Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The European CME Forum 2026 will convene from 11 to 13 November at the Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol in Hoofddorp, Netherlands. This year's theme, 'Future-proofing CME/CPD,' aims to address the evolving landscape of medical education.
The forum will gather stakeholders from various sectors to discuss best practices and emerging trends in continuing medical education. European CME Forum 2026 takes place in Hoofddorp, Netherlands.
Venue: Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: The 19th Annual European CME Forum takes place from 11-13 November 2026 at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol, Hoofddorp, Netherlands.
- 2Scale and Focus: This conference focuses on future-proofing CME/CPD, bringing together key stakeholders in medical education.
- 3Organiser: The event is organized by the European CME Forum, a leading body in continuing medical education.
- 4Entry: Registration is open for in-person attendance with access to all materials and recordings from previous meetings.
Why visit
Attendees will gain insights into the latest developments in CME and CPD, network with industry leaders, and participate in workshops designed to enhance educational practices. Attendees include CME providers, medical educators, and healthcare professionals involved in CPD. Registration is open for in-person.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their innovations in medical education, connect with key decision-makers, and enhance their visibility within the CME community. The event is organized by the European CME Forum, a leading body in continuing medical education. Attendees include CME providers, medical educators, and healthcare professionals involved in CPD.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
CME/CPD providers and accreditation teams at medical societies, universities and teaching hospitals
Healthcare professionals with faculty, education-committee or CPD-lead responsibilities
Medical society officers and accreditation-body representatives
Pharmaceutical, medtech and device company medical-education and compliance teams
CME/CPD funders, grant officers and industry supporters
University deans, programme directors and simulation or assessment leads
Continuing-education technology and learning-platform buyers
Policy, regulatory and quality-improvement observers focused on CPD
Researchers and educators in faculty development, assessment and outcomes
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
CME/CPD software and accreditation-tracking vendors
Learning-management and virtual or hybrid education platform providers
Assessment, question-bank, e-portfolio and simulation suppliers
Medical publishers, journals and content-licensing organisations
Instructional-design, curriculum-mapping and faculty-development consultancies
Outcomes-measurement, analytics and learner-engagement vendors
Compliance, independence and grant-management service providers
Conference capture, webinar and online event production companies for medical societies
Translation and localisation services for multilingual healthcare education
Professional bodies and accreditation services
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
CME/CPD accreditation and credit-tracking software
Learning management systems for medical societies and teaching hospitals
Assessment, question-bank and e-portfolio platforms
Outcomes measurement and CPD impact analytics
Faculty development, curriculum design and instructional-design services
Medical publishing, journals and content licensing
Compliance, independence and grant-management workflows
Simulation and clinical-skills training resources
Hybrid conference and webinar production for medical education
Translation and localisation for multilingual CME content
Location & Facilities
Venue
Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol
Hoofddorp, Netherlands
Facilities
Parking
Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol in Hoofddorp typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol in Hoofddorp typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
11 – 13 November 2026:9:00 AM – 12:30 PM daily
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Hoofddorp, Netherlands
Why it matters
Attendees will gain insights into the latest developments in CME and CPD, network with industry leaders, and participate in workshops designed to enhance educational practices. Attendees include CME providers, medical educators, and healthcare professionals involved in CPD.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · EUR
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Primary international gateway for Hoofddorp. The hotel shuttle departs from Schiphol bus stop A9-A13, and Qbuzz lines 361/365 stop at Hoofddorp Brugrestaurant A4
TBA
to venue
Approx. 10-15 minutes by road to Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol; confirm traffic and transfer times on the day
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Venue hotel
On-site at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol, HoofddorpUSD 150–230 / night
The forum is hosted inside this hotel, which makes it the most convenient base. The 11-13 November 2026 booking capture did not return usable rates; treat this as an approximate November shoulder-season band and confirm with the hotel or organiser.
sourceMid-range airport hotel
Schiphol Airport hotel clusterUSD 130–200 / night
Airport hotels around AMS are an alternative for arrivals and departures. Use the hotel shuttle or Qbuzz bus 361/365 to reach Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol. Approximate night band, confirm live rates.
sourceBudget to mid-range
Hoofddorp town centreUSD 100–160 / night
Hoofddorp centre hotels may suit budget-conscious delegates; plan a short bus or taxi connection to the venue. Approximate night band, confirm live rates.
sourceUpper-mid-range city hotel
Amsterdam city centreUSD 180–280 / night
Staying in Amsterdam adds a train or taxi transfer to Hoofddorp; choose this only if you want city evening options. Approximate night band, confirm live rates.
sourceLocal transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Bus (Qbuzz)
Estimated costEUR 2-5 single metro journey (contactless)
Best forSchiphol Airport / Hoofddorp to Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol, stop 'Hoofddorp Brugrestaurant A4' - bus lines 361 or 365
Qbuzz operates the bus; stops on both sides of the Bridge Restaurant A4 at the hotel.
Hotel shuttle
Estimated costEUR 2-5 single metro journey (contactless)
Best forSchiphol Airport shuttle bus to Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol, departing from bus stop A9-A13
Follow Hotel Shuttles signage and keep right; shuttle timetable published by the hotel.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. EUR taxi/rideshare from AMS to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forAmsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) to Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol
Approx. 10-15 minutes by road (or line 361 bus about 14 minutes)
Plan your trip
Visa & entry documents
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
Visa not required
ATA Carnet: check with organiser
Weather
November 2026 November in the Hoofddorp/Schiphol area is cool and changeable; captures for this event did not return a verified local temperature range, so check a live forecast before travel. Late autumn in the Netherlands typically brings frequent rain and wind; pack a waterproof layer and allow buffer time for outdoor transfers between the airport, hotel and venue.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or local SIM options for business visitors to Netherlands.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Meeting style
Dutch business culture tends to be direct and informal. The European CME Forum programme is discussion-led, so expect workshop-style dialogue rather than a conventional exhibition-hall sales pitch.
Language
The forum and venue operate in English. Dutch is the local language, and most residents in the Hoofddorp/Schiphol area speak English, but keep key appointment details in writing.
Money and tipping
The Netherlands uses the euro. Card payments are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and transport; service charges are usually included, with rounding up optional.
Weather and dress
November in Hoofddorp is cool, windy and often wet. Pack a waterproof outer layer and comfortable shoes for walking between the hotel, bus stops and meeting rooms.
Punctuality and transport
Schedules for buses and trains are generally reliable, but allow buffer time for Schiphol transfers and late-autumn weather. Confirm the last shuttle or bus back to your hotel if sessions run into the evening.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: AMS
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Hoofddorp; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
Visa
EU/EEA and Swiss nationals do not need a visa. U.S. citizens may enter the Netherlands for up to 90 days for business or tourism without a visa. Other nationalities may need a Schengen short-stay visa; business visits can require an invitation letter from a Dutch business.
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
Schengen visa applicants should provide a valid travel document (issued within the last 10 years) plus supporting documents listed on the Netherlands Worldwide business-visit checklist. Apply through the Dutch embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence.
OfficialTransport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS): Approx. 10-15 minutes by road to Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol; confirm traffic and transfer times on the day. Allow road or rail time to Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol: On-site at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol, Hoofddorp: On-site at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol, Hoofddorp; Schiphol Airport hotel cluster: Schiphol Airport hotel cluster; Hoofddorp town centre: Hoofddorp town centre.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Hoofddorp; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol sits near the A4 at Hoofddorp, about 10-15 minutes by road from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Qbuzz bus lines 361 and 365 stop at 'Hoofddorp Brugrestaurant A4' on both sides of the hotel; the hotel also runs a shuttle from Schiphol Airport bus stop A9-A13. Approx. single bus fares are EUR 2-5 with contactless payment - confirm live fares and shuttle times with the hotel or Qbuzz. For rail, take an NS train from Schiphol to Hoofddorp station and continue by local bus or taxi.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: November 2026
Temperature: November in the Hoofddorp/Schiphol area is cool and changeable; captures for this event did not return a verified local temperature range, so check a live forecast before travel.
Seasonality: Late autumn in the Netherlands typically brings frequent rain and wind; pack a waterproof layer and allow buffer time for outdoor transfers between the airport, hotel and venue.
Packing: November in the Hoofddorp/Schiphol area is cool and changeable; captures for this event did not return a verified local temperature range, so check a live forecast before travel. Late autumn in the Netherlands typically brings frequent rain and wind; pack a waterproof layer and allow buffer time for
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at European CME Forum 2026 usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm your 19ECF registration and any Annual CME Survey discount code; the organiser advertises an extra 10% discount for survey participation.
T-2
Book flights into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS); Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol is roughly 10-15 minutes by road from the airport.
T-3
Reserve accommodation at the Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol or an airport-cluster hotel; the forum itself is hosted inside the Van der Valk.
T-4
Plan to arrive on 10 November if you want to be settled before the 11-13 November 2026 programme begins.
T-5
Check Schengen entry requirements for your nationality; non-EU business visitors may need a short-stay visa and an invitation letter from the Dutch host.
T-6
Note the Qbuzz bus lines 361 and 365 or the hotel shuttle from Schiphol bus stop A9-A13 for airport transfers.
T-7
Review the 19ECF agenda and the theme 'Future-proofing CME/CPD', then shortlist stakeholder sessions on accreditation, funding or faculty development.
T-8
Bring business cards and prepare a short introduction for multi-stakeholder discussions with accreditation bodies, medical societies and universities.
T-9
Pack for cool, wet November weather with a waterproof outer layer and comfortable shoes for hotel-conference walking.
T-10
Charge devices and set up roaming or a local eSIM for the Netherlands.
T-11
Block calendar time for follow-up meetings in the days after the forum, as the programme runs across three days.
T-12
Confirm any dietary or accessibility requirements with the organiser ahead of arrival.
T-13
Double-check your passport validity and travel document age; Schengen rules require documents issued within the last 10 years.
T-14
Keep a digital and printed copy of your registration confirmation and travel documents.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2European CME Forum 2026 registration concourse
Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights€190.00
- Per diem × 2€150.00
Estimated total€340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether European CME Forum 2026 fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For European CME Forum 2026, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing CME software solutions and Online learning platforms for healthcare solutions and benchmarking suppliers at European CME Forum 2026 in Hoofddorp.
Min. budget
$450.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching CME software solutions and Online learning platforms for healthcare products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,200.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Hoofddorp show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
- CME
- Continuing Medical Education - structured learning that physicians and other clinicians complete to maintain and develop their competence.
- CPD
- Continuing Professional Development - the broader framework of ongoing learning and development for healthcare professionals, of which CME is a part.
- 19ECF
- The short code for the 19th Annual European CME Forum, held 11-13 November 2026 at Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol, Hoofddorp.
- Accreditation body
- An organisation that reviews and approves CME/CPD activities against defined standards; a core stakeholder group represented at the European CME Forum.
- Faculty
- The speakers, educators and workshop leaders who deliver CME/CPD content; the European CME Forum reports over 491 faculty across its 18-year history.
- Annual CME Survey
- A survey run by the European CME Forum; the organiser notes participants can get a further 10% discount on 19ECF registration.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- CME conference Netherlands 2026
- continuing medical education event
- CPD conference 2026
- European CME Forum 2026 Hoofddorp
- European CME Forum Hoofddorp 2026
- CME 2026
- CME Hoofddorp 2026
- Hoofddorp Netherlands
- Medical Education Conference Hoofddorp 2026
- Continuing Professional Development
2 more alternate names hidden
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Sources
2
References
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Publishers
0
Date checked
1
European CME Forum
- event_website
- event_registration
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