travel guide rotterdam

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Rotterdam Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Often overshadowed by Amsterdam , Rotterdam is a funky little port town that prides itself on its unique architecture, cool art, amazing food, and massive harbor. The city is one of the most multicultural in the country and hosts an array of festivals and concerts throughout the year.

I really enjoy Rotterdam. It is a laid-back contrast to the wild, canal-lined streets of Amsterdam. Plus, the parks here are plentiful and the city comes to life in the summer with festivals, concerts, and other free events. (But, even while busy, it’s a far cry from the packed streets of Amsterdam.) Over the last few years, Rotterdam has really developed into a bustling up with a growing art and vibrant new restaurant scene.

This Rotterdam travel guide can help you plan your trip to this often overlooked destination.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Rotterdam

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Rotterdam

1. See the Erasmus Bridge

This bridge (nicknamed “The Swan”) resembles a harp and towers over Europe’s largest harbor. Connecting the north and south of Rotterdam over the Nieuwe Maas river, this is a cable-stayed bridge as well as a bascule bridge (aka a drawbridge; the bascule part can be raised to allow large ships to pass under it). From the bridge, you can spot the iconic Cube Houses (more on them below) as well as the Art Nouveau-style Witte Huis. Walk a little further and you can explore the charming Delfshaven neighborhood.

2. Walk the harbor

Rotterdam has the largest and busiest harbor in all of Europe and it stretches out over 40 kilometers (25 miles). Head to Futureland (free admission) to learn more about Maasvlakte 2, the most recent part of the port that opened in 2013. If you’re short on time, just wander around and watch all the boats coming and going or take a stroll through the piers and check out luxurious yachts owned by the world’s elite. I enjoyed eating lunch at the cafes and watching the world go by wondering “where is that ship going?”

3. Go up the Euromast tower

This tower has a rotating elevator that takes you 185 meters (606 feet) in the air. There’s also a restaurant at the top (but it’s a bit expensive). Thanks to the flat landscape of the country, the picturesque views stretch on for miles. If you like adventure, you can actually abseil down from the top! Admission to the viewing platforms is 11.50 EUR but if you want to go all the way to the top, it’s 15.50 EUR. Abseiling (May to September only) is 62.50 EUR.

4. Visit the Cube Houses

Rotterdam is known for its modern, cutting-edge architecture. A great example of this is the quirky Cube Houses, a row of 38 bright yellow, small, cube-shaped houses. The cubes are elevated and supported on hexagonal pylons, freeing space on the ground. Also known as Blaak Forest, they were designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom and built in the 1980s. Most of the houses are private residences but one is open to the public for 3 EUR.

5. Relax in the park

Located right by the river near the Euromast, Het Park is a gigantic park perfect for strolls, picnics, and sports. (Don’t tell the people in Amsterdam, but I enjoyed it more than Amsterdam’s famed Vondelpark.) I highly recommend spending some time here. It was designed in the 1850s to look and feel like a traditional English garden. There are park houses, a mini-golf course (7.50 EUR per round), benches, and a BBQ area. Pack a lunch, bring a book, and lounge the day away.

Other Things to See and Do in Rotterdam

1. attend the rotterdam summer carnival.

Rotterdam has a thriving community of local artists. Their contributions are best reflected in the many festivals that take place in the port city, especially in the summer. The annual Rotterdam Summer Carnival, held the last weekend of July, includes a full lineup of dancing, parties, and colorful parades. It’s the largest street party in the Netherlands with over 2,500 dancers, 25 carnival groups, and 30 floats on display. If possible, try to see the Battle of the Drums at the beginning of the carnival — the streets become filled with Caribbean brass bands all competing for the “Golden Drum” award.

2. Visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

This museum, founded in 1849, houses a rich collection of masterpieces such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s The “Little” Tower of Babel (1563). In addition to a large permanent collection of works by Dutch masters, there’s a broad collection of surrealism, featuring Salvador Dalí and René Magritte. While under renovation (expected to be completed in 2029), many items are accessible at other Rotterdam museums.

3. See City Hall

Built in 1914, the Rotterdam City Hall is one of the few buildings that survived the destruction of World War II (the Netherlands was officially neutral, however, the Nazis carpet-bombed Rotterdam and invaded the country anyway). There are several large statues outside the building, including the touching Memorial to the Fallen featuring four bronze figures meant to commemorate the victims of the war (900 people were killed and 85,000 were left homeless after just one day of bombing). Most of the notable architecture and monuments are on the exterior, but if you’d like a tour inside, you can book one from the local tourist office.

4. Peek in the Oude Kerk

This is another one of the few buildings that survived the World War II destruction. The Old Church, also called the Pilgrim Fathers Church, is one of the major sights in the Delfshaven neighborhood. Although the neighborhood is surrounded by the Red Light District, it’s nevertheless quite peaceful and quiet. The church dates to 1306 and is home to several artifacts, including a huge organ and the tombs of several noteworthy individuals, including Rembrandt’s wife. The church is said to be the site where the Pilgrims last prayed prior to leaving for the Americas. It’s 12 EUR to visit.

5. Do a harbor tour

If you enjoyed wandering the harbor and want to learn more about it, do a harbor tour. The harbor in Rotterdam is one of the largest and busiest in the entire world. Dutch history is inherently intertwined with the sea, so hopping on a boat tour is a great way to view some of the action. You’ll get to soak in the view of the city’s skyline while also viewing the shipyards, docks, and many giant shipping containers. Tours cost 15.75 EUR and last 75 minutes.

6. Visit the Kunsthal Rotterdam

For fans of contemporary art, the Kunsthal Rotterdam museum hosts temporary art exhibitions. While there is no permanent collection at the gallery, the space regularly attracts well-known artists. There is also a nice restaurant and a small garden and grounds to explore. Admission is 16.50 EUR and the museum is open daily when exhibitions are on. Check the website to see what’s on during your visit.

7. Grab a bite to eat at the Markthal

The Markthal is a large indoor market hall. Its impressive exterior is shaped like a horseshoe while the interior boasts over 100 different food stalls and restaurants. There’s also a supermarket and even a free historical exhibition space showcasing archaeological finds discovered during its construction. There’s a large mural of food, flowers, and insects covering the vaulted interior too. It’s a great place to snack and people-watch.

8. Explore the Het Nieuwe Instituut

The Museum for Architecture, Design, and Digital Culture offers a unique take on modern society. With exhibitions focusing on the three themes of design, architecture, and culture, it’s an insightful place to learn more about Rotterdam’s contemporary architecture. The Sonneveld House nearby, built in the modernist Dutch Functionalist style, is part of the museum’s collection and can be visited with the same admission ticket of 14 EUR (free on Thursday evenings).

9. Wander the Rotterdam Zoo

Rotterdam Zoo is one of the Netherlands’ oldest zoos and is considered one of the best zoos in Europe (it opened in 1857). Spanning over 60 acres, visitors can take a tour “around the world” through the various animal exhibitions and see giraffes, polar bears, elephants, and more. There’s also a relaxing botanical garden and an aquarium here as well. Admission is 23.50 EUR.

10. See Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk

This medieval Protestant church is the only remaining late Gothic building in Rotterdam, which was originally a medieval city. During World War II, the church was bombed, leaving only the walls intact. It was one of the few buildings in the city to be restored rather than replaced. There’s a tower that you can climb in spring/summer and three huge organs — including the largest organ in the Netherlands. Admission is 3 EUR and it costs another 7.50 EUR to climb the tower.

11. Tour the Maritime Museum

This museum is the oldest and largest museum in the Netherlands. It’s an immersive experience that covers six centuries of maritime history via its functional historic vessels and cranes. Some of the interactive exhibits include a trip offshore as well as learning about the drug trade (much of the world’s drugs are trafficked by ship). Tickets cost 16 EUR.

12. Explore the SS Rotterdam

The former flagship of the Holland America Line is now not only an attraction offering tours but you can actually sleep on board as well. Between 1959 and 1971, the ship ran transatlantic journeys between Europe and America. After flights put transatlantic boat trips out of business, it transitioned into a five-star cruise liner. It is now moored at the quayside in Rotterdam. There are three tours that you can take (two are guided while one is an audio tour). They last 1-2.5 hours and cost 12.95-16.50 EUR. Staying overnight costs from 80 EUR depending on the time of year.

  For more information on other cities in The Netherlands, check out these guides:

• Amsterdam Travel Guide
• The Hague Travel Guide
• Utrecht Travel Guide

Rotterdam Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostels start at 27 EUR per night for 12-14-bed dorms and 35 EUR for 4-6-bed dorms. A basic private room with a shared bathroom starts at 65 EUR. Prices don’t change much between peak and off-peak seasons but some hostels close in the off-season.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. A basic plot for one person without electricity costs around 12.50 EUR.

Budget hotel prices – Centrally located two-star hotels begin at 70 EUR per night for a double with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. Off-season, prices start at 55 EUR per night for the same type of room. For somewhere really unique, check out Culture Campsite. It features tiny houses using upcycled materials, including calf igloos, beach huts, and old trucks. Prices start at 65 EUR in low season and 75 EUR in high season.

Rotterdam has lots of Airbnb options, although it has become more tightly regulated in recent years. A private room can be as low as 45 EUR per night with a shared bathroom, even in peak season, but they average closer to 70-90 EUR. An entire apartment averages about 140 EUR per night, with off-season prices costing around 100 EUR per night.

Food – Dutch cuisine typically involves lots of vegetables, bread, and cheeses (gouda originated here). Meat, while historically not as prominent, is a staple of dinner meals. Breakfast and lunch usually involve open-faced sandwiches, often with cheeses and cold cuts. Dinners are very much a “meat and potatoes” meal, with meat stews and smoked sausage being two popular choices. For those with a sweet tooth, the stroopwafel (a waffle cookie with a syrup filling) is the go-to choice, though apple tarts/pies are also local favorites.

If you’re on a budget, falafel and shawarma shops are your best bet for cheap food. Meals here cost around 5-10 EUR. Cheap fast food (think fries and burgers) cost around 9 EUR.

Restaurant meals average around 15 EUR for a main dish of more traditional Dutch cuisine. In a mid-range restaurant, a three-course menu with a drink costs at least 30-40 EUR.

Pizza costs around 10-15 EUR while Chinese food is also around 10-15 EUR for a main dish. Beer is 4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3 EUR. Bottled water is 2.40 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 60-70 EUR per week for groceries that include pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking Rotterdam Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Rotterdam, expect to spend about 65 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, limiting your drinking, taking public transit to get around, cooking your meals, and sticking to mostly free activities like walking tours and exploring the market. If you plan on drinking, add 10-20 EUR more per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of about 145 EUR per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, enjoy a drink or two, eat out a little bit, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like a harbor tour and visiting some museums.

On a “luxury” budget of 280 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, take more taxis and rent a bike to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Rotterdam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

The Netherlands is not a cheap destination — and the city of Rotterdam is no exception to that rule. However, there are plenty of ways to save money if you look for them. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Rent a bicycle – The easiest and cheapest way to get around the city (besides walking) is to rent a bike. Donkey Republic is an app that has locations all over the city. You can get a bike with them for around 3.30 EUR per hour or 10-13 EUR per day.
• Eat cheap – Rotterdam has a lot of cheap snack and falafel shops that cost 5-10 EUR. Additionally, buying food at the market is a great way to stock up on groceries for the week. It’s not glamorous, but it’s cheap.
• Get the Welcome Card – If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing, get this city tourist card. It offers discounts on most attractions (and some are free) as well as three days’ worth of travel on the train and bus system. It’s a bargain if you are going to stay in the city for a while and see a lot. The 24-hour pass is just 13.50 EUR.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a service that lets travelers stay with locals for free. You’ll get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice, making this an amazing platform to use to get travel tips. Just be sure to send your requests early as there are not many hosts here.
• Get the Museumkaart (Museum Card) – Good for one month for non-residents, this card gets you into museums in the Netherlands for only 64.90 EUR. With the Museum Card, you get access to more than 400 museums throughout the Netherlands (the temporary card available to tourists can only be used at a maximum of 5 different museums, however). Depending on your trip, though, it can save you money if you choose your museums wisely.
• Buy the Rotterdam Pass – The Rotterdam Pass is valid for a year so if you’re planning to spend a long time in Rotterdam, or you’re going to be making multiple visits there, then it definitely makes sense to pick one up. It provides free admission or discounts at around 500 attractions in and around Rotterdam including 20 museums and some food outlets so if you’re planning to eat out and see lots of attractions then it’s worth it. It costs 60 EUR.
• Take a free walking tour – If you want an overview of the city, take a free walking tour with Free Walking Tour Rotterdam . They offer insightful tours that can help you learn about the city on a budget. Just be sure to tip!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis here and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

Rotterdam doesn’t have many hostel options but there are still a handful of budget-friendly accommodations to choose from. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Rotterdam:

• Stayokay Rotterdam
• King Kong Hostel Rotterdam
• CityHub Rotterdam
• HostelRoom Rotterdam
• Sparks Hostel

How to Get Around Rotterdam

Public transportation – Rotterdam has an extensive public transport system of buses, trams, and a metro run by RET. A single journey up to 2 hours is 4.50 EUR so it’s a lot cheaper to buy a day pass for 9.50 EUR if you’re moving around a lot. If you need a 2- or 3-day pass, it’s cheaper to buy the multi-day Rotterdam Welcome Card.

Note: Cash is not accepted on public transportation. You need to purchase an OV chip card to ride. They come in reloadable and non-reloadable versions.

Bicycle – Like other cities in the Netherlands, cycling is one of the most popular ways to get around. Donkey Republic has stations all over the city with prices starting at 3.30 EUR per hour and 10-13 EUR per day.

Taxi – It’s probably not necessary to take taxis to get around Rotterdam as bikes, walking, and public transport can get you anywhere you need to go. However, if you do need a ride, prices start at 4 EUR and go up 2 EUR per kilometer. Skip them if you can as those prices add up fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Rotterdam but, again, public transportation goes everywhere so skip them if you can.

When to Go to Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s peak season is July-August. This is when the city is liveliest and when you’ll find most of the festivals and events. It’s also when the city is busiest so be sure to book your accommodation early since there are not a ton of hostels here. The average daily summer temperature in Rotterdam is around 22°C (72°F), but it can get a lot hotter than that during July and August.

The weather is mild during the off-season (late spring and early fall) and prices are a little cheaper. If you’re on a tight budget, this is a good time to visit.

The average daily temperature in the winter is 7°C (45°F) so dress warmly if you visit during that time. Generally, I would say avoid visiting in the winter unless you come around Christmas as the city lights up with holiday markets and festivities.

How to Stay Safe in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel. Violent crime is very rare here. Pick-pocketing, while uncommon, can still occur though so keep an eye on your belongings when on crowded public transit.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

There are a few common scams to be aware of here, such as people trying to sell you public transit tickets that actually have already been used. Also, be wary of purchasing a really cheap bike from someone off the street as it has likely been stolen. Overall, scams here are rare but you can read about common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Rotterdam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Rotterdam Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

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13 top things to do in Rotterdam: Architecture, culture and plenty of gin

Nov 26, 2021 • 9 min read

Rotterdam's locals have perfected the art of outdoor dining, here overlooking Europe's first high-rise building Witte Huis © Jan Bijl / Rotterdam Partners

Few European cities are as exhilarating as Rotterdam . Almost completely destroyed during WWII, its urban reconstruction has been a triumphant exercise in embracing innovation – the resulting architecture and urban planning have endowed its streets and neighbourhoods with a personality and energy that make it a great place to visit.

It’s also a must-see destination for those interested in cutting-edge design. Though compact, the city offers an extraordinary varied array of sights and experiences to keep the visitor busy, not to mention a wealth of trendy spots to grab a drink or something to eat.

Here are the best things to do in Rotterdam.

Grab a global snack at the Markthal

The visual heart of this city is as surprising as it is beloved. Opened in 2014, the Markthal in Centrum is a unique contemporary take on the traditional Dutch market hall. Designed by local architectural firm MVRDV, the building is in the form of a slightly bulbous arch framed on each end by floor-to-ceiling walls of glass. 

Inside, a massive ceiling mural by artists Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam arcs over the hall’s produce stalls, fast-food stands and eateries. Its subject matter – a colourful cornucopia of food, flowers and insects – references 17th-century Dutch still-life paintings. Head here at lunchtime, when the fast-food stands that cram the ground floor serve a huge array of global cuisine.

Admire the Overblaak Development

East of the Markthal, across the paved plaza, is the Overblaak Development , a vibrantly hued, crazily tilting residential creation featuring a pencil-shaped tower and a forest of 38-cube-shaped apartments on hexagonal pylons. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom and built between 1978 and 1984, it’s perhaps the most distinctive building in a city where architectural distinction is the rule rather than the exception. 

Go behind the scenes at Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen

When Rotterdam’s pre-eminent art gallery, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen , closed for major renovations in 2019, the question of what to do with its 151,000 artworks during the closure arose. Should they be put into a storage depot? Or perhaps loaned out to other institutions in travelling exhibitions? 

Both are tried and true solutions, but here in Rotterdam, another possibility was raised – a new state-of-the-art storage depot next to the museum, publicly accessible so that its treasures could continue to delight visitors while the museum itself was closed.

In November 2021, the new Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen opened to the public. Housed in an extraordinary building designed by acclaimed local firm MVRDV of Markthal fame, the depot takes the form of a bowl-shaped building clad in mirrored glass. It has seven levels, a central 115ft-high (35m) atrium, a roof garden planted with trees and an upper-floor restaurant.

Feast on Tante Nel’s famous friet

Ask any Rotterdammer what their favourite fast food is and the answer will almost inevitably be Tante Nel’s friet . Serving the local version of French fries from its hybrid snack shack and bar in Centrum, Aunt Nel serves friet that are hand-cut and expertly fried, best eaten with met (mayonnaise) or doused in stoofviees (a rich meat stew). The bitterballen (Dutch meatballs) are pretty good, too. 

Order your snack and a drink inside and then enjoy your choice on one of the tables on the front terrace. It’s particularly busy late at night, as eating friet here is a popular pastime after drinking sessions at nearby Bokaal , one of the city’s most popular bars.

Marvel at the modernist Van Nelle Fabriek

One of only 11 World Heritage–listed cultural sights in the Netherlands, this concrete, steel and glass factory on the banks of a canal northwest of Centrum is a modernist masterpiece. Conceived by architects Johannes Brinkman and Leendert van der Vlugt as an ‘ideal factory,’ where interior working spaces evolved according to need and where daylight was maximised to provide healthy and enjoyable working conditions, it became a powerful symbol of European modernity when it opened in 1931. 

Today it houses event spaces and creative industries. Local company Urban Guides conducts one-hour group or customised tours of the factory and other architectural wonders throughout the city on weekends – check its website for details.

Enjoy a tipple at a local microbrewery

When it comes to beer, Rotterdammers clearly believe that small producers are best. Microbreweries are scattered throughout the city, with concentrations in avant-garde Noord, the neighbourhood northeast of Centraal Station. Here, popular venues such as Brouwerij Noordt and Eurotrash United offer patrons both standard and seasonal brews. 

Heading west, drinkers sit amidst burnished copper vats and are seduced by the heady aroma of hops and the delicious flavours of the signature Mayflower Tripel at Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim , an atmospheric brewhouse in historic Delfshaven. South of Centrum, in the former red-light district of Katendrecht, the popular Fenix Food Factory overlooking the Maas River is home to artisanal food and drink stalls including the taproom of Kaapse Brouwers , a hipster outfit producing more than 20 craft beers.

Learn about the wartime experience at Museum Rotterdam 1940-1945 NU

Few cities were as disastrously impacted by WWII as Rotterdam. In a bunker-like building tucked under a bridge on Coolhaven, this small but excellent museum documents life in the city during the war years. The centerpiece is an immersive multimedia experience outlining the terror and destruction that was caused on 14 May 1940, when 54 German aircraft dropped 1300 bombs on the city over a 13-minute period, killing more than 900 people, destroying buildings and setting off a firestorm that levelled the medieval city centre and many other neighborhoods. 

Other exhibits highlight the Nazis' unconscionable treatment of Rotterdam’s Jewish community under the occupation, the valiant contribution of local resistance fighters and the joyous liberation of the city by Canadian troops on 8 May 1945.

Stroll the historic streets of Delfshaven

Be sure to wander along the pretty-as-a-picture streets and canals in historic Delfshaven, one of the few neighbourhoods in Rotterdam to be spared in the 1940 bombings. While here, pop in for a drink at one of the neighbourhood’s famous bruin cafés (traditional Dutch pubs).

Embrace third-wave coffee culture

This is a city that takes its coffee seriously. A craze kick-started with the opening of local coffee roaster Man Met Bril in 2012, cafes across town now serve coffee made with fair-trade, single-origin beans that are freshly roasted by local suppliers. Be it espresso, AeroPress, drip, French press or cold brew, you’ll have no trouble sourcing a cup to your liking and enjoying it in casual but stylish surrounds. 

Our favourite cafes include the aforementioned Man Met Bril, located in a repurposed railway viaduct in the Noord neighbourhood; Hopper on Schiedamse Vest near Witte de Withstraat; and Urban Espresso Bar on the bustling Nieuwe Binnenwag strip. The latter two serve great food, too (don’t miss the house-baked pastries at Hopper).

Enjoy a gin in historic Schiedam

Back in Holland’s Golden Age, the town of Schiedam was known for its jenever, a spirit combining distilled malt wine and juniper berries that's considered the forerunner of gin. Popularised around the globe courtesy of the crews of Dutch East India Company ships, who were fervent admirers of its fortifying qualities, it was also popular with the Dutch soldiers who fought alongside English and Scottish troops in 17th-century wars and whose jenever-fuelled fortitude under fire came to be called ‘Dutch courage’ by their allies. 

These days, the history of picturesque Schiedam and its jenever industry is explained at the Nationaal Jenevermuseum located in the center of the town’s historic distillery district. After visiting, you can sample the stuff itself at one of the bars on picturesque Grote Markt in the historic centre. It’s easy to get to Schiedam, just take the metro (Line A or B) from Rotterdam Centraal to Schiedam Centrum.

Admire the majestic De Rotterdam building

In a city replete with architectural masterworks, the interconnected stack of glass and steel boxes forming the De Rotterdam complex stands out for its size, audacity and sheer virtuosity. Designed by local firm OMA, which is headed by star architect Rem Koolhaas, this vertical city is the visual lynchpin of Kop van Zuid, the revitalised former port area south of the Nieuwe Maas shipping channel. 

Though Kop van Zuid can be accessed via tram and metro (Wilhelminaplein station), the best way to get here is by walking or cycling across the Erasmusbrug , a stunning pylon bridge fondly dubbed ‘the Swan’ by locals. At sunset, when De Rotterdam’s lights are first turned on, the building’s colossal exterior seems almost transparent and is a truly wonderful sight. But many would argue that the view from the nhow Hotel’s seventh-floor cocktail bar , which offers a panoramic sweep of the Erasmusbrug and city skyline, is even better.

Join the party on Witt de Withstraat

If there’s one art the locals have perfected, it’s outdoor eating and drinking. In fine weather the cafes, bars and eateries along Witt de Withstraat unfurl the street umbrellas over their street furniture, crank up their sound systems and welcome boisterous groups of Rotterdammers young and old. 

If you join them, you’ll probably find yourself cheek-by-jowl with backpackers from nearby hostels, staff from the cultural institutions in Museumpark, office and retail workers from Centrum and those from other neighborhoods who know that this is where the best party in town takes place – every night into the wee hours. Our favourite watering holes include De Witt Aap at number 78 and Wunderbar , which is located just around the corner at Boomgaardsstraat 71.

Take a day trip to Kinderdijk

There’s so much to see and do in Rotterdam that it seems almost reprehensible to recommend a day trip out of the city. But Kinderdijk , an almost impossibly picturesque World Heritage-listed landscape of marshes, canals and historic traditional windmills located approximately 9.5 miles (15km) southeast of the city center, is worth making an exception for. 

This quintessentially Dutch landscape is best explored by bicycle – hire one in Rotterdam (your accommodation should be able to help you with this) and then take it and yourself onto the number 202 waterbus ferry from the Erasmusbrug ferry terminal. 

After a 30-minute journey, you can hop onto your bike and follow the dual pedestrian and cycle path between the canals, stopping to visit the two 17th-century windmills operating as museums as well as the visitor centre in the 19th-century pumping station. In summer, tall reeds line the canals, lily pads float on the water and birdcalls break the silence – it’s a truly magical experience.  

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A local’s guide to Rotterdam: secrets of the Netherlands’ second city

From the best kimchi to buzzing galleries and gardens, restaurateur Manuela Gonçalves Tavares shares his insider tips

Dutch food was once all meat, veg and potatoes, but in the 1950s migrants from all over the world started arriving and created the food culture we now have. A popular tourist market is Markthal with about 100 vendors, including Natamania , which sells delicious Portuguese past éis de nata .

But my favourites are the Korean places in the Hoogkwartier area, home also to my restaurant, Coco , which serves food from the Caribbean, Suriname and Cape Verde. Bapboss serves the best spicy kimchi in town: I love its rice – cooking rice is an art – and the excellent galbi ( marinated Korean beef rib) is sliced thin for the barbecue. Another must is Ox , a new Malaysian-Chinese pop-up: it’s small, stylish and hidden away (you’re given instructions on how to find it when you book). The menu changes regularly, but I’d eat everything there as the level of cooking – and the cocktails – is very high.

Inspiration

Het Nieuwe Instituut is the Netherlands’ national museum for design and culture, with interactive exhibitions on architecture, dance culture, music and fashion. I also like Mama , a gallery and creative space founded in 1997 on Witte De Withstraat, a buzzy street many tourists enjoy visiting. Mama aims to connect young people to art: it hosts performances, exhibitions and events.

Neighbourhood

I grew up in multicultural West Kruiskade . My parents came over in the 1950s from Cape Verde: back then they put all the migrants in the same neighbourhood. It might have been poor and ugly, but the people that live here have made it rich with their culture, whether from the Dutch colonies or Iran.

I especially love the tokos , the little bodegas where you can buy food from the Caribbean, sweet jam, plantain, fake hair, skin creams and shampoos. When I began studying French cuisine it was these tokos that gave me the inspiration to cook differently.

Rotterdam’s Chinatown is here, too – my top restaurant tip is Tai Wu , which has been open for 25 years – but there’s so much good food, from Spanish to Turkish. And Wijkpark, the local park, has art and a petting farm.

Green space

I live in Kralingen now, a more affluent but also studenty area. Its botanic Trompenburg Gardens are known for their biodiversity, with unique trees, shrubs and flowers. A highlight is the desert greenhouse, filled with cacti and succulents. It’s stunning. And, as the gardens are off the beaten track, they’re not often overcrowded, even when the sun is out.

I normally go to Baroeg , one of the oldest clubs in Rotterdam, which specialises in metal, punk and rock. Poing has retro arcade games and karaoke, and my favourite cocktail bar is Spikizi , where I always order a Moscow mule. The gay bars here cater mostly for men, but cool queer-friendly clubs include Worm , Tech Noir and Now & Wow in Maassilo , a renovated grain silo built in 1910. Look out for one-off LGBTQ+ events celebrating black ballroom culture. Drag queens and kings perform in many restaurants and other venues across the city.

Where to stay

Mainport (doubles from €115 room-only) is a design hotel on the banks of the River Maas. There is a terrace with views of the Erasmus Bridge and the old harbour, and on another floor there is a swimming pool overlooking the whole city skyline.

The historic Hotel New York (doubles from €122 room-only) is in the former headquarters of the Holland-America Line, and has a good fish restaurant. I also recommend Bazaar (doubles from €85 B&B) on Witte de Withstraat: its characterful bedrooms are inspired by Asia and Africa.

Manuela Gonçalves Tavares is the chef-owner of Coco , which specialises in Caribbean, Surinamese and Cape Verdean cuisine (temporarily closed but reopening soon), and the plant-based Het Nieuwe Café

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13 Best Things To Do in Rotterdam

Rotterdam – a creative city in the Netherlands featuring world-famous architecture & museums, trendy cafes, the largest port in Europe, and many entrepreneurs. This young and energetic city is often overshadowed by Amsterdam when, in reality, it’s very different. During the II World War, the old city center disappeared due to air bombings, but Rotterdam came back stronger with daring and eye-catching architecture, like the Cube Houses and Markthal.

13 Things To Do in Rotterdam

As the intro might suggest, Rotterdam is awesome! Hannah and I spent most of our teenage years at school there, and it has become one of our favorite places on earth. Besides shopping at the Koopgoot, find out about the popular Things To Do in Rotterdam.

1. Markthal

Opened in 2014, the Markthal of Rotterdam has become a landmark for the city. Inside this 40-meter-high horseshoe-shaped market hall are plenty of food stalls and restaurants. The enormous glass facade on both sides keeps the cold out and, therefore, is also possible to visit in winter. Fruits, vegetables, and flowers sold at the market are displayed as artwork on the Markthal’s ceiling. You can join a tour exploring this landmark while tasting all the delicious food.

Here are all your hotel options in Rotterdam.

The outer ring is all apartments with a window looking down into the Markthal (how cool!). During the evening or sunset time, the Markthal’s inside will light up and make it incredibly picturesque from the outside square. If you like to capture it without people, visit before opening time at 10 AM.

Tip: Visit the nearby Laurens church, one of the few remaining buildings in this area.

These are the best city trips in Europe

2. Depot – A Giant Mirror

Depot is a new building part of the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum. It is the first depot in the world that offers access to 151,000 art objects! The building itself is a 40-meter-high building covered in mirrors that reflect the skyline of the city. An absolute must-see in Rotterdam!

3. Vintage Shopping

If you love vintage shopping, this should be your thing to do in Rotterdam. Throughout the entire city are small and large vintage shops that sell everything from clothing and accessories to shoes and even furniture items. This way of sustainable shopping is very popular, plus it is usually much more affordable. A few favorites are:

• Sweet Rebels 
• Betje Krul Vintage
• Margootje Vintage
• Cheap Fashion

4. Walk the Street Art Route

Rotterdam and street art go hand-in-hand. This new ‘Capital of Cool’ has many hidden murals around the city that you can find by following the locations on Google Maps . you can do this by walking, renting a bicycle, or using Felix, the electric scooter. 

Discover the Street Art Map

5. Cube Houses – A Must-Do in Rotterdam

Houses that lean against each other at a 45-degree angle, hovering above the street in the city center. This strange appearance, named the Yellow Cube Houses (Kubeswoningen), is the oldest (1977) and, therefore, the most iconic thing to do in Rotterdam. 

Almost all houses are inhabited apart from one that is open to the public from 11 AM to 5 PM. Alternatively, you can also spend the night there at the Stayokay Hotel .

Luckily, the street is always accessible, so appreciating its exterior can be done at any hour of the day. Follow the street that goes under the houses and find patterns or new perspectives.

6. Chill at the parks or beaches

Inside the city are a couple of great parks like ‘Het Park’ or ‘Kralingsebos’ where you can spend an afternoon relaxing in the grass. Inside ‘Het Park’ at the Euromast is a great-looking little cafe named Parqiet with outdoor seating. 

Weelde city beach

A holiday feeling in the middle of the city, Rotterdam’s Weelde city beach is the spot to visit when the sun’s out! Weelde is a collective of smaller businesses with a restaurant, bar, relaxing garden, a city beach, and soon a skatepark. Getting there: Take the metro or tram to Marconiplein.

Beaches near Rotterdam

For some beach time, take the metro line to Hoek van Holland, Ouddorp, or the Brouwersdam. The Brouwserdam and Ouddorp take longer to get to with public transport but are much quieter beaches.

Read about: Ouddorp and Brouwersdam Beaches

7. Old and New at Kop van Zuid

Cross the Erasmus bridge towards Kop van Zuid, where the contrast of Rotterdam’s old and new architecture is most visible. 

De Rotterdam The first building you will notice is ‘De Rotterdam’, a 149-meter-high tower completed in 2013. The shifted towers enhance wind stability and also its design. Nhow Hotel is situated inside, which is a great place to stay in Rotterdam. 

Hotel New York Possibly the most charming building of Rotterdam is this former office building of the ‘Holland-Amerika Lijn’ which was a shipping and passenger line between America and The Netherlands.

Later on, the building transformed into Hotel New York and a restaurant, with a terrace that overlooks the river.

Pakhuismeesteren Products like nuts and tea were imported from Indonesia and stored into this former VOC warehouse. On its exterior, you can see names like Borneo and Java written on the building. Nowadays, there are food halls located inside.

Tip: Spending New Years in Rotterdam? The Erasmus Bridge is home to the great annual fireworks show.

8. Grote Markt at Blaak Rotterdam (The big market)

Twice a week, on Tuesday and Saturday, the local market is organized at the big square in front of the Markthal. Before the Markthal was built, this was the main market. You find over 250 stalls selling everything from cheese, nuts, fruits, and veggies to clothing, second-hand items, and gadgets. The market in Rotterdam is one of the biggest in the Netherlands .

Visiting in April or May? Don’t miss the Tulips in the Netherlands !

9. The Story of ‘Witte Huis’

One of the most underestimated things to do in Rotterdam is to see ‘Witte Huis’ (White House) along with the ‘Spanjaardsburg’ and the ‘Oudehaven’. The story behind the white house is truly remarkable, as it was constructed in 1897 and was Europe’s first skyscraper at just 43 meters! 

During the Second World War, the picturesque Spanjaardsburg (bridge) and Witte Huis were the only remains around the old harbor. See this photo from 1940 , where you see Laurenschurch and Witte Huis after the bombing. Walk around the old harbor (Oudehaven) and have a delicious lunch at LOT&DAAN.

Did you know:  Rotterdam is just 2.5 hours away from Paris? Read the full Paris City Trip Guide .

10. Walk the Luchtsingel

Located in the center of the city is a rather remarkable site. The ‘Luchtsingel’ is a bright-yellow elevated pedestrian bridge that connects Central Station to Rotterdam North.

The 390-meter-long wooden structure was a project entirely funded by the community. Individuals were asked to buy a wooden plank for 25 EUR, and, in return, a person or company could have their name placed on the piece. The Luchtsingel is accessible 24/7 via multiple stairways located here.

Another option is booking a boat tour or bike tour to see Rotterdam.

11. The Windmills at Kinderdijk 

Marked as one of the few UNESCO World Heritage sights in the Netherlands, the windmills of Kinderdijk are a truly beautiful sight. A calm river bank is flanked by 19 windmills on both riversides, which are all inhabited to preserve this unique way of living. The landscape is being prevented from flooding with the help of these windmills.

Read everything about the windmills at Kinderdijk 

Entrance fee Kinderdijk Kinderdijk itself is free to visit. Additionally, you can buy a ticket to have a look inside and learn about its history. (10 AM – 4 PM) Purchase an additional ticket for the riverboat tour.

How to get to Kinderdijk The most fun way to visit Kinderdijk is by using the waterbus. Take a rented bike, too, so you can bike around at Kinderdijk. Another option would be taking the metro and switching to bus 489 at station Kralingse Zoom.

Waterbus tickets can be bought inside the bus. Check out the timetable here .

12. Delfshaven – Favorite Thing To Do in Rotterdam

Delfshaven in Rotterdam is a picturesque and historic area that has been pretty much untouched by the II World War bombs. If you’ve visited Amsterdam , you can probably recognize this building style in Delfshaven and get an idea of what all of Rotterdam used to look like.

Wander along the harbor surrounded by historical and crooked buildings which takes about 20 – 30 minutes. The best part about this thing to do in Rotterdam is that it’s fairly unknown. Arrive before 11 AM and you will barely see any other visitors.

Also read: Things to do in Amsterdam (City Trip Guide)

13. Visit one of the many museums

If you’re into museums, this is your place. Rotterdam features many well-known museums like Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Kunsthal. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the Maritime Museum to learn about the history of the largest port in Europe ( book tickets here ).

Ticket prices range from 10 – 20 EUR.

Best spots to eat in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a very multi-cultural and international city and, therefore, a real paradise for food lovers. There are great restaurants, at any price or category, spread over the city, and some of them are very well decorated. These are our favorites, which are all in the middle price range (10 – 20 EUR):

• Backyard (Plant-based)
• Little V (Vietnamese)
• Sajoer (Juicebar)
• Speck (Pizza)
• LOT&DAAN (Lunch)
• Bazar (Middle Eastern)
• Umami (Sushi)

Where to Stay

Although the city is very walkable, it is useful to have a hotel in Rotterdam near public transport or in the city center. The best areas to stay in Rotterdam are North, Central, Delfshaven, and Kop van Zuid.

Hotels in Rotterdam 😴

Getting to Rotterdam

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam Central, and even Paris are all very well connected to Rotterdam. A direct, 30-minute high-speed train from the international airport takes you to Rotterdam Central, or you can take a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris! The only downside is that train tickets in the Netherlands are expensive at the moment, so do factor this in.

We recommend to rent a car in Netherlands through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Transport in Rotterdam

Getting from A to B in Rotterdam is even easier than getting there. Renting a bike is a fun option since the city is designed around biking lanes. Other than that, use the water taxi, tram, metro or bus. Route planning plus live departure times are available via Google Maps. 

Tip: A very affordable way is to buy a day pass that allows you to visit all the places within this Rotterdam city trip guide. ( Find out more )

Is Rotterdam Expensive?

In comparison to Amsterdam, Rotterdam is a much more affordable city. The prices of restaurants, accommodation, museums, and attractions are noticeably lower.

Costs of Traveling in Rotterdam

Travel on a budget in Rotterdam, from $390 − $670 USD weekly per person, mid-range $940 − $1970 USD, and high-end from $1880 − $2720 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $60 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $60 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $10 − $30 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $100 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $50 USD
• Activities: $10 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
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Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Excellent post! Your blog about Rotterdam and the helpful City Trip guide have nudged me to apply for a Visa for Netherlands. I heard that most of the EU countries are relaxing travel restrictions and if tourists adhere to certain guidelines then they can easily enter the beautiful country in a hassle-free manner. I will be going through your post once I get my visa so that I can prepare a fun-filled Netherlands travel itinerary.

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25 Top Things to Do in Rotterdam

When visiting Rotterdam, attractions are easy to come by with a range of museums, bars and restaurants, and of course, national monuments and museums. There is never a shortage of things to do in Rotterdam and in this article, you will learn about the top things to do in preparation for your next visit to the buzzing port city.

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands in the province of South Holland, sporting a population of more than 650,000 people. It is the largest seaport in Europe, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international shipping.

Aside from the maritime aspect of Rotterdam, it also boasts an impressive architectural side with many skyscrapers, somewhat resembling the skyline of New York. Together with its buzzing nightlife and hip, artistic feel, Rotterdam really is a must-see on your European adventures.

Rotterdam was also one of the major Dutch cities that was completely flattened during World War ll and as a result, the city had to virtually be rebuilt. Once past the borough of Delfshaven, you will struggle to find any traditional Dutch houses and architecture. Instead, you will be met with modern architecture, colourful buildings, the distinctive cube houses, and of course, the New York-esque skyline.

Read more: Where to stay in Rotterdam – a comprehensive guide of the best places to stay in Rotterdam and the most popular neighbourhoods

How to get to Rotterdam

1. climb the euromast, 2. tour the feyenoord stadium, 3. historical rotterdam boat trip, 4. visit the mariniersmuseum, 5. visit the maritime museum rotterdam, 6. see rotterdam in miniature at miniworld rotterdam, 7. take a cruise with the pancake boat in rotterdam, 8. remastered in rotterdam, 9. make a rotterdam harbour cruise with spido, 10. visit rotterdam zoo (diergaarde blijdorp), 11. splash tour rotterdam, 12. eat your way in markthal, 13. discover het witte huis, 14. visit the grote kerk (sint-laurenskerk), 15. visit the wereldmuseum, 16. marvel the cube houses, 17. visit the unique depot boijmans-van beuningen, 18. discover the dutch photography museum, 19. enjoy a trip to kinderdijk, 20. visit the van nelle factory, 21. visit the chabot museum, 22. walk the iconic erasmus bridge, 23. chill out at the fenix food factory, 24. marvel the street art in the city, 25. go in the footsteps of the pilgrims at delfshaven, final words.

Getting to Rotterdam is super easy. Being the second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is well connected with Rotterdam, other major cities in the country, and the airports. Rotterdam even has its own international airport, well shared with The Hague – Rotterdam The Hague Airport.

Rotterdam is connected to London with the Eurostar and to Paris and Brussel with the Thalys, so getting to this amazing Dutch city is never difficult. That’s why Rotterdam is so popular as a city-trip destination.

If you are arrive in Rotterdam by train, you’ll get off in one of the most amazing train stations in the Netherlands. If you travel in any other way to the city, just go and check the building, you won’t be disappointed.

Here are some distances to Rotterdam from other major cities and the time it takes by train to Rotterdam:

• Amsterdam – Rotterdam: 80 km; 50 min
• Schiphol – Rotterdam: 60 km; 35 min
• Eindhoven – Rotterdam: 120 km; 1 hr 10 min
• Utrecht – Rotterdam: 55 km; 40 min
• The Hague – Rotterdam: 25 km; 30 min
• Den Bosch – Rotterdam: 85 km; 60 min
• Groningen – Rotterdam: 250 km; 2 hr 40 min
• Maastricht -Rotterdam: 205 km; 2 hr 20 min

The best way to find out how to travel from A to B in the Netherlands is to use the Glimble app. You can buy your tickets in the app and travel hassle-free. The app is absolutely free to download .

• Click here to download Glimble for Android
• Click here to download Glimble for iPhone

Tip: Read this post about using the public transport in the Netherlands . It’s packed with tips that only a local knows!

Top Things to do in Rotterdam

Here is map of the locations of all things to see and do in Rotterdam, included in this post. You can download the map and use it offline, or add it to Your Places in Google Maps, so that you can quickly find all Rotterdam attractions.

First on the list of things to do in Rotterdam, is Euromast – the 185 metre high Modernist observation tower designed by Dutch architect, Hugh Maaskant . It was specifically designed for the Floriade , an international exhibition and garden festival that takes place in the Netherlands once every decade.

As one of the highest towers in Rotterdam, it provides unparalleled views of the city after a short elevator ride to the top. For the adrenaline junkies, you will be able to both abseil down the building or hop on the cable glide down. The cable glide can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometres an hour – definitely not for the faint-hearted! Euromast is a must-see in Rotterdam and on a clear day, you’re even able to see the Belgian city of Antwerp.

Practical info: Rotterdam Euromast Address: Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 11,50 EUR; children (4-11 yoa) – 8 EUR; There are various tickets. Check for all options here or buy directly your tickets Opening times: daily, from 9:30 am till 10 pm

Feyenoord Stadium or De Kuip is the home of the Dutch football team Feyenoord Rotterdam who play in the top division of the Dutch football league. At the official stadium of the team, you are able to embark on a hour and a half long tour of the grounds including a walk on the field, a visit to the change rooms, and of course a trip through the famous players’ tunnel. This really gives you the feeling of what it’s like to walk in the players’ boots – one of unforgettable things to do in Rotterdam.

After your visit through the stadium, the tour stops off at the Feyenoord Museum . Here, you will learn about the history of the club and be able to see a vast number of football artefacts housed in the museum. At the end of the highly informative tour, you will no-doubt have built up a healthy appetite. The good news is that there is a fully functional restaurant, Brasserie De Kuip , offering beverages and lunch.

Practical info: Stadion Feijenoord Address: Van Zandvlietplein 1, 3077 AA Rotterdam Book a tour here of the stadium

One of the best ways to see the city in Rotterdam is from the Maas River aboard the Nehalennia , a vintage passenger ship. You will be able to see some of the top sights in Rotterdam from the ship and it provides a unique and interesting angle of the city.

During your 2-hour tour aboard the Nehalennia , you will be able to see another side of Rotterdam – tourist attractions, modern architecture, and many other iconic landmarks in the city. You will be able to feel the energy of the bustling port-area, being greeted by tugboats, ferries, and cargo ships. Some of the top Rotterdam attractions that you will can see with this tour include Erasmus Bridge, Waalhaven, Euromast, the Rotterdam Droogdok Maatschappij, and many others. Drinks and snacks are available on board as you wind through the city aboard one of the most iconic Rotterdam attractions.

Departure place: Boompjeskade 123, 3011 XD Rotterdam Book the boat cruise here

The Netherlands Marine Corps Museum ( Mariniersmuseum ) is considered one of the toughest museums in Rotterdam, focusing on the history and composition of the Netherlands Marine Corps. Located on the Wijnhaven in the city, you are able to hear the stories of these tough armed forces, as well as immerse yourself in some wonderful interactive material.

With a continuously rotating exhibition on display, an array of interactive materials, and the many stories of these hardcore marine corps , you will really be able to put yourself in their boots and see what life is like for them.

Practical info: Netherlands Marine Corps Museum / Mariniersmuseum Address: Wijnhaven 7-13, 3011 WH Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 11 EUR; children (4-12 yoa) – 8 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 9:30 am till 5 pm

One of the oldest maritime museums in Rotterdam is located in the Leuvehaven district of the city, adjacent to the Nieuwe Maas River. It is here that you will be able to see a variety of vintage ships and cranes as part of the continuous exhibit on show at the museum.

Not only is the Maritime Museum Rotterdam one of the oldest museum harbours in the Netherlands, but it is also one of the largest. Over the years, this original harbour site has transformed into one of the world’s leading ports and you can really get insight into how the shipping industry works and the effect it has on our daily lives.

Practical info: Maritime Museum Rotterdam / Maritiem Museum Address: Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 16 EUR; children (4-15 yoa) – 12 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: Tuesday-Saturday, from 10 am till 5 pm; Sunday, from 11 am till 5 pm

Miniworld Rotterdam is one of the unique things to do in Rotterdam and boasts more than 650 square metres of miniature buildings, streets, landmarks, and other top sights in Rotterdam. Located in the Weena neighbourhood of Rotterdam, Miniworld Rotterdam has a 24-minute-long day , during which day becomes night and you really get the true essence of a full day in Rotterdam. It’s fun for the whole family and definitely a must-see in Rotterdam !

Practical info: Miniworld Museum Address: Weena 745, 3013 AL Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 12,95 EUR; children (3-11 yoa) – 9,25 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: Wednesday-Friday, from 12 am till 5 pm; Saturday-Sunday, from 10 am till 5 pm; in July and August and school holidays, Wednesday-Sunday, from 10 am till 5 pm

Did somebody say unlimited pancakes ? Look no further than Pannekoekenboot Rotterdam ! There are various packages available, which combine a boat ride and pancake feast with some of the other activities within the city.

A standard Pancake Boat ride involves a boat trip and all-you-can-eat pancakes – think plain, apple, or bacon, with a variety of other toppings available. During the boat trip, you will be able to view the Rotterdam skyline from the water and appreciate the stunning architecture. While you do so, there is ample entertainment for the young ones and the ball pit in the hold of the boat will keep them entertained for the duration of the trip.

Departure place: Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam Check the various cruises here and book a tour on the Pancake Boat

Remastered is a true modern must-see in Rotterdam , with over 1500 square meters of floor space consisting of mind-blowing projectors, speakers, and LED displays showing artworks of van Gogh , Bosch , and Mondrian . This 60-minute-long immersive 3D art experience will transport you to the times of these famous artists and their masterpieces and you can even walk through a waterfall.

Once again, you will have amazing views of the Rotterdam skyline from the venue under the Erasmus Bridge to go along with your experience of the digital wonders of the world.

Practical info: Remastered Address: Willemsplein 79, 3016 DR Rotterdam Admission fee: starting price 24,50 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, from 10:30 am till 5 pm; Fridays, from 1:30 pm till 8:30 pm; Saturdays, from 10:30 am till 8:30 pm Important: children under the age of 6 are not allowed at the venue

During a boat cruise of the Rotterdam Harbour , you will experience what it’s like to be present in one of the busiest ports in the world. You will see the shipyards, docks, and the thousands of containers that are housed there.

You will definitely not get bored during the 75-minute tour of the port as there’s always something to see and something to learn. Lastly, you will pay a visit to a once-operational steamship called Rotterdam , a former flagship liner as part of the Holland America Line fleet.

A harbour cruise with Spido is one of the most popular things to do in Rotterdam . There’s hardly a Dutch person that hasn’t done at least once in their lives a boat tour with Spido.

Departure place: Willemsplein 85, 3016 DR ROTTERDAM Book a harbour tour with Spido here

One of the favourite Rotterdam tourist attractions for families is the Rotterdam Zoo , located in the Blijdorp area in northwest Rotterdam. With over 180 species housed in a 26-hectare large area, the zoo is divided into specific areas known as zoogeographic regions . Some of these notable areas include Arctica , Galapagos , Savanna , Californian Kelp Sea , Congo , and Falklands .

You will get to meet Bokito the gorilla and his little family, see a variety of sea life including sharks, fish, stingrays, and sea lions, and even view the Amazonica. Here you will find Europe’s largest collection of butterflies, flowers, snakes, and the flesh-eating piranhas!

Pro tip: Buy your tickets online and save 1 EUR. Click here to buy your tickets online .

Practical info: Rotterdam Zoo / Diergaarde Blijdorp Address: main entrance: Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam; city-side entrance: Van Aerssenlaan 49, 3039 KE Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 24,50 EUR; children (3-12 yoa) – 20 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: winter, from 9 am till 5 pm; summer, from 9 am till 6 pm

The Splash Tour Rotterdam will give you the feeling of being in a Transformers movie – suddenly the bus you’re travelling on turns into a boat ! The tour starts off with viewing the various sights and landmarks in the city and then takes to the water. But don’t panic, it’s all part of the tour!

This yellow amphibian is one of the most well-known things to see in Rotterdam and is right at home in the port city, cruising both the streets and canals . The Splash Tour is one of the most unique of all the Rotterdam attractions and no trip to the city is complete without embarking on one of the famous tours.

Departure place: Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam Book a harbour tour with Spido here

The Markthal , or Market Hall, is one of the most iconic buildings not only in Rotterdam, but in the whole Netherlands and for sure one of the most instagrammed places in the country. The building of the largest market hall in the Netherlands started in 2009 and it was inaugurated in 2014 by Queen Maxima.

The multi-use building of Markthal is made up of offices, residential apartments, and of course, a fully-equipped market underneath. There are many stalls within the market and no shortage of restaurants to fill the void after a hunger-inducing shopping spree.

During the excavation works a lot of archeological artifacts were found, which are now exhibited along the escalator stairs and in the underground parking of the building.

The most amazing feature of the Markthal is the domed interior covered with the mural the Horn of Plenty by the Dutch artists Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam . Because of it, the Markthal is also often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of Rotterdam .

Address: Ds. Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam

Het Witte Huis or The White House (not the one found in the USA) is a 10-storey Art-Nouveau style building in Gelderskade . With its 43 m, it was the first skyscraper built in Europe and is a listed Rijksmonument – a national heritage site in the Netherlands. The building was one of the few that survived the bombing of Rotterdam in 1940 .

You can also grab a bite to eat at Het Witte Huis Grand Café , all the while gazing over one of the oldest and largest harbours in Europe.

Address: Geldersekade 1C, 3011 WB Rotterdam

The Grote Kerk or Sint-Laurenskerk , built somewhere between 1449 and 1525, is a Protestant church on the south bank of the Nieuwe Maas river. Designed by architect Hendrick de Keyser , it is one of the only remaining buildings of the mediaeval city of Rotterdam.

Upon arriving at the church, you will enter through the bronze doors of war and peace – the horrors of war and the joys of peace. It is also home to the largest organ in the Netherlands called the Marcussenorgan .

In front of the church there is lovely park and a monument of Erasmus of Rotterdam – one of the most prominent figures of the Renaissance in Europe.

Address: Grotekerkplein 27, 3011 GC Rotterdam

The Wereldmuseum (World Museum) is an ethnographic museum that focuses on the past and present of world cultures. It was founded on the 1st of May 1885 and houses in excess of 1800 artifacts from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. One of the standout pieces is a statue of Buddha that was made on behalf of the Thai King Rama V.

Practical info: Wereldmuseum Address: Willemskade 25, 3016 DM Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 15 EUR; children (4-18 yoa) – 6 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: Tuesday-Friday, from 10 am till 5 pm; Saturday-Sunday, from 11 am till 5 pm

These iconic yellow houses were designed by architect Piet Blom and were built between 1982 and 1984. They are highly innovative and based on the simple concept of “Living as an urban roof”. Put simply, Blom believed that the main purpose of the house was to optimise the space inside. This was achieved by tilting the conventional house corner to point upwards to resemble a tree. The collection of cube houses, together, resembled a forest. The whole complex is known as Blaakse Bos (Blaak Forest)

The cube houses are one of the most instagrammed attractions not only in Rotterdam, but in whole Netherlands. Today, one of the cube houses is open for visitors as a museum, the so-called Kijk Kubus .

Fun fact: Rotterdam is not the only place where you can find tilted cube houses in the Netherlands. In Helmond, Piet Blom built another complex, but it’s not that famous as the one in Rotterdam.

Practical info: Kijk Kubus Museum House Address: Overblaak 70 3011 MH, Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 3 EUR; children (up to 12 yoa) – 1,50 EUR Opening times: daily, from 11 am till 5 pm

The Depot Boijmans van Beuningen is Rotterdam’s newest attraction and one of the most unique art museums in the Netherlands, as it is the first art depot in the world that is accessible to the public . Here, it is possible to see the result of 173 years of collecting works of art, with more than 151,000 artworks housed in five climate-controlled areas. The building itself was designed by MVRDV architects and boasts an impressive mirror-like façade, complete with a rooftop and restaurant. 

The Depot is part of the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen , which at this moment is closed due to renovation works. The collection of the museum ranges from medieval to contemporary art.

Practical info: Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen Address: Museumpark 24, 3015 CX Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 20 EUR; children (up to 18 yoa) – free of charge; Tickets are available only online with a booked time slot. Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11 am till 6 pm Website: www.boijmans.nl

The Dutch Photography Museum ( Nederlands Fotomuseum ) emerged in 2003 from the fusion of a number of national photography archives. The museum has a collection of historical, social, and cultural images both from the Netherlands and abroad. There are also constantly changing exhibitions in the museum as well as a range of interactive materials and short films.

The building itself, the so-called Las Palmas , is one of the top things to see in Rotterdam and will definitely excite those interested in design and architecture. Las Palmas, built in the 1950s, used to be the workshop of the famous Holland America Line.

Practical info: Dutch Photography Museum / Nederlands Fotomuseum ) Address: Statendam 1, 3072 MD Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 14 EUR; young adults (18-25 yoa) – 7 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11 am till 5 pm

Just a short drive from Rotterdam is one of the most iconic attractions in the Netherlands – Kinderdijk . Kinderdijk is a system of 19 windmills built in the beginning of the 18th century and has been used to pump out water from what once was a bog. This place is a true ode to the outstanding water-management skills of the Dutch. This is also why Kinderdijk is included on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list .

A fun way to visit Kinderdijk from Rotterdam is with the water bus ( waterbus ). Line 202 (stops at Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam) will take you in half an hour to Kinderdijk. However, the water bus operates from 1 May to 31 October.

Read more: The Windmills at Kinderdijk – World Heritage Site . This post is packed with interesting facts and practical tips about visiting Kinderdijk . It also contains a detailed map of all mills at Kinderdijk.

Practical info: Mill Network at Kinderdijk-Elshout Address: Nederwaard 1, 2961 AS Kinderdijk Parking address: Marineweg 3, Alblasserdam (a fee applies) Admission fee: adults: 18,50 EUR (weekdays – 16 EUR); children (4-12 yoa): 6,75 EUR (weekdays – 5,75 EUR); parking fee: 7,50 EUR Opening times: high season: daily, from 9:30 am till 5:30 pm; low season: daily, from 10:30 am till 4 pm How to visit: Tours from Rotterdam

Speaking about UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Rotterdam has its very own World Heritage Site – a real hidden gem , that not many tourist know about – Van Nelle Factory ( Van Nellefabriek ). The factory was built in the 1920s in modernist style, and is an eye-catching spectacle of steel and glass.

One of the key features of the Van Nelle Factory is its use of the “curtain wall”. Under the curtain wall technique , the building’s roof is supported by internal columns, which in turn allows the exterior walls to be built of lightweight materials like glass. It’s a very common technique these days (almost every modern skyscraper does this!), but in the 1920s it was revolutionary .

The factory was initially used to process a range of goods for the Van Nelle company, particularly coffee, tea, tobacco, and chewing gum. The factory was eventually closed in 1996, and has since been converted into an office building. These days, it’s home to several industrial design and architecture firms.

Read more: Van Nelle Factory – World Heritage Site . The post is packed with interesting facts and practical tips about how to visit this UNESCO site .

Practical info: Van Nelle Factory / Van Nellefabriek Address: Van Nelleweg 1, 3044 BC Rotterdam How to visit: You can visit the factory with a ticket to Chabot Museum in Rotterdam. There’s organized transportation from the museum to the factory.

The Chabot Museum is dedicated to the Dutch artist and sculptor Hendrik Chabot . During a visit in the museum you’ll be able to see some not only works of Chabot but also of some of his contemporaries. The famous Dutch artist worked and lived in Rotterdam between the two world wars and was famous for his monumental sculptures, like the Footballer, and the dark-coloured paintings.

The museum is housed in a beautiful white villa, built in 1938 and designed in the style of New Objectivity .

Practical info: Chabot Museum Address: Museumpark 11, 3015 CB Rotterdam Admission fee: adults – 8 EUR; children (up to 18 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: Tuesday-Saturday, from 11 am till 5 pm

Although the city is littered with many top sights, Rotterdam is mostly known for the famous Erasmus Bridge . The bridge, affectionately known as “The Swan” , is the symbol of Rotterdam. It connects the northern and southern parts of the city that are separated by the Nieuwe Maas River. The 802-metre-long combination bridge, both cable-stayed and bascule in nature, stands at a height of 139 metres high, and is an engineering feat of the 20th century.

The Fenix Food Factory is a favourite of the things to do in Rotterdam for all the foodies out there. There are a host of fresh food vendors that you can pick up daily groceries at as well as delicious cuisine for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. There is also a specialist craft brewery with artisanal beers and ciders, and also a coffee roastery for all the caffeine lovers out there. It’s the perfect stop after a long day exploring the city and a must-see in Rotterdam.

Fenix Food Factory is located in the up-and-coming neighbourhood Katendrecht , which was once famous as the red-light district of Rotterdam. 21st century put an end to this image and today the neighbourhood is one of the hipster areas of Rotterdam.

Address: Delistraat 1, 3072 ZL Rotterdam

Rotterdam is considered the street art capital of the Netherlands . Everywhere in the city you’ll find murals that will amuse you or make you muse on something. One of the most famous streets in Rotterdam – Witte de Whitstraat , is a real hub for finding street art. If you want to discover more places or learn more about the artists and their works, I can highly recommend the Rewriters Rotterdam app .

One of the final recommended things to do in Rotterdam is to visit the district of Delfshaven . Being one of the only places that wasn’t bombed during World War ll, it still has much of its history preserved.

Delfshaven is the place from where the Pilgrims , who lived in exile in Holland, sailed in 1620 to the New World on the Speedwell , the smaller sister of the Mayflower . Speedwell, however, made it only to Plymouth, Devon, and the passengers were transferred there to the Mayflower.

In Delfshaven you can find today the Pilgrim Father’s Church ( Pelgrimsvaderskerk ) , and the De Pelgrim brewery where you can grab a cold beer during your exploring.

From this comprehensive list of things to do in Rotterdam, there is something for everyone, whether you’re a solo traveller or a family on a Euro trip. There are many architectural wonders to see, museums to visit, and cuisine to enjoy. The bustling ports of Rotterdam can be enjoyed by boat on one of the many cruise options available as you sit back and relax with a Heineken in hand.

Rotterdam is often referred to as the city of many faces as it is so multi-faceted and when it comes to top sights, Rotterdam really has it all. Shopping experiences, stunning architecture and history, an energetic feel about it, and of course the bustling port. It’s a really easy city to access from both The Hague and Amsterdam and should definitely be included in your Netherlands tour itinerary.

About Daniela

Rotterdam travel guide

Rotterdam tourism | rotterdam guide, you're going to love rotterdam.

One of Europe's largest ports, Rotterdam is an outward-looking cultural hotspot with a flair for design, architecture, and art that few cities of its size can match.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Rotterdam

1. tour the museums.

Rotterdam has plenty of world-class museums. Visit the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen for art, and the Wereldmuseum for excellent ethnography collections.

2. Music Festivals

With the North Sea Jazz Festival attracting thousands of acts in July and top house DJs at the Kroon Festival in April, music lovers have plenty of reasons to head to Rotterdam.

3. Superb Architecture

From the innovative Cube Houses to the swan-like Erasmusbrug, the city is full of modern architectural masterpieces.

4. Food and Drink

Head to the Fenix Food Factory for all of the gouda, cakes, and Dutch beer you can handle, or check out the World Food Festival, which attracts chefs from all over the globe.

5. Explore Rotterdam's Maritime Heritage

Don't miss the Maritime Museum to get a sense of how the city's port has developed, and take a boat cruise in the harbor to see the sights.

What to do in Rotterdam

1. euromast: cityscape and beyond.

Euromast, an observation tower and the tallest building in Rotterdam, was originally built for the 1960 Floriade, an international exhibition held every 10 years in the Netherlands. It was designed by Hugh Masskant in 1958. The tower, which features a crow's nest observation platform and a restaurant rising 315 feet in the air, is constructed in concrete with a diameter of 30 feet. Euromast has even held BASE jumping events. This impressive tower affords sweeping views of the city, as well as Antwerp, Moerdijk and The Hague in the distance, and is open to visitors for guided tours.

2. Erasmusbrug: Travel North to South

The Erasmus Bridge or Erasmusbrug, a combination cable and bascule bridge in downtown Rotterdam, is the second-largest in the country and connects the northern and southern areas of the city. Built in honor of Desiderius Erasmus, the renowned Renaissance humanist, it was completed in 1996. Stretching 2,631 feet across the New Meuse, the bridge was designed by Ben van Berkel and is nicknamed The Swan. After discovering that the bridge swung during heavy winds, shock dampers were added.

3. Kijk Kubus: Life in a Cube

Designed by Piet Blom in 1978 and completed in 1984, the Kijk-Kubus or the Cube Houses are part of the Blaakse Bos housing development along the Waterfront. The homes are tilted 45 degrees and rest on a hexagonal pylon. A museum designed to replicate the experience of living in a Cube House, the installation features models, screens and photo displays, which provide information about the development. The area includes small shops, a school and a playground and is open from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m every day.

4. Rotterdam Zoo: Animal Planet

Diergaarde Blijdorp, the Foundation Royal Zoo of Rotterdam, celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2007. One of the oldest zoos in the country, the original reserve was bombed during World War II, and was reconstructed at a new location by architect Sybold van Ravesteyn. The zoo includes the Oceanium aquarium, which features herring, sharks, puffins and king penguins, a lush botanical garden, and 70 breeding programs, which rear red pandas, Asian elephants, red-crowned and Siberian cranes, Komodo dragons, Visayan warty pigs, and Egyptian tortoises.

5. Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk: Last Church Standing

Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, the St. Lawrence Church, is the city's last medieval building. Built from 1449 and 1525, it was the first stone structure in Rotterdam. During the Rotterdam Blitz of 1940, the church was severely damaged, though Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands refused to demolish the church. The restoration began in 1952 and was completed in 1968. The church hosts guided tours, concerts, exhibitions and lectures, as well as a permanent exhibition. It also has a patio café with a tasting room, de Swarte Leeuw or the Black Lion.

Activities & attractions in Rotterdam

Where to Eat in Rotterdam

Oude Haven is a good area to head for a meal, where great options include Restaurant Soit, which offers Dutch cuisine, as well as excellent Italian eateries like Restaurant Amarone. Meals should cost between EUR12 and EUR25 at mid-range places.

When to visit Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a year-round destination. Sightseeing is a little bit more pleasant in the summer, from late June to early September, but the art, food, and architecture can be enjoyed whenever you feel like visiting.

How to Get to Rotterdam

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is just 4 miles north of the town center. From there, catch Bus 50 or 33 into town (EUR0.89 with an OV-chipkaart). Taxis will cost around EUR20.

Rotterdam Centraal has rail links to Amsterdam, France, and Belgium, and is right at the heart of the city.

To drive from Amsterdam, take the A4 straight to Rotterdam, and from Brussels, take the E19, then the A16 when you cross the Dutch border.

Intercity buses run from most northern European cities and are run by Eurolines and Megabus.

Airports near Rotterdam

Airlines serving rotterdam, where to stay in rotterdam.

Popular upscale hotels in the center of town include the Hilton Rotterdam, the Bilderberg Parkhotel, and Hotel New York in the docklands area.

Popular Neighborhoods in Rotterdam

Centrum - where most of Rotterdam's attractions are based, Centrum is home to the Boijmans Museum and a huge array of eateries and bars.

Dijkzigt - Dijkzigt is home to the Kunsthal, Rotterdam's other major gallery as well as the Natural History Museum, and it's a good place to base yourself.

Kop van Zuid - Kop van Zuid is a regenerated docklands neighborhood with soaring towers and upmarket hotels (as well as fantastic harbor views).

Where to stay in popular areas of Rotterdam

Most booked hotels in rotterdam, how to get around rotterdam, public transportation.

RET provides buses, trams, water buses, and trains. It's a good idea to pick up an OV-chipkaart, which can be recharged as required (the card costs EUR7.50).

Taxis in Rotterdam charge a meter drop of EUR2.50, then around EUR3 per mile, so they aren't the cheapest way to get around.

You can rent a car of your own from branches of Europcar or Hertz, and rates tend to be around EUR15 per day, so it's a cost-effective alternative to taxis.

The Cost of Living in Rotterdam

Shopping streets.

Shopping fans should head to Hoogstraat and Lijnbaan - two pedestrianized zones featuring hundreds of stores.

Groceries and Other

Rotterdam hosts supermarkets like Aldi, SPAR, and Jumbo, where prices aren't too high. Expect a gallon of milk to cost around EUR3.50.

• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Demographics
• 2.3 Atmosphere
• 2.4 Climate
• 2.5 Tourist information
• 3.1.1 Services
• 3.1.2 How to reach
• 3.1.3 Other close airports
• 3.2.1 International connections
• 3.2.2 National connections
• 3.4.1 Ferries from England (UK)
• 3.4.2 Waterbus
• 3.5 By metro
• 3.7 By bike
• 4.1 Tickets
• 4.2 By metro
• 4.3 By tram
• 4.5 By water taxi
• 4.6 By taxi
• 4.7 By tuk-tuk
• 4.8.1 Rent a bike
• 4.8.2 Guarded bicycle parking stations
• 5.1 Landmarks
• 5.2 Historic churches
• 5.3.1.1 Chinatown
• 5.4 Windmills
• 5.5.1 Museumpark area
• 5.5.2 Maritime museums
• 5.5.3 Other museums
• 6.4 Other attractions
• 6.5 With children
• 6.6 Football
• 6.7 Water sports and yachting
• 7.1 Department stores
• 7.2.1 Street food markets
• 7.2.2 Sustainable shopping
• 7.3 Things to buy
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 9.1 Coffeeshops
• 9.2 Music venues
• 10.1.1 Camping
• 10.1.2 Hostel
• 10.1.3 Bed and Breakfast
• 10.1.4 Hotel
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe
• 13.1 Nearby
• 13.2 Day trips

Rotterdam is a very large city in the province of South Holland in the west of the Netherlands . The city is the second largest in the country with a population of approximately 650,000 inhabitants in the municipality (2020) and about 2.2 million inhabitants in the shared metropolitan area of The Hague and Rotterdam MRDH . Rotterdam is a vibrant, multicultural city; it is known for its university (Erasmus), cutting-edge architecture, lively cultural life, industrial riverside setting, its maritime heritage and colourful summer events. The municipality stretches all the way to the North Sea with gigantic areas like Europoort and Maasvlakte 1&2 . All belong to the Port of Rotterdam .

Starting as a dam constructed in 1270 on the Rotte River, Rotterdam has grown into a major international commercial centre. The port of Rotterdam is Europe's busiest port by cargo tonnage, and was the world's busiest from 1962 until it was surpassed by Shanghai in 2004. Rotterdam's commercial and strategic importance is based on its location near the mouth of the Nieuwe Maas (New Meuse), a channel in the delta formed by the Rhine and Meuse on the North Sea. These rivers lead directly into the centre of Europe, including the industrial Ruhr region, which is why Rotterdam is often called the "Gateway to Europe".

Many relatively high buildings (by Dutch standards) have been emerging throughout and around the city centre. Daring and new styles of apartments, office buildings and recreation facilities resulted in Rotterdam becoming a city of modern architecture and the only city in the Netherlands with a modern skyline. Due to this, the city is especially interesting for Dutch people to visit.

Districts [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Settlement at the lower end of the fen stream Rotte dates from at least 900. Around 1150, large floods in the area ended development, leading to the construction of protective dikes and dams. A dam on the Rotte or 'Rotterdam' was built in the 1260s and was at the present-day Hoogstraat ('High Street').

Although Rotterdam did well after the Middle Ages and in the 'Golden Century' - roughly between 1650 and 1750 - it was not before the second part of the nineteenth century that the city started to develop itself rapidly. Helped by the digging of a new seaway (the Nieuwe Waterweg) Rotterdam was rid of access problems caused by the silting of the river and started receiving ever bigger ships with cargo for/from the booming Ruhrgebiet in Germany. Port related trade and industry skyrocketed, and the city started to draw lots of migrants from the then poor Brabant province, for whom the southern part of the city was constructed. At the turn of the twentieth century Rotterdam was well under way to become the largest economic centre in the Netherlands. It was between then and the second world war that large prestigious construction works were undertaken, in part to show off the new found economic pride.

The German army invaded the Netherlands on 10 May 1940. Germany had planned to conquer the country in one day, but after meeting unexpectedly fierce resistance, it finally forced the Dutch army to capitulate on 14 May 1940 by bombing Rotterdam and threatening to bomb other cities. The heart of the city was almost completely destroyed by the German Luftwaffe, and 800 people were killed, while about 80,000 others were made homeless. During the war, Rotterdam was bombed several times during allied raids that were aimed at the harbour area but sometimes also hit the city. The City Hall survived the bombing. Unlike most other European cities however, the City Council did not aim at rebuilding what was lost, but on taking the opportunity to create a 'new' and better city. Damaged but not destroyed old buildings were torn down in the process.

From the 1950s through the 1970s, the city was rebuilt. It remained quite windy and open until the city councils from the 1980s on began developing an active architectural policy. Daring and new styles of apartments, office buildings and recreation facilities resulted in a more 'livable' city center with a new skyline. In the 1990s, the Kop van Zuid was built on the south bank of the river as a new business center.

Demographics [ edit ]

In the Netherlands, Rotterdam has the highest percentage of foreigners from non-industrialised nations. Nearly 50% of the population are not native to the Netherlands or have at least one parent born outside the country. Muslims comprise close to 25% of the city's population. The city is also home to one of the largest Cape Verdean communities in the world, as well as the largest Dutch Antillean community.

Atmosphere [ edit ]

Rotterdam's culture is distinct from other cities in the Netherlands. The mentality of the people is described as 'can do'. From the waiters you meet to the businessmen and recent immigrants, everybody breathes a dream of getting forward with life. The modern design of the city, the bustle and the spree of buildings all add to this impression. That said, you might also find that people are sometimes too straight with you. And yes, the city is not the cosiest, or the most picturesque of towns, especially on drab winter days. But get acquainted with this small metropolis, easiest done on one of the festival days with nice weather. You will come to love it.

Climate [ edit ]

Rotterdam gains a lot of charm when the sun is shining. Visiting in spring or summer may be more enjoyable than during the dark rainy winter. Sunshine runs from 05:30 until 22:00 in the summer, and only between 08:45 and 16:30 in the winter.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• 51.91886 4.481239 1 Rotterdam Tourist Information Coolsingel ( VVV ), Coolsingel 114, 3011 AG Rotterdam ( Metro   A     D    : Beurs, at the garden of the Schielandshuis ), ☏ +31 10 790 01 85 , [email protected] . 09:30-18:00 . This well equipped and modern tourist office can provide loads of information like city maps, small guide books, souvenirs and the like, and offers tips and information on what to see and do in Rotterdam. Rotterdam.info also sells Rotterdam Welcome Cards, concert tickets, gift certificate, souvenirs, public transport tickets and parking vouchers. Check the website for upcoming events. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 51.9241 4.4703 2 Rotterdam Tourist Information Central Station ( VVV ), Stationsplein 21, 3013 AJ Rotterdam ( main entrance, in the central hall of the central station ), ☏ +31107900185 . 09:30-18:00 . With help from the service desk, a wide range of tourist information folders and the employees, you can find out what part of the city you would like to visit. ( updated Jul 2019 )
• Rotterdam Welcome Card . The card allows for unlimited use of all public transport by RET in the city and region, and offers at least 25% discounts on more than 50 attractions, museums, and restaurants. Available at Rotterdam Info (VVV) points and other locations. Without public transport, the card costs €6.00. 1 day (€13.50), 2 days (€19.50), or 3 days (€24.50) . ( updated Jul 2022 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Services [ edit ]

• VVV Rotterdam-The Hague Airport information point , Rotterdam Airportplein 60 ( at the arrivals hall ). 07:30-23:45 . Come here if you have questions about Rotterdam. The place to hear history. The gift shop is open 09:30-18:00. ( updated Oct 2021 )

How to reach [ edit ]

To plan an trip (for all public transport in the Netherlands) see 9292.nl [dead link]

Depending on the amount of travel with public transit in The Netherlands it can be advisible to buy an so called OV-Chipkaart , see for more information under Get Around.

• Bus 33 . This service runs directly to the Rotterdam Centraal station; the journey takes 25 minutes. Also it connects the airport with the Meijersplein metro station , from where you can take the metro line   E   into direction of Slinge (via Rotterdam Centraal and Rotterdam city center, see for more information the By Metro section under Get Around ). ( updated Oct 2021 )
• Rotterdam Airport Taxi , ☏ +31 10 262 04 06 . Recommended by the airport web site. ( updated Jun 2016 )

Other close airports [ edit ]

• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport ( AMS  IATA ) is 58 km north of Rotterdam and has much more flights than the Rotterdam airport. NS (Dutch Railways) operates Intercity Direct high-speed rail service, every 30 minutes to Rotterdam. The journey takes 27 minutes. You have to pay an addition for the journey from Schiphol to Rotterdam, so regular intercities in direction Rotterdam Centraal and Rotterdam Blaak are cheaper (but slower) (these intercities also call at Schiphol).
• Eindhoven Airport ( EIN  IATA ) is 106 km southeast of Rotterdam. Ryanair and Wizzair operate flights to this airport. Take a bus to Eindhoven Centraal (approximately 20 minutes, the intercity train to Rotterdam Centraal takes about 63 minutes.
• Brussels Airport ( BRU  IATA ) is 140 km south of Rotterdam. Many international carriers operate flights to this airport. The train from Brussels takes about 120 minutes and costs €35. Buses are also available, although less frequent.

By train [ edit ]

International connections [ edit ].

• Thalys operates high-speed trains from Antwerp (Antwerpen-Centraal, 35 min), Brussels (Brussel-Zuid/Midi, 1 hr 12 min), Paris (Gare du Nord, 2 hr 37 min) and Lille (Lille-Europe, 1 hr 55 min). Book well in advance to secure the best ticket deals. A cheaper but slower alternative to Thalys is the Intercity Brussels service between Amsterdam and Brussels.
• Coming from Germany, Rotterdam Centraal can only be reached by changing trains in the Netherlands. When travelling on the German high-speed train ICE [dead link] from Cologne , Düsseldorf and Oberhausen , the exchange will be in Utrecht Centraal station, and coming from Berlin , Hanover , Osnabrück (with the DB-intercity [dead link] ) it is advisable to change at Amersfoort . Intercity-trains to Rotterdam depart from both Utrecht and Amersfoort.
• Eurostar runs a daily high speed service from London St Pancras International to Rotterdam Centraal. Prices start at £35 one way. The journey time is about 3 hr 30 min, but you must arrive at the station at least 90 minutes before departure in order to clear the extra border controls caused by COVID restrictions and Brexit.

National connections [ edit ]

The Dutch railway company NS runs high-speed Intercity Direct trains between Amsterdam , Schiphol , Rotterdam and Breda . The train stops only at those four stations and shaves 25-30 minutes in journey time between Amsterdam and Schiphol and Rotterdam versus the regular Intercity and Sprinter trains that stop in between.

Beware that you have to pay a supplement (€2.60 during peak hours, €1.56 outside peak hours) to use the Intercity direct line to travel to Rotterdam if your journey involves Schiphol, (i.e. Amsterdam-Rotterdam journeys are subject to this supplement). You can purchase this supplement by tapping an anonymous or personal OV-chipkaart on a designated red pole found on the platform. Those without an anonymous or personal OV-chipkaart can use the ticketing machines or the NS website to purchase the supplement, however the discount may not be applicable to supplements purchased this way. Most unlimited day tickets including the Holland Travel Ticket can be used to travel on the Intercity Direct but a supplement purchase is still required.

Thalys also offers seats for passengers travelling from Amsterdam to Rotterdam. The journey is less than 40 minutes, slightly faster than the Intercity Direct. However, reservations/advance bookings are required and most unlimited day tickets recognised by NS cannot be used on Thalys.

Rotterdam is also well served by NS from other parts of the Netherlands , with direct connections to Delft , Amsterdam , Eindhoven , Gouda , Leiden , The Hague , Utrecht and Vlissingen . Some intercities and sprinters also stop at Rotterdam Blaak station which is in the middle of the city center. This station is also frequented by trams and metro. See also the Netherlands#Get in Netherlands page for further information on national rail.

Alternatively, Rotterdam's Metro line   E   provides a connection for passengers coming from The Hague at Den Haag Centraal. The journey from Den Haag Centraal to Rotterdam Centraal costs €4.43 with an anonymous or personalised OV-chipkaart, which is marginally cheaper than an NS journey (€4.90) between the same points but takes about five minutes longer to complete the journey.

By bus [ edit ]

• Flixbus , (bus stop) Rotterdam Centraal @ Conradstraat 52 ( International bus stop platform 'GG' at Rotterdam Centraal. ). Serving both domestic and international routes. They also have an extra stop at Rotterdam Zuidplein @ Gooilandsingel ( updated Jul 2017 )

By boat [ edit ]

Ferries from england (uk) [ edit ].

You can also get to Rotterdam by ferry from the United Kingdom . No ferries arrive in the center.

• P&O Ferries has a daily overnight sailing from Kingston Upon Hull to Rotterdam Europoort. From Rotterdam Europoort P&O Ferries operates a shuttle bus service that takes you to the city center of Rotterdam. Please book this shuttle service while you book your sailing.
• StenaLine has a daily day and a daily overnight sailing from Harwich to Hook of Holland . Next to the port is Hoek van Holland Haven metro station. Line B brings you to the city centre in approximately 30 minutes.
• DFDS Seaways has a daily overnight ferry crossing from Newcastle to Amsterdam. You can drive to Rotterdam in approx. 50 minutes.

Waterbus [ edit ]

The WaterBus services provide connections between Rotterdam and the Drechtsteden ( Dordrecht and surrounding cities, including UNESCO-site - the world-famous windmills - Kinderdijk ).

By metro [ edit ]

Coming from The Hague or somewhere in between it can be advisable to use metroline   E   , see for more information the page about the whole region .

By car [ edit ]

Rotterdam is easily reached by car. From Amsterdam take the A4 South to Rotterdam Haven. From Utrecht take the A12 and change to the A20 just after Gouda on knooppunt Gouwe. Traffic congestion on highways is common during peak hours (morning and evening commutes).

You can pay for on-street parking with debit and credit card. Remember your license plate number. Parking regulations are enforced regularly.

Parking garages can be easily found by following the sign-marked P-route. The easiest way to pay is by credit card, just insert your card on the way in, and insert it again on the way out, and the total time is automatically deducted. You can also pay with cash or debit card.

Park & Ride (P&R) facilities outside the center of Rotterdam offer free or cheap parking with public transport connections into the city center. For some locations (Slinge A15, Kralingse Zoom A16/E19 and Alexander A20/E25), you can park for free if you have a valid check-out on your public transport card (OV-chipkaart).

By bike [ edit ]

As a Dutch city Rotterdam is well connected to extense (inter)national bicycle networks which use all kinds of infrastructural facilities.

Most attractive for tourist to cycle over longer distances are the so called LF-routes . So the city center is croshed by LF2 Stedenroute (City Route) from Amsterdam to Brussels and LF12 Maas- en Vestingroute follows the flow of river Maas all the way from The East. See for more information Bicycle Route Planner [dead link] : sellect more options and LF-Routes.

Get around [ edit ]

RET operates the buses, trams, and metro within the city. You could find a journey planner and some network maps there. Alternatively you'd use the pan-Netherlands journey planner – 9292.nl [dead link] . Transport generally arrives every 10 minutes during the day.

Free Wi-Fi is available in some trams, buses and metro lines, and on the busier metro stations, you just need to accept the terms of use.

Tickets [ edit ]

As anywhere else in the country OV-chipkaart is to be used to pay all kinds of public transport. Traveling with this card will be cheapest and fastest, but bear in mind that the card itself costs €7.50 and you'd need to keep a positive balance there for at least €4. Alternatively, you can use your contactless bank card to pay for any public transport that also accepts the OV-chipkaart. As of August 2023, bank card support is relatively new, and you may find that your card gets rejected at some terminals. After a certain number of rejections, your card may be banned from public transport use, in which case you will need to purchase an OV-chipkaart or use one of the alternatives below.

For using buses and trams checking in and out has to be done in the vehicle, while for train and metro travellers in Rotterdam use the gates at the entrance of the stations.

Alternatively one of the city's transport travel cards could be used:

• RET travel cards . To travel by bus, tram and metro with RET. Use the RET Barcode app to purchase tickets. 2-hour cards are available on buses and trams (Maestro/VISA/Mastercard only, no cash), the other types of cards can be purchased at ticket machines in metro stations and RET Sales and Information points. For children under 12 and age 65 and up there is a reduced price. Note that the 1-day ticket is not a 24-hour ticket. This means it is only valid on the day of the first check-in, up til 4 AM of the early morning the next day. 2 hours - €4; 1 (calendar) day - €9 . ( updated Jun 2022 )
• Tourist Day Ticket: Rotterdam & The Hague region . Unlimited travel on local transport (bus, tram, metro and waterbus. Note: trains excluded) in the Rotterdam and the Hague region. Available from ticket machines and service counters of RET and at tourist information. Ticket is valid for travel with RET, HTM, HTMbuzz, Arriva, Connexxion, EBS, QBuzz and Waterbus in South Holland. €14.50 for one day . ( updated Jul 2019 )
• Rotterdam Welcome Card also allows for unlimited use of public transport with RET in the city and region.

There are 5 metro lines in the city.

Lines   A   ,   B   and   C   , share tracks between Schiedam Centrum and Capelsebrug and offer an east-west connection.

Lines   D   and   E   share tracks between Rotterdam Centraal and Slinge and offer a north-south connection. Interchange between all lines is possible on Beurs station in the city center.

Lines   A   ,   B   and   C   operate every 10 minutes on working days and Saturday, which allows 3-4 minute intervals on the main section between Schiedam Centrum and Capelsebrug . Lines   D   and   E   operate every 10 minutes on working days and Saturday, which give shorter intervals between Rotterdam Centraal and Slinge . In the evening, on Saturday morning and Sunday the service is reduced to a 15-minute interval.

The Rotterdam Metro operates from 05:30 until midnight. On weekends the opening time is not until 07:00 Saturday, and 08:15 on Sunday. On Friday and Saturday nights the service is extended for a bit longer past midnight, but not on some parts of line B and E. See the Weekend metro page for an overview.

For tourists the most important metro stations are:

Line A, B and C (East-West branch)

• Blaak : train station, interchange with trams and busses, cube houses, Markthal, ports
• Beurs : city center, shops, interchange with metro   D   and   E  
• Eendrachtsplein : museumpark
• Coolhaven : Euromast
• Delfshaven : historic port

Line D and E (North-South branch)

• Meijerplein : bus service to Rotterdam The Hague Airport (only line   E   )
• Blijdorp: Rotterdam Zoo (only line   E   )
• Rotterdam Centraal : northern edge of the city centre, interchange with trams and buses, train station
• Beurs : city centre, shops, interchange with metro   A   ,   B   and   C  
• Leuvehaven : ports, museums, Erasmus Bridge, Waterbus
• Wilhelminaplein: Erasmus Bridge, Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, hotel New York
• Rijnhaven: Katendrecht, bus service to SS Rotterdam

By tram [ edit ]

There are 9 tram lines in the city. Each tram has a conductor. Tram stops provide a detailed map of the public transport system. Most lines operate every 10 minutes on workdays with more frequent service during rush hours on some lines.

All trams except   2   will stop at the Rotterdam Centraal .

• line   2   is the only one that stays entirely on the south bank of the river, running through the districts farther away from it - it is thus of little use to tourists
• lines   20   ,   23   and   25   go over the Erasmus bridge to Kop van Zuid and then further down the south side
• lines   21   and   24   go to Schiedam
• line   4   goes from the suburbs in the northeast through Station Noord and Rotterdam Centraal to Marconiplein
• line   7   has a picturesque terminal at the foot of Erasmus Bridge, then follows Werstersingel to Rotterdam Centraal , and then further east to Kralingen , where you can alight for Kralingse Plas (the lake with leisure activities) and Excelsior Stadium
• line   8   is perhaps the most useful for the tourists, as it goes from Rotterdam Centraal south through Westersingel, Coolsingel, Schiedamsedijk and then west, stopping by the Euromast and in Delftshaven, terminating by the Sparta Stadium
• line   12   is a special line running between Rotteraam Centraal and the Feijenoord Stadion when there is a match there

RET operates bus services across the city.

It also provides a few night bus services:

• BOB-bus ( Night bus ). F and Sa nights . RET operates a night bus service on Friday night and Saturday night. Lines depart from Rotterdam Centraal station. Ticket price is a fixed price of €6 and can be bought in the RET Barcode App or from the driver (no cash). Pay less with an OV-Chipkaart. €5.60 with OV-Chipkaart, or €6 if purchased from the driver or with RET Barcode App . ( updated Jun 2022 )

Buses operated by Arriva and Connexxion connect the city with suburbs.

Use the front door when boarding a bus.

By water taxi [ edit ]

• Watertaxi Rotterdam , ☏ +31 10 403 03 03 . Rotterdam was built on a number of islands and if you want to travel from shore to shore, the nicest way to go is to take a Water Taxi . Fixed fares for rides between 50 docks in Rotterdam and Schiedam, with 3 fares zones, starting at €4.50 per person in the central zone. You can give them a call, or use the online tool to see availability and book a ride. It is advised to book in advance, especially on days with large events in the city. € . ( updated Jul 2022 )

By taxi [ edit ]

If you do need a taxi you will have to find yourself a taxi rank or call a taxi company. There is a minimum taxi fare of €2.30 (first it was €7.50 which included the first two kilometers). Additionally, each subsequent kilometre is charged €2.20.

• Rotterdamse Taxi Centrale RTC N.V. , ☏ +31 10 462 60 60 .  
• Coöperatieve Taxi Onderneming St. Job u.a. , ☏ +31 10 425 70 00 .  
• Citytaxi Rotterdam [dead link] + 31103145788
• Stadstaxi Rotterdam , ☏ +31 10 818 28 23 .  
• Botlektaxi Rotterdam , ☏ +31 10 666 66 06 . ( updated Jan 2022 )
• Taxi Rotterdam 010 , ☏ +31 10 261 31 88 .  
• Rotterdamse Taxi , ☏ +31 10 261 31 22 .  

By tuk-tuk [ edit ]

• Tuk Tuk Company , ☏ +31 9009933399 . A Thai-influenced transportation service using three-wheeled, open-air (but covered) motorized vehicles called Tuk Tuk offers a more economical and fast way to get around the city centre when compared to taxis. Tuk-tuk pricing is based on a zone system. Within a zone, a ride is €3.50 per person, €5 for 2 persons and €6.50 for 3. If you go to another zone, €3.50 is added (irrespective of number of persons). This service is handy if it is past the regular tram/bus/metro service hours (approximately half past midnight). ( updated May 2019 )

By bicycle [ edit ]

Like any city in The Netherlands, Rotterdam is very, very bicycle-friendly. Getting around by bike is probably the fastest way of travel within the city. There are separate bike lanes on most major streets and there are separate traffic lights for bicyclists. Avoid getting your tire in the tram rails: always cross tram rails at an angle. Of course it is also strongly advisable to watch out for other traffic at all time. On the other hand bicyclists can rely on the fact that motorists and pedestrians are aware of bikes.

Always lock your bike securely when leaving it (preferably chained to a fixed object) or go to a guarded bicycle parking station.

Rent a bike [ edit ]

At Rotterdam Centraal, you can rent bicycles at the shop in the underground bicycle parking, below the Station square. Leave the station at the front, exit 'Stationsplein'. The entrance of the bicycle parking ('fietsenstalling', with the glass roof) is at your right, in front of grand cafe Engels. Use-it, rents out nice Kronan bikes (Schaatsbaan 41-45, leave Central Station towards the center. Turn right at restaurant Engels and take the 2nd right).

Bikes can be rented by several other private companies. Holland-Cycling.com provides a list of addresses . Another list you will find at Rotterdam.nl .

If you have a personal (rather than an anonymous) OV-chipkaart , bicycles can be rented at many train and metro stations and other central locations by the OV-fiets system .

Guarded bicycle parking stations [ edit ]

• Many intercity train stations have their own bicycle parking station. Many time the service is not free.
• Rotterdam municipality has also some locations .

See [ edit ]

Landmarks [ edit ].

Rotterdam has national notoriety for its architecture, and the city therefore is dotted with landmarks of all sorts. Most of them you will find in the city centre , but Feijenoord is also quite dense with them.

Rotterdam is known for some bridges, not in the last place the Erasmusbrug , spanning the Nieuwe Maas between the city centre and Feijenoord. Also of historical importance is the former railway lifting bridge De Hef , slightly upstream from the Erasmusbrug.

Historical landmarks are somewhat rare to come across in Rotterdam's city centre, but the city itself isn't completely devoid of them. In the city centre, the 1920 City hall and the Great or Saint-Laurence church , both survivors of the 1940 bombardment. Rotterdam is also home to the country's oldest known bronze statue, depicting Desiderius Erasmus of Rotterdam and dating from 1622. It is found opposite the Saint-Laurence church. Feijenoord, despite being home to many modern redevelopments, does house some historical landmarks such as the former headquarters of the Holland-Amerikalijn . Also worth visiting are the Oude Haven ( Old Harbour ) and the nearby Witte Huis ( White House ) and Schielandshuis .

Industrial landmarks are plenty in a city that mostly thrives off of harbour activities. Besides the many industrial sites found in the Port of Rotterdam , the Van Nellefabriek in the north of the city is a listed UNESCO site.

The skyline of Rotterdam can, of course, be observed from one of the many skyscrapers in the city - though you should probably book a hotel located in a skyscraper or find one with a publicly accessible roof, as trespass isn't welcomed. Another great site for views over the city though, is the Euromast on the border between the city centre and Delfshaven , twice in its history the highest building of the Netherlands. For a relatively small entry fee, you can climb the tower or for a larger sum, you can dine inside of it. For those less comfortable with great heights though, a birds-eye overview of the city can also be obtained at Miniworld Rotterdam , near the central station.

The city is also well-known for its experimental and out-of-the-ordinary architecture, often being a testing ground for new concepts. A prime example of this are the Kubuswoningen ( Cube Houses ) at Blaak . Also striking are the Markthal , harbour-crane inspired sculptures at the Schouwburgplein and the Koopgoot , all found in the city centre.

Historic churches [ edit ]

In the Netherlands churches are generally closed to visitors on Sundays.

Other sites [ edit ]

Other sites, in the centre [ edit ]

• 51.919427 4.491987 3 Oude Haven ( Blaak    A     B     C     21     24   ). The Old Harbour is a nice place to see and sit at some café nearby. ( updated Jun 2016 )

• 51.9189 4.4819 5 Het Schielandshuis , Korte Hoogstraat 31 ( Beurs    A     B     C     D     E     8     12     20     21     23     24   ). This is the only remaining 17th-century building in the city center of Rotterdam. It was once the place where French emperor Napoleon stayed, visiting his troops when they occupied the Netherlands. The former historical museum of Rotterdam which is now moved to another building.  

• 51.90769 4.448454 6 Delfshaven ( Delfshaven    A     B     C     4     8   ). It is one of very few locations in the city which survived WWII bombings. Easily accessible by metro (station of the same name), historic Delfshaven is a very scenic walk. It consists of an 17th-century area around two canals with a lot of charm. By day visit little shops in this neighbourhood, by night attractive pubs and restaurants make the visit worthwhile. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Chinatown [ edit ]

• 51.920188 4.471285 7 Chinatown , West-Kruiskade ( Kruisplein    21     23     24   ). A massive Chinatown, full of Chinese restaurants but also Indonesian and other Asian restaurants. See Rotterdam#Eat for more information. ( updated Jun 2016 )

Windmills [ edit ]

Rotterdam has only seven windmills left. Of these, only De Ster and De Lelie are open to visitors on a regular basis. Other windmills are open to visitors when the mill is turning (easy enough to see), but there are some exceptions to this rule of thumb. A blue flag also indicates that the mill is open to visitors.

• 51.9316 4.5212 8 Windmills De Ster and De Lelie , Plaszoom ( 10-15 minute walk from Voorschoterlaan    A     B     C     7   , follow Oudedijk → Kortekade → Plaszoom ). open every 2nd Sat of the month: 10:00-16:00; and whenever the mills are in use . These two windmills (Star and Lily) date from 1777 and 1829. They are very handsomely situated on the side of the Kralingse Plas lake. The mills do still do their original job which is grinding ingredients for spices and snuff tobacco. Adjacent is a small shop where these products are sold.  
• 51.95117 4.50067 9 De Prinsenmolen , Prinsenmolenpad 72 ( Bergse Dorpstraat    4   , follow Freericksplaats → Weissenbruchlaan → Strekkade → Prinsenmolenpad, about 20 minutes on foot ). closed to visitors . De Prinsenmolen dates back to 1648 and worked until 1966 to keep the adjacent polder dry. It's a house now, but the mill is still in working order. It's a nice walk alongside the Bergse Voorplas lake.  
• 51.95361 4.51519 10 De Vier Winden , Terbregse Rechter Rottekade 91 ( Prinses Irenebrug   33   , about a ten minute walk upstream along the Rotte from the Prinsenmolen ). closed to visitors . De Vier Winden was built in 1776. Until 1964 it was used to grind wheat. Although the mill is not open to visitors, it has a small shop with old fashioned mill-products.  
• 51.93856 4.44397 11 De Speelman , Overschiese Kleiweg 775 ( Ten minutes east from Ruggeweg   32     33     40   , follow Weerlanerstraat ). Open when turning . De Speelman was built in 1712. Heavily damaged during World War II, it was restored and moved to its present location.  
• 51.88342 4.46743 12 De Zandweg , Kromme Zandweg ( Kromme Zandweg    2   ). Open when turning . De Zandweg dates from 1723. It's at the southern part of town called Charlois. When walking a litlle bit further you can also see the nice Oliphant country mansion.  

Museums [ edit ]

Museumkaart is accepted at the city's museums.

Museumpark area [ edit ]

• 51.9143 4.4728 13 Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen , Museumpark 18-20 ( Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ), ☏ +31 10 441 94 00 , fax : +31 10 436 05 00 . Tu-Su 11:00-18:00; M closed . The main building of Museum Boijmans van Beuningen is closed for a major renovation until 2029. The Depot has been open for the public since Nov 2021. Some of the masterpieces are being shown on other locations in the city or abroad. The museum, founded in 1849, houses a rich, broad collection that can be generally grouped into four wings: Old Art, with masterpieces such as Pieter Brueghel the Elder's The "little" Tower of Babel (1563). The collection of Prints and Drawings and the collection of Applied Arts and Design with their international allure. And the Modern Art wing has an important collection of surrealism, prominently featuring Salvador Dalí and René Magritte. Entry by e-ticket only purchased online in advance. Adult €20; student card €10, child under 19 free entry . ( updated Jun 2022 )
• 51.91485 4.474472 14 Sylvette , Westersingel ( Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ). This large work by Pablo Picasso was erected in 1973. It is one of the elaborations Picasso made based on the portraits of his muse Sylvette David. Definitely worth a look.  
• 51.9108 4.4734 15 Kunsthal , Westzeedijk 341 ( Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ), ☏ +31 10 440 03 00 , fax : +31 10 43 67 152 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 11:00-17:00 . An exhibition hall that houses some 25 expositions annually. The Kunsthal often experiments with themes that have never been used for an exhibition before. This approach produces a fascinating and widely varied repertoire. In total, the Kunsthal has 3,300 m² of exhibition space in a striking building, designed by OMA (Rem Koolhaas and Fuminori Hoshino) and is a true work of art all on its own. Adult €12; child 6-18 €2; child under 6 free entry .  

• 51.914686 4.471092 16 Museum voor Architectuur, Design en Digitale cultuur ( Museum for Architecture, Design and Digital culture ), Museumpark 25 ( Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ), ☏ +31 10-4401200 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 11:00-17:00 . A part of the Het Nieuwe Instituut . €10 (under 18s free); tickets include a visit to the Sonneveld House . ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 51.915614 4.472366 17 Huis Sonneveld ( Sonneveld House ), Jongkindstraat 12 ( Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ). Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 11:00-17:00 . A building in the Bauhaus style built in 1932-1933 by Leendert van der Vlugt . It is now a part of the Het Nieuwe Instituut museum. €10 . ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 51.9147 4.4723 18 Chabot Museum , Museumpark 11 ( Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ). M-F 11:00-16:30; Sa 11:00-17:00; Su 12:00-17:00 . This neat little museum is housed in a splendid modernist 1930s villa. It houses a collection of works of the expressionist painter Hendrik Chabot. A very recommendable if short visit for art lovers. Adult: €6.50; child under 12: free entry .  
• 51.9109 4.4724 19 Natuurhistorisch Museum , Westzeedijk 345 ( Next to the Kunsthal, Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ). Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 . The "Natural History Museum" is in the Museumpark, near Boijmans, the NAi and the Kunsthal. It has changing expositions and a fixes collection of mammals, plants and fossils. The current director Kees Moeiliker became famous in 2003 for winning a scientific prize on his study and book about the strange behavior of a duck in the garden of the museum. His predecessor did a lot for the whales and left his collection at the museum. Adult €4; child 4-15 €2; child under 4 free entry . ( updated Dec 2022 )

Maritime museums [ edit ]

• 51.9176 4.4822 20 Maritiem Museum ( Maritime Museum ), Leuvehaven 1 ( Beurs    A     B     C     D     E   ), ☏ +31 10 413 26 80 , fax : +31 10 413 73 42 . Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 11:00-17:00; M 10:00-17:00 in July, August and school holidays in Rotterdam . A variety of expositions about the harbour of Rotterdam and maritime history. The museum also has an outdoor part of which the Museumschip De Buffel is the absolute highlight. This 19th-century gunboat is restored in all its glory and a must-see for naval enthusiasts. Adult €10, group + 15 people €8.50, child 4-15 €6.00, child under 4 free entry .  
• 51.9187 4.4916 21 Mariniersmuseum , Wijnhaven 7-13 ( Blaak    D     E   ). Tu-F 10:00-17:00, Sa Su 11:00-17:00 . The museum of the Marine Corps is situated in a historic building in the Oude Haven. It shows the history of the 340 year-old corps and its modern-day role. Special attention is given to the heroic role of the corps in the 1940 defence of Rotterdam. In the nearby White House you can still notice the bulletholes in the stone wall.  

Other museums [ edit ]

• 51.922064 4.481309 22 Museum Rotterdam , Rodezand 26 ( behind the city hall at the Timmerhuis, Stadhuis    D     E     12     21     23     24   ), ☏ +31 10 217 67 50 . Tu-Su 11:00-17:00 . Opened in 2016 the museum is dedicated to the modern day Rotterdam and its history. €7.50 . ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 51.9053 4.4868 23 Nederlands Fotomuseum , Las Palmas building, Wilhelminakade 332 ( Wilhelminaplein    D     E     12     20     23     25   ), ☏ +31 10 213 20 11 , fax : +31 10 203 04 06 , [email protected] . Tu-F 10:00-17:00; Sa Su 11:00-17:00 . The Nederlands Fotomuseum focuses on photography in the broadest sense of the word. By doing so, the museum wants to show the diversity of forms of photography. Not only as an artistic form of expression, but also and especially as a medium of social expression and commentary. Adult €6; child under 12 free entry .  
• 51.9195 4.4894 25 Museum of Chess-Pieces ( Schaakstukkenmuseum ), Overblaak 94 ( Blaak    A     B     C     21     24   ). W Sa Su 14:00 - 17:00 . This little museum can be found among the famous Cube houses and houses a diverse collection of chess games. From ancient Chinese to all sorts of cartoon characters. Adult €2; child €1; .  
• 51.9079 4.4805 26 Wereldmuseum , Willemskade 25 ( Leuvehaven    A     B     C     8     12     20     21     24   ), ☏ +31 10 270 71 72 , fax : +31 10 270 71 82 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 11:00-17:00 . The Wereldmuseum (World Arts Museum) focuses on encounters and cross-cultural inspiration. Adult €15; child under 13, Rotterdampas, Museumkaart free entry .  

• 51.9153 4.476 27 Witte de With , Witte de Withstraat 50 ( Eendrachtsplein    A     B     C   ), ☏ +31 10 4110144 , fax : +31 10 4117924 , [email protected] . Tu-Su 11:00-18:00 . Witte de With (Centre for Contemporary Arts) exhibits, lectures, multimedia for contemporary arts. Adult €4 Witte de With; €2 discount under 18, students, CJP, seniors, groups (min. 10); free under 12, CKV, Rotterdampas, MJK is valid .  
• 51.9437 4.5042 28 SSN Museumstoomdepot , Rolf Hartkoornweg 50 ( Kerkhoflaan   38   from where it's a 20-minute walk to the northeast ). W 10:00-15:00, S 10:00-17:00 . Old steam locomotives and trains can be admired at the 'Steam Depot Museum'. Besides a small museum it's very much a workshop too where you can see the actual work of restoration in progress. Check the website for rides, that actually use the normal railway lines.  

Do [ edit ]

Upcoming events and performances are listed on the VVV and Use-it websites. The larger events are well documented on the VVV site, for smaller venues check Use-it (under Calendar) for a very attractive and well updated listing of music, expositions, movies and parties that need checking out.

Twice a month the nl10 magazine is distributed around the city. You can take your free copy at a lot of locations (like bars, supermarkets, municipal offices). Besides some articles about interesting things going on in town it also has a large listing of upcoming gigs (in Dutch). Their website [dead link] can also be handy.

• 51.92131 4.48932 1 Uitburo , Hoogstraat 110, inside the Centrale Bibliotheek ( Blaak    A     B     C     21     24   ), ☏ +31 10 240-0166 . M 13:00-18:00, Tu-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 13:00-17:00 . The Uitburo office inside the Central Library provides information on theatre and music performances. It also sells tickets and offers an overview of performances that can be visited for free ( gratis ).  

Events [ edit ]

Rotterdam plays host to a lot of events, a lot of them yearly ones. Besides these there are a lot smaller ones that can be very nice, so ask around and check the VVV website. A few of these yearly events to name:

• The Six Days cycling competition in January
• IFFR . The International Film Festival Rotterdam, which mainly features independent films from all over the world in February.  
• Art Rotterdam . In February, you can see (and buy) masterpieces of modern art.  
• World tennis Tournament . In February.  
• On the Rotterdam Museum Night [dead link] in March, nearly all Rotterdam museums and galleries open their doors in the evening with special events.
• Motel Mozaique . Music, art & performance. Plus a sleeping project that enables sleeping in art or on special locations in Rotterdam (April)  
• Poetry International . Festival in June.  
• Metropolis Festival (music) on the first Sunday in July.
• The sublime North Sea Jazz festival in July with loads of worldfamous artists.
• Summer Carnival . A huge Caribbean-oriented parade and party in the city centre.  
• Heerlijk Rotterdam . Three day event where you can sample dishes from Michelin-star restaurants for a reduced price (dates vary, summer edition usually late August)  
• The World Port Days [dead link] a weekend full of activities centred around the large harbour of Rotterdam (early September)
• The classical music Gergjev festival in September, led by master-conductor Valery Gergjev.
• The Rotterdam Harvest Festival in September.
• Bazar Curieux (music) in December

For full listings of events check Rotterdam.info and Use-it [dead link] .

Tours [ edit ]

• 51.9098 4.48264 2 Hop on Hop off Tourist tram Citytour ( lijn 10 ). April-October. July & August daily except Monday. See the website or leaflet for operating days since events or track works may disrupt operation. . The tourist tram line 10 will bring you along modern architecture, the city centre and historic parts of Rotterdam using classic trams. Total trip time 65 minutes. First depart from Willemsplein (near Spido) is at 11:00 but you can get on and off at any stop along the route as it operates every 30 minutes. Last depart from Willemsplein 16:30. Be sure to raise your hand to the driver if you would like to board at an intermediate tramstop. Adults €9, children 4-11 and 65+ €7. Tickets available on the tram and valid for whole day. Pay with cash or . ( updated Jul 2019 )
• 51.91058 4.48258 3 Spido harbour trip , Willemsplein 85 ( Metro: Leuvehaven. Tram 7: Willemsplein ), ☏ +31 10 275 99 88 , fax : +31 10 412 47 88 , [email protected] . You only see the first 8 km of the harbour starting at the Erasmus bridge (the trip doesn't go all the way to the north sea, and skips some of the more interesting harbors) But Rotterdam is REALLY big, so even in those first 8 km there's plenty to see. ( updated Jul 2019 )
• 51.90461 4.46586 4 De pannenkoekenboot , Parkhaven 13, 3016 GM Rotterdam ( Departs from near the foot of the Euromast, Tram   8   , stop Euromast. ). Eat as many pancakes as you want while you cruise. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Cinema [ edit ]

There are two huge megacinemas in Rotterdam. The one in the city centre is called Pathé Schouwburgplein (at the Schouwburgplein), the other one is on the southside of the city. It's called Pathé De Kuip (next to the Feyenoord stadium De Kuip). In these cinemas you can see Hollywood movies and occasionally an arthouse movie. To get to De Kuip, take tram   12   to stop Stadion Feijenoord.

If you're more into alternative cinema go to Lantaren/Venster Cinema (Otto Reuchlinweg 996 (Wilhelminapier)). Here you'll get European, Asian and Latin American cinema in a nice atmosphere. It has a nice bar too. The other option is Cinerama (Westblaak 18) which shows a combination of art/house films and commercial Hollywood flicks. During the IFFR (International Film Festival Rotterdam), which usually takes place in February, art-house movies are shown at much more locations throughout the city.

In August, an open air cinema at the Lloydkwartier shows both blockbusters and independent films. Entrance is free, and you can either bring your own chair or rent one onsite. To get there, take   A   to Coolhaven and walk for about 10–15 minutes towards the river in the south.

Other attractions [ edit ]

When you want to combine a unique experience with a great view over the city of Rotterdam, you can make a (tandem) skydive at Skydive Rotterdam . At Skydive Rotterdam (also called the Flying Dutchman) you can book a tandem skydive or do a complete skydiving course and jump from a height of 3 or 4 kilometers. It's the only skydiving school in the "Randstad" area and the only place in the Netherlands where you can jump over a major city like Rotterdam. When the weather's good you will have a spectacular view over the Rotterdam skyline and other parts of the Randstad area, all the way to the coastline.

An airplane can be rented at reasonable rates at Rotterdam Airport at Happy Wing . Nice tours above the city, its ports or the coastline are on offer.

On summer Sundays, it is possible to lower yourself down from the Euromast . On last Sundays of summer months you can glide down in 15 seconds on a wire (tokkelen). Both: Not for the faint of heart! Check the website of Heightspecialists .

With children [ edit ]

• 51.9272 4.4489 5 Diergaarde Blijdorp ( Rotterdam Zoo ), Blijdorplaan 8 ( Take RET city bus 33 from Rotterdam Centraal towards Rotterdam Airport and get off at Diergaarde Blijdorp (for the old entrance) or Blijdorpplein (for the new entrance). Alternatively, it's a 10-15 minute walk from Rotterdam Centraal, or a few minutes less from metro station Blijdorp (line   E   RandstadRail) ), ☏ +31 10 443 14 95 . Daily 09:00-17:00 . Diergaarde Blijdorp, established in 1857, is one of the most popular day trips in the Netherlands. Walk through different parts of the world, seeing interesting animals that feel right at home in an approximation of their natural habitats. An interesting feature of Rotterdam Zoo is the Oceanium. Feast your eyes on your journey through this enchanting world of water, filled with ocean and coastal dwellers, including exotic fish and puffins. 7,50 euro/a person .  
• 51.9228 4.4651 6 Miniworld Rotterdam , Weena 745 ( Go left to the buses, then you are there! ). W Th 12:00-17:00, F-Su 10:00-17:00 . It's the largest indoor model railroad layout of the Netherlands.  

Football [ edit ]

Rotterdam has three professional football teams:

• Feyenoord play in the Eredivisie, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Stadion Feijenoord (capacity 51,000), better known as "De Kuip"; it's often also used for rock concerts and similar events. It's south of the river with its own railway station Rotterdam Stadion.
• Sparta Rotterdam also play in Eredivisie. Their home ground is Het Kasteel ("The Castle", capacity 12,000), 3 km west of the centre.
• SBV Excelsior were promoted in 2022 back into Eredivisie. They play at Stadion Woudestein (capacity 4500), now called Van Donge & De Roo Stadion. It's 2 km east of city centre on the north bank of the river.

Water sports and yachting [ edit ]

Being a major harbour and having lots of waterways and lakes, Rotterdam has a lot to offer for water-enthousiasts. Boating: There are four major lakes in Rotterdam. The Kralingse Plas, The double Bergse Plas, the Rottemeren and the Zevenhuizer Plas. All of them have active yachting communities and sometimes sailing races can be seen. The Zevenhuizer plas is mainly populated by Windsurf enthousiasts. Sailing boats can be rented at the Kralingse Plas at the Van Gent sailing school , Plaszoom, a 10-minute walk from Metro Voorschoterlaan (walk through the Julianalaan until you reach Plaszoom). Rowing- and sailing boats can be rented at the windmill at the very end of the eastern Rottekade at Van Vliet's (Rottemeren, go by car or bike, a very nice ride). Yachting: When visiting Rotterdam with your own yacht you will find that most yachting harbours are on the inland waterways, were there are a lot of them. On the river Maas you will only find the City Marina , behind a bascule bridge on the southern bank, and the Veerhaven , right in the city center on the northern bank. Unless you need the better shelter of the characterless City Marina, go for the admittedly a little choppy Veerhaven marina, very central and scenic.

Beach [ edit ]

The closest good beach is about 30 km away at Hook of Holland . Here you will find a very fine sand beach with good swimming and enough entertainment. To get there, take line   B   to Hoek van Holland Strand, its end point.

For a more urban-party beach experience head to Scheveningen where you can find everything beach-party addicts dream about; Endless rows of beachside bars, restaurants and discothèques and a boulevard along a splendid fine-sand beach. It can get very crowded here. Take the train to Den Haag Centraal Station and tram   9   subsequently. Also at the same coast is Kijkduin, which is very recommended for children. To get there, get   E   to its northern end point, then take bus 24 to Kijkduin. If you want to go to the beach but want to stay in the city, consider taking   B   to its end point, Nesselande and walk across the Corsicalaan from there. You are at the Strand Nesselande.

Buy [ edit ]

The main shopping areas in the center are the 51.919993 4.477304 1 Lijnbaan and the 51.920675 4.484503 2 Hoogstraat . Both are pedestrianised. The Lijnbaan , which runs straight south from the Weena (close to Rotterdam Centraal ) was the first pedestrianised shopping street in the world when it was built in 1953. Now it is more of an average shopping street with average shops. In weekends it's very crowded. Linking the Lijnbaan with the Hoogstraat is the 51.920066 4.480523 3 Beurstraverse , dubbed Koopgoot (Buying-gutter). A subterrainean passage, also connecting to Beurs metro station. It's all rather big and somewhat strange for a Dutch city, but it fits perfectly into the Rotterdam aspiration of being different. If you're looking for it, ask for the Koopgoot , as the official name is little known.

Department stores [ edit ]

The Beurstraverse gives direct access to the city's main department stores:

• 51.92039 4.47865 4 De Bijenkorf ( Metro   A   , Beurs. ). This upmarket store offers a lot in terms of clothing, accessories, jewellery, perfumes and the like. The store offers quality, but it comes at a price.  
• 51.92007 4.48186 5 HEMA , Beursplein 2, 3011 AA Rotterdam ( metro   D   to Beurs ). This star of Dutch budget shopping has a limited range of clothing, food and hardware. HEMA has a reputation of delivering quality goods at very competitive prices. A lot of what it sells is of a fresh and bright design. ( updated Jul 2019 )

Markets [ edit ]

There are about 12 larger and smaller markets dotted around Rotterdam. Most of them are enjoyable places to walk through.

• 51.92115 4.48748 6 Centrummarkt ( at the eastern end of the Hoogstraat on the Binnenrotte, Metro   A   : Blaak ). Oct-Mar: Tu Sa 08:00-17:00; Apr-Sep: Tu Sa 08:00-17:00, Su 12:00-17:00 . It is a huge (~450 stalls) open air food and hardware market — a nice place to visit. In Summer also there is a smaller version (~50 stalls). ( updated Jul 2016 )
• 51.9011 4.5014 7 Afrikaanderplein Markt ( south of the river, Metro   D   : Maashaven ). W Sa 08:00-16:30 . This market (~300 stalls) is geared very much towards Rotterdam inhabitants of Antillian, South American or African descent (a lot of whom happen to live nearby). It’s more exotic and colourful than the other one. ( updated Jul 2016 )

Street food markets [ edit ]

51.920126 4.486789 8 Markthal , Ds. Jan Scharpstraat 298 ( Binnenrotte, Metro   B   : Blaak ). Market stands: M-Sa 10:00-20:00, Su 12:00-18:00; Albert Heijn: M-Sa 08:00-21:00, Su 10:00-20:00; Bars and restaurants: 10:00-00:00 . Opened in 2014 by a Dutch princess (who else!), It is a quite remarkable building which is worth a visit per se . It's more like a hybrid between a market and a shopping centre. Besides the large market hall, there are also residential, office sections, retail sections. Last but not least the Markthal houses a wide variety of bars, food stalls, and restaurants. Enjoy meals or bites from Mediterranean or Asian cultures or try the famous Rotterdam fries of Bram Ladage. ( updated Sep 2017 )

• Fenix Food Factory , Veerlaan 19D, 3072 AN Rotterdam . Closed on Monday . Offers food/bites and beers on a unique venue. The building itself is an old warehouse which did not lose much of its original character. Get a food platter and pass along all the shops for breakfast, brunch or snacks. ( updated Jul 2019 )

Try one or many more of the Kaapse Brouwers beers: there is a whole wall of taps to choose from. This is a popular place so waiting lines can be long.

Sustainable shopping [ edit ]

• 51.92377 4.48843 9 De Groene Passage , Mariniersweg 1 – 33 ( near Blaak train- and metrostation ). A collection of sustainable shops including a grocery store, restaurant, bookstore and butchery.  

Things to buy [ edit ]

Dutch cheese is very famous, you can get some at grocery stores or wider variety at the marketplace. Other typical Dutch things are stroopwafels , hagelslag and drop (liquorice).

Eat [ edit ]

The area around metrostation Blaak , called Oude haven (Old Harbour), is not only worth seeing but has also a lot of pubs and restaurants. The Rotterdam dining scene is developing very fast with new restaurants opening very often. While most of the attention focusses on new Michelin-star aspiring places, there is very much a trend towards high quality mid-range restaurants offering French/Dutch cuisine.

Budget [ edit ]

• 51.9175 4.4743 1 Café Restaurant Sijf , Oude Binnenweg 115 . In weekend open till 02:00 . Very nice old-looking bar. They also serve food for a reasonable price and most of the food is home made. Try the grilled beef with Spanish pepper and garlic! Or have one of their great sandwiches or salads. Wanna have a nice Belgium beer that gets you all fuzzy? They have an awesome Belgian beer called “la Chouffe” (the midget) on draft. Very tasty! A good start for the evening. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.917 4.4717 2 Rotown , Nieuwe Binnenweg 19 , ☏ +31 10 4362669 . This is 'the' place in town for creative people. Or it used to be, because lots of people now go to the next-door café's Stalles and Parket. Rotown has a restaurant with decent food for a decent price. The daily changing menu (meat, fish and vegetarian) usually gets you something nice. After eating you can go watch a band or have your drink in the café. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.9171 4.4723 3 Stalles , Nieuwe Binnenweg 9 , ☏ +31 10 4361655 . This café at the has pizzas offers on Mondays and Tuesdays. The atmosphere in the restaurant is relaxed and friendly. The menu furthermore features salads, sandwiches, and tapas. The owner also owns Club Vibes, around the corner. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.922833 4.498469 4 Rottiedam Roti Rotterdam , Oostzeedijk 356-a . Roti dishes. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.923436 4.495544 5 De Kip Gallery , Hoogstraat 6a . Portuguese. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.921082 4.470883 6 Bram Ladage Kruisplein , Kruisplein 157 . Fast food. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 51.92 4.4912 7 (Cocktail)Bar-Restaurant Stockholm , Spaansekade 12 (Old Harbour) ( walking distance (5min) from train/tram/bus station Blaak ), ☏ +31 10-4147295 . M-Th 15:00-01:00, F Sa 15:00-03:00, Su 15:00-01:00, closed on Monday . Two of the best things in gastronomy come together at Bar-Restaurant Stockholm: A high standard yet fair priced French-inspired menu & the exquisite cocktails. Together with the trendy interior and city centre location Stockholm has been a well-earned success for years. €20-30 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.92 4.4907 8 Café-Restaurant Kade 4 , Spaansekade 4 in Oude Haven (Old Harbour) ( 5 minute walk from train/tram/bus station Blaak ), ☏ +31 10 270 9001 . Su-Th 10:00-01:00, F Sa 10:00-02:00, closed on Monday . A cafe in an authentic part of the city centre: in the Old Harbour. Open all year round for lunch, dinner or just coffee and delicious cake. One of the most popular terraces during summer. Fair prices, spontaneous staff, basic French-inspired cuisine. €20-30 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.9161 4.4675 9 Bierhandel De Pijp , Gaffelstraat 90 ( Take Tram 4 to the Bloemkwekerstraat stop on the Nieuwe Binnenweg ), ☏ +31 10 4366896 . M-Sa 12:00-14:00 and 17:30-00:00, closed on Su and festive days and Sat afternoon . Prepare yourself for something special when visiting this famous eatery. The outside is absolutely rundown (so is the interior) and you must convince yourself to really push open the dark door. Once inside you will be welcomed by waiters in white and you will be allocated directly next to other visitors on benches. Good food is served (traditional Dutch and French fare), cooked in the same space that you're sitting. The place is frequented by Rotterdam businessmen and students and guests should fit in in terms of behaviour and appearance. (Mick Jagger was famously denied access here for not being a gentleman.) €30-40 . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 51.9225 4.4834 10 Restaurant Amarone , Meent 72 ( near the City Hall (Stadhuis) ), ☏ +31 10 4148487 . A culinary gem in the very heart of the city, this stylish restaurant needs to be booked well in advance. Very rewarding French cuisine. Valet parking. €100+ . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.9177 4.4634 11 Restaurant Lux , 's-Gravendijkwal 133B , ☏ +31 10 476 22 06 , fax : +31 10 476 00 69 . M-Sa 18:00-23:00; Su 17:30-23:00 . Nicely decorated Italian restaurant where you don't just drop by for a simple pizza. As a matter of fact, they don't even serve pizza. With the fine use of herbs, garlic and more interesting stuff that the Italian kitchen has to offer, it is almost impossible to not like this food. The personal is professional and for what you get the prices are actually not too bad. In summer you can eat outside (there is a small terrace at the back). A nice feature of this restaurant is that the kitchen is open until 23:00, something that is not very common in Rotterdam. Around €70 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 51.9039 4.4716 12 Restaurant Parkheuvel , Heuvellaan 21 ( Metro Dijkzigt + a short walk through the 'Park' ), ☏ +31 10 4360530 . This sublime Michelin 2 star is the best place in town. Very nice views and service to match. €100+ . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Nightlife in Rotterdam is extremely varied, every subculture has its own area in the city. The Oude Haven (close to the Kubuswoningen ) and the main market square Blaak are the hang out spot for business, economic and law students. The cafés and restaurants in the Oude Haven (Old Harbour) are around a picturesque little harbour. Scenery of water, city lights, boats and Het Witte Huis , the first skyscraper of Europe (1897). The atmosphere is really great and it is best to go when the sun sets, very romantic! Great place for a night out.

Close to the Oude Haven area, the streets around the Pannenkoekstraat have emerged as a new center for shopping and going out. Amidst small boutiques, selling clothes and interior design by young, upcoming designers, you can find cocktailbars such as Level or Soho, which both attract large crowds. Especially in the summer this is a great place for a mojito.

The most lively bar area in town is Eendrachtsplein / Nieuwe Binnenweg . Alternative, easy going and full of friendly, open-minded people. The cafés you should be looking for are Stalles, Parket and Rotown. This is the place to be for the more creative orientated people, musicians, designers and artschool students. Walk down de Nieuwe Binnenweg and arrive at Café Ari ( Nieuwe Binnenweg / Mathenesserlaan ) and Westerpaviljoen (grand café with the best terrace in the city). This is a good place to start the evening. Walk a little bit (3 minutes) down the Binnenweg again and go left at ' s-Gravendijkwal (you'll see the flashy neon lights of sexclub OQ). Across the street you'll find Jazz Cafe Dizzy. A great place for a quality beer and some live jazz music. You can also eat at almost all places mentioned.

Now walk back the Binnenweg up eastbound. Cross Eendrachtsplein and go to the right towards the Westersingel . Walk 3 minutes and on your left there is the Witte de Withstraat . Some nice café's like De Witte Aap, Mondriaan, Bar P, and De Schouw are found here, along with some good restaurants as well. This is also the most arty street of Rotterdam. Here you'll find Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art , MAMA, showroom for media and moving art and many more. Drinking in style!

If you're into loud music, your best option would be to go to De Baroeg at the "Spinozaweg" in Rotterdam-Lombardijen. Loads of heavy metal acts play here each year. Should you not feel like making your way all the way into sub-urbia, you could also try your luck at the Rhythm on Oude Binnenweg . A popular hang out of alternative types.

The clubscene in Rotterdam is well-renowned. For example, it gave birth to the gabber-housescene in the early 1990s and was home to the Now&Wow, one of the world's trendiest clubs. The Now&Wow is now defunct, but in its last location, an old grain silo near metro station Maashaven , there are still numerous dance parties. Just as with the bar scene, there are clubs that cater for different groups of people. Moreover, Rotterdam nightlife is very dynamic: places come and go, move around, change ownership, etc. It is mostly centered around:

• Kruiskade : clubs as Off Corso (housed in an old cinema) and Thalia Lounge have good parties over the weekends and mostly attract 20-somethings.
• Stadhuisplein : number of bars and disco's that are more directed towards the working class. The nearby Baja Beach Club (at the Schouwburgplein) attracts a similar crowd. Stadhuisplein is better to be avoided in the weekends due to a lot of aggression! During week days it's mostly students going out, with De Après Skihut full of people every day of the week.
• Delftsestraat : the Hollywood is a large disco that fills up quickly in weekends with an overall somewhat younger crowd. The Apres Ski Hut recreates the atmosphere of Tirol in the same colourless street.
• Club Vie , near the old harbour area, is a more stylish, trendy club, which also offers nice views over the Maas river.

Some listings that can be found around these places:

• Stalles , Nieuwe Binnenweg 11a . A small bar next to Parket. They serve a large variety of single malt whiskys. It's pretty small, but very cosy.  
• Grand café Westerpaviljoen , Nieuwe Binnenweg 136 . Open till 02:00 in the weekend . Rotterdammers like to read their newspaper here. For a solid breakfast (Dutch “wentelteefjes”), good lunch, or a fast meeting Westerpaviljoen is a perfect place. Hang out on their huge and fantastic terrace, drink a nice glass of Amstel or Hoegaarden White beer.  
• Café De Witte Aap , Witte de Withstraat 78 ( Metro: Eendrachtsplein ). This classic Rotterdam pub (The White Monkey) draws a very varied and often too large crowd for its premises. It's a cool place to have a few drinks before dinner or before exploring the rest of this very lively neighborhood.  
• Pol Bar , Meent 46-48 . In weekends open till 02:00 . Nice looking bar with modern solid patio. Crowd can be sort of posh sometimes, but don't let that scare you too much. Right next to the market (Tuesday and Thursday), and they won some prices with their sandwiches.  
• Paddy Murphy's . This Irish pub is really Irish. Green and wooden colors and a bar crew who only speaks English. Live music every night! On Monday there's pub bingo. In the weekends the entrance fee is €2.50. ( updated Mar 2017 )
• 51.92305 4.50027 2 De Pui , Oostzeedijk Beneden 221 ( Metro: Oostplein ). Very nice bar in a corner building in the heart of Kralingen. Recognizable by the distinguished red awnings. There are students there, but it is not a student pub. There are musicians there, but it is not a musicians cafe. There are businessmen there, but that makes it no business cafe. It is the mixture of people and taste, that makes it so enjoyable. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• Tiki's , Hartmansstraat 16/A ( between Witte de Withstraat and Westblaak ). Don't let the cheesy Hawaiian interior put you off. Frequented by an alternative arty crowd, with rockabilly and ska (and occasionally Ethiopian jazz) on the loudspeakers. Cocktails and small dinner menu.  

Coffeeshops [ edit ]

As everywhere in the Netherlands, the possession (of small quantities) and use of cannabis (hash and weed) is tolerated in Rotterdam. Since Amsterdam draws more coffee-shop tourism prices are lower in Rotterdam. Some renowned places:

• Coffeeshop "De lachende paus" ("The laughing pope", Nieuwe Binnenweg): A shop where you can buy over 40 kinds of pre-rolled joints ( voorgedraaide in Dutch). The prices can be high, but it's worth a visit.
• Coffeeshop "Pluto" (Nieuwe Binnenweg 139a): Actually a headshop. They also sell loads of paraphernalia like pipes, and bongs.
• Coffeeshop "Greenhouse" (Nieuwe Binnenweg) Ditto.
• Coffeeshop "The Reefer" (De Meent, City center)
• Coffeeshop "The Pool" (Westersingel, 5 m from Central Station): A nice Coffeeshop on the 1st floor where you can sit and relax by a table or bar. Or play some pool on the 2nd and 3rd floor.
• Coffeeshop the "Act" / Cafe "De Nieuwe Wet" (Westerwagenstraat): Since the mid-1990s the sale of alcohol and cannabis in the same place has been made illegal. The natural solution? Split your coffeeshop and pub into two separate entities, with only one door.
• Coffeeshop "Nemo" (Nieuwe Binnenweg): Unlike many coffeeshops this place is bright, open and airy with large windows and comfortable seats; the walls are covered in a (Disney) Nimo-esque montage and the music is more relaxed than many coffeeshops. A good place for someone wanting something softer than many other coffeeshops.

Possessing large quantities of hasheesh or cannabis is a crime in the Netherlands: do not take stuff with you when leaving the Netherlands (you can be punished severely in neighbouring countries). It's also unwise to buy for someone else, especially if it's a foreigner as you can be punished in his or her country of origin (it has happened).

Smoking tobacco is banned inside food and drink establishments — even coffeeshops! But tobacco smoking appears to be tolerated in coffee shops, and their pre-rolled joints are often mixed with tobacco.

Music venues [ edit ]

• Rotown where smaller international and national indie artists perform.
• WORM, venue focused on underground and avant garde music
• Roodkapje, a gallery that also host various parties
• Poortgebouw, a venue run by the squatters that live in the building.

Sleep [ edit ]

Camping [ edit ]

• 51.93053 4.44503 1 Stadscamping Rotterdam , Kanaalweg 84 ( Bus 33 (Airport) or 40 (Delft) from Rotterdam Centraal Station, metro stop Blijdorp or busstop Blijdorpplein ), ☏ +31 10 4159772 , fax : +31 10 4373215 , [email protected] . Northwest of the center. For camping near the city it's the only option. There are a lot of trees to give shelter from sun or wind. Basic facilities. Little chalets (2/4 persons) can be rented too. Tent €5, person €6 .  

Hostel [ edit ]

• 51.90935 4.4788 2 Hostel ROOM Rotterdam , Van Vollenhovenstraat 62 , ☏ +31 10 282 72 77 , fax : +31 10 240 07 40 , [email protected] . Check-in: 24/7 , check-out: 24/7 . In the city center in the popular district named Scheepvaartkwartier enclosed by the river Maas, the Erasmus bridge, the Westzeedijk and the park at the Euromast. In a 1920s Art Deco building they offer 16 theme rooms (like the Port room, Festival room, Dutch Delight), a lively bar, guest kitchen, common room, etc. From the hostel everything in Rotterdam is just a doorstep away. Prices start at 15€ .  
• 51.92929 4.47697 3 Hostel De Mafkees , Vijverhofstraat 47, 3032 SB Rotterdam , ☏ +31 10 2409158 , [email protected] . Originating from a summertime-only location near the Central Station, they have moved in 2013 to a new, all-year location in Zomerhofkwartier, bordering the city centre in the north. Prices start at €12.50 for an overnight stay in a dormitory, breakfast included . ( updated Jul 2019 )
• 51.92007 4.49059 4 Stayokay Rotterdam ( Cubic Houses ), Overblaak 85-87 ( Metro: Blaak ), ☏ +31 10 436 57 63 , [email protected] . Clean, safe and easy to find. Since they are in the world-famous Cubic Houses, all the rooms are different shapes and nothing is 'square'. Surrounded by bars and concrete, party noises are amplified and bounced into your room. Not a problem if you plan on staying out late...  
• 51.915123 4.476316 5 King Kong Hostel , Witte de Withstraat 74, 3012BS Rotterdam , ☏ +3110-8188778 , [email protected] . Lively hostel on the even livelier Witte de Withstraat. Clean & friendly, good place to be in the middle of the action and to get to know people. Possibly not best place for quiet sleep though. Bed in dorm from €18.50, Private rooms €80 upwards . ( updated Jul 2017 )

Bed and Breakfast [ edit ]

There are numerous bed and breakfast houses in Rotterdam and they generally offer a good possibility of getting a "local" experience.

Hotel [ edit ]

• 51.91748 4.48875 6 ibis Rotterdam City Centre , Wijnhaven 12 . Opened in August 2014. Features a waterfront location on an island in Wijnhaven.  
• 51.91738 4.47693 7 easyHotel Rotterdam City Centre . A budget hotel group created by the founders of airline easyJet and according to the same principles - the basic accommodation is cheap, but everything else costs extra. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 51.92443 4.476 8 Holiday Inn Express Rotterdam - Central Station , Weena 121 . In a converted office building close to Rotterdam Centraal. As in every other hotels in this chain, rooms are basic but adequate, while breakfast and Wi-Fi are included in room rates.  
• 51.91514 4.48068 9 Eurohotel Centrum , Baan 14-20 , ☏ +31 10 214 1922 , fax : +31 10 214 0187 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 11:00 . A double room starts at €55 per night, breakfast included . ( updated Jul 2019 )
• 51.92288 4.47684 10 Grand Hotel Central , Kruiskade 12 , ☏ +31 10 414 07 44 , fax : +31 10 412 53 25 , [email protected] . A double room starts at €75 per night, breakfast included .  
• 51.91596 4.47904 11 Hotel Bazar , Witte de Withstraat 16 ( Metro: Beurs or Churchillplein ), ☏ +31 10-2065151 , fax : +31 10-2065159 , [email protected] . Get in touch with real Rotterdam multiculturalism in this splendidly decorated place. Do not forget to dine here too. Ideally situated in the lively Witte de Withstraat. Doubles from €75, breakfast included .  
• 51.90942 4.48232 12 Maritime Hotel , Willemskade 13 ( Metro: Leuvehaven from where it's a short walk to the riverside ). This no-nonsense 3-star has an excellent location directly on the riverquay in the interesting Scheepvaartkwartier neighbourhood. Doubles from €75 per night, breakfast included .  

• 51.90414 4.48458 13 Hotel New York , Koninginnenhoofd 1 , ☏ +31 10 439 05 00 , fax : +31 10 484 27 01 , [email protected] . The former headquarters of the Holland Amerika Lijn, was done up in 1993 and is now a hip and lively place. From €105 per night .  
• 51.92102 4.47874 14 NH Atlanta Rotterdam , Aert van Nesstraat 4 , ☏ +31 10 206 78 00 , fax : +31 10 413 53 20 , [email protected] . Combines a historic 1930s building with a newer one adjoining De Bijenkorf department store. While the common areas entice with art deco charm, some of the cheaper rooms have fallen behind the times and are now badly worn. On balance, the Atlanta is in the very centre and offers brilliant views from its rooftop breakfast room and terrace, as well as from selected rooms.  
• 51.92868 4.47371 15 Hotel Rotterdam , Schiekade 658 ( Tram 25 to Schiekade stop ), ☏ +31 10 466 33 44 , [email protected] . This hotel is a little bit out of the city center on the (very) busy Schiekade street. Doubles from €120 .  
• 51.90964 4.48246 16 Tulip Inn Rotterdam-Centre , Willemsplein 1 , ☏ +31 10 413 41 39 , fax : +31 10 413 32 22 , [email protected] . A splendid location, in front of the tram stop at the start of the Erasmus Bridge with brilliant views thereof, as well as the Kop van Zuid across the Maas. From €125 for a double .  
• 51.92243 4.49177 17 Hampshire Hotel - Savoy Hotel Rotterdam , Hoogstraat 81 , ☏ +31 10 413 92 80 , fax : +31 10 404 57 12 , [email protected] .  

• 51.9194 4.49012 18 citizenM Rotterdam , Geldersestraat 50 . One of the first hotels of this chain with an innovative concept - offering ample, four-star level amenities, including designerish common spaces, combined with ultra-small cabin-sized rooms, all at a reasonable price vs. regular upscale hotels.  
• 51.91555 4.47324 19 Bilderberg Parkhotel Rotterdam , Westersingel 70 ( Metro: Eendrachtsplein ), ☏ +31 10 436 36 11 , fax : +31 10 436 42 12 , [email protected] . The somewhat stately Parkhotel has a reputation of offering real value. Its location is very practical too, just off the lively Witte de Withstraat and close to the major museums.  
• 51.92345 4.47734 20 Hilton Hotel Rotterdam , Weena 10 , ☏ +31 10 710 80 00 , fax : +31 10 710 80 80 .  
• 51.92257 4.47154 21 Marriott Hotel ( formerly Manhattan Hotel Rotterdam ), Weena 686 ( Rotterdam Centraal Station ), ☏ +31 10 430 20 00 , fax : +31 10 430 20 01 . This towering high rise is just across Rotterdam Centraal. Luxurious rooms that are sometimes to be had for as little as €100. Check the site (walk-ins pay far more) ( updated Jul 2017 )
• 51.913 4.48256 22 Inntel Hotels Rotterdam Centre , Schiedamsedijk 140 ( Metro (D,E): Leuvehaven ). A design hotel with modern, simplistic appointments. It occupies a striking waterfront building at the foot of the Erasmus bridge.  
• 51.91357 4.48246 23 Mainport Design Hotel , Leuvehaven 77 . A luxury offshot of Inntel Hotels along the same waterfront, Guests can enjoy rich interior decorations, a spa, sauna, hamam, spa, a restaurant and a bar, all with views of Leuvehaven.  
• 51.90666 4.48819 24 nhow Rotterdam , Wilhelminakade . An upscale hotel concept of NH Hoteles, with features, rooms and common spaces inspired by art, music, fashion and such. nhow Rotterdam, housed in the new striking waterfront highrise on Wilhelminakade (across the Erasmus Bridge), tops it up with great views from the pricier rooms.  
• 51.90199 4.48825 25 Bed, Bites & Business hotel Rotterdam ( Bed, Bites & Business ), Nico Koomanskade 94 ( on the quay of the Rijnhaven ), ☏ +31 1030 46063 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 11:00 . Bed, Bites & Business has a spectacular view of Wilhelminaplein, the head from south to the Euromast, inside the building "San Francisco", which in 1930 was the former headquarters of the largest transhipment warehouse in the world. 120 . ( updated Feb 2022 )

Connect [ edit ]

The telephone country code for the Netherlands is 31, and Rotterdam's city code is 010. In case of an Emergency , dial 1-1-2 (free of charge). When staying for a longer time, buy a prepaid sim card for your mobile phone.

Stay safe [ edit ]

You should take normal precautions against pickpockets and baggage theft, especially in the main shopping streets, at markets, in trams and trains, at stations, and anywhere where tourists congregate. It is not wise to hang around Stadhuisplein when nightlife ends. Fights often occur in this area after midnight. Rotterdam also has a reputation of mass venues getting out of hand, though you shouldn't worry too much about it. If violence breaks out at football festivities (not so unlikely) or at the end of sun soaked festive days, like Kings Day (even less unlikely, especially at the Stadhuisplein), just get out of the way and you're unlikely to be affected. It's advisable not to wear a football jersey of Ajax Amsterdam or any other stuff promoting Ajax or Amsterdam. In terms of general safety, at daylight most areas in the city are safe. But at night, some areas such as Spangen, Charlois and Hillesluis are wise to avoid.

As of the end of 2022/beginning of 2023, many explosions at the front doors of houses occurred across the entire city. These were related to drug crime and targeted at people involved in drug trafficking, or their family. Explosions mostly happened at night.

When you drive a car with a foreign numberplate (especially if it's a French or Belgian one) you might or will be approached by so-called drugsrunners . This can occur on the motorways surrounding the city and in the city proper. These guys try to lure people to places where drugs are dealt. Do not respond to their signals and do not follow them.

Go next [ edit ]

If you do not have a car, the hub for leaving the city will probably be Rotterdam Centraal , from where trains leave in all directions at short intervals (you can generally drop in and catch the next train to your destination). Most regional and longer distance buses leave here too, with the exception of most buses to southerly destinations and the province of Zeeland that leave from metro station Zuidplein . In contrast with the trains, bus departure times should be checked in advance as they can be far and between.

For trains to the North and the South travellers can also choose to depart from Rotterdam Blaak .

The Hague can also be reached easily and rather quickly by metro line E.

Nearby destinations like Schiedam or even Delft can also be reached by bike if you fancy a somewhat longer ride. Bike routes and directions are well marked and available in abundance. A good idea for a sunny day! Schiedam can be reached by train or by metro (in 15 minutes) too. MRDH is the area of the region Rotterdam-Schiedam-Delft-The Hague, see this page for more information on travel and cycling.

Nearby [ edit ]

• Kinderdijk — a UNESCO World Heritage site. 19 old windmills are still helping to control the water level there. Windmill #2 is open to the public (€3), allowing you to see its inner workings. In season there is a direct waterbus service from an embankment at the Erasmus bridge (travel time ~1/2 hour). Alternatively, Arriva bus 90 from bus and metro station Zuidplein will get you there in 50 minutes.
• Schiedam — visit the historic centre of this small town at the edge of Rotterdam, including the world's six tallest windmills. Also you can find there the Stedelijk Museum , an attractive museum with some nice modern art exhibitions. Easily reached by bicycle, a train (from Rotterdam Centraal to Schiedam Centrum ), metro A, B or C line to Schiedam Centrum station, or tram lines 21 or 24 ( Broersvest or Koemarkt stop).
• Hoek van Holland is a part of the Rotterdam municipality and it's 30 km from Rotterdam. On hot summer days it serves as Rotterdam's beach town, overlooking large ships leaving the port of Rotterdam, including the ferries to the United Kingdom.

Day trips [ edit ]

• Delft — this famous town is a 15-minute train ride from Rotterdam Centraal . Very historic and scenic, but also very touristy.
• Dordrecht — a magnificent historic town with little tourism and an excellent old art museum (Dordrechts Museum). It is a 15-min train ride, or even better, take a waterbus [dead link] .
• Gouda — visit this small picturesque postcard-like town and see the magnificent stained glass windows in the Sint Janskerk . Also 20 min by train.
• Delta Works — a series of construction projects protecting the Southwest of the Netherlands from the sea. The Oosterschelde storm surge barrier is the most impressive, and next to it is Neeltje Jans , a water theme park dedicated to the Delta Works.
• Brielle — a mediaeval fortified town. The centre is a nice ensemble of old houses and churches, enclosed by the original earthen defensive walls. There are some museums and the Roman Catholic shrine of the Martyrs of Gorcum. Walking around town and fortifications is a treat. You can easily spend a full day in Brielle. Take bus 103 at the Spijkenisse Centrum metro station. A journey takes about 70 min.
• Schoonhoven — a nice small town with many well preserved medieval buildings on the Lek river in a halfway to Utrecht. From Station Capelsebrug, Rotterdam, take a bus 195 (direction Utrecht). A journey takes about 1 hour.
• Go to the other cities of the Randstad , e.g. The Hague is 1/2 hour by train or metro, Utrecht is around 45 min by train, Amsterdam about an hour.

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Here’s The Best Travel Guide to Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a beautiful city that is filled with fantastic architecture, a refreshing port area, a lot of art, and a modern city center.

There are a lot of things to do in the city and places to see, from the museums, churches, harbor, and many more. Before you dive deep into these beautiful attractions, here’s an informative Rotterdam travel guide you can use to make your stay convenient and comfortable. 

When is the Best Time to Go in Rotterdam?

Take in the beautiful views of the city during the summer months, which are from late June to early September. The city is a year-round destination, which means whether you’re going here in the summer or winter, you can make the most out of it. 

How Much Will You Typically Spend in Rotterdam? 

If you’re staying in the city, there are a lot of accommodations you can choose from—from hotels , hostels , bed, and breakfasts, holiday homes, etc. The price of your accommodation will mainly depend on the number of nights you will stay in the city and the type of accommodation. For an average hotel room in the city, expect to pay from €110.

 There are budget hotel prices as well that you can get like at a two-star hotel where prices start at €55 per night. If you will be backpacking around the city and you’re okay with staying at a hostel, expect to pay between €20 and €40 per night.

For Airbnb, such as holiday homes, you can get an entire apartment at around €40 to €70 per night. For the food, meal prices in the city vary but the average cost of food here per day is at €33, in which dining out at an average meal should cost around €13 per person.

Breakfast prices are often cheaper than lunch or dinner here. As for local transportation, expect to spend around €17 per day on average. As for the tours, they greatly vary depending on the areas you will go to. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways you can save money in Rotterdam: 

• Hop on a bike: Get around the city by renting a bike. You can get one at around €10 per day. 
• Go on a free walking tour: If you want to see the city, you can go on a free walking tour where you will be able to learn about the city without the need to spend money. 
• Cook food: If your accommodation has a fully equipped kitchen, it’s cheaper to cook your own food than to eat out. Head to the grocery and get some ingredients to cook. 
• Use Uber pool: If you need to take an Uber, opt for rideshare. This is an effective way to save more money to get around Rotterdam. 
• Get the welcome card: Get the tourist card that contains a lot of discounts, especially if you will stay in the city for a while. 

How to Get Around Rotterdam

You can take public transportation to get around the city. The RET has buses, trams, water buses, and trains. It’s best to have an OV-chipkaart, which costs around €7. You can replenish your funds on the card as needed. Taxi is another mode of transportation in the city with a meter drop of around €2.50 and around €3 per mile. That said, only take a taxi when necessary because this isn’t cheap! 

If you want to have more convenience and freedom to get around the city, you can always rent a car. The average rate per day is around €15, which is cheaper than a taxi fare. You can rent a bike as well, which is around €6 per day. However, this will depend on the size and type of bike you rent. Another great way to get around the city is to ride water-based transportation, such as water taxis and water buses.

The water taxi shuttles between Hotel New York and the Leuvenhaven subway station, and the Veerhaven. The cost per ride is around €2. You can also ride the Aqualiner or the Waterbus ferry. The ferry lets passengers bring their bikes with them, which is free of charge. The time and price vary based on several factors, therefore, check with the line before you board. 

Are you looking for a car to rent in Rotterdam? 

How to Stay Safe in the City

Generally, Rotterdam is a safe city. However, a big concern here is pick-pocketing. Therefore, be mindful of your belongings when you’re out in public. You also need to be cautious of some scams here, such as people selling public transit tickets that have already been used.

Make sure you only buy from official ticket places in the city. Additionally, don’t purchase a really cheap bike from someone from the street because it’s likely it’s a stolen one. 

What Should I Pack for Rotterdam?

Packing for Rotterdam depends on what type of traveler you are and how long you will be staying in the city. Of course, the weather is also a factor. A good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothes, such as: 

• A pair of jeans
• Long-sleeved shirts
• A pair of sneakers
• Pairs of socks
• Several jackets and heavy jackets if you’re going in winter
• Bathing suits

If it’s your first time in the city, or even if it’s your second or third, it’s important to be in comfortable clothes, especially if you plan to do a lot of tours, walking, and whatnot. Hopefully, our Rotterdam travel guide will help you enjoy the city even more!

Read more about Rotterdam and other cities in the Netherlands here at Ask The Dutch Guy. Browse our other topics today! 

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How To Enjoy Your 2 Days in Rotterdam

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Rotterdam Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in Rotterdam

The Dutch city of Rotterdam was such a pleasant surprise. I barely knew anything about the destination beforehand, but I left feeling really quite impressed with Rotterdam. It’s the city of cool and is well worth a weekend away, or even just a day trip from Amsterdam .

From futuristic architecture, to the old historical district of Delfshaven, Rotterdam has an awful lot to offer. Some even describe the city as can ‘open-air museum of modern and contemporary design’ and a brief walk along its charismatic streets, it’s easy to see why.

The city was largely destroyed following World War 2, but has since been largely re-built. The city has certainly emerged to be an interesting and multi-cultural destination. In fact, its urban developments are particularly cool and contemporary, with some very quirky design. Rotterdam offers excellent shopping, endless unusual cafes and bars, pumping nightlife and an eclectic arts scene, I already can’t wait for a return trip!

Read on for my Rotterdam Travel guide featuring all the main districts in the city. I’ve also included attraction recommendations and a few foodie suggestions too. If you’d like a more detailed overview of some of the best cafes in Rotterdam, check my guide here .

Districts of Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a compact city, with some very cool and unexpected districts. The best way to get around Rotterdam is on foot, or of course, bicycle.

Another option is to join a tour, and I’ve picked out a couple below that would be great:

• Rotterdam Harbour Tour
• Architecture Walking Tour in Rotterdam
• Cube Houses, Markthal and Water Taxi tour in Rotterdam

Central Rotterdam

The famous yellow cube houses.

Known in Dutch as Kubuswoningen, these are Rotterdam’s famous Cube Houses , built by Piet Blom in 1984. These are genuine homes and truly like nothing else in the world – a real 20th century icon. Apparently, the architect wanted to create a mini village within the city and you really get a sense of that. Each of the cube houses is tipped facing downwards. So three sides face the ground and the other three face skywards. You can even go inside a ‘Show Cube’ to see what it’s like to live here!

A giant indoor food market, shaped in a giant inverted U-shaped design and lined with glass walled apartments on the upper levels, Markthal is a completely unique destination. Remember, arrive earlyish and it isn’t open too late into the evening!

Rotterdam Centraal

The city’s central station is one of the most iconic architectural sites in Rotterdam. Not only is it striking and a wonder to walk around, but its it runs largely off the energy generated from the solar panels on the roof. Some of the original features from the previous station, such as the clock above the front facade and the letters spelling ‘Centraal Station’.

Witte de Withkwartier

This lively district is home to the heart of Rotterdam’s art and culture. At the centre of it all is the famous Witte de Withstraat, an eclectic street showcasing the best of Rotterdam’s multiculturalism and artistic nature. The street is lined with buzzing galleries, independent fashion boutiques, hip restaurants and bars. And of course, the most creative and colourful street art around.

Restaurants to try here include:

• Bazaar – North African and Middle Eastern dishes served us in a colourful mishmash of fun and lively music
• Warung Mini – This popular Surinamese restaurant is  the  place to try the cuisine typical of Suriname
• Supermercado – Serving up the best Latin American food, it’s very Instagrammable too!
• De Witte Aap – Nominated as Lonely Planet’s best bar in the world, this pub is a Rotterdam institution and at the absolute heart and soul of the city. All day sessions keep this place pumping year-round.

Located in the west of the city, around a 30 minute walk away, or a short tram ride, lies the picturesque district of Delfshaven . One of the few parts of Rotterdam city that survived the World War 2 bombings, this beautiful area is worth a visit to see how the city used to look. The area came to be in the 16th century as a rich harbour town, and has continued to be historically important for Rotterdam, as it was even the departure point for the Pilgrim Fathers who sailed to America. The historical canal houses are similar to Amsterdam, but the vibe is very different. Now home to a couple of riverside cafes and pubs, and a handful of antique stores, it’s a delightful place for a wander.

Museum Park

Rotterdam has plenty of open green spaces – always a big tick for me in any city. Museum Park is a vast and pleasant location and a delightful place to wile away a summer’s day. The park is also home to Rotterdam’s iconic Euromast observation tower which was constructed in 1960. Visitors can go 185m above the city to the observation deck and restaurant. Visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen , one of the Netherland’s oldest museums, featuring art from the likes of Van Gogh, Dali and Rembrandt!

Buy your tickets to the Euromast observation deck here.

Erasmusbrug and Katendrecht

Rotterdam’s iconic bridge, the Erasmusbrug spans the Nieuwe Maas River, linking the two sides of Rotterdam. I enjoyed glorious cycles across this bridge plenty of times and would recommend crossing by bike or by foot to explore the Katendrecht area. Built in 1996, it finally connected the South to the Centre of Rotterdam and opened up development to an area once known as the red light district.

Another famous Rotterdam landmark is the Hotel New York which must be one of the most beautiful historic buildings in the city. It used to be the headquarters of the Holland-America Cruise Line but is now an elegant hotel and restaurant, offering fantastic views across the water.

The view from this nhow hotel ‘s sky-high bar is rather stunning. Located 30m above ground level and also home to a restaurant and rooftop terrace, the nhow bar is the perfect place for a craft cocktail overlooking the Erasmusburg bridge and city.

Located on Katendrecht, the ss Rotterdam is the former flagship cruise liner of the Holland-America Line. The ship was built in 1959, but stopped sailing several decades later. Since 2008, has been docked in Rotterdam at the tip of the Katendrecht peninsula. Now, it has been re-purposed as as permanent hotel and events venue. You can wander on-board for free to explore but you’ll see and learn more if you join a guided tour. Also, make sure to head to the terrace for a different perspective of Rotterdam!

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

I enjoyed the most fantastic stay at the Citizen M Hotel , located near the Markthal and the Cube Houses.

I’m a huge fan of Citizen M Hotels, and love everything they stand for. The rooms are unbelievably well-thought out and practical, which is a total dream for an organisation geek like me!

Check rates for the excellent Citizen M Hotel here.

But of course, a Rotterdam Travel Guide wouldn’t be complete without some other suggestions for places to stay in the city. I’ve covered several price ranges with my accommodation choices below:

• Rotterdam Marriott
• Hotel New York
• The James Rotterdam
• nhow Rotterdam
• King Kong Hostel

Rotterdam Travel Guide

If you’re heading to Rotterdam in The Netherlands soon, I do hope this post on the city’s districts is helpful. I’ve also written a detailed foodie guide to Rotterdam here too. I really found Rotterdam to be a wonderful and surprising destination, with a lot to offer. I couldn’t recommend a long weekend here enough. Although, as you’ll most likely still arrive in Amsterdam, then why not check out this guide to one day in Amsterdam here!

Feel free to drop me a line if you would like any advice or further recommendations for planning your trip to Rotterdam. If you’ve enjoyed this Rotterdam Travel Guide, then please do share using the below links!

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This visit to Rotterdam was entirely paid for by myself. There was no involvement from the tourism board or a hotel. This is an independent guide.

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Great article! I have been a few times and enjoyed the walk along the River watching the boats come in and out of the port.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Rotterdam

Not sure what to expect in Rotterdam? Looking for travel tips for the Netherlands? With our Rotterdam Travel Guide, you can be sure not to miss any of the must-see spots and main attractions!

Prepare yourself for incredible natural and historical sites, vivid cultural life, great shopping opportunities and a bustling culinary scene, we will be sharing with you our best travel tips such as Van Nelle Fabriek, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Netherlands is located in Rotterdam and can be visited on your trip.

This ultimate travel guide to Rotterdam will show you all the most beautiful places in Rotterdam, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Rotterdam and things to do in Rotterdam which will help you in planning a trip to Rotterdam.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Rotterdam

With many cheap flights (eg. with RyanAir or EasyJet) it is both easy and inexpensive to fly to the Netherlands. From many European destinations, travellers can book flights directly to Rotterdam The Hague Airport, which is just a few kilometres from the city centre, easily accessible by taxis and public transportation.

Travellers coming from non-European destinations can book the flight to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, which is connected with Rotterdam by fast train, and a one-way ticket from the national airport to Rotterdam Centraal Station is around 14 € (approx. 16 USD).

There is also a FlixBus connection between Schiphol and Rotterdam city. The bus fare is lower than the price of the train ticket, approx. 8 USD.

If Rotterdam is a stop on your European road-trip, you’d be happy to know that there is also a ferry connection from England to Hoek van Holland, so you can even drive from the UK. The duration of the sailing is approx. 6,5 hours, but it definitely saves you a lot of driving!

What to expect in Rotterdam

Even though Rotterdam is not the main Dutch city, you can expect an international crowd, and communicating in English will be easy for you. People in Holland speak English well, so you should not expect any communication problems, but road signs and public messages eg. in public transportation, are still mostly in Dutch.

Being a part of the European Union, Euro is the currency used in Holland, but all major international credit cards will be accepted as well. Unlike other European countries, the majority of the shops and restaurants does not have minimum spending so even the small purchases can be easily paid with a card if you don’t have cash on you.

The tipping culture in Holland is interesting. No one speaks about it openly, and yet tips are expected! For extraordinary service you should usually leave around 10% in service fee, otherwise, it is common to “round up” to a full Euro amount.

Sometimes the restaurants will mark (eg. on their menu) that the service fee is either included in the price or will be added on top of your bill, and then, of course, you don’t have to worry about leaving additional change, unless you have had a superb experience.

How to get around Rotterdam

Holland is a country famous for its biking culture. In Rotterdam, you will see both locals and tourists using the bike as one of the main means of transportation.

There is, in fact, a big bike rental shop right at the city’s main train station so travellers coming from Schiphol Airport without too much luggage can rent a bicycle immediately when they arrive. You will also see that most hotels offer bike rental services.

Check with your host before you arrive – maybe the service is already included in your stay with no additional rental fees!

With Rotterdam Welcome Card it is both easy and cheap to travel around the city with public transportation. Available for 1 (12 € = 13,5 USD), 2 (18 € = 20,5 USD) or 3 days (23 € = 26 USD) the Welcome Card works in buses, trams and metro, and in addition to unlimited transportation, it also gives you a minimum of 25% discount at top Rotterdam attractions!

In Rotterdam city centre we recommend walking. You will most likely end up discovering places and hidden gems, you otherwise would have overlooked!

The best time to visit Rotterdam

It is usually recommended to visit Rotterdam from April through October. In the spring and summer, the weather is very pleasant, summer, of course, is the peak of the tourist season.

For budget travellers, we would recommend going to Rotterdam in March. Even though some rain may occur, the heavy winter will be over. In March, you can expect the hotel prices to drop to approx. 50 € (57 USD) per night because of low season.

If you are a botanist of a flora-enthusiast, March will also be the best time to go. Like the “Sakura” Cherry Blossom time in Japan, Holland is famous for its tulip season. The season starts in March through mid-May, usually the middle of April is the best time to admire the flowers.

Like in many European cities, the Christmas season in Rotterdam is very charming. You will encounter Christmas markets filled with traditional, seasonal stalls selling gifts and souvenirs and, of course, you will experience the city beautifully decorated for the festivities.

The cold winter weather will be balanced out by a warm atmosphere, so consider visiting Rotterdam in the winter holiday season too.

Things to do in Rotterdam

Visit the abstract forest of cube houses.

Designed and constructed by Piet Blom in the 1970s, the Cube Houses were the architect’s way to build houses on top of a walking bridge.

The cubes are tilted, mounted on a robust, hexagon-shaped pillars and they are perfectly livable spaces.

The fact that the residents got disturbed by tourists, led one of the owners to open his house up for visitors . He fully furnished and decorated the flat and is now inviting tours inside.

Go on a street art tour

Impressive street art is Rotterdam’s pride. Meander around looking for the large-scale murals and more subtle, hidden pieces of graffiti art.

We recommend downloading the REWRITERS APP – it will lead you through a labyrinth of graffiti artworks by local artists and expose you to non-touristy places to visit in Rotterdam.

You can walk the REWRITERS’ route without access to WiFi since it can be easily downloaded to your phone as an offline map to which new works and highlights are added all the time.

Visit Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

With an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and cultural artefacts, as well as an exquisite selection of prints and drawings, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is one of the oldest museums in the Netherlands.

Its impressive collection is built on gifts from over 1700 private collectors who, throughout a period of 170 years, have donated over 50,000 artifacts to the institution.

Before visiting the museum, don’t forget to have a look at the programme of temporary exhibitions and special events – the activities calendar is filled with exciting happenings.

Explore the Maritime Museum

Looking for family-friendly Rotterdam attractions? The Maritime Museum is Rotterdam’s naval museum – unveiling the maritime past and present of the city.

It is a great pick for families, as the exhibitions are interactive and many of them are targeted to children. The temporary and permanent expositions explain the impact that shipping has on our everyday lives.

The popular “Euromast” is also a part of the Maritime Museum. Built to resemble a ship’s mast, it is a viewing platform from where, on a clear day, one can see as far as Antwerp!

Admire the city skyline and the Erasmus Bridge

Also called “The Swan”, Erasmus Bridge is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. Spanning the Nieuwe Maas River, the bridge connects northern and southern parts of Rotterdam.

The bridge is named after Desiderius Erasmus (also known as Erasmus of Rotterdam) who was a Christian renaissance thinker.

With its unique architecture and its urban significance, the bridge often becomes the setting for various events – from cultural shows to sports events like the Marathon of Rotterdam and even Tour de France!

What to eat in Rotterdam

To start your food adventure (and your day!) right, you must try “koffie verkeerd”. The direct translation of the name is “wrong coffee” and it is a mix of automatic drip coffee and warm milk.

This way of serving coffee is purposely referred to as “wrong”, since the coffee and milk are mixed half-half, as opposed to a coffee with a “wolkje”, a small drop of warm milk.

Whereas it can be difficult to name one traditional main dish in Holland, there is one thing not to be missed on a Dutch table: the appelmoes. It is a sweet apple sauce served on the side of the savoury meals.

A Dutch main course will usually consist of boiled potatoes, fried or blanched vegetables and a serving of meat, so try spicing it up with some appelmoes!

If you want to taste locally produced delicacies and artisanal food in a hip, modern setting, you should go to Fenix Food Factory.

The Factory is a small food hub, located in the Fenixloods that used to serve as a warehouse at the Katendrecht peninsula. You will have the opportunity to taste Dutch cheeses, cold cuts from Firma Bijten Butchery and spice up the tasting experience with beers from local Dutch breweries!

Where to stay in Rotterdam

For travellers who come to the city for a short stay, eg. only spend a weekend in Rotterdam, we suggest choosing accommodation in the city centre.

We recommend Ibis Rotterdam City which is situated near the Oude Haven (old port). It is an area within the city centre, filled with cafes and restaurants but also floating houses and hotels. Oude Haven is close to the Maritime Museum, and the Ibis Hotel is also within walking distance from Beurstraverse Street, the main shopping district.

The Oude Western district is, on the other hand, the perfect pick for budget travellers. It still falls within the city centre, but the accommodation is cheaper, and you will be able to rent an Airbnb instead of having to check into a hotel. It is also the area of Rotterdam’s Chinatown, so prepare yourself for a multi-cultural experience.

Tours to do in Rotterdam

Rotterdam Night Tour

Curious to see Rotterdam by night? The city is beautifully decorated with lights and you can experience it going out with a group of friends and a local guide who will not only tell you about the city and show you the most beautifully light-up spots.

lso introduce you to places to visit and things to do in Rotterdam at night! You will stop at De Witte de Withstraat, Rotterdam’s nightlife street filled with restaurants, cafes, restaurants and even art galleries!

Architecture Highlights Walking Tour

Do you want to know more about the styles and stories of the buildings in the city? Rotterdam is a meeting point for modern architecture, post-war reconstruction and urban trends.

You can join a tour led by a duo of a local architect and an artist/landscape designer who will introduce you to the creative variety of building styles in different areas of the city.

Day trips from Rotterdam

Day Trip to Keukenhof Garden and Flower Fields

Keukenhof (also referred to as the “Garden of Europe”) is one of the biggest flower gardens in the world. Admire the many types of flowers walking around the garden lawns. On-site there will also be flower exhibitions and shops too.

Note that the garden is only open seasonally. In 2019 it will be open for 59 days from March 21st of March through May 19th. It is therefore recommended to book a tour also to be sure that the Garden will be open and accessible to tourists.

Visit Amsterdam

With less than 80 kilometres between the two cities, we recommend you to go on a day-trip to Amsterdam. Over 100 trains are travelling every day between the two cities, and the fare is 16.4 € (approx. 18,5 USD), and you will reach Amsterdam in less than 40 minutes.

Take this short trip to find yourself in the city of beautiful museums like the Van Gogh Museum or the Stedelijk Museum of modern and contemporary art and design.

Take time to wander around the small alleys, cross the charming bridges over the city’s many canals and enjoy modern and traditional cuisine in the hip neighbourhood of De Pijp.

Recommend budget tours in Rotterdam

• Private Tour: Rotterdam Walking Tour Including Harbor Cruise
• Day Trip to Keukenhof Garden and Flower Fields from Rotterdam
• Cultural Walking Tour in Rotterdam
• City Sightseeing Rotterdam Hop On Hop Off Tour
• The interactive city discovery game of Rotterdam
• Entrance Ticket to Miniworld Rotterdam
• Euromast Entrance Ticket: Enjoy a Spectacular 360 View of Rotterdam from the Highest Tower of The Netherlands
• Rotterdam Welcome Card Including 1, 2 or 3 Days Public Transport

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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17 Best Things to Do in Rotterdam Right Now    

We’ve just returned from our second trip to Rotterdam and to help you out, we have picked our favourite things to do in Rotterdam and the most valuable tips you’ll need to create your perfect trip. 

The Netherlands’ second city, Rotterdam , is, without doubt, an overlooked tourism destination in the country. However, in recent times, Rotterdam has been recognised as an exciting destination worth visiting just like other famous places in the Netherlands. 

We first visited Rotterdam a few years ago to attend the city’s famous Erasmus University Rotterdam’s open day. We loved our brief visit and thoughts of returning to Rotterdam to fully explore it remained on top of our travel plans.

Our Airbnb was close to the vibrant Witte de Withstraat . We liked its vibe, diverse mix of boutiques, art galleries, cafes, trendy bars, and cool street art and murals. 

Rotterdam’s ultra-modern skyscrapers and high rises, some quite radical, blew us away. Particularly memorable was the elephantine Markathal or Market Hall , the city’s unrivalled food market and a true architectural marvel. 

As is known, Rotterdam was bombed by Germany during the invasion of the Netherlands in 1940, wiping out most of its historic centre. After the war, Rotterdam’s town planners saw an opportunity to rebuild the city with a fresh perspective, transforming the city’s landscape to one characterised by modern architecture and various innovative urban designs.

Rotterdam is now often dubbed the architectural capital of the Netherlands and the “Manhattan on the Meuse” due to its very modern skyline and location along the banks of the New Meuse River.  

In addition, Rotterdam has a well-established maritime industry which inspires many of its top tourist attractions. The Port of Rotterdam was for many years the busiest in the world. The port continues to lead in Europe both in size and shipping activity.

If you’re in search of an alternative destination in the Netherlands with fewer crowds, is a little more affordable compared to the likes of Amsterdam and is well connected by rail to other Dutch cities such as Utrecht or the Hague and many European cities like Brussels and London , then Rotterdam is a perfect choice.  

Let’s dive right in! Here are our suggestions for the best things to do in Rotterdam. 

Top Tip: Consider a Rotterdam Welcome Card to avail of great discounts on public transport and top attractions including most of Rotterdam’s museums.

What to Do in Rotterdam

1. admire rotterdam central station.

Make Rotterdam Central Station your first port of call whilst on your tour of Rotterdam. The train station is a perfect introduction to Rotterdam as its striking modern design is a true example of the city’s devotion to contemporary and innovative architecture.

A complete overhaul of the station began in 2004 to meet the increasing demand for rail travel and opened fully to the public in 2014. The station was designed by a Dutch architect cooperative, Team CS and features a steel-sloping angular roof which points towards the city centre, a sleek glass and wooden interior, and a spacious light-filled station hall.

The huge illuminated “CENTRAAL STATION” letters and a large clock at the front of Rotterdam Central Station were integrated from the previous one to maintain a connection with the station’s history.

Similar to other major train stations in the Netherlands, the Centraal Station is like a small city. It hosts over 25 retail stores including supermarkets, coffee shops and restaurants some of which stay open till late into the night.

Good to Know

Be sure to stop by the Tourist Information Center at the station for some local advice and up-to-date tips on how to navigate Rotterdam.

2. Take an Architecture Walking Tour

Price: €40 architecture walking tour.

Rotterdam is an ideal destination for an Architecture Walking Tour since it’s one of the several cities known internationally to be leading in various experimental innovative building designs and contemporary architecture.

The tour will allow you to explore some of Rotterdam’s architectural must-sees and building technologies which sets it apart from the other cities in the Netherlands.

Rotterdam is home to over 350 high rises including the tallest residential building in the Benelux ( Zalmhaven Tower 215m ), a one-of-a-kind and first-ever closed market in the Netherlands ( Markthal ), the world’s first floating office , floating farm and many other architectural wonders.

Additionally, an architecture walking tour delves into Rotterdam’s fascinating history and how it has influenced the architectural styles and building projects that define the city. 

As mentioned before, most of central Rotterdam was levelled off during the Second World War. The architecture tour explores the city’s post-war rebuilding plans, fascinating ongoing and future architectural projects as well as their impact on the local community. 

Luckily, an architectural background is not necessary to enjoy the tour as the information is given in an easy-to-understand manner. The walking tour is also a great way to familiarise yourself with the city and is a good use of time especially if you’re in Rotterdam on a day trip.

Our Private Tour explored both the North and South Bank areas of the city. It really is for us, one of the top things to do in Rotterdam and cannot recommend it enough.

Join a Bike Tour & See Rotterdam Highlights

Check the weather before the tour and dress appropriately. Starts at Rotterdam Centraal Station.

3. Visit the Market Hall

Rotterdam is world famous for its uniquely designed modern architecture and the Markthal or Market Hall building is an exceptional example that makes the city step up to that level.

The Market Hall has been hailed as a great success since its opening in 2014, evidenced by its eight million yearly visitors.

It was designed by the Rotterdam MVRDV architectural firm. The building features a distinctive arch shape encrusted with a large grey glass exterior. It houses a large indoor food market in its centre, 228 residential units, retail units and an underground car parking facility for 1,200 cars.

Adding to the Market Hall’s attractiveness is its ceiling which is decorated with a massive mural depicting an abundance of produce on offer at the market. The mural consists of enlarged colourful fruits, vegetables, flowers, grains, and insects.

The unique artwork was designed by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam who named it “The Horn of Plenty” . It measures 11,000 m2 and is said to be the Netherlands’ largest and Rotterdam’s own Sistine Chapel.

The Market Hall is a top culinary hotspot in Rotterdam. About 100 neatly organised food stalls, several trendy restaurants and bars and supermarkets offer a wide variety of food from around the world such as Spain, the Middle East, India, Greece, Portugal, Italy and typical Dutch specialities.

Rotterdam is a perfect destination foodie destination. If this is your kind of thing, then, be sure to take a Rotterdam Foodie Tour .

The location where the Market Hall is built is believed to be the place where Rotterdam City originated. Construction of the Market Hall revealed artefacts relating to the livelihoods of Middle Ages Rotterdammers. Step inside the Market Hall’s car park escalators to check out these findings if it’s your kind of thing.

4. Stop by Market Binnenrotte

Opens : tues & sat – 08:00 to 17:30.

I love checking out markets when visiting a city to experience the local sounds, the hustle and bustle, browsing through unusual stuff you’ll never find elsewhere and enjoying the smells of freshly cooked food.

If you’re anything like me, then, don’t miss Market Binnenrotte, Rotterdam’s largest market. The outdoor market is set right outside the Market Hall, on the huge Binnenrotte Square , every Tuesday and Saturday.  

It’s a large market which features over 400 stalls selling all kinds of objects from fresh food to art, new and second-hand clothes to all sorts of junk. Bargain hunters will definitely have fun here. 

Adjacent to Binnenrotte Square is a popular large park which is surrounded by restaurants, bars and all sorts of shops. If you’re lucky with the weather during your visit, make a point to spend time around this part of Rotterdam as it’s a fun place to hang out. 

5. Stop by St Lawrence Church

St Lawrence Church or Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk , is historically an important building in Rotterdam as it’s one of few mediaeval structures to have survived the devastating bombings of World War II.

The late Gothic church which was initially built between 1449 and 1525, required extensive reconstruction works following the war and it’s now seen as a symbol of the city’s post-war strength and renewal efforts. 

While you can admire the church from the outside, I’d encourage you to give the inside a quick look. It’s furnished with pointed arches, ribbed vaults, intricate stone carvings, beautiful stained glass windows and various pieces of art. The organ of Sint Laurenskerk is said to be the largest in the Netherlands.

To enjoy wonderful views of the city, choose to climb St Lawrence’s 65m Tower . Bear in mind that the tower is only open from April to the end of October .

Don’t miss giving a quick look at the 15th-century world-famous Dutch philosopher and scholar Desiderius Erasmus’s bronze statue located on the square in front of the historic church.

Erasmus was born in Rotterdam in a house close to St Lawrence Church, so it’s a fitting tribute to have the statue right in front of the church.  

6. Check the Cube Houses

Cube houses or Kubuswonigen in Dutch, are one of Rotterdam’s top landmarks which transformed the city into a world-class destination, particularly for modern architecture buffs.

Rotterdam town planners commissioned Dutch architect Piet Blom in the 80s to design and build houses to make use of space atop a pedestrian bridge that connects an area of the city centre, next to Blaak Station , with the Old Habor .

Piet Blom replicated a cluster of cube houses that he had built previously in the 70s (though these never became famous) in the Dutch town of Helmand.

The cube houses are truly out of the ordinary as they are fully functioning homes featuring a cube-shaped design slanted at 45 angles whilst resting on hexagon-shaped columns.

Each cube house is said to resemble a tree with all the cube houses connected forming an abstract forest with a pathway for pedestrians underneath.

Head to the Kijk-Kubus Museum ( Price €3 ), a cube house converted into a museum, to see what the inside of the cube house looks like. You could also choose to spend a night at the Stay Okay Hostel , a cube house converted into tourist accommodation, to fully immerse into the unique world of cube house living. 

We found it equally fun just to walk through the entire complex taking some pictures, checking out the Old Harbour and other fascinating buildings nearby such as another of Piet Blom’s projects, the Blaak Tower (Pencil building), Rotterdam Central Library and the Market Hall .

7. Stroll the Old Harbour

Rotterdam Old Harbour or Oude Haven is one of the early sites of the Port of Rotterdam dating back to the 14th century. It’s a picturesque waterfront location in Rotterdam right next to the cube houses.

A cluster of old and restored buildings along the Old Harbour including the famed 45 metre Het Witte Huis or White House , (the Art Nouveu-styled building which is said to be Europe’s first skyscraper), terraced restaurants and bars as well as historic sailing boats are a perfect combination to one of the most wonderful views in the city.

Plan to spend some time at the Old Harbor, especially if the weather is warm. It’s a perfect spot to relax after a busy day of sightseeing in Rotterdam.  

8. Stroll Along the Lijnbaan

The Lijnbaan is Rotterdam’s most celebrated shopping street due to its architectural and historical importance. It’s a pedestrian-only shopping street which opened in 1953 as part of the city’s rebuilding and modernising plans. 

Architects Van den Broek and Bakema designed the Lijnbaan drawing from functional design principles addressing some of the issues of the former city centre such as narrow streets and alleys which were difficult for traffic and pedestrians to navigate. 

In its heyday, the Lijnbaan was a major shopping centre and one of the top tourist things to do in the Netherlands. It featured luxurious shops, a promenade lined with flowers, decorative statues and aviaries. 

Shopping malls were nonexistent when the Lijnbaan opened, so its design was quite revolutionary and was later adopted in other pedestrian-only shopping streets built all around Europe.

A decline in interest in the Lijnban through the years has negatively changed the quality of shops and the atmosphere around the street. The Lijnban was recognised as a Dutch National Heritage Site in 2010, so, it’s hoped that this will help it regain momentum. 

We visited the Lijnban as part of our architecture tour and felt it was an insightful experience. 

The Lijnban also leads to Coolsingel Street where the historical Rotterdam City Hall (Stadhuis Rotterdam) and the Old Post Office (1923) are located. Both are some of the few buildings to have escaped the bombing of Rotterdam.

From the outside, the Rotterdam City Hall , built between 1914 and 1920 in the Dutch Renaissance style, looks unassuming but hides one of the most charming entrance halls and courtyards in the city. The ground floor of the city hall is free to view to the public but if you’re interested in a tour of its stately rooms, then, book ahead. 

Next to the historic post office is a stunningly built McDonald’s store which should make it to your list of Rotterdam attractions to see. It was designed by Mei Architects and it has been ranked among the most beautiful and unique McDonald’s stores in the world.

Fancy a bit of shopping in Rotterdam? The weirdly laid-out Beurstaverse or “Koopgoot” along Lijnbaan is your ideal destination in Rotterdam. Even if shopping isn’t on your Rotterdam to do list, the shopping mall underpass location, shadowed by Roterdam’s famous buildings such as the Beurs – World Trade Center is one of Rotterdam highlights not to miss.    

9. Explore Witte de Withstraat 

Witte de Withstraat is one of the most vibrant and artsy streets in Rotterdam popular among locals and tourists. However, this wasn’t always the case as back in the day, the street was a hub for illicit activities in the city center. The recent redevelopment of the area has turned the street into an entertainment and cultural hub which draws people from all walks of life.

Witte de Withstraat is a street to enjoy walkways lined with beautiful trees, cosy outdoor dining restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines, fashionable cafes and food stores, trendy bars popular with the young, art galleries, museums, theatres as well as a variety of fashion boutiques.

Whilst on Witte de Withstraat, look out for De Witte Aap , it’s one of the best bars in Rotterdam, Ter Marsh & Co’s is said to serve the tastiest burgers in the Netherlands, Restaurant Bazaar , for affordable delicious Middle Eastern dishes whilst the ice cream at De IJsmaker is the new rave in town.  

Witte de Withstraat is often referred to as the focal point for art in Rotterdam as it connects two important cultural centres in the city namely the Museum Park and Maritime Museum. 

It’s also home to well-known cultural institutions which showcase the work of both contemporary local and international artists such as the Kunstinstituut Melly (Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art), TENT Rotterdam and the Witte de With Theatre .

Witte de Withstraat really comes alive by night making it an ideal spot to hang out at night whilst in Rotterdam, so don’t miss it.

10. Explore Museum Park 

Museum Park is a place in Rotterdam where you can enjoy the city’s most celebrated museums, cool historic buildings and many other cultural institutions amidst a large urban park. The park is conveniently located close to the city centre and adjacent to the Erasmus Medical Centre.

Six museums are housed in the Museum Park. It’s quite an overwhelming amount of museums to cover in a short period. I suppose you pick one that suits your interest the most. 

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is one of the most distinguished museums in the Netherlands which houses an extensive variety of Western art spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. 

The museum’s strength lies in its collection which covers various artistic periods and art movement styles from Dutch and Flemish Masters such as Van Eyck and Rembrandt, famous art masters like Monet and Magritte and Ernst as well as leading contemporary artists such as Barney Mathews.

Unfortunately, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is closed for renovations and will open in 2029 . Most of the museum’s artworks are on display in various museums around the city and some are stored in the newly built Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen.

The Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen

Price:   €20 online, free guided tours with a ticket.

The Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen is one of the new star attractions in Rotterdam which we especially visited the Museum Park to see. It’s located just right beside the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. 

The first-of-its-kind art storage facility is open to the public to view some of the Boijmans’ 152,000 artworks and observe the behind-the-scenes work involved in their preservation and management. 

Boijmans depot is in a class by itself architecturally. It was designed by the Dutch MVRDV architectural firm, the same designers behind the Market Hall. The building is finished with a distinctive circular glass facade topped with a forested rooftop and a light-filled interior decorated with a very modern spiral staircase.

The mirrored exterior reflects Rotterdam city creating some fascinating visual images. Boijmans depot is a unique place and a must see in Rotterdam.

Het Nieuwe Instituut

Price: €12 adult.

Het Nieuwe Instituut is located next to Boijmans Depot. Focuses on showcasing architecture, designs and digital culture. It’s a centre for research, exhibition and educational programs that looks at modern and historical developments in the areas of architecture and design.

Natural History Museum

Price : €10 adult.

The small Natural History Museum exhibits preserved animals and geological specimens to highlight the history and diverse natural world of the local area. The museum promotes environmental conservation through various exhibitions.

Kunsthal Rotterdam

Price : €16 adult.

Kunsthal Rotterdam is a well-renowned centre for art exhibition centre of various art genres including contemporary art, photography, forgotten cultures, fashion and design. The Kunsthal building is architecturally famous due to its striking modern design. It’s a destination in itself for architecture lovers around the world.

Sonneveld House

Price : adult : €10 or €15 combi ticket with het nieuwe instituut  .

Sonneveld House is one of the best places to visit in Rotterdam if modern architecture and interior design are your thing. The well-preserved modernist house is said to be the best example of Dutch Functionalist architecture.

It was designed by architects Brinkman and Van der Vlugt, the designers behind the UNESCO World Heritage Site Van Nelle Factory and Feyenoord Stadium .

Chabot Museum

Price : €9 adult, combi tickets with sonneveld and van nelle factory.

Chabot Museum is a museum showcasing a significant art collection of Dutch Expressionist painter and sculptor Henk Chabot (1849-1949).

The museum is housed in a stunning modern villa designed by architect Gerrit W. Bass who worked with the renowned architects Brinkman and Van Vlugt, famous for designing Sonneveld House , Van Nelle Factory and Feyenoord Stadium .

11. Tour the Maritime Museum Rotterdam

Price: €17.50 adult, €12.50 children.

The Maritime Museum Rotterdam brings alive the city’s long-standing maritime history and heritage as well as interesting information on the current Rotterdam Port activities. 

The museum which spreads out along the Leuvehaven ship harbour, one of the original sites of the Rotterdam Port, is particularly unique as its diverse collection which spans six centuries is displayed both in the Maritime Museum’s building as well as around the harbour itself.

Key features of the Maritime Museum include a collection of maritime artefacts such as ship models, historical navigational instruments and maps, paintings and photographs. There are ship stimulators and interactive displays suited to all ages and aimed at immersing visitors in the various experiences related to the maritime industry. 

The museum runs exhibitions covering various themes aimed at educating visitors about the development of the port, various marine trading activities and the economic and social impact of Rotterdam Port globally.

Restored historic boats, some of which are used for the museum’s boat tours around the harbour, steam-powered ships such as the famous “ Christiaan Brunings ”, traditional cranes and a former lighthouse “ Buffel ” are docked along the harbour and open for visitors to explore. 

The open-air display concept is really interesting as it allows you to stroll freely admiring the beautiful moored boats, the lovely waterfront views and the Erasmus Bridge in the distance and take in all the interesting activities involved in running the museum’s fleet that would have been otherwise out of public view.

This is a Rotterdam museum to not miss if you’re travelling with kids as there are so many children-oriented interactive games and play centres.

Whilst here, don’t miss the new  Port Pavilion  for suggestions of things to do near Rotterdam Port as well as an interesting overview of current port activities.

See Rotterdam Harbour Tours

• Dutch Pinball Museum – For any pinball or arcade games enthusiasts, kids and anyone who loves to discover, the Dutch Pinball Museum located in the quaint Delfshaven, is just the right adventure for you. It’s one of the unusual things to do in Rotterdam guaranteed to send excitement levels to the maximum.

The small museum exhibits interesting facts and curiosities about pinball machines together with a collection of about 100 playable pinball machines dating back from the 30s to the recent makes. 

Book your slot well ahead especially if you’re visiting on weekends and during the holidays. ( Price: 2hr – €15 , Full Day – €27.50 )

Address: Voorhaven 12, 3024 RM Rotterdam, Netherlands

• Harvest Cafe Bakery , located on Glashaven and just a short walk from the Maritime Museum, is well-known in Rotterdam for serving really good breakfasts, brunches and coffee. Don’t miss it if you’re feeling peckish while in the area.

12. Walk the Erasmus Bridge

Rotterdam has numerous bridges but the Erasmus Bridge or Erasmusbrug in Dutch, stands out the most in a city with a skyline packed with exceptional modern architecture. The 802 metres long and 139 metres high bridge crosses over the Nieuwe Maas River connecting the northern and southern areas of the city.

Erasmus Bridge, named after Rotterdam Renaissance humanist and scholar Desiderius Erasmus, was designed by renowned Dutch architect Ben van Berkel and was finished in 1996. 

The bridge is a true work of art and certainly one of the most unmissable things to see in Rotterdam. It features a strikingly modern and sleek design. It’s a cable-stayed bascule bridge adorned with distinctive pylons that slant towards the south of the river giving it a unique shape.

Erasmus Bridge is a functional bridge that allows access to multiple traffic lanes, cycling and pedestrian traffic, the passage of large ships and remarkably several planes flew underneath it during the 2005 Red Bull Air Race.

During our recent Rotterdam visit, we stayed very near the Erasmus Bridge at the funky Room Mate Bruno Hotel on Wilhelminakade. We thought it was really cool to walk over the bridge and enjoy impressive panoramic views of Rotterdam.

13. Explore Wilhelminapier

Wilhelminapier in the Kop van Zuid district , is located at the south end of the Erasmus Bridge. It’s one of Rotterdam’s historical piers and an interesting spot architecturally not to miss while sightseeing in Rotterdam. 

In recent years, the area around Wilhelminapier has transformed from being a dockland to becoming an urban district of Rotterdam where you will find fine contemporary buildings, theatres, museums; home to the new Netherlands Foto Museum , a variety of recreational facilities and a wide range of restaurants, cafes and bars; the Rooftop Gastrobar Elvy at Nhow Hotel is one of the best bars in town. 

The bold modern skyscrapers around Wilhelminapier like the 165m Maastoren , 149m The Rotterdam and 158m New Orleans , are some of the reasons Rotterdam is often dubbed the “Manhattan on the Meuse”.

The famous Dutch cruise line Holland America Line once had its head office on Wilhelminapier and operated the Europe North America line from 1873-1978 enabling many Europeans to migrate to America. 

The former cruise line Art Nouveau-style building escaped the bomb damage of 1940 and opened in 2006 as the fabulous Hotel New York Rotterdam . The hotel was renovated and furnished with American decor to maintain the building’s connection with its past. 

Hotel New York is a popular destination among locals and tourists in Rotterdam. People come to connect with the history of the area whilst enjoying some of the hotel’s offerings which include a tour of the building, an atmospheric restaurant and a bar with wonderful waterfront views.

Getting to Wilhelminapier

There are several ways to get to Wilhelminapier from the city centre. You could get there by walking, bike, car, metro or bus. Rotterdam Water Tax connects all Rotterdam harbours; Rotterdam Water Tax stops right next to Hotel New York . The Cruise Terminal is located right on Wilhelmina Plein.

14. Explore Katendrecht

Katendrecht , a neighbourhood located just next to the Wilhelminapier, is another absolute if you’re around Rotterdam’s south bank area. 

Historically, Katendrecht was a working-class marine neighbourhood with a negative reputation. However, similar to Wilhelminapier, recent new buildings especially around the harbour are breathing new life into Katendrecht. 

The crane-shaped pedestrian and cycle Rijnhaven Bridge provide a shortcut between Wilhelminapier and Katendrecht affording lovely views of the river and modern buildings in the area including the new Rotterdam Floating Office and the popular Fenix Food Factory .

Don’t miss the S.S. Rotterdam!

Take a trip into the history of sea travel with a visit to the S.S. Rotterdam , a former Holland America Line flagship ocean liner and the largest ship ever built in the Netherlands. The ship was built in the 50s and is famous for transporting many people across the Atlantic.

It’s now permanently berthed and converted into a hotel and a tourist attraction in Katendrecht.  

A visit to the SS Rotterdam offers a unique glimpse into the fascinating history of the ship. The ship runs a variety of tours and experiences for a full immersion into the world of sea travel.

You could also choose S.S. Rotterdam as your base if maritime-themed stays are your thing. The ship is a popular special occasion dining destination in the city. It’s definitely a place to visit if you’re a ship fanatic.

Plan your visit

15. Take a Spido Boat Tour

Price: spido harbour tour €16.50 pp (duration -75 mins).

An exciting way to really see Rotterdam is to take a Spido Boat Tour and explore the city’s harbour, iconic landmarks and modern skyline from the water.

The Spido covers most of the top Rotterdam attractions such as the Euromast Tower , Port of Rotterdam , Erasmus Bridge and many other sights along the Nieuwe Maas River. The boat’s audio guides provide history and interesting facts about the city’s architecture, maritime culture and current Port activities.

See: Harbour Tour with a live guide

If you’re wondering what to see in Rotterdam with kids, the Spido Boat tour is a perfect choice as it’s suited to all ages. It’s fully accessible and a lovely family-friendly activity in Rotterdam.

Spido offers many other varieties of day trips and themed cruises around Rotterdam. Evening Harbour Tour , High Tea and High Wine Cruises are some of the many other popular Spido Boat Tours. 

See all Rotterdam Harbour Tours

16. Take a Ride on a Water Taxi 

Price: starts from €4.50.

A ride on a Rotterdam Water Taxi to navigate the city and its harbour is guaranteed to send excitement levels to the highest point. It really goes on the top of our list of fun things to do in Rotterdam. The water taxi is a fun and efficient way to travel around Rotterdam worth considering.

The Water Taxi has a total of 50 stops around Rotterdam and Schiedam. The taxis are also available for tailor-made tours and large group bookings, however, prior booking is required.  Book a Water Taxi Here

Waterbus 21 , leaving from Erasmus Bridge, is a good deal just in case you plan to visit the famous windmills in Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Staying longer in Rotterdam?

17. explore rotterdam zoo, price: over 12 years old €27 , 3 to 12 years €22.

Rotterdam Zoo or Diergaarde Blijdorp , is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and a top favourite for many in the Netherlands. 

The zoo features over 1,500 specimens from all corners of the globe arranged in various thematic environments which include the Oceanium , Amazonica , Africa and Asia as well as various conservation and educational exhibitions. 

The zoo’s large aquarium, polar bears, prairie and bison wolves and animal feeding displays are some of the attractions that are sure to put a smile on the little ones or any animal lover. 

Given Rotterdam Zoo’s size, it’s best to set aside a full day to explore its huge number of habitats and exhibits, awesome child-friendly playgrounds and gardens.

Rotterdam Zoo is one of the highly rated things to do in Rotterdam with kids, so if you’ve got some with you, definitely don’t miss it.

I hope you enjoy Rotterdam!  Let me know if you have any questions, I will be glad to help.

Rotterdam Walking Tours

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33 unmissable things to do in Rotterdam in 2024

More than just a skyline 🏙️

As the Dutch centre of modern architecture and big city vibes, there are lots of things to do in Rotterdam. 

This vibrant city is home to Europe’s largest port, the only skyline in the Netherlands, and a melting pot of cultures. 

With a knack for innovation and some of the most unique architecture in the country, here are 33 things to do in Rotterdam that will guarantee an unforgettable trip.

1. Gorge yourself at the food stalls and restaurants of Markthal

2. visit the beloved blijdorp zoo, 3. ascend the euromast tower for some city-wide views, 4. enjoy the gorgeous views and unique art from your room at nhow, 5. check out the art at depot boijmans van beuningen, 6. explore rotterdam’s oude haven (old harbour), 7. get fanatical at feyenoord stadium, 8. sleep in a floating home at wikkelboat, 9. have a picnic at het park, 10. enjoy the abstract modern architecture of cube houses, 11. soak in nature at trompenburg gardens & arboretum, 12. discover a small city at miniworld rotterdam, 13. marvel at the exhibitions in the nederlands fotomuseum, 14. take a stroll through kralingse plas and bos, 15. admire the sint laurenskerk, 16. watch some movies at kino theatre, 17. explore rotterdam’s museumpark, 18. drink up at the national jenever museum schiedam, 19. watch a classical concert at de doelen, 20. walk along the famous erasmusbrug and the willemsbrug, 21. check out the art installations at de kunsthal rotterdam, 22. jam out at the north sea jazz festival, 23. enjoy some pancakes and the river views on the pannenkoekenboot, 24. shop till you drop at the koopgoot, 25. get a history lesson at museum rotterdam, 26. board the ss rotterdam for a tour, 27. visit the historical delfshaven, 28. grab a bite to eat at fenix food factory, 29. browse rotterdam’s street art, 30. take a boat tour down the river maas, 31. catch a show at the luxor theatre, 32. get a glimpse of naval history at the maritime museum, 33. order a pint at witte de wittstraat.

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement .

Markthal features restaurants and food stalls with all kinds of cuisine, from sushi and tapas to frietjes and kapsalons — a real testament to Rotterdam’s multiculturalism. 

This food hall is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, with the building acting as a modern take on a marketplace, merging Rotterdam’s famous architecture with traditional markets.

💰 Price: Food and snacks from the hall run between €3 and €15, while a restaurant dish can cost up to €20   ⏰ Opening hours: Open all week, with varying opening hours 📍 Location: Ds. Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam

Blijdorp , officially known as the Rotterdam Zoo, is one of the most fun things to do in Rotterdam. Here, you’ll find botanical gardens, an aquarium, and all kinds of enclosures for over 180 species.

Our top tip: check out the animal feedings. You can see heaps of different types, including polar bears, sharks, and penguins. Wat leuk! (How nice!)

READ NEXT | Dierentuinen: 10 best zoos in the Netherlands

💰 Price: €23.50 for ages 12 and above, discounted for children (prices are lower if you buy them online) ⏰ Opening hours: Every day from 9 AM to 5 PM 📍 Location: Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam (main entrance)

The Euromast is an observation tower that stretches above much of Rotterdam’s skyline , offering some stunning views of the city below. 

You can buy tickets to check out the 96-metre-high observation deck and book a table at the restaurant after you’ve soaked up all the views. 

Feeling extra bold? Why not go rappelling off the side of the building? 🫣

💰 Price: Entry to the observation deck is €8.00 for children ages 4 to 11, €12.50 for people ages 12 to 64, €10.00 for people aged 65+ ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 AM to 10 PM, closed on Mondays 📍 Location: Parkhaven 20, 3016GM, Rotterdam

Stay in a room at the iconic De Rotterdam -located hotel nhow and watch glorious sunsets while Rotterdam streetlife passes by. 

You’ll get unique views of the Erasmus Bridge and Zalmhaven Tower — more than enough for a memorable stay in the city.

Artists Dion V. and Maya TOIZ created the one-of-a-kind room at the nhow Hotel. This interactive hotel room challenges adults to discover their inner child and explore all the nocks and crams.

It’s an enchanting space full of creative excesses and lovely gimmicks. We loved it!

💰 Price: Depends on the booking ⏰ Opening hours: All year round 📍 Location: Wilhelminakade 137, 3072 AP Rotterdam

If you love art and modern architecture, visiting the Boijmans van Beuningen Depot is one of the perfect things to do in Rotterdam. 

The Depot is the only publicly-accessible art depot in the world, with over 150,000 art items stored there. 

Not to mention, the reflective panel on the building’s exterior gives it a cool, modern look, right in the centre of the city. 

💰 Price: Free for children under 18, €10 for students, and €20 for adults ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 AM to 6 PM, closed on Mondays 📍 Location: Museumpark 24, 3015 CX Rotterdam

The Oude Haven (Old Harbor) is one of the oldest ports in Rotterdam — but believe us, this is no ugly industrial port.

Here, you can enjoy cafés, bars, and restaurants, take a stroll along the water, and admire the boats docked in the harbour. 

💰 Price: Meals at a restaurant usually cost between €10 and €20 for a plate, and beverages can cost between €1 and €4. ⏰ Opening hours: Depends on the restaurants, bars, and cafés, however, they are generally open from 12 PM to 12 AM 📍 Location: Oude Haven, Rotterdam

Affectionately nicknamed De Kuip (The Tub), a visit to the Feyenoord stadium is one of the coolest things to do in Rotterdam — and a must-visit for any football fan. 

READ MORE | Why does the Netherlands love orange? The full explainer

Visitors can tour the whole stadium and check out the museum of one of the biggest Dutch teams.

And if you’re extra lucky, you may even plan your trip when the Feyenoord team has a match in their home stadium. Score!

💰 Price: €15 for people ages 15 and up for the stadium tour, match ticket prices vary ⏰ Opening hours: Vary, tours available Wednesday to Saturday 📍 Location: Van Zandvlietplein 1, 3077 AA Rotterdam

A water mattress is one thing, but imagine drifting to sleep while your entire house floats on water. Turns out that in Rotterdam, living out this impossible fantasy has actually been made possible. 

Thanks to Wikkelboat, you can make your inner mermaid/merman come to life by floating on these tiny homes through the waters in Rotterdam and Den Bosch. 

READ MORE | 9 unique places to spend the night in the Netherlands

Not only that, but there are also potentially private jacuzzis, televisions, or massages onboard. 

Who else is curious to find out what kind of marine-themed dreams that night of sleep conjures up? 👀 🐟

💰 Price:  €181.48 for Wikkelboat 2, €213.84 for Wikkelboat 4  ⏰ Opening hours:  You can check the full availability per boat on  Wikkelboat ‘ s website   📍 Location:  The Rotterdam Rijnhaven ( Antoine Platekade 995, 3072 ME Rotterdam ) or The Rotterdam Wijnhaven ( Wijnhaven 2, dockside, 3011 WP Rotterdam )

Het Park is one of Rotterdam’s most picturesque spots, with loads of picnic space and greenery to enjoy. 

Get your biggest blanket, pack all your favourite snacks, and find a comfy spot to share a bite with your friends and family!

💰 Price: Free ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day, but it’s best to go during the daytime 📍 Location: Baden Powelllaan 2, 3016 GJ Rotterdam

It’s not a real visit if you don’t have “check out the architecture” on your list of things to do in Rotterdam!

The Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) are one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Dutch architect Piet Blom designed these residential houses in the shape of a cube — and then turned them on a 45-degree angle!

Ever wondered what it would be like to live there? You can buy a ticket to check out the interior of one of the Cube Houses and get a feel for the architecture! 

💰 Price: €3 per person ⏰ Opening hours: Every day from 11 AM to 5 PM 📍 Location: Overblaak 70, 3011MH Rotterdam

With plenty of trees, shrubs, and flowers, Trompenburg Gardens and Arboretum is the perfect place for anyone with a green thumb or walkers who are looking to get away from the bustling city outside. 

Located just outside the city centre, this 20-acre botanical garden has lots of unique flora, from cacti to varieties of oak, and rhododendrons. 

💰 Price: €10.75 for adults, students and kids are cheaper ⏰ Opening hours: Vary seasonally, check their website for up-to-date information 📍 Location: Honingerdijk 86, 3062 NX Rotterdam

Enchanting for both children and adults alike at Miniworld Rotterdam , you can take a look at some of the most famous landscapes and areas in Rotterdam on a tiny scale. Talk about adorable!

Discover Dutch suburbian life, the coastal and polder landscapes, and even get a simulation of day and night time with a change in the lighting. 

💰 Price: Free for children until age 3, €9.25 for children ages 4 to 12, €14.70 for people ages 12 and above ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesdays to Fridays from 12 PM to 5 PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 5 PM, Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays 📍 Location: Weena 745, 3013 AL Rotterdam

The Nederlands Fotomuseum showcases Dutch photography to preserve its heritage and traditions through several permanent and temporary exhibits.

The museum hosts several activities and workshops throughout the year by artists and photographers. 

💰 Price: €7 for adults aged 18 to 25, €14 for adults aged 25+, free for kids and teens ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM 📍 Location: Statendam 1, 3072 MD Rotterdam

If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kralingse Plas and Bos (lake and forest) is the perfect place to go.

Located in the suburbs of Rotterdam, this pocket of nature is lovely for taking walks in the day and soaking up the natural surroundings. 

You can also get sporty and take a run or cycle around the forest. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, there are heaps of water sports on the lake, including fishing, rowing, and sailing. READ NEXT | Hikes and walks in Rotterdam: 12 places for the perfect nature escape

💰 Price: Free ⏰ Opening hours: Every day but best during the daytime 📍 Location: Langepad 2, 3062 CJ Rotterdam

Sint Laurenskerk (Saint Lawrence Church) is one of the only structures remaining from medieval Rotterdam after World War II. 

This beautiful Protestant church sits right in the centre of Rotterdam, right next to the Markthal and the Cube Houses. 

You can climb the tower and view Rotterdam from a gorgeous vantage point or admire the church’s interior, including the largest organ in the Netherlands!

💰 Price: €3 for adults and free for children under the age of 12 to visit the church, €7.50 and €4 to climb the tower.  ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 11 AM to 5 PM from November until February and 10 AM to 5 PM from March to October.  📍 Location: Grotekerkplein 27, 3011 GC, Rotterdam

If you’re a sucker for gezellig vibes , KINO Theatre is perfect for you. 

Just wanted to remind you, she’s still there ⛄️☀️ #kinorotterdam #rotterdam #cinema pic.twitter.com/wVYGdqQD3m — KINO Rotterdam (@KINORdam) February 12, 2021

Located right in the city centre, KINO Theatre has cute screening rooms and all the indie films and snacks you could ask for. 

You can watch a movie for a fraction of the price compared to other movie theatres and support local Rotterdam businesses. What’s not to love?

💰 Price: €7.5 for children until age 12, €12 for regular tickets ⏰ Opening hours: Mondays to Fridays from 10 AM to 10 PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 12 AM 📍 Location: Gouvernestraat 129-133, 3014 PM, Rotterdam

Just like Amsterdam’s Museumplein, Rotterdam has its very own Museumpark!

If you’re ever in the mood to check out some art exhibitions and installations, a walk through the park will certainly give you some inspiration. 

READ MORE | 20 best and free things to do in Rotterdam in 2022

Museum Boijmans van Beuningen , Kunsthal Rotterdam , the Chabot Museum , Het Nieuwe Instituut , and the Natural History Museum Rotterdam are all within walking distance of the park. 

💰 Price: Free ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day but best during the daytime 📍 Location: Museumpark, 3015 CR Rotterdam

Did you know the Dutch have their own version of gin, called jenever? They like it so much, they even have a museum dedicated just to the liquor!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alex Kallimanis (@travelguide_alex)

Suitable for groups of friends or a day with your SO, you can find out about jenever’s history, how it’s made, and even try some authentic jenever yourself at the National Jenever Museum . Lekker ! READ NEXT | Day trip to Schiedam: things to see and do in the gin capital of the world

💰 Price: €2.50 for children ages 6 to 12, €7.50 for children ages 13 to 17, €12.50 for adults, jenever tasting starting at €5.50 ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM 📍 Location: Lange Haven 74, 3111 CH, Schiedam

De Doelen Concert Hall is the home turf of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and is one of the best spots to watch a concert in the country. 

De Doelen primarily hosts concerts for classical music, but you can still watch all kinds of musical groups, acts, and performances. 

💰 Price: Depends on the concert programme, but usually between €10 and €20 per ticket ⏰ Opening hours: Varies depending on the day and the concert programme 📍 Location: Schouwburgplein 50, 3012 CL Rotterdam

The Erasmusbrug and Willemsbrug (Erasmus Bridge and William’s Bridge) might be the most iconic structures that make up Rotterdam’s skyline. 

The Erasmusbrug is famous for its unique shape, nicknamed “the Swan” for its light colour and neck-like appearance. The Willemsbrug is an older, red bridge, slightly further down the Maas river connecting the northern part of Rotterdam to the Feijenoord neighbourhood.

Visitors can enjoy strolling along the river and walking across the bridges in their full glory, both in the daytime and at night!

💰 Price: Free ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Erasmusbrug, 3011 BN (Erasmusbrug) and Maasboulevard 300, 3011 TX (Willemsbrug, Rotterdam

De Kunsthal is one unique cultural institution in Rotterdam, hosting over 20 different exhibitions per year, from fashion and photography to contemporary art and design. 

The Kunsthall offers access to several art instalments, activities, workshops, and events, so get your tickets ASAP!

💰 Price: Free for children until age 17, €8.25 for students and adults until age 26, €16.50 for adults ⏰ Opening hours: 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday 📍 Location: Westzeedijk 341, 3015 AA Rotterdam

North Sea Jazz Festival to Rotterdam is what Coachella is to California. For three days in July, visitors come from all over the Netherlands (and the world) to watch concerts by all kinds of artists and performers. 

Despite the name, North Sea Jazz does not only showcase jazz music acts (although their jazz performers are absolutely killer). The North Sea Jazz Festival is usually held at Rotterdam Ahoy, Rotterdam Zuid’s event hall. 

Past acts include Toto (yes, the guys who sang Africa), Herbie Hancock, Alicia Keys, and Jamiroquai.

💰 Price: Typically between €100 and €300, depending on how many days you want to visit.  ⏰ Opening hours: Friday to Saturday from 3 PM to 1 AM 📍 Location: Ahoyweg 10, 3084 BA Rotterdam

Eating pancakes and boating down the river Maas is one of the essential things to do in Rotterdam. And you can do both on the Pannenkoekenboot !

This boat is not actually made of pancakes, but you’ll still enjoy a sail down the Maas river while munching on some delicious Dutch pannenkoeken for an hour or two in the inner part of this floating restaurant. 

It’s a memorable activity for families, friends, and anyone looking for an authentic pannekoek. 

💰 Price: €16.50 for children ages 3 to 11, €21.50 for people ages 12 and up. ⏰ Opening hours: Thursdays and Saturdays from 9 AM to 9 PM, Sundays and Wednesdays from 9 AM to 7 PM, closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays 📍 Location: Parkhaven 13, 3016 GM Rotterdam

Translating to “The Shopping Gutter”, the Koopgoot is anything but a gutter. If you’re looking for a new pair of jeans or want to buy someone a souvenir for your visit, shopping at the Koopgoot is a must-do in Rotterdam. 

The sunken shopping area connects the big shopping streets (Lijnbaan and Hoogstraat) to the Beurs metro station — so you’re sure to find everything you’re looking for at this shopping spot. 

💰 Price: Free to window shop 😉 ⏰ Opening hours: Depends on the shop, but generally from 10 AM to 10 PM on weekends and until 7 PM on weekdays 📍 Location: Beurstraverse 186, 3012 AT Rotterdam

From a close connection to its port and harbour to a solemn World War II experience, Rotterdam is a city with one of the most interesting histories in the country. 

If you’re interested in learning about the city’s past, you should consider this museum as one of your things to do in Rotterdam.  

Visitors can look at an exhibit and immerse themselves in their multimedia experience about Rotterdam during World War II. 

💰 Price: Free for children until the age of 17, €9 for adults ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM, Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM, Closed on Mondays 📍 Location: Coolhaven 375, 3015 GC Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam is a former ocean liner and cruise ship docked in Rotterdam as a hotel and restaurant. 

The ship used to be part of Holland America Line, carrying passengers back and forth from Rotterdam to New York back in the day.  

Nowadays, if you’re looking for a fancy hotel to stay in or get a good bite to eat at a unique, the SS Rotterdam is your place to go. You can also book a guided tour and explore the interior of the steamer.

💰 Price: Depends on where you eat and if you’re staying at the hotel ⏰ Opening hours: Depends on the hotel and restaurant 📍 Location: 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25, 3072 AM Rotterdam

If you want to see some traditional architecture in Rotterdam, visiting Delfshaven is one of the loveliest things to do in Rotterdam. 

This particular neighbourhood in Rotterdam is one of the only spots to survive the bombings during World War II and maintain some of the traditional facades of Dutch homes. 

Delfshaven is perfect for any lowkey activities like walking your dogs, having a drink on a terrasje (terrace), or simply wandering around the city. 

💰 Price: Depends ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Delfshaven, Rotterdam

Fenix Food Factory is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or do your weekly grocery shopping!

fenix food factory #rotterdam pic.twitter.com/G0s6aN9tnI — paul bloemers (@paul_bloemers) May 21, 2018

You can buy your regular food products for home but also try out some special beers, coffees, and snacks from all kinds of food stalls and stands.

There’s also plenty of space to sit down, whether it’s to have a drink or eat a full meal! Get yourself a chair and enjoy some good food with your friends and family. READ NEXT | Where to eat in Rotterdam: 11 trendy restaurants to go in 2022

💰 Price: Depends on the food and drinks you order, but meals typically cost between €10 and €20 while drinks costs between €2 and €5.  ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Thursdays and Sundays from 8 AM to 10 PM, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 AM to 11 PM, closed on Mondays 📍 Location: Nico Koomanskade 1025, 3072 LM Rotterdam

Plenty of artists like to use the facades of Rotterdam’s buildings for their large murals — and we have to say, they only add to Rotterdam’s character!

Street art of #Rotterdam 🇳🇱💕 #Traverse18 #streetartist #RotterdamMakeItHappen #LoveRotterdam pic.twitter.com/YNmUtTQ2uS — Life is a Festival! (@lifeisafestival) May 27, 2018

There are some designated art routes you can pick and walk along yourself, or perhaps you’re curious to spot some murals just as you pass throughout the city. 

You can download an app that shows you the different routes and is constantly updated. 

💰 Price: Free ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Scattered around the city — you might run into some art without realising!

Your trip to Rotterdam would be incomplete without a boat tour on your list of things to do — after all, it is a port city. 😉

Take a tour of all the major spots on Rotterdam’s river and relax as the boat whisks you around, completely stress-free. Different boating companies have different routes and pick-up/drop-off points, and add-on experiences, so you can certainly find a tour that suits your interests. 

For example, you can do a boat tour and borrel , or get a tour of the Euromast after you’ve gone cruising on the waters. Other boat trips visit the popular harbours around the city, while others will show you highlights of Rotterdam’s skyline.

💰 Price: Varies but usually between €10 and €30 for children and €15 to €50 for adults ⏰ Opening hours: Usually between 10 AM and 5 PM 📍 Location: Depends on where you want to start and end your tour. Most boat tours board and depart along the river Maas

The Luxor Theatre has two auditoriums, one in the city centre and one in the city south, affectionately referred to as the ‘old’ and ‘new’ theatre — and both are perfect for movie buffs!

Visitors can enjoy various performances, from operas and musicals to cabaret and plays. Now lights, camera….action! 🎥

💰 Price: It depends on the show you want to watch and the seating rank but tickets usually cost between €15 and €50 per ticket.  ⏰ Opening hours: 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday 📍 Location: Posthumalaan 1, 3072 AG, Rotterdam (Nieuwe Luxor Theatre), Kruiskade 10, 3012 EH, Rotterdam (Oude Luxor Theatre)

Rotterdam wouldn’t be where it is today without its historic harbours and invaluable port.

Rotterdam and the sea are practically inseparable, and you can learn all about the city’s naval and maritime history at the Maritime Museum . 

The museum has many exhibits and displays to explore, detailing all kinds of interesting stories from history. 

💰 Price: Free for children under the age of 4, €12 for children aged 5 to 12, €11 for students, €16 for adults ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM, Sundays from 11 AM to 5 PM, and closed on Mondays  📍 Location: Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam

There is nothing more Dutch than finding a terrasje (terrace), ordering a beer and some borrel snacks, and hanging out with your friends. 

What was once a place for cars is now a place for people. Before the pandemic, Rotterdam’s Witte de Withstraat was a car-choked thoroughfare. Today, cars are banned, and terraces have taken the place of on-street parking spaces; part of a program that converted 1,000+ citywide. pic.twitter.com/agx7fidBkE — Melissa & Chris Bruntlett (@modacitylife) February 5, 2022

Witte de Withstraat in the centre of Rotterdam is one of the cosiest spots in the whole city, and you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to suit your mood. 

READ NEXT | Where to live in Rotterdam: the ultimate guide to Rotterdam’s neighbourhoods

💰 Price: Depends on what you buy, but a pint of beer usually costs between €2 and €4  ⏰ Opening hours: Most bars and restaurants are typically open between 10 AM to 12 AM 📍 Location: Witte de Withstraat, Rotterdam

Whether you’re in the city for a day, a week, or a year, you’ll find a load of fun and exciting things to do in Rotterdam. Now, go forth and get that travel itinerary ready! 

What’s your favourite activity in Rotterdam? Tell us in the comments below!

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Rotterdam travel guide

What to do, where to stay and why you’ll love it.

M odernity is the essence of the Netherlands’ second city. Razed to the ground by more than 1,300 bombs during a Second World War air raid in May 1940, the port city was effectively wiped off the map then, poignantly, rebuilt from scratch. Of course, the Dutch will tell you they didn’t much like it anyway and the positive spin is the catastrophe gave them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to blueprint a brighter future, rather than bandage the city centre’s medieval bones. Which is to say, it looks as if little has been built prior to the launch of Sputnik.

With this in mind, Rotterdam is not for nostalgia seekers. The prime reward is eye-popping architecture and design, including cube houses, a vertical city of Tetris towers, industrial monuments and — very possibly and most recently — the most inspiring food market in Europe. Visit the warehouse district Wilhelminapier and you’ll see that what they tried to do is build Manhattan on the river Maas. Explore the wharves, warehouses and silos of nearby Katendrecht, the former red-light district, to see its industrial roots repackaged as venues for museums, theatres and bars. Wherever you go, you’ll find something to rave about.

This article contains links from which we may earn revenue. These links are signposted with an asterisk. More information here .

Few cities suffer from “ second city syndrome ” as much as Rotterdam does and what strikes you most is how it goes out of its way to be different to Amsterdam . Rotterdam — or, sometimes, Roffa — gets a fraction of the visitors to the antiquated capital and instead of the medieval Rijksmuseum there’s the modern Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, a monstrous art gallery that’s being completely reinvented for 2026. In the meantime next door, there’s The Depot, the world’s first public art storage facility and a plant pot-shaped vault home to the museum’s 151,000 works. Opening in autumn 2021, it’s one of Europe’s biggest post-pandemic debuts.

The Museum of Rotterdam* hardly falls into dusty manor house territory either. Rebooted for the 21st century in 2016, it sits on the ground-floor of the Timmerhuis, a modular building of pixelated offices created by Dutch super-architect Rem Koolhaas. That vibe — functional, structural, cerebral — is also something you can pick up on at Sonneveld House, a visionary home and masterpiece of so-called nieuwe bouwen style. Likewise, the world-class Het Nieuwe Instituut is where architecture, design and digital culture buffs all nerd out. It is as if the city is slowly working out the face it wants to show the world.

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Water is ever present, of course. This almost floating city in the Netherlands is serviced by fleets of water-taxis from around 50 docks, and as well as an encyclopaedic maritime museum there are miles of “singels” (as another point of differentiation to Amsterdam, locals don’t call them canals). Then, there’s the small matter of Europe’s largest port. Perhaps nowhere else would you consider touring a container-ship terminal to eye colossal cranes and cargo, but factor in close-ups with the largest seagoing vessels in the world at the Port of Rotterdam’s FutureLand and this place wows.

Where to stay

A stay in Rotterdam throws up multiple possibilities, with the city offering a prime selection from heritage sites transformed into five-star flagships to design-conscious style hotels. For views and rooftop brews, nowhere is better than the abstract nhow Hotel* , which overlooks the city’s jigsawed seascape from Wilhelminapier. Housed inside the orthogonal De Rotterdam towers and built by Rem Koolhaas (yup, him again), it’s a haven of urban design and surrounded by warehouse galleries and restaurants. Near by is the former head office of the Holland America Line and this is where you’ll find Hotel New York* , home to a corker of an oyster bar, bookshop, barber shop and beds. At the rear, consider a night at the SS Rotterdam* , the former flagship of the Holland-America Line, now moored as a jumbo hotel.

Besides these, a couple of others worth mentioning are The Slaak* , a former newspaper pressroom turned designer digs, and the Mainport, a waterfront spa hotel with dazzling suites overlooking the inner harbour. A short walk away from here is the mustard-yellow Cube Houses, a warren of high-density apartments that’s worth a look, even if you’re not on a budget. If you’ve somehow always wanted to sleep in a sort of titled, geometric puzzle, book a private studio at the Stayokay Hostel* Rotterdam. It’s well hidden inside.

Food and drink

Begin nowhere else but at Markthal, where the city originally started: at the “dam” of Rotterdam. This hangar-sized market hall brings together food vendors in sci-fi surroundings, with a pastel-coloured roof that has been labelled the Dutch Sistine Chapel. There are 100 stands to pick from, including a Basque kitchen, an all-day Greek diner, a Turkish gozleme takeaway, a Sicilian pasta bar, and, naturally, stalls weighed down by Dutch cheese. Take your time, as even a quick stop demands serious deliberation. If you’re a repeat visitor, then Markthal is old news; try instead the Fenix Food Factory, an organic street-food market in Katendrecht.

More refinement for foodies can be found at the FG Food Labs, an ideas factory from Dutch star chef François Geurds, who learnt his molecular style from Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck. This tapas-style joint is in marked contrast to his other restaurant, the two Michelin-starred FG in the Lloydkwartier; here you can expect tasting menus with truffle and a cheese chariot. Other places to book ahead for include the equally starry Parkheuvel in landscaped Het Park and De Matroos en Het Meisje, which doubles down on Dutch tradition. Cue maritime decor and finely striped blue and white Delft tiles.

No matter how short your time, take a walk along the city’s 400m pedestrian bridge that runs through buildings and across roads and railways to marry once-forgotten parts of the inner city. It’s a typically brash Dutch idea — crowdfunded and named Luchtsingel, meaning air canal — but it’ll give you a different view of the city. For another perspective, albeit one that puts far more distance between you and the ground, scoot up the Euromast* , the city’s 360-degree observation tower.

Visiting Rotterdam doesn’t all have to be about embracing today and tomorrow. Ten minutes west of the centre by public transport, traditional Dutch windmills, canalboats, drawbridges, pilgrim fathers’ churches and genever distilleries can still be found in Delfshaven and neighbouring Schiedam. By any measure this is what most travellers coming to cities in the Netherlands hope to see. You might even be tempted into an Instagram post.

What else? A day’s walk can absorb many of the city’s other guidebook highlights: the Erasmus Bridge, Kunsthal Rotterdam, Rotterdam Zoo* . But the smart move is to be more creative with your thinking. Why not visit the world’s first floating farm? Or help clean up the city on a Plastic Whale boat cruise along the Rotte and the Old Harbour? Both are terrific. So is a guided tour of the Unesco-worthy Van Nelle Factory, a building described by Le Corbusier as “the most beautiful spectacle of the modern age”. And he certainly knew what he was talking about.

Know before you go

The driest time to visit is from late May to early October. Rotterdam excels as a festival city, with calendar events for every taste: a couple to peg a city break to are the International Film Festival in January and July’s Rotterdam Unlimited, a Rio-style street carnival that’s also one of Europe’s biggest parties. Best of all, it’s free.

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Home Europe's largest port, Rotterdam is a no-nonsense working-class city lying at the heart of a maze of rivers and artificial waterways that together form the outlet of the rivers Rijn (Rhine) and Maas (Meuse). After devastating damage during World War II, Rotterdam has grown into a vibrant, forceful city dotted with first-division cultural attractions. Redevelopment hasn’t obliterated its earthy character though: its tough grittiness is part of its appeal, as are its boisterous bars and clubs.

The North Sea Jazz Festival

Spido cruises.

In terms of sights, Rotterdam’s attractions are enticing, most notably the Kunsthal , exhibiting contemporary art, and the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen , which has an outstanding art collection including representative works from almost all the most important Dutch painters: both are in the city’s designated culture zone, the Museumpark . Other city highlights include Oude Haven , the city’s oldest harbour, ravaged during World War II but sympathetically redeveloped, and Delfshaven , an antique harbour that managed to survive the bombs pretty much intact. Rotterdam also boasts a string of first-rate festivals , including the much-lauded North Sea Jazz Festival and the colourful Summer Carnival .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Netherlands, created by local experts

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The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

This trip will bring you the best of two countries: the Netherlands and Belgium. From the quaint streets, canals and windmills of Holland to beer and Belgium chocolate tasting in three beautiful Belgium cities. This trip has it all.

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Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

Explore the path of the World War II Liberation Route through Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Visit important landmarks and museums on the way with this self drive itinerary, with enough time to explore cities such as Brussels and Rotterdam on the way.

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The North Sea Jazz Festival ( w northseajazz.nl ), held every year in mid-July, is the country’s most prestigious jazz event, attracting international media coverage and the world’s most famous jazz musicians. For many years, the festival was held in Scheveningen near Den Haag, but in 2006 it transferred to Rotterdam’s Ahoy’ centre, about 4km south of the city centre at Ahoy’-weg 10. To get there by metro, take the Erasmuslijn and get off at Zuidplein. Details of performances are available online and from the VVV, which will also reserve accommodation – virtually impossible to find after the festival has begun. Various tickets can be purchased; a dagkaart , for example, valid for an entire day, costs €89.

The shape and feel of the Leuvehaven, Rotterdam’s first artificial harbour, has been transformed by the Boompjes freeway, which scoots along the top of the old enclosing sea dyke. Beside the Boompjes, at the south end of the Leuvehaven, is the departure point for Spido cruises ( t 010 275 9988, w spido.nl ). They have several different tours of the surrounding waterways and port facilities, heading off past the wharves, landings, docks and silos of Europe’s largest port, but the standard harbour tour costs just €10.50 (April–Oct 5–11 daily; Nov–March Mon–Wed 1 daily, Thurs–Sun 4 daily; 1hr 15min). In July and August, there are also longer trips to several destinations, most notably the series of colossal dams that make up the Delta Project along the seaboard southwest of Rotterdam (July & Aug 1 weekly on Wed; 7hr; €55).

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Rotterdam: Europe's hottest design destination

By Daisy Allsup

Urban industrial port turned futuristic architectural playground, Rotterdam is entering a new era. Nearly entirely flattened during World War II, this sprawling metropolis has been in a constant state of renewal since the 1940s, and newness is intrinsic to the city's identity. After teetering at the grittier end of ‘up-and-coming’ for more than a decade, the city is now emerging as an international hub for sustainable innovation and cutting-edge design.

Now the first stop on the new Eurostar route to Amsterdam , Rotterdam is easier than ever to explore. The city is the antithesis to its more northerly neighbour, and its diversity excites those visitors who come for the warehouse food markets, concept shops and bold architecture. Dubbed the Dutch Brooklyn , Rotterdam offers a fresh alternative to charming, time-locked Amsterdam. Here you’re more likely to find art students on skateboards than tourists taking selfies.

Cranes, cargo ships and concrete dominate the Rotterdam skyline. It’s a place of industry that can feel grey and bleak on one block, yet vital and electrifying on the next; therein lies its magic. Here are the best things to do in Rotterdam, Europe ’s hottest design destination .

The best Rotterdam hotels

It wasn’t too long ago that an overnight stay in Rotterdam meant booking a bland business hotel or a past-its-prime historical number. In the past few years, though, fresh boutique hotels have cropped up all over town—and âme, with its Scandi-Japanese design and third-wave coffee-shop vibe, is the smartest of the bunch. Regardless of type, the room designs are universally austere, with subtly plastered walls and palettes of taupe and beige. Black steel fixtures furnish the bathrooms, while linen bedspreads and curtains add a tactile touch. You’ll have to venture out for meals, but given the hotel’s plum position on the Eendrachtsplein, finding excellent restaurants within walking distance is a breeze. Chris Schalkx

Peek into the landmark Hotel New York even if you’re not a guest. Formerly the Holland-America Line office, this was once the spot from which thousands of European emigrants set sail in search of a better life across the Atlantic. There’s usually a good atmosphere here and the spacious suites have views over the river Maas. Just along the pier and also in Kop van Zuid district is the new, hip and colourful Room Mate Bruno ( pictured above ), which draws a young crowd of creatives sitting with laptops in the hotel’s shared workspaces.

For a more intimate experience, try the smart Suite Hotel Pincoffs ( pictured above ), set within the old customs house, one of Rotterdam’s few remaining pre-war buildings. Dutch hotel group Citizen M opened its Rotterdam outpost in 2013 – an affordable option in a central position in the Oude Haven (old port), with floor-to-ceiling bedroom windows giving views on to the Maas. In the same maritime area, Mainport is Rotterdam’s top wellness hotel with an eighth-floor spa with Finnish sauna, steam room and hammam. The Dutch tend to go nude at the spa so if you’d rather stay clothed opt for the swimming pool instead.

Things to do in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and one of the busiest in the world; get a feel for just how vast it really is by visiting the Euromast tower, which gives a bird’s-eye view from 185 metres up. If you’d prefer to get closer to the action, Spido runs 75-minute harbour tours by boat.

The best park is Kralingse Bos , complete with a lake where you can rent dinky sailing boats and swim in the summer (beware of the naturist section). There are also lots of inviting restaurants and cafés with tables spilling out to the water’s edge. Try De Tuin van de Vier Windstreken for a typically Dutch brunch : bread with sprinkles, ham, cheese and boiled eggs.

The best restaurants and cafés in Rotterdam

Once Europe’s largest red-light district, the Katendrecht has been transformed in recent years and is now the city’s foodie centre. Deliplein square feels almost Parisian with tables spilling out onto the pavements. Bistrot du Bac completes the experience serving up oysters, snails and steak tartare. There are lots of good cafés here too: Nine Bar for rocket-fuel coffee and cookies; Sajoer for zingy detox juices and Kopi Soesoe for brunch through to evening beer with live music to go with it. If you’re with friends and looking for somewhere to host a special dinner, Posse ’s private-dining cabin is a quirky and romantic space that seats up to 10. The area is also home of the Fenix Food Factory ( pictured below ), a waterfront warehouse-turned-street food market with an in-house brewery, Kaapse Brouwers . Anyone with a sweet tooth must sample the Dutch speciality at Stroop Rotterdam where the stroopwafels are pressed on-site and served piping hot with oozing caramel middles.

More diverse than most Dutch cities (nearly half the population was born outside of the Netherlands), Rotterdam has a wide variety of excellent international cooking. Tucked around the back of the Markthal on a scruffy street corner, visit local favourite Hinoki Noodle Soup , which doesn’t look like much from the outside, but always has a queue for the steamy bowls of ramen and fried-chicken dumplings. Nearby, the Pannekoekstraat is full of independent restaurants, cafés and delis – a lunchtime highlight is Panzero , a specialist in Puglian street food: order a panzerotti stuffed with mozzarella and sweet peppers. For the city’s best wood-fired pizzas head to Old Scuola and get the American diner experience at By Jarmusch with its all-day menu of pancakes and maple syrup, and bottomless filter coffee .

Rotterdam is also pulling in world-class chefs. You’ll need to book at Héroine , where the regulars sip cocktails on slick aluminium bar stools before sitting down for the set tasting menu. Wine aficionados should visit the Michelin-starred Fitzgerald where the extensive list features more than 1,000 bottles of wine and Champagne. The very best Japanese plates in the city are found at Yama ( pictured above ) where you choose either a five or seven-course set menu of daily-changing small plates with sake pairings. You’ll need to book up to two months ahead. As you might expect for a port city there’s also exceptional seafood , the best of which is found at Zeezout , which has pulled in diners for 20 years, with a menu that includes a delicious Rotterdam paella with turbot, octopus, vongole, chorizo and crispy chicken skin.

Shopping in Rotterdam

The coolest block in town centres around the offices of MVRDV , the architecture practice behind the city’s Markthal. Start at Groos ( pictured above ), a hipster design store where you can pick up About Blanks notebooks or printed UNU tote bags made by Rotterdam residents. Continue around the corner to the Goudsesingel where brands blur the lines between workshop-studio-office-shop, so you feel as though you’re right there at the design level.

Stop at Rook for slick road bikes, Evernow ( pictured above ) for houseplants and chic homewares, Vico for eco-friendly sneakers and Lou-La for trinket bowls of jingly jewellery as well as children’s and womenswear. Van Oldenbarneveltstraat is a wide avenue for more established names such as Dutch concept store Hutspot (also in Amsterdam, Utrecht and Eindhoven), Susan Bijl for neon backpacks, and fashion boutiques such as Nen Xavier .

CNT Editors

Alessia Armenise

Roxy Kavousi-Walker

Connor Sturges

The coolest bars in Rotterdam

If you’re in town when there’s a big game on, Panenka Bar screens the big matches, while providing a cosy and welcoming atmosphere that will keep non-sports fans happy too. Enjoy drinks in the sun on the top deck at Vessel 11 before heading downstairs for live music and dancing. It’s also the dock for the Hot Tug – wood-fired hot tubs to bob about in with a group of friends and a drink. Later in the evening, the mescal bar at Mexican Alfredo’s Taqueria ( pictured above ) has a hopping terrace at the back that stays open until 2am on Friday and Saturday nights.

Rotterdam architecture

You’ll likely arrive by train into the monumental Centraal Station , completed in 2014. Wide platforms, high-glass ceilings and a vast wood-panelled ticket hall carry an air of contemporary sophistication. Step outside and look back at the façade with its modernist typography and great diagonal sweep, like the bow of a ship, that points towards the city centre. Explore on foot: from the station, head south down the Westersingel canal before dipping off east into the aptly named Cool District in the centre.

The Dutch are advocates of mixed-use architecture , evident in the Markthal where the football-pitch-sized floor space serves as a buzzing food market, and the horseshoe-shaped surround is filled with affordable housing and office space. Be sure to visit at dusk or after dark when the interior comes alive with Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam’s epic mural, Horn of Plenty , lighting up the vast interior with giant fruits, flowers, seeds and insects.

Across the road is Piet Blom’s Cube Houses ( pictured above ). It’s almost as if the architect twisted the two-up, two-down like a Rubik’s Cube to create these extraordinary homes. You can take a look around one for just £2.50: it’s a surreal experience and quite a relief to step back outside again into the beehive-like courtyard, which fosters a neighbourly community in an otherwise bleak landscape .

Bridges are another architectural highlight. Most famous is the Erasmus Bridge that connects the north and south sides of the city. Nicknamed The Swan thanks to its 139-metre-high pylon, it’s a dramatic sight and even more so when the southern section is raised like a drawbridge allowing larger ships to pass by. More recently, the bright yellow Luchtsingel Bridge was designed for pedestrians as the first crowdfunded public infrastructure in the world.

Art and design in Rotterdam

A walk down Witte de Withstraat with its cocktail and beer bars and independent shops is a must for any visitor. It’s also an artistic enclave with colourful graffiti and street art at every corner, and a scattering of bricks-and-mortar contemporary galleries, including the famous Witte de With ( pictured above ).

Yayoi Kusama ’s Infinity Mirror Room dominates the entrance to the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen . Find paintings by big-name artists such as Cezanne and Rothko and an interesting sculpture garden too. Nearby is the Kunsthal that shows a rolling series of exhibitions : 2018 saw a celebration of Dutch design duo Viktor & Rolf; up next is Surf Tribe , a series of black and white photographs from Belgian photographer Stephan Vanfleteren’s (13 October 2018–13 January 2019). The building, designed by famed architect Rem Koolhaas, is as interesting as a space in its own right with a different façade on each side.

Sustainability in Rotterdam

Sustainability is at the forefront of the architectural agenda, and the world’s eyes are on Rotterdam, where innovation is ingrained into the DNA. Exciting projects include the recent Smog Free Tower , which vacuums up pollutive particles and pumps out clean air, and the Windwheel , which will open as a major landmark by 2025. A contemporary take on the traditional Dutch windmill, the huge project will use cutting-edge technology to generate more energy than it uses while serving as a hotel with space for housing, offices, a cruise terminal and a futuristic ferris wheel with mobile touch-screen cabins that will take you under the water in air-tight pods .

Getting about in Rotterdam

Just like Amsterdam, Rotterdam’s primary means of getting about is on two wheels. Rent a bicycle with the city’s bike-hire scheme called Donkey Republic , and explore the streets like the locals, either by the day, or hop on and off. The zippy water taxis are another fun way to get about costing about £4 (per person) to cross from the north to the south side of the river.

Getting to Rotterdam

British Airways ( britishairways.com ) has direct flights from London City to Rotterdam airport (50 mins). The direct Eurostar ( eurostar.com ) from London St Pancras to Rotterdam Centraal takes three hours; the return takes four hours with a change in Brussels .

Scroll down for more pictures of Rotterdam's hottest design destinations...

Like this? Now read:

Laurenskwartier | Rotterdam's neighbourhood on the up

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Top cities to travel to for architecture

Mexican sharing plates at Alfredo's Taqueria.

Millennial pink and palm prints at Evernow.

Suite Hotel Pincoffs is set within one of Rotterdam’s few remaining pre-war buildings.

Dutch concept store Hutspot.

Infinity Mirror Room by Yayoi Kusama at Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Héroine Restaurant & Bar, which is so popular you're advised to book months ahead.

Where to Go for a Less-Crowded European Summer

By Olivia Morelli

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Ah, summer in Europe . Slow mornings spent reading books and trying all the local pastries you can get your hands on; afternoons strolling along the river or exploring quiet neighborhoods; evenings sipping rosé in sun-dappled squares. The only thing that can disrupt the pure bliss of summer in Europe is the threat of heaving streets, packed bars, and overbooked restaurants—a reality that is, unfortunately, all too common in the continent’s most popular destinations.

While we would never suggest avoiding such hotspots altogether, there is a lot to be said for choosing a lesser-known holiday spot during the peak summer months. There's a rapidly growing trend for traveling to alternative destinations, too—#dupe or #dupes amassed 342,000 posts on TikTok as part of the surging interest. Thoughtful travelers are reacting to the world around them —watching the rising temperatures and over-subscribed tourism of popular destinations during the summer, saving those destinations for off-peak travel and, instead, selecting off-beat destinations to visit instead. Below, our editors have put forward their favorite alternative European destinations to try this summer.

Braga, Portugal

Portugal’s oldest city is also one of its most underrated. Despite being in the shadow of neighboring Porto , Braga is a deserving destination in its own right. Pootle along narrow, cobbled lanes to unearth restaurants serving platters of traditional Portuguese dishes— Tabique , for example, specializes in slow-cooked meat and rich and thick sauces with potatoes for mopping, while just outside of the city, Dona Júlia is renowned for its sleek interiors and farm-to-table cooking. To soak up some of Braga’s history, visit Sé—Portugal’s oldest cathedral dating back to 1070—or take a day trip to Bom Jesus do Monte, a picturesque staircase with decadent chapels and pretty fountains.

Where to stay: Braga doesn’t have an abundance of smart hotels, but book Vila Gale for a city-center stay in a building dating back to 1508.

Bordeaux, France

This city may not be lesser-known, but when compared with the number of travelers that flock to Paris during the summer (especially this one), we deem it worthy of a mention in this list. There's world-class wine, proximity to the sea, and more than 350 historical buildings and monuments to visit. It’s largely pedestrianized, so travelers can shake off the blurry haze that settles in after a few wine tastings by exploring foot. Stop to admire the likes of the Grand Théâtre, the Gothic Tour Pey-Berland, or the Basilica of Saint Severinus. Or head into the hinterlands to ogle at some of the country’s top châteaux and wineries dotted along the Gironde.

Where to stay: The Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes , just outside of the city, is the perfect place to get a taste of the city and the countryside. See our guide for more of the best hotels in Bordeaux .

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam ’s cool little sister is finally getting the attention it deserves. Rotterdam , an old industrial port town, has slowly moulded itself into a hub of culture and design. Its climate-conscious outlook is also enticing travelers looking for a new summer city break. Rotterdam committed to cutting its CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2029 and has steadily unveiled new green spaces, eco-friendly design, and pedestrianized streets over the last few years.

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Rachel Chang

Where to stay: Hotel New York has a selection of sleek bedrooms overlooking the river Maas in the city’s Kop van Zuid neighbourhood.

Bergen, Norway

Hiding behind the shiny prestige of Oslo , Bergen is a nature-lover’s paradise. The city itself is known for its colorful wooden houses—a rainbow of rusty red, royal blue, sunny yellow and earthy green, each stacked prettily along the waterfront. But look beyond the houses for even more breathtaking beauty—even in the summer you might spot snow-capped mountains, which cast long shadows of glittering fjords and hiking trails, providing the perfect playground for a summer adventure escape.

Where to stay: Book into Bergen Børs Hotel for a stylish stay in a 19th-century building.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Dalmatian coast is as beautiful as it is overloaded, so head further inland to Bosnia and Herzegovina instead (and return to Croatia’s shoreline in the shoulder season, when temperatures are cooler and crowds are fewer). Mostar is an alluring city break, with its fairytale-like streets, craggy hillsides and ancient stone bridges, complete with surrounding vineyards, waterfalls and mountain hikes nearby.

Where to stay: Stay at Muslibegović House , originally home to a wealthy family in the 18th century and now a glittering museum of Ottoman decadence

A version of this story originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller .

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