in the English language, according to a global survey. The high level of English proficiency in the Netherlands is attributed to various factors, such as the widespread use of English in education, business, and daily life, making it an ideal destination for international talent and business professionals.

>>See the EF English Proficiency Index

#3 world’s highest scientific impact

Elsevier’s comparative research report of 20 global cities has found research from Amsterdam has the third highest scientific impact in the world. The city particularly excels in Life Sciences and Health research, including neuroscience and psychology. Amsterdam's research ecosystem, including universities, hospitals, and knowledge institutions, has positioned the city as a leading hub for scientific excellence and innovation.

>> Read the full Elsevier report

Discover more areas where Amsterdam leads the way in international business rankings.