trip to rotterdam

One Day in Rotterdam Itinerary – Top things to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

One of the world’s greatest festival cities, Rotterdam, started as a small fishing harbor on the Rotte river. Over the centuries, Rotterdam expanded fairly peacefully to a trade and transport center until it all came to an abrupt pause! During World War II the city center was bombed left within ashes of its former glory. A phoenix takes on a new life by being born again from the ashes, and that’s what Rotterdam did. They used this as an opportunity to re-design the city to fit modern standards. Before WWII, Rotterdam was a typical Dutch city with narrow canals and narrow streets. Today, Rotterdam is designed with high-rise buildings and multi-lane streets, famous for its architecture, extraordinary skyline and breathtaking monuments.

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Plan your trip to Rotterdam

1. Best time to visit Rotterdam 2. A few facts about Rotterdam 3. One Day in Rotterdam Itinerary 3.1. Start Your Day at Rotterdam Central Station 3.2. Stop by St. Lawrence Church 3.3. Step Into The Cube Houses 3.4. Visit The Witte Huis At The Old Harbor 3.5. Have Lunch At Markthal Rotterdam 3.6. Learn at The Maritime Museum 3.7. Take Photos by The Erasmus Bridge 3.8. Have a Drink at The Euromast Tower 3.9. Have Dinner at Delfshaven 3.10. Shop And Party at The Cool District 4. Where to Stay in Rotterdam 5. Best Day Trips From Rotterdam 6. Extra tips for visiting Rotterdam

Best time to visit Rotterdam

The most prominent time to visit Rotterdam due to the warm and sunny weather is from June to September . September is the driest month. If your schedule doesn’t allow for a September visit, there is an abundance of Rotterdam things to do all year round. November to March are generally extra affordable, and Tulip season is in full bloom in April and May. Whenever you visit you’ll find things to do in Rotterdam, but try to stick to the warmer seasons because of the nicer weather!

A few facts about Rotterdam

– Your dog could get fined – If your dog is creating a problem either in the surroundings or at night with its barking or crying, you could be fined around 140 euros!

– Rotterdam is the city of architects – it has the largest number of architectural companies in Europe.

– Look for the red lights on the floor – there are around 400 small red lights across the city. They mark where the bombs dropped during WWII.

– Rotterdam is home to plenty of events, festivals, concerts and theaters such as the Summer Carnival, International Film Festival and World Port days and it’s why they call it one of the world’s greatest festival cities.

One Day in Rotterdam Itinerary

The brilliant thing about Rotterdam is that most of the attractions are contained within walking distance. Use One Day Itinerary as your Rotterdam tourist map and follow our guide for top things to do in Rotterdam in one day.

Start Your Day at Rotterdam Central Station

The central station is most likely to be the starting point of your one day in Rotterdam. Honor the architecture of the station and the angled roof that points its aim towards the city center. Great for those who have challenges with spatial orientation! Visit the stores, shops, and food stalls in case you want to grab a quick bite before you figure out what to see in Rotterdam. There is a fantastic hostel just five minutes down from the central station, Sparks Hostel , where you can check-in as soon as you reach Rotterdam.

Stop by St. Lawrence Church

Walk 15 minutes from the central station, or take the inner city train to Rotterdam Blaak station. You will reach the lovely Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk or St. Lawrence Church. The church is one of the few things left from medieval times! The interior consists of a broad center and warm colors beautiful in its simplicity.  The entrance will cost you 3€ and the Laurenskerk tower is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from March to October. Climb up to see the entire city. Take your obligatory Instagram photos and head to the next stop!

Step Into The Cube Houses

You will find the Cube houses on Overblaak street or just above the Blaak station. Architect Piet Bloom woke up one day and decided he’s going to switch the whole concept of a standard house around. His main idea was to optimize city space, while the design of houses represented a forest where each house is a tree.

Walk around the 38 small houses and two “ super houses ”. People do live here, but the tourists annoyed them to the point one resident decided to open a “show house” so all the curious visitors get to see what the houses look like from the inside.

Visit The Witte Huis At The Old Harbor

Williem Moengroek designed The White House or The Witte Huis near the end of the 1800s and at the time they couldn’t believe such a tall building could exist. Not only did it manage to endure its height, but it’s one of the rare buildings that survived WWII bombings . Check it out and then walk along to the old harbor. A lovely little area at the Rotte river, a fabulous place to walk, hang out, and observe local scenery. Have a drink, take your photos and move on! This will be a great walk along the river the next stop on your one day in Rotterdam

Have Lunch At Markthal Rotterdam

Giant, vibrant, creative! The “Horn of Plenty” artwork located in the Markthal is the biggest artwork in the world ! 11,000 square meters of remarkable architecture that combines luxury apartments, offices, shops, and the incredible food market.

As soon as you enter it’s easy to see why it is nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel of Rotterdam”. Go to the lively food hall with stalls to suit any taste. A few of the stalls have small terraces or you can relax at one of the picnic tables. Try Kapsalon, a meal invented in Rotterdam, consisting of french fries, shawarma meat, and gouda cheese!

Learn at The Maritime Museum

Located just a few minutes southwest of the Markthal, the Maritime Museum is a Rotterdam must-see. Established in 1874, the museum is dedicated to Rotterdam naval history . Step into the world of the extraordinary collection of working vessels and cranes, and learn how the machines operated in the past! There is an exhibition for all ages, children especially love all the hands-on activities and the open-air harbor. The museum is entirely worth the price. You can get the tickets here .

Take Photos by The Erasmus Bridge

You didn’t go to Rotterdam if you didn’t see the Erasmus Bridge. A 10-minute walk from the Maritime Museum will take you the striking fixture and a backdrop for numerous Rotterdam events. Light-blue steel, 800-meter long and 139-meters tall, the bridge also goes under the name the “ De Zwaan ” or “ The Swan ” due to its Swan-like shape. It is one of the most fascinating things to see in Rotterdam. If you’re in Rotterdam during the summer and have time, cross the Erasmus Bridge and visit the floating forest!

Have a Drink at The Euromast Tower

From Erasmus bridge, head to The Euromast tower ( get a ticket in advance ) across the Het Park. If you’re ahead of schedule, take your time to visit one of the nearby art museums such as Boymans-Van Beuningen or Beuningen Kuntshal , otherwise, head straight to the top of Rotterdam.

Built in the year 1960 by Hugh Maaskand and J.P. van Eastern as a symbol of the international flower and garden exhibition, the Euromast tower offers the best views of Rotterdam from its observation platform. You can try a cocktail at the bar, take the rotating glass elevator that takes you up to 185 meters, or even spend the night here !

Have Dinner at Delfshaven

You will find the Delfshaven district next to the Euromast tower, and it is a must on things to do in Rotterdam. Situated on the right bank of the Nieuwe Maas river, the district is important to Rotterdam because it is one of the few places where you can still feel the atmosphere of pre-war Rotterdam . Have dinner and an authentic Rotterdam beer at De Pelgrim or Het Eethuisje van Delfshaven. Looking for something a little different? Try De smaak van Afrika !

Shop And Party at The Cool District

Head back to the city center to “The Cool District”. We didn’t just decide it’s cool, the actual name of the area is the “ Cool District ” and it’s the best place to stay in Rotterdam. Shop on Van Oldenbarneveltstraat (yes, the name is a mouthful), check out The Santa statue or locally known as “the buttplug gnome”, you’ll see why, and be a part of the lively crowds gathering here after dark.

Visit “the best bar in the world” as voted in 2009 called De Witte Aap . Check out Rotown for a live show or dance the night away at Annabel. If you’re looking for a cool hotel near the cool district, check out Hotel New York with astonishing views and authentic decorations!

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

You know what to do in Rotterdam in one day, but wondering where to stay in Rotterdam? If you have an early flight and want to stay near the airport there are a few places. The airport is quite close to the city so if you are trying to use your one day in Rotterdam wisely, here are a few hotels we recommend.

SS Rotterdam

Derde Katendrechtsehoofd 25, Feijenoord, 3072 AM Rotterdam

The coolest hotel in the city, you actually get to sleep on a former Holland-America line ship right next to the Europort harbor. The hotel features elegant decor, modern restaurant, terrace, and cocktails served in the Ocean Bar. You can explore the ship and learn all about its history and the free shuttle takes you to the city center!

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Sparks Hostel

Westersingel 1A, Centrum, 3014 GM Rotterdam

Not only is it a budget-friendly option , but it is in the city center, comfortable and a great place to socialize. Surrounded by shopping, restaurants, clubs, bars and everything you need for one day in Rotterdam to be a success. There’s an on-site bar as well! Great for travelers looking to meet new people while being in the center of the city!

Hotel New York

Koninginnenhoofd 1, Feijenoord, 3072 AD Rotterdam

From Hotel New York , you can enjoy the views of the Rotterdam skyline, the harbor, and the river. The hotel offers a water taxi that can bring you to the city center, and you can relax in unique rooms. Each room has it’s own shape and color. You are close to everything while safely excluded if you wish to be.

Best Day Trips From Rotterdam

An hour away and a well worth day trip from Rotterdam, Kinderdijk is home to the famous Dutch windmills. Located in the Alblasserwaard polder (a low-lying tract of land that forms an artificial water entity), the windmills were built as a system to drain the polder. Surrounded by canals, hills, and mountains it is a wonderful place to experience true Dutch culture. Enjoy the scenery, nature, history, and architecture of this small village and spend the day relaxing by the waters of Kinderdijk! Definitely try pastries from one of the bakeries!

An hour north of Rotterdam and you’ll reach Hague. Many people know Hague as the home to the U.N.s International Court of Justice so make sure to visit the Peace Palace where the court is located. There is more to Hague than that! Check out the Mauritshuis museum located in the 17th-century mansion with paintings of Dutch and Flemish art. Explore Maurodam – the miniature park showing all the famous Dutch landmarks!

Go just 45 minutes west and you will arrive at the Gouda, where the cheese comes from! If you happen to be there on a summer Thursday, you can relish in the cheese market and indulge in all the dairy. Check out the cheese museum! If you’re lactose intolerant, but still want to have a good time, you can shop at the Lange Tiendeweg street or visit the Sint Janskerk church! While cheese lovers will have the time of their life in Gouda, everyone can find something to explore in this quaint town.

Extra tips for visiting Rotterdam

• Visit the Europort – if you happen to extend your stay, make sure to check out Europort, the largest port in Europe and one of the world’s busiest ports!
• If you’re in Rotterdam at the right time, visit Mini World –  It’s located two minutes from the Central Station and it is a whole indoor miniature Rotterdam. Check the opening hours as they vary.
• Avoid wearing fur or leather – Many people in Rotterdam are active animal rights supporters and you’ll sure to run into some negativity.
• Restaurants open late – People eat dinner later in the day, so plan accordingly.
• Rent a bicycle and use the water taxi – Rotterdam is easy to get around to, rent a bicycle if you’re short on time and take advantage of the many water buses and taxies!

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If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Rotterdam Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Romi is a llama coach from Split, Croatia. This sounds made up but it’s true. ​She lived in Toronto, Canada for about ten years, give or take, but she wasn’t working with llamas. She was working in PR, restaurants, daycares, one yoga clothing store. She doesn't know how she got that job as she has never done yoga at that point. She taught English in Colombia and Vietnam. Traveled the world for two years. Then she got into writing. Actually, she was always writing, but then someone paid her to write. Then more people paid because they saw she was making them money. Then it became a thing she does for a living. And here we are now. Specializing in travel, real estate, and digital nomad guides, familiar with SEO, and always ready to learn something new so she can branch out and take over the world.

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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 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

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

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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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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
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Rotterdam via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Zaanse Schans Windmills: A perfect Day Trip from Amsterdam

Volendam and marken: visit in a day trip from amsterdam, 9 best day trips from amsterdam.

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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One Incredible Day Trip to Rotterdam

• Updated on: June 1, 2023

This article may contain affiliate links.  For more information, please see our disclaimer  here.

Table of Contents

Embarking on a day trip to Rotterdam promises an adventure like no other, and as someone who lived in this vibrant city for four years, I’m thrilled to share the insider’s scoop. In this guide, we’ll explore Rotterdam’s dynamic blend of modern architecture, rich history, and unique cultural hotspots.

I’ll address the challenge of making the most out of your day, ensuring you hit all the must-see attractions while also uncovering hidden gems. Tailored for adventure travelers, this article will take you through a journey of Rotterdam’s bustling streets and serene canals, all in a day’s adventure. Let’s dive into the heart of Rotterdam and discover what makes this city a treasure trove for explorers.

Read: The Ultimate Day Trip Kinderdijk Windmills Guide 2023: Tips From A Local

Interactive walking map for one day in Rotterdam

Below, you’ll find a carefully curated route that lets you pass all the highlights I’ve come to love in this city. It’s a perfect guide for anyone planning to spend one day in Rotterdam, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the city’s wonders.

How to get to Rotterdam

Traveling from Amsterdam to Rotterdam is a breeze with a train journey that lasts just 40 minutes. You’ll find that rail tickets are both affordable and easy to purchase at train stations.

For those arriving in Rotterdam from abroad, there are several convenient options. Trains from neighboring countries like Belgium and Germany offer direct routes to Rotterdam, and connections from the UK and France are equally efficient – check Eurail for ticket details. Alternatively, flying into Rotterdam is straightforward, with The Hague International Airport located merely 5 kilometers from the city. For travelers coming from outside Europe, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is your likely entry point, situated only 47 kilometers from Rotterdam, making the final leg of your journey to Rotterdam quick and easy.

Getting around in the city

Rotterdam boasts an excellent public transport network, making it easy to navigate the city. The Metro, tram, and bus services are not only safe but also user-friendly.

Opting for a one-day Metro pass is a smart choice, as it offers great value and can be used across multiple modes of transport. Just remember to check in and out each time you use it to avoid any confusion!

Read: How To Get Around In The Netherlands

For a unique perspective of Rotterdam, try the city boat. While not covered by the one-day pass, water buses and water taxis offer a swift and scenic way to see the city from a different angle.

And, of course, when in Rotterdam, do as the locals do – cycle around! Bike rentals are readily available throughout the city, with the train station being one of the most convenient spots to pick up a bike.

Things to do and see in Rotterdam

There is plenty to see and do in Rotterdam, but below I will discuss the highlights that you should be able to combine into one day! Don’t get disappointed if you miss one or another spot, as it will only give you another reason to come back another time! 🙂

Rotterdam central train station

When you arrive at Rotterdam Central train station, don’t forget to walk outside and check out the incredible architecture of this building before you start exploring the rest of the city.In the Main Hall you’ll find a tourist office which is ideal for picking up maps and literature on all the main sights that you plan to see on your day trip to Rotterdam.

The office also sells the Rotterdam Welcome Card which is a great purchase as it costs €8.00 and gives you 25% discount on 50 attractions including museums, cafés, bars and restaurants – plus unlimited travel for the day, so we definitely encourage you to buy one!

Take in the fascinating Cube Houses!

The Cube Houses (in Dutch: Kubuswoningen) are one of the city’s most famous sights. No wonder, as the houses are built in cubes, which have then been turned 45º. This seemingly impossible structure makes everyone wonder how people are able to live in there or, how do owners get the furniture to fit with so many strange angles.

To answer all your questions you can enter one of the cube houses which is open for the public from 11.00 am to 5.00 pm daily. Entrance costs €3 for adults and €1.50 for kids. Another one of the Cube Houses is turned into a hostel of Stayokay! Imagine sleeping in one of these incredible houses!

If you prefer to take the public transport, the nearest metro station is station Blaak, this is also a train station.

Enjoy great tastes at the Markthal of Rotterdam

Very close to the Cube Houses is De Markthal, the famous food market! This is an amazing place to visit if you love to try some good street food, or if you love architecture! This huge building has the market area on the ground floor and apartments on the upper floors.

Its striking architecture includes an amazing arched ceiling which is covered by a mural that is one of the largest paintings in the world. It is well worth stopping by to admire and to wonder how they managed to paint it! Downstairs in the underground car park, there is an archaeological exhibition of the artifacts found when building De Markthal.

The market itself is dazzling with more than 100 fresh food stands, delicatessens, restaurants, and a supermarket. The food stands are serving a myriad of tasty traditional Dutch dishes as well as many international food options. It is well worth remembering that the market stays open during the evening too.

Whilst you are enjoying your time in Rotterdam, the essential foods to try are some good Dutch cheeses, such as Old Amsterdam, Edammer and Goudse. These are all available at the cheese stand in De Markthal.

If you are more a sweet-tooth, you should try the stroopwafel! This is a local syrup waffle, which tastes delicious, especially with a cup of freshly made coffee. The Kroket is another typical Dutch snack and when it is the right season, try ‘haring happen’, which can be described as eating raw herring with raw onions. I know… I know… Duch people have weird habits!

Discover the history of Rotterdam

Very sadly, Rotterdam was badly damaged during the Second World War and only a few historic buildings remain. If you decide to explore Oudhaven – the Old Port –  you will see the impressive Witte Huis (the White House). This building was built in the Art Nouveau style in 1898. With ten floors, the Witte Huis was Europe’s first skyscraper and surprisingly, not damaged during the Second World War.

Another great historical piece to see during a day trip in Rotterdam is the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk. This is a medieval church with stunning architecture that was first constructed in 1449. You’ll find it close to the Markthal and it is the only piece of Gothic architecture that survived the war.

If you are interested in architecture, it is worth visiting Delfshaven as its buildings will give you an idea of what Rotterdam must have looked like in the pre-war years. Delfshaven is also interesting as it was originally part of Delft, but because it is actually closer in proximity to Rotterdam, it became part of that city. 

Get a great view from the Euromast! The Euromast Tower is a popular building on the city skyline as it is the tallest observation tower in the Netherlands.

Standing 185 meters high, the tower has an observation deck that gives visitors a great 360º view of the city which includes the Erasmusbrug (Erasmus Bridge) and the S.S. Rotterdam.

The Euromast also has a good bistro, if you fancy lunch or dinner with a view, but be aware that you have to pay a high price for it!The Euromast is open from 09:30 am to 10:00 pm during the summer and from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm during the winter months. Entrance costs €12.50 for adults and €9 for children (4-11 years). If you prefer to take public transportation, you can go to the metro station Coolhaven.

Admire colourful bridges & street art

If you fancy taking a stroll, one of the pedestrian bridges that is worth visiting is the Luchtsingel Bridge. It is only a short distance away from Rotterdam Central Station. This wooden bridge is 400 meters in length and was built as a cooperative project to link the northern part of the city with the other districts. The view of the walkway is beautiful with all yellow wooden planks

A nice fact about this incredible and colorful bridge is that local residents were able to buy a plank of yellow wood for €25 and these were used to build the bridge. Each plank is marked with the buyer’s name which is fascinating to read! The construction of the bridge definitely helped to rejuvenate the northern part of the city and there are good shops, restaurants and shopping malls on both sides of the bridge!

If you enjoy street art, you will see plenty in the Luchtsingel district in North Rotterdam. A walk along Witte de Withstraat – one of the main streets – will also reveal a number of colourful walls. The closest metro station to this street is Eendrachtsplein.

Street art is so popular in Rotterdam that there is an annual festival called Pow Wow that takes place each September. During this time of the year, all kinds of buildings are covered with multicolor paintings, which is incredible to see.

9 Best Day Trips From Amsterdam By Train You Need To Know

Stroll across the Willems bridge and Erasmus Bridge…

From Oudehaven you already have the Willems Bridge (in Dutch: Willembrug) in sight. Cross it by foot to enjoy a view on the river and walk via Noordereiland to the Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug). This is the iconic bridge of Rotterdam, also called ‘the Swan’.

The maritime district lies on one side of the Erasmus Bridge and Kop van Zuid, the redeveloped docklands area, on the other. This elegant suspension bridge is 800 metres in length, spanning the river Meuse (in Dutch: rivier de Maas).

Its pylons soar 139 meters and are held in place by 40 steel cables. This is a good spot to pause for a photo and it’s a fun walk to cross the bridge.

Rotterdam’s Maritime Heritage

Rotterdam is one of the biggest harbors in Europe and they are proud of it! Every year around 62,000 huge sea ships with massive lengths enter the harbor to load and unload their freights. You can discover the maritime world in the Maritime Museum Rotterdam where you can learn more about the effect of shipping and go on a maritime adventure! An entrance ticket for adults costs €17.50 and for kids up to 15 years of age €12.50.

Another way to explore Rotterdam’s maritime life is by taking a boat tour. You have a couple of options. First of all, you can do a Rotterdam Harbour Tour , which will lead you through the harbour by boat. You can also do a river cruise , to get another view on the city.

And last, but not least, if you like a little bit of adventure, take the sightseeing splash tour with an amphibious bus that drives through the city and cruises on the Maas River!

Visit the large cruise ship SS Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam is moored close to the Erasmus Bridge, so keep your camera ready! This magnificent cruise ship was the largest ship ever built in Rotterdam Port and she was launched in 1959.

No longer in service, the ship, which is nicknamed ‘the grand dame’  has been completely renovated and converted into an attractive floating hotel and museum. The ship also has an ‘Escape Room’ where the aim is to try and escape from cold storage to claim a prize.

Where to eat in Rotterdam

There are many cafes, eateries, coffee shops, pubs, and restaurants everywhere in the city. But there are a couple of locations we will highlight:

• Do you like a fun relaxed lunch or diner then the Food Hallen in Wilhelminakade could be perfect. Opened in 2018, the Food Hallen has a large communal area, surrounded by stalls selling all types of street food. It is lively and a great place for a speedy meal with friends.
• In the area of De Markthal? The market is open in the evenings too for tasty street food as dinner. 
• If you are seeking a vegetarian or vegan option, why not opt for a stylish setting? Op Het Dak is a lovely rooftop café with a great atmosphere.

By now, the day will be coming to an end and if you can, try to get back to the Euromast Tower, or find another place in the city to watch the sun set behind the skyline.

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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 Spend the Perfect One Day in Rotterdam Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 29th January 2024

Categories Itineraries , Netherlands

Last Updated on 29th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Rotterdam is a cool and vibrant city in the Netherlands that is easy to visit as a day trip from Amsterdam but also merits a visit in its own right. Here’s your ultimate guide to spending the perfect one day in Rotterdam itinerary , as well as top attractions, and what to know before you go.

Why visit Rotterdam?

What to know before visiting rotterdam, is one day enough time to stay in rotterdam, how to get to rotterdam, marvel at the views from the euromast , explore delfshaven , eat lunch at markthal , visit rotterdam cathedral, see the cube houses, visit the oude haven , see the view from erasmus bridge , have drinks in the cool district , take a day trip, where to stay in rotterdam.

After the city was largely flattened during WWII (known as the Blitzkrieg), the city’s architects’ decided to take a wholly new approach to rebuilding the city, resulting in a futuristic smorgasbord of skyscrapers and other modern buildings.

Rotterdam is like no other city in Europe, making it a must-see on any trip to the Netherlands. For more inspiration during your trip, be sure to check out our free and self-guided Rotterdam walking tour and how to spend one week in the Netherlands itinerary .

In order to be comfortable when exploring the Dutch city, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes that you’re able to walk a fair distance in.

Some travel guides may say that trainers are a no no, but this is no longer the case and many Europeans wear sneakers on a daily basis, especially if they’re the plain white ones such as Vejas or Nike Air Force 1. 

Rotterdam , like much of the rest of Europe, is not a place for high heels or brand new shoes. Many people speak a fantastic level of English, especially in the more touristy areas such as in Rotterdam, but note that the local language is Dutch.

Thanks to the fact that all of the main attractions in Rotterdam are grouped fairly close together and can therefore all be seen on foot (or by hopping on a bus from place to place), you can easily see all of Rotterdam’s highlights over the course of a day.

Another way to get around the city is to do as the locals do and rent a bicycle for the day. Bicycle parking is available throughout the city (locks can be rented with your bike rental) . Exploring via bicycle means that you’ll be able to go further afield which might otherwise be too far to traverse on foot.

With this being said, if you’re the kind of person who prefers to travel at a slower pace, visiting all the museums, and taking the time to enjoy a coffee here and there, you’ll want to set aside two or three days to exploring the Dutch city .

Rotterdam has its own international airport but can also be reached by train from many other destinations in Europe. It is also reachable in only 40 minutes from Amsterdam making a perfect day trip option.

Suggestions for how to spend one day in Rotterdam

Many people enjoy discovering a new city from a bird’s eye perspective and so start your stay in Rotterdam by heading up the Euromast. Presiding over the surrounding area, the tower stands at a staggering 184.6 metres high (when counting the antenna spire).

For a fee, you can go up the Euromast tower and enjoy 360 degree views of the city sprawling out below you. It’s on the pricier side of things and a visit will take you around an hour. Check prices and availability here.

Directly next to Euromast, visitors will soon come across Museumpark. As its name suggests, the area is home to several museums, including the Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam (Natural History Museum) , which is particularly great for visiting families and the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, an art museum.

While much of the city was flattened during the war, some parts survived, including large swathes of Delfshaven. This part of the city is where you can see the Rotterdam of old and highlights of Delfshaven include a small inner city harbour, traditional brick houses, and going beer tasting.

Somewhere between the Grote Kerk and Piet Blom’s Cube House,  Markthal Rotterdam  is the first oversized indoor market of its kind in the Netherlands and is the largest glass-window cable structure in Europe.

So beautiful is the Markthal ceiling, that it’s since been given the nickname ‘the Rotterdam Sistine Chapel’ and you can enjoy it for yourself during lunch in Rotterdam. After all, the great marketplace has plenty of stalls serving up delicious speciality coffees, sandwiches, salads and more.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you spy a statue of Erasmus on the lawn directly in front of the ecclesiastical building. Known in Dutch as Grote Kerk, the cathedral is dedicated to Saint Laurence and is one of the only buildings in the city to have survived the Blitzkrieg.

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Rotterdam on Instagram, you’ve likely spied the cube houses. Designed by award-winning Dutch architect Piet Blom and built in the 1980s, there are forty cube ‘dwellings’ in total.

Living in a house such as this is said to take some practice since only a quarter of the living space is actually habitable! One of the houses has been transformed into a museum so that, for a fee of a few euros, you can pay to go and look inside.

Literally translated into English as ‘Old Port,’ the Oude Haven is a delightful port where all the locals come to hang out. After all, it’s here where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants, including the award-winning Noah Cocktail Bar and Restaurant.

Of particular note is the Witte Huis, which is translated into English as the White House and is so-called thanks to its colour. Situated on the fringes of the Oude Haven, the building   was constricted between 1897 and 1898 and is one of the first tall buildings in Europe.

Undoubtedly the most famous bridge in Rotterdam, the Erasmus bridge offers stunning views over the city and is a must-photograph destination for the photo lovers out there.

Nicknamed the swan  (and once in front of the bridge it quickly becomes apparent why!),  the Erasmus Bridge is named for the most famous Rotterdammer, Erasmus.

End your one day in Rotterdam by heading out for drinks and food in one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the city: the Cool District. Rather surprisingly, this area is so-called not because its a fun or quirky place to hang out.

Instead, the name Cool appears as far back in the records as 1280, when a town called Cool was attested for the first time.

The town was eventually absorbed into the fabric of Rotterdam in 1816 and has since become one of the trendiest areas of Rotterdam. While in the Cool District, be sure to wander along the Witte de Withstraat strip.

If you have more time in Rotterdam…

If you have two or three days in Rotterdam, or even longer, then the good news is that there is plenty to keep you entertained in the city for many days thanks to a plethora of hidden gems and quirky museums.

Of course, Rotterdam’s status as one of the largest cities in the Netherlands means that it boasts excellent transport links to the rest of the country, meaning that it’s the perfect place to base yourself to explore the wider Holland region .

Between beach escapes and city breaks, the little country of the Netherlands is home to more than its fair share of stunning attractions, cities, and scenery. Some of the best day trips from Rotterdam include going to the political city of The Hague and visiting the ceramic city of Delft .

While Rotterdam is an escape from the hustle and bustle of the crowds of Amsterdam, the city can still get pretty busy! This is especially true of the high season  (summer)  when events like Summer Carnival take place. As a result, you’ll want to book your place to stay as far in advance as possible.  Check here for the best Rotterdam accommodation rates.

Enjoyed reading about how to spend one day in Rotterdam? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Monday 5th of June 2023

Hi! Where is the ferris wheel in one of your pictures? We are planning a day trip from Brussels and would love to hit that spot!

Sophie Nadeau

Monday 26th of June 2023

It's in Scheveningen, which is the seaside district of the Hague!

26 Top Things to Do in Rotterdam, Netherlands | 2024 (with Photos)

Mary Adelana - Travel Writer

Last Updated: January 4, 2024

Hey there! I'm Mary, and I'm delighted to share with you my recommendations for the top things to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands. From exploring the vibrant food scene to immersing yourself in the city's stunning architecture, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Rotterdam!

Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, is a vibrant and modern destination with a rich history and culture.

From its iconic Cube Houses and the stunning Erasmus Bridge to its impressive collection of world-class museums, Rotterdam has something for everyone .

Whether you're interested in exploring the city's bustling center, learning about its maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum Rotterdam, or taking a boat tour through its picturesque harbor, this guide has got you covered.

Join us as we explore the top 26 things to do in Rotterdam and discover why this dynamic Dutch city should be on your travel bucket list.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

Top Choice Hotel

Mainport Hotel

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

Wormhole Bar

Best Time to Visit

Spring and summer showcase Rotterdam's beauty best.

Average Temperature

Mild climate with cool summers and mild winters.

Transportation Options

Bike, tram, train, bus, metro, ferry, walk, car.

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Rotterdam is a vibrant city with a unique blend of modern architecture and historic charm. Stroll along the bustling streets to discover the city's hidden gems, such as the Markthal, a vibrant indoor market where you can indulge in an array of delicious local treats. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Cube Houses, a cluster of innovative and futuristic residential buildings that offer a glimpse into Rotterdam's cutting-edge design. Immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural scene by exploring the Kunsthal art museum or catching a performance at the stunning De Doelen concert hall. With a myriad of stylish cafes and trendy bars, Rotterdam is the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere and create unforgettable memories.

Explore Rotterdam's rich maritime history with a visit to the impressive Maritime Museum. Dive into the fascinating world of seafaring and learn about the city's importance as a trading hub. Take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic waterfront, where you can admire the stunning skyline and picturesque views of the river Maas. Indulge in some retail therapy at the impressive shopping district of Lijnbaan, known for its wide variety of stores and boutiques. After a day of exploring, relax at one of the cozy cafes overlooking the charming Delfshaven neighborhood, where you can sample local delicacies and enjoy a chilled Dutch beer. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Rotterdam has something for everyone.

What You'll Need to Bring

Passport, comfortable shoes Clothes suitable for the weather, smartphone or camera for capturing memories

What Not to Miss

• Cube Houses
• Erasmus Bridge
• Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
• SS Rotterdam
• Rotterdam Zoo
• Witte de Withstraat
• Fenix Food Factory

What to Avoid

Touristy areas: Rotterdam has much more to offer beyond the typical tourist areas. Instead, venture out and explore the city's hidden gems and local neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.

Rush hour: Avoid traveling during peak hours, especially on public transportation, to save yourself from the crowds and potential delays.

Walking or cycling on bike lanes: Be cautious and avoid walking or cycling on designated bike lanes as they are strictly reserved for cyclists.

Overpacking: Rotterdam is known for its stylish and modern fashion scene, so pack light and leave room for some trendy purchases during your visit.

Ignoring local customs: Respect Rotterdam's local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes when entering someone's home or using proper etiquette in restaurants.

Not trying local food: Don't miss out on Rotterdam's culinary delights. Be sure to sample traditional Dutch dishes and explore the city's diverse food scene.

Overpaying for attractions: Research and compare ticket prices for attractions and consider purchasing a city pass, which often includes discounts and free entry to popular sites.

Not exploring beyond the city center: Rotterdam is a vibrant and diverse city with many neighborhoods worth visiting. Don't limit yourself to just the city center; explore different areas to get a true taste of the local culture.

Disrespecting the city's architecture: Appreciate Rotterdam's modern architecture, including its iconic skyline and innovative buildings, without damaging or vandalizing any structures.

Not checking the weather: Rotterdam weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast and dress accordingly to fully enjoy your time in the city.

Table of Contents

1. Discover World Cultures at Wereldmuseum

Located in the heart of Rotterdam, the Wereldmuseum (World Museum) is a fascinating cultural institution that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the diversity of world cultures.

The museum's collection includes more than 200,000 objects from around the world , including Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania.

From traditional costumes and musical instruments to ancient artifacts and contemporary art, the World Museum has something for everyone.

In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the Wereldmuseum also features rotating exhibits that delve deeper into specific regions and cultures. These exhibits provide a more in-depth look at the rich histories and traditions of different cultures around the world.

The museum also offers various educational programs and events, including lectures, workshops, and cultural performances.

Visitors can even enjoy a delicious meal at the museum's elegant restaurant, which offers a diverse menu inspired by cuisines from around the world.

The Wereldmuseum is housed in a stunning historic building that was once a mansion, and the interior has been beautifully renovated to create a modern and inviting atmosphere. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, a visit to the Wereldmuseum is sure to be a rewarding experience.

The best part? The museum is within walking distance of many other top attractions in Rotterdam, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. Fun fact: The Wereldmuseum was founded in 1883 and was originally known as the Ethnographic Museum.

2. Visit the Cube Houses (Unesco World Heritage Site)

No trip to Rotterdam would be complete without a visit to the Cube Houses, an architectural wonder that has become an iconic symbol of the city .

The Cube Houses were designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom and these quirky homes resemble cubes tilted at a 45-degree angle. They are a marvel of modern engineering and design.

What's more, the Cube Houses aren't just a tourist attraction. Dutch architect Piet Blom made sure of it. They are also a national heritage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for their cultural and historical significance .

It is guaranteed that you have not seen anything like these incredible structures before. So, it is definitely worth the trip to see them for yourself. If you're visiting Rotterdam, be sure to put the Cube Houses on your itinerary and marvel at these unique and fascinating structures.

You can see the cube houses from the water, and on a sunny day, their bright yellow is stunning to behold.

3. Gaze at the Architectural Structure of the Erasmusbrug (Erasmus bridge)

The Erasmus Bridge, also known as the Erasmusbrug , is one of the most iconic structures in Rotterdam and a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the city. Spanning the Nieuwe Maas River, this impressive suspension bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and is a popular spot for photography .

Whether you're walking or cycling, taking a water taxi, or even bungee jumping, the Erasmus Bridge is definitely worth a visit. And while you're in the area, why not check out some of the other nearby attractions, such as the famous Cube Houses or the vibrant city center?

With so many things to do in Rotterdam, the Erasmus Bridge is just one of the many reasons to visit this exciting city.

One interesting fact about the architectural structure of the Erasmusbrug (Erasmus bridge) in Rotterdam is that it is a cable-stayed bridge, meaning that instead of relying on suspended cables like a suspension bridge, it is held up by a series of cables that fan out from the tower on one end of the bridge.

This design allows for a longer span and greater stability, making it an impressive feat of engineering. The bridge is also nicknamed "The Swan" due to its elegant and graceful shape.

4. Go to a Performance at De Doelen Concert House

When you decide to visit Rotterdam you should make sure to catch a performance of your choosing here. De Doelen Concert House is located near Rotterdam's city center.

The venue has a rich history of hosting world-class classical music concerts and events, making it a must-visit for music lovers. The hall is home to multiple concert halls, the largest of which can seat over 2,000 people.

The modernist architecture of the building is also an attraction in itself, with a sleek design that has become an icon of Rotterdam's skyline. De Doelen Concert House is located in the heart of Rotterdam, Netherlands making it easily accessible by public transport and within walking distance of many other attractions in the city center.

De Doelen Concert House is one of the top concert halls in Rotterdam and has hosted several famous performances over the years. Some of the most famous performances include classical music concerts by world-renowned orchestras such as the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestr a, as well as performances by famous musicians and bands such as Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, and the Rolling Stones.

The venue also hosts jazz and pop concerts, as well as theater and dance performances. With its excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art facilities, De Doelen is a must-visit destination for music lovers in Rotterdam.

5. Spend a Day at One of Rotterdam's Beautiful Parks or Gardens

Rotterdam is not only known for its bustling city life and iconic landmarks like the Cube Houses but also for its beautiful parks and gardens. Visitors looking for things to do in central Rotterdam can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in Het Park or the beautiful Botanical Garden.

Het Park is a spacious green oasis located in the city center, offering a peaceful escape from the city's buzz. The Botanical Garden, on the other hand, features a stunning collection of plants and flowers from around the world .

Both parks offer a great opportunity to soak up the beautiful surroundings and take in some fresh air. It's the perfect way to spend a day exploring the quieter side of Rotterdam.

Fun fact about Het Park: Het Park was originally built as a temporary garden for the Floriade, a large international horticultural exhibition held in Rotterdam in 1850. However, due to its popularity, it was decided to keep it as a permanent park for the people of Rotterdam.

Locals love to visit Het Park to walk, jog, picnic, and barbecue, so you can get a good insight into everyday life in Rotterdam by visiting this picturesque spot. The park also hosts various cafes and festivals, so you will always find something to do here.

6. Get the Best City Views from a Sightseeing Boat Tour

A sightseeing boat tour is an ideal way to appreciate Rotterdam's beautiful cityscape , stunning architecture, and historic harbor. In addition to the iconic buildings and modern architecture, you'll also have a chance to explore restored historic boats that offer a glimpse of the city's maritime past.

Make sure to bring a Rotterdam map to track your journey and fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the city. It's a great day trip option, and you can enjoy the picturesque skyline while cruising along the waterways.

Don't miss the opportunity to see Rotterdam from a unique perspective and capture some amazing photos. And if you're lucky, you may even spot some of the city's famous landmarks like the Erasmusbrug or the Euromast Tower from the water. A sightseeing boat tour is a must-do activity for anyone exploring Rotterdam.

There are several tour companies in Rotterdam that offer unique experiences. One of the most popular ones is Spido, which offers a variety of tours that explore different aspects of the city, such as the harbor and the skyline. Other highly recommended companies include Rederij Lovers and Splashtours, which offers a combination of land and water sightseeing.

The prices of the boat tours vary depending on the company and the duration of the tour. Typically, a one-hour tour costs around 15-20 euros per person , while longer tours can cost up to 50 euros per person. However, many of the companies offer discounts for children and groups, so it's always worth checking their websites for deals.

Overall, taking a boat tour is an affordable and enjoyable way to explore Rotterdam and experience the city's stunning architecture and scenery from a unique perspective.

7. Visit the Markthal Rotterdam

Located in the heart of Rotterdam, the Markthal is a must-see destination for foodies and architecture enthusiasts. This indoor market features over 100 food stalls and restaurants, offering a wide range of local and international cuisine.

Designed by architects MVRDV, the Markthal's unique horseshoe-shaped structure is covered with a colorful and vibrant mural, making it a sight to behold. Visitors can stroll through the market, sampling everything from Dutch cheese to fresh seafood and Asian street food.

The Markthal also features residential apartments and office space, adding to its unique character. It's the perfect place to experience the city's lively atmosphere and culinary delights, and definitely one of the top things to do in Rotterdam.

Some of the popular foods at Markthal Rotterdam include freshly made stroopwafels, kibbeling (fried fish bites), poffertjes (small Dutch pancakes), cheeses, meats, and various pastries.

Visitors can also try traditional Dutch snacks such as bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) and croquettes. There are also plenty of options for international cuisine such as sushi, pizza, Thai food, and more.

With over 90 food stalls and restaurants, visitors can find something to suit every taste and budget. Prices at Markthal Rotterdam can vary depending on the vendor and the type of food, but generally, it is affordable and offers great value for money considering the quality and variety of food available.

8. Take the Kids to Rotterdam Zoo

Rotterdam Zoo is a must-visit attraction for families with kids. The zoo is located in the Blijdorp district and is home to over 10,000 animals from around the world , including giraffes, lions, elephants, and more.

In addition to observing the animals, there are many activities for children to enjoy, such as a petting zoo, a playground, and a water park. The Rotterdam Zoo is also committed to animal welfare and conservation, making it an educational and informative experience for visitors of all ages.

It's a perfect place for a day trip and is easily accessible by public transportation from central Rotterdam. Make sure to add this zoo to your list of things to do in Rotterdam.

Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, is home to the only zoo-born polar bear in the world to have successfully reproduced in the wild. The polar bear named Olinka gave birth to two cubs in the Arctic wilderness of Canada after being released into the wild as part of a conservation program.

The prices for Rotterdam Zoo vary depending on the age of the visitor and the time of year. As of 2021, the ticket prices for adults are €26.50, for children aged 3-12 €22,50, and for children under 3 years old, it is free of charge. There are also discounts for seniors and people with disabilities.

Visitors can save money by purchasing tickets online in advance or by buying a season pass. The Rotterdam Zoo is a popular attraction, and the prices are well worth it considering the range of animals and exhibits on offer.

9. Take a Train from Rotterdam Central Station

One thing is for sure; train rides can be fun for people of all ages. If you have enough time on your trip to Rotterdam, it is a great idea to add a day trip to your vacation schedule.

Rotterdam Central Station, also known as Rotterdam Centraal Station, is not only a major transportation hub but also a must-visit destination for tourists who are looking for unusual things to do in Rotterdam.

This iconic train station , designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas , is considered one of the most modern and innovative train stations in the world. From here, you can take a train to other Dutch cities, such as Amsterdam or Utrecht, or even to other European countries.

Aside from its transportation function, the station also offers a variety of amenities and services, including shops, restaurants, and a tourist information center. So, even if you do not have time to take a train, you can still explore the station for half an hour.

And for those who want to admire the station's unique architecture, there are guided tours available that will take you on a journey through the history and design of Rotterdam Centraal Station.

So, next time you stay in Rotterdam, don't forget to stop by this impressive train station and discover what else it has to offer.

10. Get Your Art Fix at Rotterdam's Art Museums

Rotterdam is a vibrant city with a rich art scene, making it a perfect destination for art enthusiasts. The city is home to several important art centers, including the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Kunsthal Rotterdam, which showcase a wide range of art collections from ancient to contemporary times.

Visitors can take a walking tour of the city's many art galleries or visit the memorial and bronze tablet commemorating the bombing of the city during World War II , which destroyed many of its cultural treasures.

For those looking for things to do in Rotterdam, exploring the city's art museums is a must. With its impressive collection and diverse exhibitions, Rotterdam is a great place to get your art fix.

Rotterdam's art scene is not only limited to the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Kunsthal Rotterdam. The city is also home to other significant art institutions, such as the Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art, which hosts exhibitions and art events throughout the year.

The Chabot Museum is another must-visit for art enthusiasts, as it showcases the works of the Dutch artist Henk Chabot, who was a prominent figure in the city's art scene during the 20th century.

Visitors can also explore the art galleries in the Witte de Withstraat , which is known as the city's art district. The area is home to numerous galleries that display works by both established and emerging artists.

Moreover, the art installations in public spaces around the city, such as the colorful Cube Houses and the dynamic art piece Ode to Joy at the Rotterdam Central Station, add to the city's artistic charm.

11. Do a Bit of Forest Bathing Inside the Arboretum Trompenburg

Arboretum Trompenburg is a green oasis located in the bustling city of Rotterdam , Netherlands. It is a unique botanical garden that boasts an impressive collection of trees, shrubs, and plants from all around the world.

Visitors can immerse themselves in nature and indulge in some much-needed forest bathing, a practice that originated in Japan and involves spending time in a forest to promote well-being. Feel your day-to-day stresses melt away as you breathe in the tranquility of the trees.

At Arboretum Trompenburg, visitors can explore the beautiful garden paths, admire the different species of plants, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It is a great place for a relaxing stroll, a picnic, or simply to take a break from the city's hustle and bustle.

Because the Arboretum sits 4m below sea level, a system of canals is used to drain the land. This makes for a serene and picturesque place to relax, stroll and enjoy the peace and beauty of the gardens.

If you're exploring Rotterdam and looking for a quiet and natural experience, Arboretum Trompenburg is definitely worth a visit. This is a great trip for people of all ages, from excitable kids to elderly parents, everyone can find calm here.

12. Explore the Oude Haven in the Maritime District

The Oude Haven, located in the Maritime District, is one of Rotterdam's most picturesque and historic neighborhoods . It is a perfect place to explore and immerse oneself in the city's maritime heritage.

This historic harbor, which dates back to the 14th century, has been restored to its former glory and is now home to numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes. Visitors can stroll along the harbor and marvel at the beautiful old ships and modern boats that dock here.

It is also a great place to take in the stunning views of the city's skyline, including iconic landmarks such as the Erasmus and the Cube Houses.

The Maritime Museum Rotterdam is a fascinating place to explore the city's maritime history. Visitors can learn about the city's naval heritage, see historic ships, and even climb aboard some of them.

The Maritime Museum Rotterdam also has interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the importance of Rotterdam's port to the world economy. All in all, the Oude Haven is a must-visit for anyone interested in Rotterdam's maritime history and looking for a charming and relaxing place to spend an afternoon.

13. Explore a Local Market Scene at Binnenrotte Market

The Binnenrotte Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the local market scene in Rotterdam, Netherlands. This outdoor market is located in the heart of the city and is a hub of activity throughout the week.

Visitors can browse the stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, clothing, and handmade crafts. The market also features a large food hall where visitors can indulge in traditional Dutch cuisine and international fare.

From local cheese and herring to Mediterranean delicacies and Asian street food, there is something to satisfy every palate here at the food hall.

In addition to the vibrant atmosphere, the Binnenrotte Market is also conveniently located near other popular attractions and is a great addition to any list of things to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

14. Test Your Puzzle-Solving Skills Inside an Escape Room

Escape rooms have become increasingly popular in recent years, and Rotterdam is no exception.

With various escape rooms scattered throughout the city, visitors can put their problem-solving skills to the test and have fun at the same time. These rooms offer a unique and exciting way to explore Rotterdam's hidden gems while challenging yourself and your friends.

Whether you're a group of friends or a family looking for something to do, escape rooms in Rotterdam provide an immersive experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. From horror-themed rooms to detective mysteries, the options are endless.

These rooms are a fun addition to any itinerary, making it a great activity for those looking for something different to do in Rotterdam . So, whether you're a local or a tourist, add an escape room experience to your list of fun things to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

15. Wander Rotterdam's Street Art on Witte de Withstraat

Witte de Withstraat, located in the heart of Rotterdam, is a street art lover's paradise . It's a place where art is more than just a picture on a wall, it's a story. The colorful murals and graffiti that line the streets are like a window into the soul of the city.

As you wander the streets, you'll see artwork from both local and international artists. The street is also home to the Netherlands Photo Museum and a pedestrian bridge that offers spectacular views of the city.

The street art on Witte de Withstraat is a vibrant representation of Rotterdam's creative and artistic side. It's a perfect spot to take a stroll and explore the city's unique art scene. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or just looking for something fun to do, Witte de Withstraat is definitely worth a visit.

16. Staying at Thon Hotel Rotterdam

Thon Hotel Rotterdam offers stunning suites located in the heart of the city. This modern hotel is the perfect place to stay for anyone who wants to explore all that Rotterdam has to offer.

With easy access to the city's top attractions, guests can enjoy a comfortable and luxurious stay. The suites are beautifully designed with stylish interiors and offer plenty of space for relaxation.

The hotel also features a fitness center and a restaurant serving delicious cuisine. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, Thon Hotel Rotterdam is an excellent choice for a comfortable and convenient stay in this vibrant city.

The best time to visit Rotterdam is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, prices for hotels, including Thon Hotel Rotterdam, may be higher during this peak tourist season.

If you're looking to save money, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when prices may be lower but the weather is still mild. It's always a good idea to check hotel prices and availability in advance to find the best deals.

17. Explore the Art Collections of Museum Boijmans-van Beunin

Museum Boijmans-van Beuningen is a must-visit destination for art lovers in Rotterdam. This world-renowned museum is known for its vast collection of art from the Middle Ages to modern times.

The museum boasts an astonishing collection of paintings, sculptures, and applied art that spans over 8,000 years of art history . Visitors can explore the works of famous artists as well as lesser-known artists.

The Museum Boijmans-van Beuningen has a vast collection of art, and some of the famous works on display include Rembrandt's "Self Portrait with Two Circles," van Gogh's "Portrait of a Young Girl," and Dalí's "Mae West Lips Sofa."

The museum also houses an extensive collection of Dutch and Flemish masterpieces from the 15th to the 18th centuries, including works by Hieronymus Bosch, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and Peter Paul Rubens.

Visitors can also enjoy modern and contemporary art by artists such as Francis Bacon, Salvador Dali, and Mark Rothko. You can even go on a private tour of the museum. The museum also regularly hosts exhibitions that showcase works from its own collection, as well as those on loan from other museums.

With so much to see and experience, a visit to the Museum of Boijmans-van Beuningen is one of the top things to do in Rotterdam for art enthusiasts.

18. Sample Some of Rotterdam's Famous Culinary Delights

Rotterdam is a culinary paradise, and one of the best places to sample the city's delicious food is the Fenix Food Factory . This lively hall is home to numerous vendors offering a wide range of cuisine, from artisanal bread and cheese to freshly made sushi and craft beer.

The Fenix Food Factory is a great place to grab a quick bite or settle in for a leisurely meal with friends or family. One of the most popular dishes is "Stroopwafels," which are thin waffles filled with caramel-like syrup.

Another dish is "Kapsalon," which is a combination of fries, meat (usually doner kebab or shawarma), cheese, and salad. "Oliebollen" is a traditional Dutch snack, which is a type of doughnut served with powdered sugar.

"Bitterballen" is another traditional snack, consisting of deep-fried meatballs with a crispy exterior and a creamy interior. Lastly, "Haring" is a raw herring fish served with onions and pickles, which is a must-try for seafood lovers. These dishes can be found at various restaurants and food markets throughout the city.

There's something for everyone here, whether you're a vegetarian, a meat lover, or have a sweet tooth. With so many delicious options to choose from, it's no wonder that the Fenix Food Factory is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience Rotterdam's culinary delights.

19. Bring Your Family to the Miniworld Rotterdam

Miniworld Rotterdam is a must-visit attraction for families in Rotterdam. Located in the heart of the city, Miniworld is a miniature world with a walking tour that takes visitors through a stunning, highly detailed model of Rotterdam .

The miniatures capture the essence of Rotterdam's architecture, including the city's iconic landmarks, such as the Erasmus Bridge, Central Station, The Town Hall, City Hall, and the Cube Houses.

Visitors can also watch the miniature world come to life with trains, cars, and boats that move through the city, providing an incredible sense of immersion. Miniworld Rotterdam is a perfect destination for a walking tour with the family, providing a fun and interactive way to discover the city's charm.

It is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam, providing a unique experience for visitors of all ages. With its highly-detailed miniature world , Miniworld Rotterdam is an attraction that cannot be missed.

20. Explore Old Churches

Rotterdam has a rich history of religion and architecture, and exploring its old churches is a great way to learn about it. The Old Church, or Oude Kerk in Dutch, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and dates back to the 15th century.

It features beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate carvings. Another historic church worth visiting is the Pilgrim Fathers Church, which dates back to the 17th century and is associated with the Pilgrims who sailed to America on the Mayflower.

This church has one rich religious decoration on the west side and is a great spot for a walking tour. Whether you're interested in the religious history of Rotterdam or simply love stunning architecture, these old churches are definitely worth a visit. You'll be amazed by the level of detail and craftsmanship on display.

21. Visit the SS Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam is a historic ocean liner that has been converted into a floating hotel and museum in Rotterdam , Netherlands. It served as a flagship for the Holland America Line for 40 years, making over 140 voyages to places like New York and Indonesia.

Visitors can explore the ship and learn about its rich history through audio tours and exhibits. A fun fact about the SS Rotterdam is that it was the largest passenger ship ever built in the Netherlands at the time of its launch in 1959. The ship is also one of the few remaining examples of the "golden age" of transatlantic travel.

The SS Rotterdam is located in the Katendrecht neighborhood, which is known for its restaurants, bars, and cultural events. Nearby attractions include the Fenix Food Factory and the historic building of Hotel New York, which was formerly the headquarters of the Holland America Line.

22. Spend the Day Visiting Other Amazing Art Museums

Rotterdam is a city that's rich in art and culture, and one of the must-visit destinations for art lovers is the Chabot Museum. Located in a beautiful villa in the Museum Park, this museum boasts an amazing collection of works by the expressionist artist Henk Chabot.

But there's much more to Rotterdam's art scene than just the Chabot Museum. Visitors can easily spend a day exploring other amazing art museums in the city, such as the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, which houses a stunning collection of European art dating from the Middle Ages to the present day.

The Kunsthal Rotterdam, on the other hand, offers a diverse range of temporary exhibitions, while the Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art showcases cutting-edge contemporary works.

With so many great art museums to choose from, there's no shortage of things to do in Rotterdam for art enthusiasts.

23. Visit Market Hall

Market Hall, located in the heart of Rotterdam, is a unique shopping and dining destination that is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. This vibrant and colorful building is home to a wide variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Visitors can also enjoy delicious meals at one of the many restaurants located within the Market Hall, which features a stunning mural on the ceiling depicting an array of fruits, vegetables, and other food items.

In addition to its food and shopping offerings, the Market Hall is conveniently located near the historic Old Harbor, making it a great place to stop and explore during a day of sightseeing in Rotterdam.

Whether you're a foodie, a shopper, or just looking for some unique things to do in Rotterdam, the Market Hall is definitely worth a visit.

24. See the City from the Euromast

The Euromast is the tallest building in Rotterdam, standing at a height of 185 meters. Visitors can take an elevator ride to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.

The tower also has a restaurant where visitors can dine while taking in stunning views. The Euromast is a modern architectural wonder and a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Rotterdam.

The tower has become an iconic landmark of the city and is a popular tourist destination. One of the most exciting things about visiting the Euromast is the adrenaline rush that comes from standing at such a great height.

Visitors can capture unforgettable photos of Rotterdam's skyline from the observation deck. A trip to the Euromast is an experience that should not be missed while in Rotterdam.

25. Visit Hotel New York

Hotel New York is a historic and iconic building located near the Old Harbor in Rotterdam. Originally serving as the headquarters of the Holland America Line, it was transformed into a hotel and restaurant in the 1990s while retaining its original charm and character .

The building has a rich history and played a significant role in the immigration of millions of people to North America.

Today, visitors of Hotel New York can enjoy a meal or drinks in the hotel's stylish and elegant restaurant or bar, both of which offer stunning views of the harbor.

The Hotel New York also has comfortable and spacious rooms for those who wish to stay the night. Its convenient location near the Old Harbor makes it an ideal stop for tourists exploring the area.

Hotel New York has welcomed many famous guests over the years, including Bill Clinton, the Rolling Stones, and Bono from U2. Maybe during your visit, you will see someone famous too.

26. Learn About the City's History at Museum Rotterdam

Museum Rotterdam is an exceptional place to explore the history and culture of Rotterdam. It is a perfect place for history enthusiasts, who wish to learn about Rotterdam's past, including its destruction during World War II and the rebuilding efforts that followed.

The museum features a variety of exhibits, ranging from art and artifacts to interactive displays that bring Rotterdam's rich history to life.

One of the most popular exhibits is "Rotterdam 1940-1945," which tells the story of the city's destruction during World War II and the subsequent rebuilding efforts. Another exhibit is "Rotterdam Identity," which explores the city's identity through the eyes of its inhabitants.

Visitors can also check out "The Hands of the City," which features unique sculptures of hands that represent the different neighborhoods and communities of Rotterdam.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibits that cover a range of topics, from art and design to social issues and current events. With interactive displays and multimedia presentations, the exhibits at Museum Rotterdam offer a unique and engaging way to learn about the city's past and present.

Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the exhibits at their own pace. Museum Rotterdam offers a unique insight into the city's history and culture, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Rotterdam.

If you're planning a visit to Rotterdam, a trip to Museum Rotterdam is an absolute must.

FAQs Relating to Top Things to Do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Now, let's see some of the most frequently asked questions about Rotterdam and its attractions.

Is Rotterdam worth visiting?

Yes, Rotterdam is definitely worth visiting, with a wide range of attractions to explore, including a scenic boat cruise along its beautiful canals and the Old Harbor. There are also plenty of other fun things to do in Rotterdam, making it a great destination for any traveler.

When is the best time to visit Rotterdam?

The best time to visit Rotterdam is during the spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller than during the peak summer season.

The city's parks and gardens are especially beautiful during the spring, with blooming flowers and trees. In the fall, the city's many cultural events, such as the Rotterdam Film Festival and Rotterdam International Poetry Festival, attract visitors from all over the world.

Where to Stay in Rotterdam for Sightseeing?

For a convenient and enjoyable sightseeing experience in Rotterdam, consider staying at a combined hotel, which offers both accommodation and attractions in one location. This type of hotel can save you time and money, while providing easy access to the city's top sights, such as the Market Hall and the Cube Houses.

What is the best place in Rotterdam for shopping?

Rotterdam's shopping district boasts a wide range of options, including high-end fashion boutiques, local designers, and vintage stores. The city's main shopping street, Lijnbaan, is a pedestrian-only area lined with shops and restaurants. Other popular shopping destinations include the Beurstraverse, also known as the "Koopgoot," and the Markthal.

What is the best museum for kids?

The Dutch Pinball Museum in Rotterdam is a great museum for kids that offers an interactive and hands-on experience. It features over 100 pinball machines from the 1950s to the present day, and visitors can play and learn about the history of this classic game.

Summing Up: Top Things to Do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

To sum up, Rotterdam is a city full of life and culture, offering visitors a diverse range of activities to explore. From the historic buildings and churches to the modern architecture of the vertical city, there is always something new to discover.

Whether it's a boat cruise, museum visits, or sampling the local cuisine, Rotterdam has something for everyone. The city's unique combination of traditional and modern makes it a perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable travel experience.

With its bustling shopping districts, family-friendly attractions, and world-class museums like the Dutch Pinball Museum, Rotterdam is truly a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a taste of Dutch culture and the beauty of this amazing city.

Visit the Cube Houses (Unesco World Heritage Site)

Gaze at the Architectural Structure of the Erasmusbrug (Erasmus bridge)

Spend a Day at One of Rotterdam's Beautiful Parks or Gardens

Get the Best City Views from a Sightseeing Boat Tour

Explore the Oude Haven in the Maritime District

Wander Rotterdam's Street Art on Witte de Withstraat

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DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , NETHERLANDS

One day in rotterdam: a perfect itinerary (+ map).

Are you wondering what to see in Rotterdam in one day?

Then you’ve come to the right place. I loved my solo trip to The Netherlands’ Capital of Cool and am excited to share my 1-day Rotterdam itinerary.

Whether you are on a day trip from Amsterdam, visiting as part of a cruise or staying overnight, it includes the best things to do during one day in Rotterdam. You can use this itinerary as a self-guided walking tour and I’ve included a map to help you on your way.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

• Visit the iconic Cube Houses
• Stop for lunch at Rotterdam’s market hall
• Stroll around Rotterdam’s Old Harbour
• Admire Rotterdam’s modern architecture
• Walk along the Maas Riverfront

RECOMMENDED ROTTERDAM SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR : 3 miles (5 km)

RECOMMENDED GUIDED ACTIVITIES

• Rotterdam bike tour
• Rotterdam Walking Tour and Harbo u r Cruise
• Rotterdam Segway Tour

RECOMMENDED HOTEL: citizenM Rotterdam Hotel

IN THIS ARTICLE

Why Visit Rotterdam?

Rotterdam is a city that rose like a magnificent phoenix from the ashes.

The Netherlands’ second-biggest city was flattened in a Nazi bombing raid on May 10 th  1940. Only a handful of historic buildings survived the onslaught.

Enlightened town planners and architects used the reconstruction of Rotterdam as an opportunity to build a strikingly modern city that pushed the envelope of urban design. What we see today is an architectural showcase designed by the great and the good of contemporary architects.

There are boldly futuristic apartment buildings, office towers, libraries, bridges, market halls and subway stations. But as a nod to Rotterdam’s past, remnants of the city’s few surviving historic buildings are tucked between its more contemporary creations.

Better still, Rotterdam is one of  the best European cities to visit as a solo traveller .

Is One Day in Rotterdam Enough?

One day in Rotterdam is enough time to hit its highlights with ease. As most of its main attractions are grouped close together, this is a very walkable city. 

Stay for an extra day if you prefer a slower pace of travel or want to see a few of the places outside the city centre, such as Delfthaven.

Rotterdam Self-Guided Walking Tour and Map

You can visit the city’s key sights on my self-guided walking tour. This walk starts at the central railway station (Rotterdam Centraal) and ends at the Old Harbour. It is around  3 miles  long.

To help you along your way, here’s an interactive map of this Rotterdam walking tour. If you need directions, simply click here or on the image.

If you would like to use public transport to help you see these sights, fast forward to later in this article for tips on how to get around Rotterdam (-> here ).

Rotterdam 1-Day Itinerary & Best Things to See

1. rotterdam centraal train station.

Our walking tour starts at  Rotterdam Centraal train station,  a modern architectural gem.

Opened in 2014, Rotterdam’s futuristic central train station is massive, spread over 430,000 square feet under a cathedral-like roof. Before you start your walk in earnest, you might want to pick up a city map from the train station’s  Tourist Information Office .

When you exit the station into the plaza, turn around and look back at the station to admire its flying saucer-shaped roof, with its tip in harmonious juxtaposition with the adjacent buildings.

2. Rotterdam’s Shopping Zone

Korte Lijnbaan forms part of  Lijnbaan , a fairly unremarkable network of pedestrianised shopping streets, but one with a claim to fame.

Lijnbaan was the first pedestrianised downtown shopping area to be developed in Europe. As such, it was a huge tourist attraction in the 1950s when such developments were novel.

Today, it has lost its shine and its shops are a little down market. Nonetheless, this cycle-free zone is pleasant and you don’t run the risk of cyclists approaching you from behind you like silent assassins!

When you reach the statue of the rasslin’ bears, take a right, and when you reach the tram tracks take a left. You are now in  Beustraverse , another shopping street.

Carry on straight and you will reach  Hoogstraat , which was at the heart of Rotterdam’s downtown area pre-1940.

Are you now ready for a pit stop?

If so, then grab a prized pavement table at  Poffertjessalon Seth  (Hoogstraat 147)  and order a portion of their tiny traditional pancakes, smothered in butter and dusted with icing sugar. They are like little sweet clouds of heaven.

Now on a sugar high, head toward the steeple of  St. Lawrence Church .

3. St. Lawrence Church (Laurenskirk)

St. Lawrence Church  is one of the few buildings that survived the WW2 bombing raid. Completed in 1525, this imposing Gothic building is Rotterdam’s oldest.

I didn’t go inside, but if you fancy a peek it will cost you €3 (2023 price). You can check opening hours here . The church also hosts concerts.

If you have a head for heights, you can climb the tower from Tuesday to Saturday from March until October.

Have you heard about the Erasmus programme? This is a European exchange programme designed to enable students to gain experience in another country, either as part of their degree programme or as a work placement.

Meet the man who inspired this. The statue of Rotterdam native,  Desiderius Erasmus  (1469 – 1536) graces the plaza in front of St. Lawrence Church.

Erasmus was a Renaissance humanist scholar who studied extensively abroad to avoid the fate of his like-minded friend, Thomas More, who had his head chopped off by Henry VIII.

Other Rotterdam landmarks are also named after him. We’ll come across at least one other in this walking tour.

But, for now, continue to the end of Hoogstraat and straight ahead you will see a white building with yellow tubes. Head towards this building which is Rotterdam’s  City Library .

5. The City Library

If you love funky architecture don’t skip Rotterdam’s City Library. Often compared to Paris’ Pompidou Centre, it is in keeping with the French building’s aesthetic of “form follows function”, celebrating the guts of a working building.

I took the escalator all the way up to the top floor to fully appreciate this space and loved the funky 1970s-style lampshades.

Exiting the City Library, walk back across the plaza towards the modern dome-shaped building which is Rotterdam’s  Market Hall.  

6. Rotterdam Market Hall (Markthal)

If you only have one day in Rotterdam, its Market Hall is a must-see.

It is not like any other market that I have come across on my travels. Gleaming and modern, this cathedral of food is covered by a spectacular 36,000 sq ft ceiling mural, featuring fruits, vegetables and other market goods.

Beneath this domed ceiling is an extensive food market with over 100 retailers, restaurants and fast-food stands.

If you are ready for lunch, this is one of the best places in Rotterdam to stop for a drink or a quick bite to eat.

Back outside, you will be able to spot the distinctive tower block dubbed “ The Pencil ” by Rotterdammers because of its shape. Make your way toward it and you will arrive at the  Cube Houses .

7. The Cube Houses of Rotterdam

For many, the Cube Houses are the stars of Rotterdam’s architectural show. Designed and built in the late 1970s by the architect Piet Bloom, these innovative buildings have achieved iconic status.

This urban forest of 39 identical yellow cubes sits on hexagonal poles, their walls tilted at a precarious 54.7-degree angle. Each cube houses a single family on three levels. The lower triangular level is the living room; the middle level is for sleeping and bathing; and the upper level is an additional sleeping or living area.

For a closer look, follow the signs to the museum to enter a series of courtyards around which the Cube Houses are clustered. You can enter one of the houses themselves by paying to visit  Kijk-Kubus Museum House .

Alternatively, if you are after a more immersive Cube House experience, you can stay in one at the  Stayokay Hostel (Overblaak 85-87). Dorm beds and private rooms are available.

From the Stayokay Hostel, take the steps down to Rotterdam’s  Old Harbour . This is the endpoint of our Rotterdam walking tour and we will return here. But if you want to refuel you can do worse than take a seat at one of the harbourside bars and restaurants.

If you want to carry on, walk around the left-hand side of the harbour, cross the main road and then go under the bridge’s flyover to reach the  Maas riverfront .

8. Maas Riverfront

The red bridge to your left is the  Williams Bridge (Willemsbrug) .

With your back to the Williams Bridge, stroll along the riverfront boardwalk. In around 15 minutes you will arrive at the  Parade of Flags , 200 of them representing the nationalities of those making up Rotterdam’s multi-ethnic population.

Remember Erasmus from earlier in our walking tour? Here is another Rotterdam landmark that bears his name, the spectacular 800-meter-long  Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusburg) .

The graceful shape of its 139-meter-high pylon has given it its nickname, “The Swan.”

The Erasmus Bridge is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful bridges and it forms part of the city of Rotterdam’s logo.

To continue our walking tour, turn right to head away from the river and up  Schiedamsedijk . Then turn right to reach the  Maritime District .

If you fancy putting your feet up and relaxing for an hour or so, why not take a harbour cruise from Willemsplein? This will allow you to see Rotterdam from another perspective and you’ll learn more about the city, its shipyards and docks.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

9. Leuvehaven

A hundred years ago,  Leuvehaven  was a busy commercial port. Today it’s a harmonious blend of the old and the new, with a few remaining historic harbour buildings sprinkled amongst new tower blocks. It is an open-air venue for all things related to nautical history.

It is also home to Rotterdam’s  Maritime Museum . In the plaza behind the museum is the symbolic  De Verwoeste Stad (The Destroyed City)   statue, commemorating the city’s WW2 destruction.

Follow the road (Blaak) around to the right at the Maritime Museum and just past the Blaak metro station you will find yourself back at the  Old Harbour.

10. The Old Harbour (Oudehaven)

Rotterdam’s  Old Harbour  is a modern recreation of what the harbour would have been like, had Hitler not had his way with the city. With its outdoor bars and restaurants and a handful of historic ships, it is a very pleasant area to stroll and sup.

It must be time for that cold drink now. You deserve it and where better to end your day in Rotterdam?

If You Have More Than One Day in Rotterdam

If you are in Rotterdam for more than a day, I recommend visiting Delfshaven  and  Luchtsingel . You will need to hop on the city’s metro system but they are both well worth the journey.

Time permitting, try to see the city’s street art and a few of Rotterdam’s subway stations .

Mercifully saved from the destruction wrought by the WW2 bombing campaign, Delfshaven is a very well-preserved area of Rotterdam and gives us a glimpse of what the city would have looked like in its golden age.

As its name suggests, Delftsaven was actually the port for  Delft , six miles northeast of Rotterdam.

Lined by historic buildings, Voorhaven canal is crisscrossed by bridges and has a working windmill in the distance. It doesn’t get much more Dutch than this.

Don’t miss the  Pilgrim Fathers Church (Oude de Pelgrimvaderskerk) , near the main drawbridge. It was here that the Pilgrims prayed the night before they set sail for the New World on 1 st  August 1620. The rest, as they say, is history.

To get to Delftshaven, take metro line A or B toward Schiedam Central, or line C toward De Aakers, and alight at Delfshaven.

Luchtsingel

Images of this 390-metre-long footbridge, slightly east of the main train station, grace many an Instagram feed. This bright yellow walkway connects Rotterdam North to the central area and has revitalised a once-neglected area.

Each of the 8,000 wooden planks forming Luchtsingel is inscribed with the name of the person who funded it, or with a message of the funder’s choice.

If you get a chance to visit, take a peek at the community area. It’s not often that you see sheep waiting for a train that will never arrive!

Rotterdam’s Instagrammable subway stations

Rotterdam’s architectural treasures can also be found underground. My favourites were  Marconiplein  and  Blaak .

If you visit Blaak station, look out for the remains of Rotterdam’s city walls which are suspended over one of its platforms.

Rotterdam’s street art & Witte de Whithstraat

The street art scene in Rotterdam is centred around  Witte de Whithstraat , which is the city’s hipster central. This lively street is lined with restaurants that represent Rotterdam’s ethnic diversity, boutiques, art galleries and even a Dutch “coffee shop”.

If you head to Rewriters Rotterdam, you can download a free downloadable  Rotterdam street art map . An app is also available.

How to get to Rotterdam

Thanks to its superb connections, getting to Rotterdam is a breeze.

I flew to Rotterdam – The Hague Airport  which is located 3km from the centre of Rotterdam. The flight time from London City Airport was a mere 45 minutes. The ice in my G&T barely had enough time to melt.  

To reach the centre of Rotterdam by public transport, take  bus #33  from the terminal.  A bus leaves every 10 – 15 minutes during the day and it will take you all the way to Rotterdam Centraal. Buy a two-hour ticket from the machine as you exit arrivals.

Alternatively, catch the #33 bus going in the opposite direction to the nearby Meijersplein metro station, five minutes away, and then hop on Line E. The two-hour ticket will cover you for both journeys.

Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport serves a greater number of destinations. A direct train can whisk you to Rotterdam Centraal station is less than 30 minutes.

Rotterdam is also well-served by trains, including a Eurostar train  from London St. Pancras. However, this direct train service is due to be suspended for up to 11 months starting in 2024.

Thanks to efficient rail connections, it’s east to visit Rotterdam as a day trip from cities in The Netherlands and Belgium , incuding Amsterdam, Leiden , Delft and Brussels .

ON A CRUISE SHIP

If you arriving in Rotterdam on a cruise, reaching the city centre is a breeze.

Cruise Terminal Rotterdam  is centrally located at Wilhelmina Pier, at the southern end of the Erasmus Bridge. The nearest metro station is Wilhelminaplein, a five-minute walk away. From here, it’s four stops north to Rotterdam Centraal on Line D or Line E.

The cruise terminal is also served by trams #23 and #25.

How to Get Around Rotterdam

Thanks to its integrated and efficient public transport network, getting around Rotterdam is easy. Your ticket choice will depend on how much you anticipate using the city’s transport system over a set time period.

For a one-off journey, buy a  two-hour ticket . If you plan to do a lot of travelling within Rotterdam during the course of a day then a  day ticket is your best bet.

A  Tourist Day Ticket is also available. The difference between this and the day pass is that it gives you free travel within the South Holland region, from the  tulip fields of Lisse  in the north to Dordrecht in the south. 

If you are planning to use public transport in other Dutch cities, an  OV-chipkaart  may be more convenient. Similar to London’s Oyster Card, you preload this card with credit or add a specific travel product. 

There is also a tourist card, the Rotterdam City Card , which provides unlimited travel on all RET metro, tram, and bus lines and discounts for many of the city’s top museums and attractions. It is available for 1 – 3 days.

>>> CLICK HERE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO BUY

Guided Tours of Rotterdam

If you want someone else to take care of all the arrangements for you or want to benefit from the knowledge of a local guide, why not join an organised tour?

A tour can be particularly useful if you are travelling alone. Many solo travellers fear being lonely , and joining an organised activity can be excellent for making friends while you are travelling.

Here are a few highly-rated options to consider:

Rotterdam bike tour | BOOK HERE

Do as the locals do and explore Rotterdam on two wheels. This 2.5-hour bike tour takes in many of the attractions listed in this article in the company of a local guide.

Rotterdam Walking Tour and Harbor Cruise | BOOK HERE

Get the best of both worlds with this 3-hour guided walking tour followed by a harbour cruise.

Rotterdam Segway Tour | BOOK HERE

Conquer the bridges of Rotterdam on a fun-filled 75-minute Segway tour

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

Rotterdam offers a broad range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. As each district has its own charm and personality, there is no single best area to stay in Rotterdam.

The lively city centre, right in the thick of things, is divided into sub-districts. Here are a few areas that are worth considering:

• The  Cool District  around Witte de Withstraat Street  – brimming with bars, restaurants, boutiques and galleries
• The  Triangle area , near Blaak Square and the Market Hall. From here, it is easy to visit most of Rotterdam’s attractions
• Oude Haven  – for a dose of Dutch culture and history

citizenM Hotel   – I stayed at the funky four-star hotel in the thick of things, alongside the Old Harbour and across the road from Blaak station. Recommended.

READ THIS NEXT: citizenM Rotterdam Hotel: Affordable Luxury?

Here are other options that I have found that may suit different budgets:

PREMIER SUITES PLUS Rotterdam   – these stylish, serviced apartments near the central train station have garnered rave reviews.

Sparks Hostel  – Close to Rotterdam Centraal station, this hostel offers dorm beds and private rooms.

>>> None of these places take your fancy? Discover other great accommodation choices in Rotterdam .

Thanks for reading this Rotterdam itinerary

I hope that it helps you have the best day in Rotterdam.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, take a look at my other Netherlands guides:

• 7 Best Things to Do on a Day Trip to Delft
• Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands: Blooming Wonderful!
• One Day in Leiden: A Free Walking Tour

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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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This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

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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Things to do in Rotterdam: day trip to 3 day break

Rotterdam is the second-biggest city in the Netherlands but gets a fraction of the visitors that go to Amsterdam. Those people are missing out, as there are lots of things to do in Rotterdam, making it well worth at least a day trip – and ideally a longer stay.

This post contains affiliate links – all that means is that if you buy something as a result of clicking on a link in the post, I’ll receive a small commission that helps me with the costs of running this site. Thanks!

About Rotterdam

Rotterdam is in the south of the Netherlands, 50 miles south of Amsterdam and close to The Hague, Dordrecht, Delft and Gouda, but even the briefest visit will show you that Rotterdam looks and feels very different to any of those places.

During the early part of World War 2, the Netherlands intended to stay neutral, but Germany invaded anyway. The Luftwaffe began bombing Rotterdam heavily on 10 May 1940, and on 14 May, the entire historic city centre was destroyed. The Germans had given the Dutch an ultimatum to surrender before bombing Rotterdam; when a similar ultimatum was received threatening to destroy Utrecht, another Dutch city, the Netherlands surrendered.

Instead of rebuilding the city that had been lost (as they did in Warsaw), the citizens of Rotterdam chose to build a new, modern city on a new plan with wide boulevards and high rise buildings. Work began within a few days of the attack, and by 1950 much of the plan was complete. A few buildings from before the bombing were repaired; today, walking around Rotterdam it’s surprising and unexpected when you come across an old building like the Laurenskerk or the old city hall.

Is it worth visiting Rotterdam?

Rotterdam’s history means that visiting the city is very different to visiting Amsterdam, so if you have the time for a day trip to Rotterdam, it’s absolutely worth the effort to see the city. If you have a few days to explore, Rotterdam makes a great base for exploring the south of the Netherlands.

One day in Rotterdam

If you only have one day in Rotterdam or you’re taking a day trip to Rotterdam from Amsterdam, then you’re in luck, as most of the major things to do in Rotterdam are within walking distance of each other.

Itinerary for one day in Rotterdam

In this day trip to Rotterdam itinerary I’ve described some of the top sights in Rotterdam, with a suggested route between them. This works as either a walking or cycling route, with some stops for food along the way. Rotterdam has great public transport, so if you want to visit them in a different order and use the metro and tram to get around, that works too.

Starting point for your day in Rotterdam: Blaak station

Rotterdam Blaak station, which is on the railway line from Amsterdam and tram and metro lines from elsewhere in Rotterdam, is a good place to start your day in Rotterdam. Coming out of the station you’ll see both the Markthal and the Cube Houses, and you’re just around the corner from the Old Harbour.

Markthal (Market Hall)

For me, Rotterdam’s standout attraction was the Markthal, Rotterdam’s astonishing, modern market hall. Opened in 2014, the Markthal is shaped like an enormous upside-down horseshoe, with the market stalls in the vast, cathedral-like space inside.

The horseshoe part is made up of apartments, even the curvy bits around the top, and the apartment windows open out onto the walls and ceiling of the market hall. When you’re inside, if you look carefully you can see into people’s kitchens and living rooms.

The whole of Markthal’s roof is covered with a beautiful, 36,000 square foot mural called Cornucopia. The mural, which was created by artists Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam, depicts fruit, vegetables, flowers, bees and butterflies and is absolutely stunning.

The best time to visit Markthal is during the day and early evening, when all the market stalls are open (it closes at 8pm Monday to Thursday, 9pm on Friday, 8pm on Saturday and 6pm on Sunday). You’ll find amazing cheese, sausage and bakery stalls, along with food stalls selling burgers, sushi, tapas and fish and chips. Some of the stalls have upstairs seating where you can eat what you’ve bought – we ordered a delicious Turkish pizza at Bab Tuma and sat upstairs to admire the mural.

Cube Houses

Across the street from Markthal, you can’t miss the Cube Houses (Kijk-Kubus in Dutch). One of Rotterdam’s most iconic attractions, this curious complex was built in the 1970s by architect Piet Blom and looks nothing like any other housing development you might have seen (unless you’ve visited the prototype near Eindhoven). 40 cubes, turned at 45 degrees, sit on brick trunks, like trees in a forest.

You can see what it’s like to live in one of the Cube Houses by visiting the Kijk-Kubus Museum-house . The museum is a show house where you can see the joys and challenges of living in a tilted cube. You’ll enter from one of the pedestrian squares, up the external stairs then up the stairs in the brick trunk to the first floor.

Once inside, you can explore the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms, all with custom-made furniture to fit into the angles of the cube. Up on the top floor, there’s another room which can be used as a bedroom or living space, and which is wonderfully sunny with views over the city.

Visiting the Kijk-Kubus Museum-house is one of the top things to do in Rotterdam. It’s open 7 days a week from 11am to 5pm and costs just 3 euro to enter.

There’s another way to see inside the cubes, which is to stay at the Stayokay Rotterdam hostel . The hostel is in one of the large cubes and has rooms with distinctive sloping walls. There’s also a studio apartment for two people in another of the cube houses, with its own entrance.

Oudehaven (Old Harbour)

Together with the Delftshaven, this is one of the prettiest places to visit in Rotterdam. The Oudehaven is a small harbour, with the Cube Houses on one side and the historic Witte Huis, an early skyscraper, on the other. This is the old mouth of the River Rotte which gives Rotterdam its name and has been a harbour since the 1300s.

Rotterdam is one of the most important port cities in Europe and this is where it all began, although you might find that surprising if you visit Oudehaven today. Restaurants and bars line the waterfront, with outdoor tables decorated with twinkly lights on summer evenings. The lights reflect into the water, where you can see a collection of traditional sailing boats and cargo ships.

Oudehaven is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the golden light makes the Witte Huis and the red Willemsbrug glow, but if you only have one day in Rotterdam, it’s worth visiting at any time of day.

Leuvenhaven

From the Oudehaven, head along the edge of the Wijnhaven, passing the Witte Huis and the Willemsbrug. If you have time, you could visit the Marines Museum , which explores the history of the Marine Corps.

After the lovely Regentessebrug, which was one of the few structures to survive the 1940 bombardment, the Wijnhaven meets the Leuvenhaven. There are a number of beautiful old boats and cranes on the Leuvenhaven, and you can visit the Maritime Museum, one of Rotterdam’s top attractions, with lots of interactive exhibits. It’s particularly good for children with lots to keep them entertained.

Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug)

Where the Leuvenhaven meets the Nieuwe Maas, Rotterdam’s main waterway, you’ll see the Erasmus Bridge. Although the bridge only opened in 1996, it quickly became a symbol of the city and acquired the nickname “the Swan”. Seeing the bridge and crossing it is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam.

The Erasmus Bridge is 802 metres long and carries road traffic, trams, bikes and pedestrians across the Nieuwe Mass between north and south Rotterdam. At the end of the bridge where the swan’s neck is, a section opens to let tall-masted ships through, and seeing the road rise into the air is a fascinating experience. The section of the bridge that rises up is the longest and heaviest of its type in western Europe.

deRotterdam

There are two of the top things to do in Rotterdam near the southern edge of the Erasmus Bridge.

The deRotterdam building is a modern icon of Rotterdam, designed by local boy and international architecture legend Rem Koolhaas and built between 2009 and 2013. The building aims to be a “vertical city”, with space for offices, hotels, apartments and leisure, and its striking design is intended to reveal itself with different views as you move past it.

The nHow Hotel inside deRotterdam has a roof terrace bar where you can admire the Erasmus Bridge below and watch the boats going past on the river.

Holland America Line headquarters – now Hotel New York

Past deRotterdam, at the end of Wilhelminakade, you’ll find the old headquarters of the Holland America Line, now Hotel New York . The Holland America Line sailed its first ship from here to New York in 1872, and over the next 25 years, 400,000 people emigrated from the Netherlands to the United States from their dock in Rotterdam. Visitors from the USA often list visiting this spot as one of their favourite things to do in Rotterdam.

There are a couple of popular food places near deRotterdam and the Hotel New York. The Fenix Food Factory food hall and microbrewery is just across the Rijnhavenbrug – I didn’t find it as impressive as Markthal but it is very popular with people visiting Rotterdam. Behind Hotel New York and just across the street from the Nederlands Fotomuseum , Foodhallen Rotterdam has 12 food stands, a gin bar and a coffee shop.

Euromast and Het Park

Head back across the Erasmus Bridge to the north bank of the Nieuwe Mass, then turn west, towards Veerhaven, another pretty harbour which is home to small leisure boats. The little white wooden office building is particularly cute.

From here, take Parklaan, a wide, tree-lined street with some of the most beautiful houses in Rotterdam. This area was home to well-to-do Rotterdammers during the 1800s and reminded me of fancy neighbourhoods in New York.

Parklaan leads, not unexpectedly, to the simply named Het Park (The Park). This large, beautiful park is one of the largest areas of green space in central Rotterdam and is well worth a visit on a sunny day. We visited in the early evening and it was still full of people having picnics, riding bikes, playing with their kids and enjoying time with their families. There are flowers, wooded areas and lawns, along with a couple of cafes and restaurants.

When you’re walking through this part of the city, you can’t miss Euromast , another of the top things to do in Rotterdam. Euromast is a huge observation tower and until recently was the tallest building in the Netherlands. A lift whisks you up to a crow’s nest style open-air viewing deck 96m (315ft) up, and a further mini lift, the Euroscoop, takes you up to the very top of the space tower above the viewing platform, a total of 185m in the air.

Unfortunately, the Euroscoop was being renovated when I visited, so I could only go to the lower level, but that was easily high enough to get a fantastic view over the city and the river. Euromast is open until 10pm so it’s a nice way to round off your day in Rotterdam if that works best for your timings.

From Euromast, turn west along the river, heading for Delfshaven. This was once the port for the city of Delft, which didn’t have its own river, and is now another lovely part of Rotterdam.

Delfshaven escaped the worst of the bombing in 1940 and the warehouses, wharves and bridges here show a different side to Rotterdam; hanging baskets swing from small ships and barges, the tall warehouses have been converted into offices, studios and covetable houses and there’s even an old windmill.

Like the Holland America Line headquarters, Delfshaven is a top place to visit in Rotterdam partly because of its connection to North America. In 1608, a group of religious dissenters from England fled to the Netherlands. After living in nearby Leiden for a number of years, they decided to leave for North America.

The Pilgrim Fathers left Delfshaven on board the ship Speedwell on 21 July 1620, first kneeling in prayer on the quay near the Delfshaven church. While the church has been rebuilt a number of times, most notably in 1761, visiting the church, now known as the Pilgrim Fathers Church is one of the most popular things to do in Rotterdam.

As well as the Pilgrim Fathers church and the windmill, attractions at Delfshaven include the Dutch Pinball Museum (sadly not open when I was there) and lots of cafes, restaurants and bars, including the De Pelgrim microbrewery and the Poolcafé Delfshaven pool hall.

From Delfshaven, either walk (via the Westersingel sculpture route ) or take the metro to Rotterdam Centraal Station for the last stop on my Rotterdam day trip itinerary.

Rotterdam Centraal Station

Railway stations don’t often appear on lists of top things to do, but like Porto ‘s, Rotterdam’s is an exception. Rotterdam’s original four city centre stations were combined onto one site after World War 2, then in 2014 the 1950s Centraal building was demolished and rebuilt into its stunning current form.

You don’t need to buy a train ticket to see the best of Rotterdam Centraal – instead, head outside to Stationsplein to see the gorgeous, swooping silver roof – part space age, part fighter plane, part steampunk. The “Centraal Station” lettering and clock were saved from the old station at the request of Rotterdam residents. If you’re interested in architecture, then it’s a must-see – it was definitely one of my top things to do in Rotterdam.

From Rotterdam Centraal, you can return to where you started at Rotterdam Blaak by train or on foot, perhaps via the city hall (Stadhuis) and the shopping district around Beursplein. Alternatively, you can get back to Amsterdam by train from Rotterdam Centraal.

2 days in Rotterdam

With 2 days, you have more time to explore more areas of Rotterdam and get to know the city better. 2 days in Rotterdam also gives you plenty of time to visit the many museums or take a guided tour.

Museums in Rotterdam

Rotterdam has a real wealth of museums. The Museumpark, to the east of the city centre between the Erasmus Bridge and the Euromast, has six museums:

• Natural History Museum Rotterdam
• Het Nieuwe Instituut , which focuses on design, architecture and digital culture
• Art gallery Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen (temporarily closed) and its new Depot (which you can visit), which has a collection spanning western European art from the middle ages to the present day
• The Chabot Museum , dedicated to Dutch painter and sculptor Hendrik Chabot and housed in a gorgeous art deco villa
• Huis Sonneveld , another 1930s home which has been amazingly well preserved
• The Kunsthal , another art museum which hosts a wide range of temporary exhibitions

Other popular museums to visit in Rotterdam include the Maritime Museum on Leuvehaven, the Tax and Customs Museum near Het Park, the Dutch Pinball Museum on Delfshaven and the Museum of Chess Pieces in one of the cube houses. Museum Rotterdam ’40 -’45 NOW brings to life the experience of living in Rotterdam during the war years.

Tours around Rotterdam

Once you’ve seen the top things to do in Rotterdam on my one day itinerary, you might be looking to see some aspects of the city in a bit more depth on a guided tour.

There are lots of tours to choose from, including harbour tours , a tour on an amphibious bus (which we saw splashing through the waves near the Hotel New York – it looked like a lot of fun!), a guided tour of the Heineken brewery , architecture walking tours and Segway tours .

3 or more days in Rotterdam

Rotterdam makes a great base for day trips, thanks to its great train connections and position in the south of the Netherlands.

I chose to take a day trip to Delft and The Hague but you can also take very easy day trips from Rotterdam to the UNESCO-listed Kinderdijk windmills, to the Thursday cheese market in Gouda, to the beach at Scheveningen, just outside The Hague or even to Antwerp in northern Belgium.

Search for places to stay in Rotterdam using the map below.

Related posts.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post about the best things to do in Rotterdam. If you have, you might find these other articles interesting.

• Visiting Zandvoort, the seaside town near Amsterdam with an amazing beach
• Things to do in Hamburg: 21 of the best Hamburg attractions
• 12 fun things to do in Brussels (with 2 day itinerary)

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$439 Find cheap flights to Rotterdam

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To have a direct vantage point of take-offs and landings, go to the terrace located next to the Restaurant De Horizon. This terrace has a panoramic overview of the airport’s tarmac and is open during standard business hours.

What are good hotels near Rotterdam The Hague Airport?

The World Hotel Wings is a chic 4-star choice that is directly next to Rotterdam The Hague Airport and a 10-minute drive to downtown Rotterdam. The Hotel ibis is a budget-friendly choice that is also next to the airport and offers both parking and WiFi for guests.

What is the best way to travel between Rotterdam The Hague Airport and downtown Rotterdam by car?

If you’re planning on using a rental car during your time in Rotterdam and are not sure on the best way to travel between the city center and the airport, make sure to take the A13 motorway. This main highway will allow you to directly travel between these two locations, and the road is clearly marked with signs in order to help you find your way to either downtown or the airport.

How can I receive information regarding my flight while in Rotterdam The Hague Airport?

Rotterdam The Hague Airport operates under a strict ‘Silent Airport Policy’, meaning that the intercom is only used during emergencies, such as particularly terrible weather. Because of this, you will never hear announcements for the changing of gates or flight delays. Instead, travelers are expected to check the screens located throughout the different terminals in order to receive any necessary information.

How far is Rotterdam from central Rotterdam?

Central Rotterdam is 3 miles away from Rotterdam.

What is the name of Rotterdam’s airport?

There is only 1 airport in Rotterdam, called Rotterdam (RTM). It can also be referred to as Rotterdam, Rotterdam The Hague, or Rotterdam The Hague Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Rotterdam?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Rotterdam.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Rotterdam?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Rotterdam is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

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Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Rotterdam with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Rotterdam?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Rotterdam up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Rotterdam

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Rotterdam flight deals.
• If you would like to shop for gifts or souvenirs after your flight to Rotterdam, make sure to visit The Rotterdam Airport Shop, a store that is located in the Departures terminal of Rotterdam The Hague Airport and sells both duty-free goods and local products. There is also a kiosk in the Arrivals wing that offers travel necessities, such as magazines, snacks, and headphones.
• Traveling to Rotterdam for business? Take advantage of Rotterdam The Hague Airport’s state-of-the-art business center, known as The Baken. With a large meeting area that holds up to 100 people, this center is the perfect place to hold a conference, meeting, or even a banquet.
• To grab a bite to eat either after your flight to Rotterdam lands or before your flight takes off, consider visiting Restaurant De Horizon, located in the airport’s ‘Bite & Fly’ area. This casual restaurant serves a variety of hot meals, sandwiches, and juices, as well as seasonal beer and wine.
• Hoping to use public transportation to travel between Rotterdam The Hague Airport and downtown Rotterdam? If so, use the RET bus line 33, as it has several stops within the city, including Rotterdam’s main train station. The airport’s bus stop is located directly outside and to the left of the Arrivals terminal.
• If you need any information regarding Rotterdam or The Hague, make sure to stop at the airport’s Information Center located in the central hall of the Arrivals wing. This center contains many brochures regarding the surrounding area, as well as employees that can help you to find activities, navigate public transportation, and answer any additional questions you may have.

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Top 3 airlines flying to rotterdam.

I loved how they arrange boarding (starting with people seated in back and moving to the front). Flight crew was very polite and welcoming. Seating was ok, I felt like there was enough leg space however it is noticeable when the passenger in front of you sets their seat back.

Nice to be on a flight that wasn't fully booked so there were only two of us in the three seat row.

The only problem was there are games on the entertaiment system. The guy behind me played poker the entire time and poking the back of my seat. I hope they remove these.

Great travel. Wonderful experience. Hope to do it again in the near future. God willing

Aer Lingus doesn't have plug ins for devices at each seat. They also did not give me a dairy free meal as requested and confirmed by staff. It was as if I had not requested anything. Otherwise, they were great!

The transatlantic flight was wonderful. The regional reminded me of jet blue. Crazy and packed. Not enough overhead space and tough on elderly.

All OK. Food, best bring your own. Even a BigMac will be better.

Always find Aer Lingus reliable and good value for money. Food on this flight was pretty basic and the headphone Jack at my seat only worked for one ear. Little disappointed in movie selection, limited on recent releases. Staff are okay - but I always buy a cheap ticket so not like I expect first class opulence anyway!!!

Great hospitality and service! Seats are better cushioned then some

The vegan meal was pretty horrible tasting and the staff did not bring me breakfast and no coffee and asked. the connecting flight from dublin to bristol was much delayed.

did not get the seats we had specially paid for

This is a no frills airline. You cant expect much for the price. Low cost flight, clean, nice staff. That's all I need for the price. If you want more, book with another airline and pay more. For Europe trips, PLAY is the ONLY airline I use

Misleading instructions for check in. Although I did virtual check in and was instructed to head to security, once I was at security, they told me to go back to Play ticket counter and get paper tickets. Also, beware that Play doesn’t participate in TSA PreCheck. I didn’t know that, despite entering PreCheck info when I purchased the tickets. I wasted time in the TSA PreCheck line as well. So we had two setbacks at check in.

It's a budget airline, so forewarned is forearmed. Yes, you pay for everything like carry-on, checked baggage, seat selection, but that's becoming the case with major airlines. Bringing your own snacks and entertainment on board is highly recommended. It's no frills, but the crew, the plane and the flight itself was great. If you want pampering go for a larger airline. If you just want to get from A to B in comfort and safety, Play is a great choice.

It is a low cost airline. Staff are courteous. There is no entertainment. Food is purchased.

Upon boarding, the people at the gate were extremely rude, there were no outlets on a 6 hour international flight, there was no entertainment, all food and drink was purchase only (even snacks), and my seat reclining function was fully broken. The only redeeming quality was the flight attendants were extremely nice. This was by far the worst flight I have ever been on in my entire life

I don’t know how international flights can’t have media screens to keep people entertained for the long flight. Ugh.

Typical experience for budget airline. Boarding from KEF required bus transit from the gate to plane, so if you had "priority boarding" it was useless as it was simply a free-for-all when getting off the bus. But still no issues with getting our luggage into overhead bin so not really a problem.

Was very apprehensive about flying Play, but the flight was fine. Nothing special, nothing horrible. Fair price to get from New York to Iceland.

I wasn’t able to check in online the day before or the day of because their web configuration or business model idk. I arrived an hour early and check was closed and there was no one around to speak to and eventually was told there was no possible way to get a digital ticket despite I had no luggage to check and would have easily made it through security to boarding and had to pay for a new ticket for $330 ontop of the $169 I spend for the ticket and then I missed my rental car for $305 because I only arrived at midnight instead of noon that I was originally intended. All booked through kayak. I hope there is some kind of insurance from kayak because this was totally preventable had I not been blocked by play air from getting my check in and plane ticket.

Not connecting flights. Missed my flight from Dublin to Liverpool because I arrived at Dublin one hour too late. For this mistake, they offered me a flight from Dublin to Manchester. Thats great and all, but I waste time and money to commute to Liverpool. Be sure to check the time of your connecting flights, because they sure don’t when they sell it to you

Excellent! Great flight attendants, good food (in business class, at least), very comfortable. Touchscreen and remote wasn’t great.

In economy and food was ok, but with limited leg space (and I was in a 2 seat configuration) it was difficult to eat with a tiny seat tray. I spilt wine on my trousers. First time on British Air (I usually fly Turkish Air) and in a 777. Heathrow was pleasant but changing terminals awkward.

Starting with the flight Cairo to London the plain was so poor no entertainment at all uncomfortable seats although it’s 5 hours long,then an American airline plain took me from London to Miami it was a bad experience the crew most of flight time not available and they asked us to help our selves for any snacks if we need. From Miami to London actually was perfect flight with a huge plain and perfect crew but from London to Cairo was horrible plain with stiff fixed seats not movable no entertainment or wi fi very poor Menu which is unacceptable for a business class

Staff were very helpful. The free WiFi for messages was also very useful to keep in touch

I've done hundreds of flights in my life, and this flight was one of the best I've ever taken, From beginning to end, everything went smoothly, professionally, and with a smile and friendly attitude from all employees I interacted with. The food was delicious (and free), as were the drinks. There was just a genial and effective way in the way that British Airways organized the flight -that reminded of days in the 70's, 80's, and 90's, when flying was a fun, and exciting adventure. I enjoyed and had confidence in the abilities of the flight crew, I'll be flying British Airways several more times this summer. Thank you so much for the great experience! Cheryl Olso

My baggage did not arrived with me. Took 3 days to get it after so may calls and follow up

Terrible! I missed my flight to my final destination and British airlines and American Airlines keep pointing fingers on each other’s. Nobody wants to take responsibility

Terrible. Flight was 3 hours delayed and I missed my other flight to my final destination

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

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21 epic day trips from Rotterdam: the ultimate guide

Venture out of the city and explore ✨

Rotterdam — a city where everyone loves to rave about the quirky new-age architecture , its multicultural quotient, and the resilience and ‘realness’ of the Rotterdammers.

But living in a city you love should not stop you from exploring places around it, because you never know what you’ll find.

I’ve been living here for the past few years, so here’s my list of the 21 best day trips you can take from Rotterdam! 

1. Delft: a city steeped in history

2. dordrecht: the oldest city in holland, 3. de biesbosch: one of europe’s largest freshwater tidal wetlands, 4. schiedam: the gin capital of the world, 5. plaswijckpark: rotterdam’s backyard, 6. hoek van holland: rotterdam’s very own beach, 7. kinderdijk: the iconic windmill park, 8. the hague and scheveningen: a great summer getaway, 9. voorlinden: the famous museum in wassenaar, 10. leiden: the city of arts and sciences, 11. keukenhof: the garden of europe, 12. gouda: home of the delightful cheese, 13. utrecht: the city of literature, 14. amsterdam: the famous dutch capital, 15. tilburg: city with a hip urban scene, 16. efteling: a fairytale paradise, 17. oosterschelde: netherlands’ largest national park, 18. hoge veluwe: a national park in the east of the netherlands, 19. nijmegen: the oldest city in the netherlands, 20. maastricht: a place to see medieval monuments, 21. belgium: a roadtrip to the neighbour, how to get around the netherlands for day trips, day trips from rotterdam: frequently asked questions.

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Day trips less than 30-minutes from Rotterdam

Perhaps you’re in the mood for a quick and refreshing jaunt to clear your head in the middle of a stressful week?

Well, you’re in luck, because these day trips are less than 30 minutes away from Rotterdam and are sure to give you a much-needed mood boost! 💪

Delft is one of the most easily accessible day trip destinations from Rotterdam. Don’t be fooled by its seeming similarity to other Dutch towns — Delft really is something special .

The city has a lot to offer to people who are looking for a bit of history (after all, it is the place where Willem van Oranje was shot), a bit of old Dutch architecture, and a whole lot of fun.

There are plenty of things you can do for free , making it the perfect day trip destination for those trying to travel on a budget. You can even cycle (or walk) here from Rotterdam to save some extra cash! 🤑

🚗 Travel time by car: 25 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 11 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Oude & Nieuwe Kerk (churches), Prinsenhof, Oostport

Did you know that Dordrecht is the oldest city in Holland? (Yes, Holland, not the Netherlands ). It’s also actually the fifth largest city in the province of South Holland — but still has that typical Dutch small-city charm.

You’ll find quintessentially Dutch things here, from long winding canals and row houses to interesting monuments and museums giving testament to the prosperous history of this city on the water. There’s plenty to explore on your day trip to Dordrecht .

🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 15 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Grote Kerk (church), Dordrechts Museum, Het Hof van Nederland

Located just outside of Dordrecht, De Biesbosch is one of the Netherlands’ biggest national parks.

The park is basically a freshwater delta that is made up of 8,000 hectares of small streams and rivers — and one of few freshwater tidal wetlands in the world.

You’ll find hundreds of bird species, including kingfishers, ospreys, and wild-taled eagles, as well as De Biesbosch’s icon — the beaver. Discover the park on foot or by bike, or inspect the wildlife up close in a canoe.

🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Try and count how many different wildlife species you can spot!

Have you ever taken a day trip to Schiedam from Rotterdam? Not yet? That is hard to believe because it is one of the easiest to get to and the closest places to visit from the city!

If you just hop on the green, yellow, or red metro line at Beurs, you’ll reach Schiedam city centre in about 15 minutes!

The town has some of the best windmills, and it’s the gin capital of the world. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

🚗 Travel time by car: 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 5 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: De Noord windmill, National Jenever Museum, Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

Another fun day trip from Rotterdam option can be found pretty much right here on the outskirts of the city and is guaranteed to be one of the best places to spend a day with your family.

It’s on the very edge of Rotterdam North — so it’s very easy to reach.

Founded in 1923, Plaswijckpark has evolved into one of the most fun dagje uit activities when the sun is shining.

While this small-scale amusement park doesn’t have the extravagance of Efteling, it does have everything you need to make sure it’s an interesting day for you and your little ones.

🚗 Travel time by car: 13 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 25 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Just let your children pick the attraction they love the most!

Day trips less than one hour from Rotterdam

Perhaps you’ve got a bit more time on your hands and are looking for the perfect way to spend an afternoon?

We feel you, so we’ve compiled a list of day trips less than an hour away from Rotterdam’s bustling heart! 👇

Hoek van Holland is technically part of the Rotterdam municipality. However, the vibe couldn’t be more different from the one in the city itself.

Think cute coastal town with a vast beach, amazing sand dunes, and beach bars and clubs to enjoy a drink or two. It’s a great place to unwind and escape the busyness of day-to-day city life.

Take your fiets with you and cycle around to get a proper taste of the area. Hoek van Holland is also a great day-trip destination for a little hike or nature walk .

🚗 Travel time by car: 31 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 58 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Just grab a drink in one of the bars and enjoy the scenic views

Who doesn’t have windmills on their list of things to see in the Netherlands? Well, Kinderdijk is the perfect place to go to to check this item off that list.

Windmill parks have long existed in the Netherlands to harness sustainable energy — and Kinderdijk is one of the two most well-known parks in the country, with thousands of visitors flocking to the site every year.

A lot of people debate on whether it’s better than Zaanse Schans (as did we), so why don’t you do a little day trip from Rotterdam and find out for yourself?

🚗 Travel time by car: 32 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 58 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Nederwaard Museum Mill, Blokweer Museum Mill

No list of day trips from Rotterdam is complete without a mention of The Hague . A city known for embassies and government buildings, the political capital of the Netherlands is just a stone’s throw away from Rotterdam.

Want to see not only The Hague but the entire Netherlands in one day? Dat kan .

The interactive miniature park Madurodam will give you a small taste of a country that is already arguably rather small and let you immerse yourself in the history and culture of the lowlands.

If the sun is shining, make sure to pack your swimsuits! Scheveningen is one of the best beaches in the Netherlands , and you don’t want to miss it.

Stroll along the busy pier and gaze out into the sea on a warm day, or enjoy some of the other free things The Hague has to offer.

If you’re interested in the underwater world, visit Sea Life , a huge aquarium where you can learn about 150 different species of fish they have in there.

🚗 Travel time by car: 24 minutes to The Hague Central Station, 31 minutes to Scheveningen 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 29 minutes to The Hague Central Station, 50 minutes to Scheveningen ⭐ Don’t miss: The Mauritshuis, Binnenhof, The Peace Palace, Sea Life, Madurodam, Scheveningen Pier

A really interesting day trip you can take from Rotterdam is to Museum Voorlinden — a contemporary art museum surrounded by beautiful forests, a carefully landscaped garden, a restaurant, and amazing art to really open up your mind.

Like with any other museum, there are permanent as well as temporary exhibitions. You can easily get to this stunning area by car or by public transport.

Simply head to the museum’s website for all the practical information you’ll need to get there.

🚗 Travel time by car: 34 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 1 hour and 7 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Swimming Pool by Leandro Erlich

We have a personal bias when telling you about this cosy student town (after all, it is our headquarters), but Leiden truly has a lot to offer to its visitors.

This quintessential Dutch town is packed with great museums , such as the Naturalis, the National Museum of Antiquities , and the Volkenkunde Museum , just to name a few!

You can also sign up for the Rembrandt Experience , a specially curated route to learn about all things Rembrandt from times when he lived in Leiden.

READ MORE |  A local’s guide to Leiden: the best places to eat, drink, and shop

If you’re more into innovation and entrepreneurship, check out PLNT Leiden (our home base with a killer rooftop with chickens).

🚗 Travel time by car: 35 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 34 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Hortus Botanicus, Naturalis, Molenmuseum De Valk

Thousands of tourists always flock to the Netherlands to experience the famous tulip season — and what better place to do this than the famous Keukenhof , one of the largest flower gardens in the world?

Beautiful fields filled with thousands of colourful bulbs are a real treat for the eye, and should not be missed by anyone! If you’re more of a budget traveller, there are also countless tulip fields around Keukenhof that you can enjoy for free.

How? You’ll have to travel there to find out! 😉

🚗 Travel time by car: 53 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 1 hour and 10 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: It’s not just Keukenhof — you’ll find countless beautiful flower fields in this region

If you’re looking for a day trip from Rotterdam that even the Wikipedia page recommends, then Gouda is the place for you.

The city is famous for various things like its cheese (of course, you’ve heard of Gouda, the cheese!) and its amazing Dutch architecture.

The city is easily reachable by car or public transport and if you’re feeling particularly fit, you can even hop on a bike for one and a half hours, and you’re there!

Go to the Gouda cheese market and relish in one of the Dutch addictions or wander around the city centre and explore the Sint Janskerk and the famous city hall. Gouda also has plenty of other gorgeous buildings.

🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 18 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Gouda Cheese Market, Sint-Janskerk (church), Gouda Town Hall

The city that is the hardest to pronounce , Utrecht is your perfect getaway if you are tired of visiting crowded tourist places.

We like to call it mini Amsterdam — Utrecht is a great alternative for those wanting to sail along canals, ride through small Dutch streets, and enjoy a drink on the terraces without the hustle and bustle of the capital.

The city has been dubbed the UNESCO City of Literature and spoken word events and book readings happen almost daily. On top of that, Utrecht has the iconic Dom Tower with amazing views. It’s currently under renovation, but you can still go inside .

Venture outside the city and head to one of the Netherlands’ iconic castles , the neo-gothic De Haar. The oldest building dates back to the 14th century, and the castle gardens stretch out for acres and host a number of events throughout the year.

🚗 Travel time by car: 57 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 36 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: The Dom Tower, Rietveld Schröder House, Hoog Catharijne

Aah, good ol’ Amsterdam! A city that’s on everyone’s “Dutch cities to visit” list, the capital has evolved into a top tourist destination . It is a burgeoning city that continues to grow, attracting tourists, Dutchies, and expats alike.

Take a boat ride around the city , visit the many museums (such as the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum), check out the botanical gardens, or enjoy one of the many parks. There are so many things to do in Amsterdam !

Discover the best coffeeshops  (of course, following the rules for smoking weed ) and ease those munchies in one of the many great restaurants in Amsterdam .

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 1 minute 🚆 Travel time by train: 41 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: ARTIS Royal Zoo, Anne Frank House, Albert Cuyp Market, Zuid-Kennemerland National Park

Tilburg may be small, but it sure is a dynamic day trip destination. The city is known for repurposing its old buildings in the edgiest ways — like the LocHal , an old industrial locomotive hall turned into one of the best libraries in the world .

Whether you’re after cultural experiences , like festivals and museums (it has three great ones!), lush nature walks , or even a longer staycation , Tilburg has it all.

Our personal tip? Rent an e-scooter and discover Tilburg’s magical murals — you’ll never look at graffiti the same.

End your day with a cocktail at the Doloris rooftop bar or add an extra fun factor to your day trip from Rotterdam by experiencing their out-of-this-world maze.

Not your thing? Venture to the largest wildlife zoo in the Benelux, the Safaripark Beekse Bergen . It’s open all year round and easily explored by boat, bus, your own car, or even on foot.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 38 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: LocHal, Spoorpark, Spoorzone, Textielmuseum

Who loves a good fairy tale? 🙋‍♀️ If you do, then Efteling is the place for you. This popular theme park is centred around well-known fairy tales with plenty of activities on offer, whether you have kids — or you’re just a child at heart yourself.

Ride the roller coasters, enjoy theatre performances, or try out the 18-hole golf course! Efteling also has its very own holiday resort, so you could always turn it into a weekend trip.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 2 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 1 hour and 27 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: The Fairytale Forest, Baron 1898

Day trips over an hour from Rotterdam

Of course, we couldn’t conclude this article without a little something for your weekend away bucket list. 😉

The largest national park in the Netherlands is just an hour-long drive away from Rotterdam!

What makes it so special? Every time you visit, it will look completely different because of the changing tides. Even better, the park is home to various animals and plants, making it a place no nature-lover should miss.

Oosterchelde has cruises to take you around as well as plenty of walking trails — so get out your hiking boots, there’s a whole lot for you to explore. You might even spot some porpoises out in the waters if you’re lucky!

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 12 minutes

Hoge Veluwe is one of the largest continuous nature reserves in the country. It has a varied topography with everything from lush green forests to high sand dunes and is home to a diverse collection of flora and fauna.

As you would expect, the place has a great infrastructure for cyclists. Drive to one of the entrances at Otterlo ,  Hoenderloo , or  Schaarsbergen , and then make your way through the park with your bike.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by public transport: 2 hours and 3 minutes

A city whose history goes back over 2,000 years , Nijmegen is definitely one of the most unique destinations for a day trip from Rotterdam.

Follow the traces of the Romans or savour a walk through one of the local vineyards (with small breaks to also enjoy this drink, of course). 🍷

If you’re more into trendy boutique shops, Nijmegen has that too! After a long afternoon of shopping, head to the Kronenburgerpark to relax or take in some views of the city from the popular Waalkade.

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 26 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 1 hour and 42 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Stevenskerk, Kronenburgerpark, Rivierpark, Waalkade

A popular student city , Maastricht is located on the southernmost edge of the lowlands. It’s a great day trip destination with cute cobbled streets, medieval monuments, and pretty parks.

From a Roman settlement to a medieval centre of religion, to a thriving cultural hub, the capital of Limburg has plenty to offer, whether it’s architecture, great food, or tranquil nature spots .

READ MORE | A day trip to Maastricht: what to see, do, and eat

Enjoy a cruise on the river Maas or discover the famous caves of Mount Saint Peter from the 13th century.

🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours and 17 minutes 🚆 Travel time by train: 2 hours and 16 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Vrijthof, Wyck, Helpoort, Maastricht caves

Looking for a quick road trip outside of the Netherlands for a day? The great thing about living in a small country with good infrastructure is that you can easily visit the neighbours.

Belgium is famous for great waffles, refreshing beer, and of course, the chocolate! Whether it’s Antwerp , Mechelen , or Brugge , there are a number of beautiful towns to choose from.

The best part? They are all just a short drive from Rotterdam — and easy to get to by bus or train as well, especially if you travel with Thalys. Some other cities you shouldn’t miss include, of course, Ghent and Brussels.

Mechelen: 🚗 1 hour and 37 minutes, 🚆 1 hour and 8 minutes Antwerp: 🚗 1 hour and 50 minutes, 🚆 32 minutes Ghent: 🚗 2 hours and 5 minutes, 🚆 1 hour and 35 minutes Brugge: 🚗 2 hours and 22 minutes, 🚆 2 hours and 3 minutes Brussels: 🚗 2 hours and 28 minutes, 🚆 1 hour and 21 minutes

Wondering how to get to all these epic day trip destinations from Rotterdam? With the country’s great infrastructure, you’ve got multiple options:

Going with OV — the Dutch public transport system

One of the easiest ways to get around the Netherlands and tackle distances that aren’t manageable by bike is public transport. The majority of Dutch cities have trains, trams, and buses, and some even have metro and ferries.

A great option is to get a day ticket which sometimes combines travel to a particular destination with, for example, a visit to an attraction or a meal.

Another great way to travel is with an OV chip card. Simply top up your balance and use the card on all forms of public transport. With a personal OV chip card , you may even be able to snag some extra discounts.

Driving around Dutch cities, towns, and national parks

For places that are a bit further away and not easily accessible by public transport (such as many of the Netherlands’ nature spots), a car might be your best bet.

You can make use of one of the five major car rental companies — Avis Budget, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt — or see what other options are out there. Perhaps you can even carpool !

Though be aware, for certain destinations, going by public transport or bike is actually faster than going by car.

Hop on your bike and explore Rotterdam’s surroundings

No article about day trips from Rotterdam would be complete without mentioning the good ol’ fiets — and with good reason.

Cycling is the cheapest way to get around most Dutch cities and villages, and it ensures the true Dutch experience. If you have extra time and want to get some fitness in, head to places like Delft, Hoek van Holland, or Kinderdijk by bike.

Don’t have your own? Geen probleem ! With a personal OV chip card, you can pick up an OV-fiets from one of the many Netherlands train stations and rent it for a few hours at a time. Rotterdam also has a wide range of shared e-bikes and scooters .

Where is the best place for a day trip from Rotterdam?

Depending on your preference and style of travelling, there is a number of wonderful day trip destinations.

Delft and Dordrecht are perfect if you’re looking for quintessential Dutch charm. Hoek van Holland and Scheveningen are two amazing beaches well suited for a summer day trip.

Fancy a city trip or a nature escape instead? Dat kan. The Hague, Utrecht, Leiden, and Amsterdam are just a stone’s throw away and there are beautiful national parks within an hour’s drive from Rotterdam.

Is Rotterdam worth visiting?

With its epic modern skyline , Rotterdam is different from any other place in the Netherlands. This makes it a unique travel destination you should definitely not miss — especially as there are many things in the city you can do for free .

How many days should I spend in Rotterdam?

If you’re short on time, one day will be enough to get a quick glimpse of Rotterdam’s main attractions, such as the Erasmus Bridge, Markthal, or Cube Houses.

Three days is a recommended time if you really want to get a feel for the city and venture beyond the city centre.

You’ll be surprised by how much there is to see in Rotterdam, from the diverse and different neighbourhoods to lush parks and nature areas .

How do I spend a day in Rotterdam?

Start your Rotterdam day trip at the central station and slowly make your way into the city centre.

Stop by the Laurenskerk, the city’s famous church with a fascinating history, and continue to Markthal to grab a refreshment in one of the food shops and restaurants.

Step into the mindblowing Cube Houses and enjoy a drink at the adjacent Oude Haven (Old Port) where you’ll find Europe’s first skyscraper, the Witte Huis.

Stroll along the river Maas and admire Rotterdam’s famous bridges, including the Erasmus Bridge and De Hef, or visit one of the many museums.

Finally, end your day with some bird’s eye views of Rotterdam from the Euromast observation tower.

Is it better to stay in Rotterdam or Amsterdam?

While both cities have a unique character and things to see, Rotterdam is definitely the cheaper one of the two.

Rotterdam is where you want to be if you’re into bold modern architecture and authentic Dutchness. For cute picturesque canals, Amsterdam is the best bet.

Rotterdam is also more suitable if you’re looking for a base to visit the Netherlands’ neighbours, Belgium and Germany, from.

If you don’t feel like travelling far, there are also plenty of fun and free things to do in Rotterdam itself, as well as hidden gems and little nature escapes to keep you busy for the day.

What’s your favourite day trip from Rotterdam? Tell us in the comments below!

This article was a team effort between Jana Vondráčková and Kavana Desai. 

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Is smoking weed in amsterdam legal (+ 7 best coffeeshops), a guide to 12 breathtaking castles and palaces in the netherlands, surfing in the netherlands: where to go and what to know in 2024, what do you think.

Don’t forget to visit Breda, 20 minutes by train from Rotterdam.

Half of the places l also was lucky to visit, especially l liked Kinderdijk and Zaanse Schans, can’t explain why exactly, l’m just very passionate about windmills. Thank you for the article!

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Rotterdam & The Hague in 3 Days: A Blend of Modernity and Heritage

April 22, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 3-day journey through the architectural wonders and cultural treasures of Rotterdam and The Hague. Begin your exploration in Rotterdam's Old Harbour, where historic charm meets maritime spirit, spending 2 hours soaking in the ambiance. Next, marvel at the iconic Cube Houses for a quick 30-minute tour, before indulging in the culinary delights and modern architecture of Markthal for 2 hours. Conclude your first day with a stroll through the characteristic neighborhood of Delfshaven, spending an hour amidst its storied streets. Day 2 invites you to ascend the Euromast Rotterdam for panoramic city views, dedicating an hour to the skies. Then, transition to the serene Scheveningen strand in The Hague, where a full day by the sea offers a refreshing contrast to urban life. Your final day is rich with cultural immersion, starting with the miniature wonders of Madurodam theme park for an hour. Spend the next 2 hours surrounded by art at Kunstmuseum Den Haag, followed by a visit to the iconic Peace Palace, home to a prestigious library, for another hour. Conclude your trip with a 2-hour tour of the Mauritshuis Museum, where masterpieces of Dutch painting await. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of modernity, heritage, and leisure, tailored for an unforgettable experience with Trip.com.

• Day 1: Discovering Rotterdam's Architectural Marvels and Historic Charms

Old Harbour

Begin your Rotterdam adventure at the Old Harbour, a picturesque and historic marina that sets the tone for a day steeped in culture and history. Spend a couple of hours wandering along the waterfront, where modern leisure meets maritime heritage. The Old Harbour, with its classic ships and surrounding historic buildings, offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing a glimpse into Rotterdam's rich past.

Attraction Info

• Oudehaven, 3011 WB Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Cube Houses

Next, marvel at the architectural wonder of the Cube Houses, located just a short stroll from the Old Harbour. These iconic, tilted cubic structures challenge traditional housing designs and offer a unique perspective on urban living. Although your visit may be brief, the striking appearance and ingenuity of the Cube Houses will leave a lasting impression on your architectural appetite.

• Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open from 11:00am-5:00pm

Continue your journey to the Markthal, a stunning example of modern architecture that houses an eclectic indoor market. Here, you can indulge in a variety of culinary delights and shop for fresh produce, all under an impressive ceiling adorned with vibrant artwork. The Markthal isn't just a feast for the taste buds; it's a visual spectacle that perfectly encapsulates Rotterdam's innovative spirit.

• Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Open on Mon-Thu, Sat,10:00am-8:00pm;Open on Fri,10:00am-9:00pm;Open on Sun,12:00pm-6:00pm

Conclude your day with a leisurely exploration of Delfshaven, a characteristic neighborhood that stands in contrast to the modernity of Rotterdam. Delfshaven's historical buildings, charming canals, and quaint streets offer a peaceful retreat and a chance to reflect on the city's evolution. As you wander through this area, you'll feel transported back in time, providing a perfect end to a day filled with both contemporary wonders and timeless beauty.

• Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 1-4 hour

Where to Stay Tonight

171. urban design hotel.

• Day 2: Towering Views and Sandy Shores

Euromast Rotterdam

Kickstart your second day with a sky-high adventure at Euromast Rotterdam, an iconic observation tower that offers unparalleled views of the city. As the first stop of the day, it's the perfect place to get your bearings and witness Rotterdam from a bird's eye perspective. Spend an hour marveling at the panoramic vistas, and if you're feeling adventurous, opt for an abseiling experience down the tower. The Euromast is not just about the views; it's a symbol of Rotterdam's resilience and innovation.

• Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open from 10:00am-10:00pm

Scheveningen strand

After touching the sky, it's time to feel the sand between your toes at Scheveningen Strand, The Hague's famous beach. A full day here promises relaxation and entertainment with its vast stretch of sandy shores. Dive into the refreshing North Sea, stroll along the lively pier, and indulge in fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants. Scheveningen Strand isn't just a beach; it's a seaside escape that offers a slice of Dutch coastal life, perfect for unwinding after the morning's urban adventure.

• 2586 ZZ The Hague, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

EasyHotel the Hague Scheveningen Beach

Ibis styles den haag scheveningen.

• Day 3: Enchanting Art and Miniature Wonders in The Hague

Kicking off the final day of our Rotterdam Hague adventure, we begin at Madurodam, a delightful theme park that brings the wonders of the Netherlands to life in miniature form. Spend an hour marveling at the intricate models and interactive exhibits that showcase Dutch landmarks, historical events, and cultural achievements. This enchanting park is not only a feast for the eyes but also an educational journey through the country's heritage, all located at George Maduroplein 1.

• George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ, The Hague, The Netherlands
• Open from 3/21-3/29,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 3/30-4/1,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 4/2-4/26,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 4/27-5/3,9:00am-6:00pm

Kunstmuseum Den Haag

Next, immerse yourself in the world of art at the Kunstmuseum Den Haag, a premier art gallery that promises to captivate for two full hours. With its striking art-deco architecture, the museum houses a vast collection of modern art, fashion, and music. Located at Stadhouderslaan 41, the Kunstmuseum is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, featuring works by Mondrian, Picasso, and many other renowned artists.

• Stadhouderslaan 41, The Hague, The Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon

Peace Palace

Following the artistic indulgence, we'll visit the iconic Peace Palace, a beacon of international law and order. During our one-hour stay, we'll explore the grounds of this architectural masterpiece, which houses the International Court of Justice and a rich library. The Peace Palace, at Carnegieplein 2, stands as a symbol of peace and justice, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of international diplomacy.

• Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ The Hague, Netherlands
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open on Thu-Sun,12:00pm-4:00pm;Closed on Mon-Wed

Mauritshuis Museum

Our journey through The Hague's cultural landscape concludes with a two-hour visit to the Mauritshuis Museum. Nestled at Plein 29, this art gallery is home to a world-class collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring.' The Mauritshuis offers an intimate museum experience, allowing art lovers to come face-to-face with some of the most celebrated masterpieces in history.

• Plein 29, 2511 CS, The Hague, The Netherlands
• Open on Mon,1:00pm-6:00pm;Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm

Holiday Inn Express the Hague - Parliament

Staybridge suites the hague - parliament.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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How To Get From Amsterdam To Rotterdam

Gerrit Vandenberg

Gerrit shares his love for the Netherlands from his home near Amsterdam, helping thousands plan unforgettable trips to the lowlands. Discover his inspiring journey "From a critical health scare to celebrating Holland's charms" . If you want to send Gerrit a quick message, you can contact him here .

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You’re in the right spot. I’m a Dutch local. And I often travel between Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

I’ve written this extensive post for you to answer this question.

I dive deeper into questions like what is the best way to travel between these two cities and what is the fastest way. What are alternative modes of transportation, and what is the distance and travel time between Amsterdam and Rotterdam?

Rotterdam is the 2nd largest city in The Netherlands. And one of the most traveled routes.

As you might expect, there is more than one way to get there, but from my experience, going by high-speed train is the most comfortable way to travel.

If you’re looking for more information about travel within Rotterdam, you’ll like my post: Rotterdam Public Transport Simplified: In-Depth Guide 2023 .

Table of Contents

My favorite travel books.

I love how Rick Steves' guidebooks offer a traveler's perspective. This is my favorite Amsterdam guidebook by far! Rating 4.8/5 on Amazon.

Click here for more Netherlands book recommendations . (travel books, art books, language books, and maps)

Why Travel To Rotterdam

Rotterdam is an anti-dote to the Dutch cute . As the 2nd largest city in the Netherlands, it’s the complete opposite of Amsterdam. And that is precisely why it’s such an exciting place to visit.

Rotterdam is not your city if you visit the Netherlands for canal houses and cute bridges only. If you’re looking for a vibrant, modern, buzzing city instead, Rotterdam is your place.

The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive in Rotterdam is: “Oh, this is a ‘real’ city.” It’s modern, has a skyline, and is rougher than Amsterdam (still safe). But above all, Rotterdam has a lot to offer .

Rotterdam has the largest harbor in Europe, which you can tour. You’ll also find excellent museums and an exciting mix of restaurants.

For more things to do in Rotterdam, then I have this post for your: Great Things To Do In Rotterdam For A First Time Visit 🏙️

How To Travel From Amsterdam to Rotterdam, what is the best way?

Choosing how to get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam is a bit harder. Because there are many options, you can travel by high-speed train, regular trains, long-distance buses, car, or even by taxi. 

For most people, the high-speed Amsterdam to Rotterdam train will be the best choice because the train is faster and more comfortable than any other mode of transport. Period. Departures are frequent, and city center to city center.

When I go to Rotterdam, I always travel by train . I prefer the high-speed train. This has a small surcharge, but it saves you a lot of travel time. You get there twice as fast.

I also prefer to travel in first class . This is a busy route, and I like the extra comfort of a larger seat and a relatively quieter area. If you opt for this too, like me, sit in the compartment with only red seats; this is the 1st class section.

The bus can be an okay choice when traveling on a budget , or your hotel is closer to the bus terminal. But it’s not the preferred method of travel for most people.

If you travel by car , you have more flexibility, but the drawback is heavy traffic between these two cities, parking issues, and high parking rates. Trains are faster.

How To Get From Amsterdam To Rotterdam By Train

Usually, taking a train in the Netherlands is straightforward. You either take an intercity service for longer distances (with fewer stops) or a local train, which is slower due to more stops.

Sprinters serve mainly as feeder trains to the leading Intercity network. But they’re also convenient for wheelchair-bound people because these slower trains have no barrier entrances.

Prices for both types of trains are always the same. That applies to all destinations in Holland except for the trip between Amsterdam and Rotterdam.  That is because the domestic high-speed option, IC Direct , has a supplement of a few euros for time-saving. Regular train services have the standard tariff structure.

IC direct trains run over a separate track at higher speeds, making the journey much faster. I always take the IC Direct train between Amsterdam and Rotterdam .  Then there are also international high-speeds trains like Thalys and Eurostar (now one company called Eurostar) to Brussels, Paris , and London . They stop in Rotterdam, but these international trains are not meant for domestic travel. So, which one to choose? I’ll walk you through each option below. There are four kinds of train services between Amsterdam and Rotterdam:

• The Intercity Direct trains –  recommended
• Regular Intercity trains
• Thalys and Eurostar international high-speed trains

The Fastest Way From Amsterdam To Rotterdam

The fastest way to travel to Rotterdam from Amsterdam is by taking the Intercity Direct train.

There is a small supplement of a few euros for using the Intercity Direct trains on top of the regular fare.

Booking Train Tickets at the Official NS Website

Buy your train tickets online. You avoid the €1 surcharge at the machine. you can print your tickets or download them to your phone.

If you book at least 4 days in advance and travel during off-peak hours you save 10% or 20%.

Other Train Options Available Between Amsterdam And Rotterdam

Regular Intercity trains run twice per hour between Amsterdam and Rotterdam and take 75 minutes.

The only reason you might want to use this option is when you want to save the small supplement for the Intercity Direct train. Or when the Intercity Direct trains are not running. But it won’t be worth the extra 30 minutes for most people.

High-Speed Thalys And Eurostar Trains

In theory, buying a ticket between Amsterdam and Rotterdam on the Thalys or Eurostar high-speed trains is possible. I don’t advise you to do this. It’s not worth the trouble.

Prices are 30% higher (at least) than the Intercity Direct option, while comfort and travel times are precisely the same. And you’re stuck with a specific train. You can’t change your booking, hence no flexibility.

While the IC Direct trains give you full flexibility on the same travel day. When you take an Intercity Direct train, you can travel on any train throughout the day. With International high-speed trains, you can not.

International trains are meant to travel to Brussels, Paris, or London, not for the short domestic leg between Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Sprinter Trains

Sprinters are local all-station stopping services. Funny enough, the travel time is the same as the regular intercity trains (1h15min). That seems odd, but it’s because they take a different (shorter) route.

However, they stop every few minutes and have less comfortable seating. We would not recommend them for travel between Amsterdam and Rotterdam. They’re meant for local short distances. They can be of use, though, for passengers with mobility issues .

Find A Place To Stay In Rotterdam

Find accommodation in Rotterdam for the lowest prices on your favorite platform. What's great about this map is that it shows both Hotels , as VRBO rentals (AirBNB but then cheaper).

Update your (intended) travel dates for accurate prices . TIP: Zoom out on the map (-) in the bottom right corner. This will show more options and availability.

What Station To Use When Traveling To Rotterdam?

Rotterdam has several railway stations (Rotterdam Central, Blaak, Noord, Zuid, Lombardijen, and Alexander). Which one to choose?

For most travelers, I would recommend traveling to Rotterdam Central Station . It’s closest to most attractions and a central hub for other public transportation options like the metro, buses, and trams. 

I also like to stop at Station Rotterdam Blaak because it is the best station to travel to if you want to get closest to the yellow cubical houses and the Market Hall. Literially when you exit the station, you see the iconic yellow cubical houses and the Rotterdam Market Hall.

In general, local commuters use the other stations in suburban areas. You won’t use them unless you stay in one of those areas.

How Much Does A Train Ticket Between Amsterdam and Rotterdam Cost?

Train ticket prices are updated regularly. It’s best to check current prices on the NS website . It’s intuitive to use and available in English. Just enter your departure station and arrival station and search. Prices are displayed on the next page. To give you an idea: one-way tickets are between €20 and €35 depending on the class of travel and which train you take.

Things To Know About Train Tickets In the Netherlands:

• Tickets are not train-specific but day-specific . You can take any departure you like*.
• Unless you travel on international high-speed trains, seat reservations are not possible .
• Prices are fixed, but if you book through the NS website , you can get a 10 to 20% discount for off-peak departures (between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and after 6:30 p.m. and all day all weekend.
• Purchased tickets can not be refunded . Only buy a ticket when you’re sure you’ll travel.
• Since pricing for one-way is precisely half of a return fare , it’s better to buy separate tickets.
• A return ticket is only valid for same-day travel .
• You can get an e-ticket up to the moment before you enter the platform.
• The supplement for the Intercity Direct must be bought separately from your train ticket.
• Tickets purchased via the website must be printed or added to the app. A digital PDF copy or screenshot is not valid. If you have no printer available, you can add it easily (instructions are in the booking confirmation email) to the NS app on your phone.

The Lowest Priced And Most Flexible eSIM cards (incl. tethering)

Stop searching for WI-FI; get an affordable eSIM for the Netherlands. From just $4.50 for 1GB, but I recommend at least 10GB . TIP: Get the App for easy top-up.

*Some restrictions may apply if you’ve purchased a discounted fare . Most discounted tickets, for example, won’t allow you to travel on rush-hour services. Please check the conditions of a ticket before you go. This only applies to special tickets. You can travel on any departure for regular tickets purchased in the app.

Here are more Netherlands train tips. I answer questions like how to board a train (like how to open the doors), how to find your correct class of travel, what silence zones are, and much more.

How To Plan Your Journey From Amsterdam To Rotterdam By Train?

You can use the  NS App  on your phone or the  NS website  to plan your journey. Both are available in English. The app is more complete, but it takes a little time to get used to because it has so many options. I find the regular website the quickest for looking up departure times..

Both planning tools can also show other modes of transport in addition to train services only. Handy if you want to plan door-to-door.

Another great option is to plan your journeys on Google Maps . It has a separate tab for directions by public transport. I also like using Google Maps on a bus to follow my journey in real-time, so I see when my stop is approaching. Apple maps now cover some transit options, but Google is still more complete.

The Cheapest Way To Travel Between Amsterdam and Rotterdam

A long-distance bus is the cheapest way to travel between Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Flixbus or Eurolines (now one company) operates long-distance buses from Amsterdam to Rotterdam. Tickets can be very cheap, starting at €5. 

Buses leave from the Amsterdam Sloterdijk station, which isn’t in the city center of Amsterdam. Consider the extra time and costs you incur when departing from this location compared to train tickets.

Buses leave about hourly. Remember that bus tickets are only valid for a specific departure. They’re not flexible, like a train ticket.

The bus could work if you’re traveling on a low budget or staying near one of these departure locations when it would not make a lot of sense to go to Amsterdam Central first. But in general, I would advise against this mode of transport. This is where you find Coach ticket prices .

Travel From Amsterdam to Rotterdam By Car

It’s easy to get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam by car. Just take the A4 and the A13 freeways. Please note that Rotterdam has paid parking in the city center and it’s not cheap. Prices change, so look for current Rotterdam parking rates here (use Google Translate).

Park and Ride locations are available around Rotterdam (cheaper or free parking if you use public transport to the city center).

How far is Amsterdam from Rotterdam?

The distance by road is 48 miles (78 kilometers), which is relative here because travel speed is much more important. It can vary from 40 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on the mode of transportation.

For most people, the train is the best option to travel between Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Still, there could be many reasons a car would be more convenient.

Find the lowest price for Car rental in the Netherlands

For the best car rental rates , I suggest checking both Rental Cars and Discover Cars. I often go with Rental Cars, but it’s worth comparing both.

Travel Between Amsterdam And Rotterdam By Taxi

Taking a taxi or Uber between Amsterdam and Rotterdam is also possible. But it’s more costly. A one-way trip costs about €200 for a maximum of 4 people.

However, you can find a much better deal with local firms when you book in advance. I like Get Transfer for this. You can book a private driver from just over €100.

My Favorite Private Driver Booking Tool

Book affordable transfers between cities with a private driver . You'll save significantly over regular taxi fares. Plus, it's pre-booked and door-to-door.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rotterdam

How far is rotterdam from amsterdam.

The distance between Amsterdam and Rotterdam is 78 kilometers (48 miles). The journey time can vary greatly depending on the mode of transport you choose. It’s fastest by the high-speed IC Direct train connection.

What is the travel time to Rotterdam from Amsterdam

It depends. If you travel by high-speed train, the journey time is only 41 minutes from the city center to the city center. This is the fastest way to get to Rotterdam.

If you travel by regular train, that time doubles to 1h and 15 minutes. If you travel by car, travel time can be between 75 minutes and two hours, depending on traffic.

What Is The Fastest Way To Travel From Amsterdam To Rotterdam?

The fastest way to travel from Amsterdam to Rotterdam is, hands down, the high-speed IC Direct train. These trains require a supplement of just a few euros, a separate purchase.

How long is the train from Amsterdam to Rotterdam?

The travel time between Amsterdam and Rotterdam is just 41 minutes with the IC Direct trains, 34 minutes faster than regular Intercity services. And at least twice as fast as traveling by car. Trains leave every 15 minutes at most times of the day.

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Does All Of This Feel Overwhelming?

Planning a trip well is a lot of work and can feel overwhelming. Know I’m here to help when you need assistance with your Netherlands vacation.

I offer Itinerary Consultations , where I help you improve your itinerary and make your trip planning much faster and less stressful.

Even if you already have a plan, I have local insights you don’t get from a guidebook. Is that truly a nice restaurant? Is your plan efficient or even doable? What to do once you’re inside a museum. The Rijksmuseum is massive. A call is also great if you doubt which options to choose. I can genuinely personalize my advice to you.

Did This Post Help You Make A Choice?

I’d love your thoughts: Do you plan to use the IC Direct High-Speed rail link between Amsterdam to Rotterdam? . Please share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s start a conversation 💬.

More How To Get To Guides

• How To Get From Amsterdam To The Hague In 4 Easy Steps 🚉
• From Amsterdam to Utrecht: Get There in 25 Easy Minutes 🚉
• Amsterdam to Maastricht 5 Best Ways On How To Get There 🚉
• How To Get From Amsterdam Airport To City Center 🛬

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7 thoughts on “How To Get From Amsterdam To Rotterdam”

I could not find any mention of travelling with luggage. What is the most convenient way to travel from Amsterdam to Rotterdam with luggage. Where does one store the luggage on the train or bus? Are there porter services? Appreciate all your tips and information

Hi Al, thank you for your comment and great questions. In general Europe is not the place to travel to with a lot of luggage. It’s the old world, with uneven streets everywhere, thus you will be uncomfortable very soon if you travel with too much. So start there, try not to bring too much.

To your specific questions: For the train, there are no limits what you can take as long as you block no other seats. There is a baggage rack above the seat (like above an airplane seat but then open), and there is space under your seat. Large pieces of luggage can be left in the hallway, but there is a risk of theft since it’s right next to the doors. There are “jump” seats in the hallway so you could stay there with your suitcases (that’s a 2nd class seat). Many travellers do that on this route, since it’s a popular stretch with tourists.

Long Distance Bus Companies have similar luggage rules as airlines. Usually you can take 1 suitcase of 50lbs/20kg per person for free, it will go in the hold. You can find this in the terms if you click through to the bus reservation site and select a departure. City buses have no rules and there is a larger open space in the middle where you can usually park your luggage just fine.

Porters are not available. Europe, is very much a do it your self place.

If you want all the comfort and not deal with luggage on public transportation you could consider a private driver. Here is a company I recommend that charges less than a regular taxi, and you have a choice in vehicles. I hope’ll have a wonderful time visiting.

Hello! The ns.nl website says the train ticket price shown is based on having an OV card. Confused why you’d need to buy a card for an eticket! Would love insider insight! Thanks!

Hi Dana, I understand that is confusing. I assume you refer to this line “The price is based on travelling with an OV-chipcard. If you do not have your own OV-chipcard, click here. Buying a single-use chipcard from the ticket machine at stations costs €1.00 extra.” in the fare information section.

I think the NS forgot to update this when they introduced e-tickets and OVpay. Because it is true, but incomplete.

You can completely ignore that. Let me explain:

As a visitor you do NOT need an OV-chipcard. You can either travel with a OV-chipcard (locals) or E-ticket (visitors) prices are exactly the same for both options. An E-ticket is an alternative for the OV-chipcard. The €1 does apply when you buy a ticket from a ticket machine. So it’s always better to buy an e-ticket.

And if you do so at least 4 days in advance and you travel in the off-peak hours you get a 10-20% off discount when you purchase an e-ticket through the ns.nl website . More information in my post on Train tickets , where I have video walk-through of the purchasing process.

To answer your question: No, you do not need a ov chipcard to load your e-ticket. You can print it if you have access to a printer, or you can download the NS app, and download the ticket to the app from your confirmation email (open the email on your mobile device, then click the button load to app). Those are the two options.

Never follow the link “Price with Flex Dal Voordeel” where the button says Order Dal Voordeel, these 40% off prices are for a paid subscription that is local. You’d need a home Dutch address and a Dutch bank account for that. And that subscription can only be loaded to a OV-chipcard, but irrelevant if you’re visiting.

Hope that helps!

Hi Gerrit! What can you say from your experience as an impression of overcrowding on the trains Rotterdam – Amsterdam? Are usually all seats taken or only at peak times? Are standing people allowed?

Hi Rumen, my experience is this a busy route but the frequency is also high, and trains are long! Standing might be neccesary during peak hours especially for the leg between Amsterdam and the airport. But you should be able to find a seat most of the time or after the airport. High speed trains go so often, up to every 10 minutes. The main issue is luggage. If you have too much (more than 1 suitcase) you need to stay in the little hallways (2nd class) and those get full quick with fellow passengers with luggage. Standing is allowed. Safe travels!

Thank you very much, Gerrit!

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