places to visit rotterdam

18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Rotterdam

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam lies on both banks of the Nieuwe Maas, the tidal southern arm of the Rhine, where it's joined by the little River Rotte. It's also the world's largest port, home to the massive Europoort facility through which so much freight passes on its way to and from the continent.

Although almost completely destroyed by German air attacks in 1940, central Rotterdam was energetically rebuilt after the war and replanned with modern shopping streets, residential districts, and high-rises. Today, it is one of the most modern and architecturally interesting places to visit in Europe.

Despite its modernity, the city dates back to medieval times and was already prosperous by the 13th century, when a dam was built to separate the Rotte from the Nieuwe Maas, hence the city's name. Rotterdam has also long been important as a cultural hub, its early prosperity leading to the birth of Rotterdam's most celebrated citizen, the humanist Erasmus, born here in 1467.

For visitors and travelers, Rotterdam is as popular for its vibrant entertainment options as it is for its many fine museums, splendid architecture, and maritime tourist attractions. It's well worth including on your Netherlands travel itinerary.

To help you make the most of your time, be sure to read our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Rotterdam.

See also: Where to Stay in Rotterdam

1. Walk around the Old Harbor and Marine Museums

2. explore the art collections of museum boijmans-van beuningen, 3. discover world cultures at wereldmuseum, 4. take a tour of grote of sint-laurenskerk, 5. take a peek at the cube houses, 6. get your design fix at het nieuwe instituut, 7. enjoy international cuisine at the market hall, 8. see the kinderdijk windmills, 9. wander through coolsingel, 10. take a boat tour of the europoort, 11. take the kids to rotterdam zoo, 12. see the euromast, 13. make a pilgrimage to delfshaven, 14. get your art fix at kunsthal rotterdam, 15. see the netherlands in miniature at miniworld rotterdam, 16. learn about the city's history at museum rotterdam, 17. enjoy a day trip from rotterdam, 18. take the train to schoonhoven, where to stay in rotterdam for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to rotterdam, rotterdam - climate chart.

Rotterdam's Old Harbor (Oude Haven), part of the city's revitalized Maritime District, is a boat basin filled with restored historic boats, including houseboats lived in by locals.

In good weather, you can sit outside one of the many cafés and restaurants and enjoy people watching, or stroll around and watch the boats being painted or repaired. Signs identify the ages of the boats and show pictures of this area in its heyday as a commercial port and shipyard.

A short walk from here is Maritime Museum Rotterdam . Established in 1873, the museum provides a fascinating look into the city's connection to the sea and its many waterways. Its large collections cover the history of shipping and seafaring, including ship models, a reconstruction of a 2,000-year-old vessel, and numerous seafaring paintings.

Another marine-related tourist attraction is the adjoining Maritime Museum Harbor , an open-air facility that's home to the well-preserved 19th-century ironclad Buffel , as well as an old lightship. All told, more than 20 historic vessels are on display here. Both facilities offer English-language guided tours.

A recent addition to Rotterdam's roster of important old vessels is the SS Rotterdam . Launched in 1958, it's considered the finest Dutch-built passenger vessel ever to sail. This sumptuously decorated vessel is now a hotel and museum, and one of the favorite things to do here is have lunch or dinner in its dining room.

For those traveling with kids, check out the Kids Marina , were youngsters can captain their own mini-version of a cargo or passenger vessel.

Address: Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam

Official site: www.maritiemmuseum.nl/en

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, one of the Netherlands' (and Europe's) most important art centers, is known for its superb collections of paintings, sculptures, and applied and decorative arts from across the continent.

Painters of the 14th to 16th centuries are particularly well represented, with works by Hubert and Jan van Eyck, Hieronymus Bosch, and Pieter Bruegel the Elder. The 17th century is represented by Rembrandt and Rubens (26 of the latter's works can be viewed), while later centuries are represented by Monet, Gauguin, and Van Gogh. Modern painters represented include Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall.

For a truly memorable experience, check into tickets for the museum's occasional opening of the "depot." This unique event allows public access to the museum's storage areas, allowing a behind-the-scenes glimpse of a gallery's workings and rarely seen artworks.

Address: Museumpark 18, 3015 CX Rotterdam

Official site: www.boijmans.nl/en/

Wereldmuseum Rotterdam, or " World Museum ," is another great museum to visit. Founded in 1883, this ethnographic museum features more than 1,800 different artifacts from across the globe. Most ancient and modern cultures are featured to some degree here, providing a fascinating look at the evolution of world cultures.

The museum also holds related events and lectures throughout the year, including family-friendly activities. Guided tours are available. A restaurant and shop are located on the premises.

Address: Willemskade 25, 3016 DM Rotterdam

Official site: www.wereldmuseum.nl/en

Great St. Lawrence Church (Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk) is all that's left of Rotterdam's medieval buildings, most of which were destroyed during WWII. Located in Grote Kerkplein, the late Gothic church dates from the 15th century and was built on once marshy ground giving the building a peculiar lean that was only halted after its foundation was rebuilt in 1650. It was heavily damaged in bombings, but was fully restored at the end of the war.

Upon entering the church, you'll be struck by the beauty of the bright interior, an effect heightened by the colored glass of its windows. The church is famous for its three Danish organs, the largest of which stands on a marble base on the inside wall of the tower. The bronze doors of the main entrance, on the theme of War and Peace , are by the Italian artist Giacomo Manzu, and in front of the church is a statue of Rotterdam's most famous son, Erasmus.

Guided tours are available, and the modest admission fee includes a very informative English-language audio guide. The church also hosts frequent music concerts and other events.

Address: Grotekerkplein 15, Rotterdam

Official site: https://laurenskerkrotterdam.nl/en/

Rotterdam is home to many fine examples of modern architecture, much of it inspired by the city's waterside setting, as well as a response to the devastation of WWII. Pushing the architectural envelope to the max are the city's famous Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen).

Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, this block of houses, with their unique cube-shaped upper stories, are clearly visible from a walk through the Old Harbor. One of them, the Show Cube , is open to visitors and contains displays on the design and history of the buildings. An interesting museum dedicated to chess is also located here.

Another architectural gem is the White House (Witte Huis). Once Europe's tallest building, this stunning 10-story Art Nouveau structure was built in 1898 and is now a National Heritage Site, with superb views from its rooftop.

Address: Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam

Official site: https://kubuswoning.nl/en/

Those with an interest in architecture and building design should visit the Het Nieuwe Instituut (HNI). Translated literally as "The New Institute," this modern museum focuses on the development of various architectural movements over the decades. There is of course a particular emphasis on Dutch styles, but other global design movements are also featured.

Newer exhibits have been added that feature the field of digital culture. In addition to its exhibits, visitors can visit Sonneveld House, an example of a modernist architectural style dating from the 1920s that's located just across the street. A shop and café, along with a pleasant garden, are also open to visitors.

Address: Museumpark 25, 3015 CB Rotterdam

Official site: https://hetnieuweinstituut.nl/en

One of the most popular gathering points in Rotterdam is the impressive Market Hall (Markt), a huge office complex that opened in 2014.

Nicknamed "Koopboog" (Horseshoe) by locals, it's an architectural marvel, with the soaring arched ceiling of its food hall covered in larger-than-life murals of vegetables, fish, and other produce, celebrating the fact the market itself is a kaleidoscope of fresh and prepared foods.

You'll find fast foods of every sort here, along with classy restaurants serving everything from traditional Dutch favorites, like Stroopwafels, to Balkan foods, Spanish tapas, and exotic Indonesian dishes.

On the River Noord, just 23 kilometers east of Rotterdam, is the beautiful little village of Kinderdijk. Taking its name from a famous legend that describes a baby's cradle being stranded here during the St. Elizabeth's Day flood of 1421 – the name literally translates as "the "children's dyke" – it's one of the most visited places in the Netherlands.

Each of its 19 perfectly preserved 18th-century windmills is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Built between 1722 and 1761, together they comprise the largest surviving concentration of windmills in the country, a history that's celebrated during special Mill Days , when their sails are once again set in motion.

Fun things to do include exploring the museums located in the Blookwer and Nederwaard mills, as well as the Wisdom pumping station. Fun tours along the canals are also available.

Address: Molenkade Nederwaard 1, 2961 AS Kinderdijk

Official site: www.kinderdijk.com

The centerpiece of Coolsingel – nicknamed the city's "Cool" district and the main street of Rotterdam's city center – is the Town Hall (Stadhuis).

Built between 1914 and 1920 in Dutch Renaissance style, it miraculously escaped destruction in the bombing of the city during World War II. While you can't visit the richly decorated interior on your own, guided tours are available and can be booked through the city's tourist office.

Opposite the Town Hall, in the busy Stadhuisplein, is a war memorial designed by Mari Andriessen. Other Coolsingel highlights include the Beurs-World Trade Center , a high-rise building with a facade of greenish-blue glass, and the Bijenkorf ("Beehive") department store, designed by leading architect Marcel Breuer in 1958. Fronting Bijenkorf is the 26-meter-high work of sculpture, Construction (1957), by Naum Gabo, a French sculptor of Russian origin.

The popular shopping streets of Lijnbaan and Koopgoot are also in this area. A few blocks northwest from Bijenkorf, you'll come to De Doelen , a concert hall and congress center rebuilt in 1966 after its destruction in 1940. It offers seating for 2,200 people, excellent acoustics, and a superb roster of concerts. Nearby is Theater Rotterdam Schouwburg , the city's municipal theater, which opened in 1988.

Rotterdam's massive port occupies half the city's total area of 247 square kilometers, much of it in turn occupied by Europoort, a huge complex known as the "Gateway to Europe." In addition to countless large freight vessels, you'll see mile after mile of quays and storage facilities built to service the world's busiest port.

One of the most popular sightseeing tours of the port area begins at Maeslantkering near Hoek van Holland (Hook of Holland) and includes a close-up look at the city's massive surge barrier. Evening tours are also fun, especially with Rotterdam's most famous landmarks, including the superb Erasmus Bridge , being spectacularly illuminated.

Established in 1857 and one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands, Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp) is well known for its successful breeding programs. Highlights of this include a number of young elephants, as well as the rare red panda, fascinating creatures to watch as they explore the large enclosures designed to resemble their natural habitats.

Natural habitats are, in fact, a priority here: the Asian section includes a swamp forest with two large aviaries for exotic birds, a Mongolian steppe, a bat cave, a Chinese garden, and numerous creatures indigenous to the region.

Also worth exploring is the zoo's Oceanium, an excellent aquarium featuring a large collection of marine life from the Americas. And, if after your visit the kids still have energy to burn, pay a visit to Plaswijckpark . This fun family park features boat and train rides, an adventures playground, plus a petting zoo.

Address: Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JE Rotterdam

Official site: www.diergaardeblijdorp.nl/en/

One of Rotterdam's most distinctive landmarks, the Euromast lies at the north entrance to the Maas Tunnel. Erected in 1960, this 185-meter-high tower houses two restaurants with superb city views, each at the 92-meter mark.

For thrill seekers looking for more than just great views there's the chance to abseil down the building, while those looking for a unique overnight stay can book one of two stunning suites located at the 100-meter point. English language guided tours are available.

Address: Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam

Official site: www.euromast.nl/en

The old district of Delfshaven, unlike much of the rest of Rotterdam, survived WWII largely unscathed. Consequently, its unspoiled old architecture has resulted in it becoming one of the most popular spots in this big bustling city.

Delfshaven is revered by the Dutch as the birthplace of Admiral Piet Hein, a 16th-century hero of the country's long war against Spain. For Americans, it's notable for the Old Church (Oude Kerk), where the last service was held in 1620 by the Pilgrims before sailing for the New World to found Plymouth, Massachusetts. This is commemorated with a memorial and bronze tablet.

Another example of the city's modern-yet-functional architecture is the Rotterdam Kunsthal, or Art Hall. This trendy gallery opened in 1992 and hosts a variety of constantly changing exhibits of visual arts, design, architecture, and culture from across the globe.

Another gallery of note is the Chabot Museum , which features the works of Dutch painter and sculptor Henk Chabot. It's housed in a superb white villa built in 1938.

Those with an interest in photography should plan on visiting the Netherlands Photo Museum (Nederlands Fotomuseum). Highlights include a broad collection of historical images by a number of Dutch photographers.

Address: Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341, 3015 AA Rotterdam

Official site: www.kunsthal.nl/

Miniworld Rotterdam is one of the newest tourist attractions in the Netherlands – and one of the best for kids. Set in a large warehouse and covering an area of over 535 square meters, Miniworld recreates many of the most recognizable landmarks and places to visit in the Netherlands on a miniature scale.

Crisscrossing these displays is a 2.3-kilometer-long network of model rail tracks, with some 150 trains buzzing around at any one time, between them pulling an impressive collection of over 1,800 pieces of rolling stock. Close to half the exhibit features parts of Rotterdam, allowing the little ones in your party to recognize some of the many attractions they may already have visited.

If you've got the time, book a fun behind-the-scenes tour. Along the way, you'll visit the Miniworld workshop and learn how the trains are controlled from the command center, including how the whole display is lit up when night falls – an event that happens every 25 minutes in Miniworld Rotterdam.

Address: Weena 745, 3013 AL Rotterdam

Official site: www.miniworldrotterdam.com/ENGindex.htm

Museum Rotterdam is one of the best places to visit for those wanting to learn more about the history of this fascinating port city. Established in the 1950s, the museum displays a rich collection of documents and artifacts, including artworks from the 17th and 18th centuries. Of these, the most important works are by Dutch painter Pieter de Hooch.

More recent history is also featured at the museum's Coolhaven annex. Dedicated to World War II, Museum Rotterdam '40 -'45 NU opened in 2015 and features exhibits relating specifically to the Dutch wartime experience. A notable artifact on display is the original flag of surrender used in May 1940 after the country was invaded by Germany.

Address: Rodezand 26, 3011 AN Rotterdam

Official site: https://museumrotterdam.nl/en/

Many pleasant excursions await within an easy commute of Rotterdam. One of the most popular places to visit is Bergen op Zoom , a historic old town some 67 kilometers south that is noted for its large squares and pleasant pedestrian zones. It's also where you'll find Markiezenhof Palace , a 15th-century mansion that now houses a cultural center and museum with numerous fine paintings and period furniture.

Also worth a visit are Breda , 52 kilometers southeast of Rotterdam, with its museums and monuments, and the town of Gorinchem , 44 kilometers to the east. Another must-see is the Witches Weigh House (Museum de Waag) in Oudewater, famous for once having been used to weigh those suspected of witchcraft. If you were considered light enough to ride a broomstick, the theory was that you were a witch (fortunately for the women of Oudewater, none of the accused were considered light enough to be punished).

About 70 kilometers from Rotterdam, Zierikzee on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland lures tourists with its yacht harbor, a picturesque old town center, and beautiful beaches fringed by wooded dunes.

Situated halfway between Rotterdam and Utrecht, and just an hour away by train, Schoonhoven is a good day's excursion for its superbly preserved medieval buildings. St. Bartholomeuskerk , founded in the 13th century and notable for its tendency to lean off the vertical, has stalls carved with scenes from the life of Christ. Look out for the 17th-century pulpit with its figures of the 12 Apostles, and the tomb of Olivier van Noort, the first Dutchman to circumnavigate the globe in the early 1600s.

The Schoonhoven Town Hall (Stadhuis), built in 1452 in Late Gothic style but much altered in later centuries, has a domed hexagonal tower containing a carillon of 50 bells.

Other town highlights include the picturesque Weigh House (Waag) from 1617 on top of a dam above the harbor; and the Edelambachtshuis , a granary built in 1566 that now houses a collection of jewelry from the 1600s to the 1900s.

If you're visiting Rotterdam for the first time and want to see some of the city's top sights, the best area to stay is in the city center. From here, you're near attractions such as the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen; the Euromast; Erasmus Bridge; and Coolsingel, the city's main street. Here are some of our most highly rated hotels in and near the city center:

Luxury Hotels:

• Located in a prime location just a five-minute walk from the city center, Mainport Hotel presides over impressive views of the city skyline from the banks of the river Maas and blends influences from East to West in its sultry, modern style. The spa features a Finnish sauna and hammam, while other notable amenities consist of a heated indoor swimming pool and on-site parking.
• Across the river from the city center and just a few steps away from public transport, the Green-Key-certified Suite Hotel Pincoffs is a classy boutique hotel worth booking. Set in a historic 19th-century customs house, this great spot frequently rates as the city's best boutique hotel with its affordable yet swanky suites. Breakfast and lunch are available for a fee.
• If you prefer a large chain luxury hotel, the pet-friendly Hilton Rotterdam could be just the ticket. Featuring a modern 24-hour fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, and a Michelin-star restaurant, it's within easy walking distance of Central Station and the shopping district. A mix of classy rooms and suites are available.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• At the top-end of the city's many mid-range hotels, citizenM Rotterdam offers quality accommodations just steps from Blaak station and a short stroll to the maritime museum and Coolsingel. Billed as affordable luxury, its clean, bright rooms feature wall-to-wall windows, a homey lobby that feels like a living room, and an innovative design concept.
• The nearby Ibis Rotterdam City Centre is also a worthy contender in the mid-range category. Situated on a small canal, this great-value hotel features small, bright rooms with free Wi-Fi and large-screen TVs. Amenities worth noting include a good on-site restaurant, as well as free parking.
• Just a short walk away from the city's Central Station and fabulous shopping, the Holiday Inn Express Rotterdam - Central Station offers the kind of quality rooms and amenities you'd expect from a big brand like Holiday Inn. The rooms are spacious and bright and include coffee makers and free Wi-Fi, while guests are treated to a complimentary continental breakfast each morning.

Budget Hotels:

• Located near the Museumpark, Central Station, and great shops and restaurants, easyHotel Rotterdam City Centre is one of the city's top-rated budget hotels. It features small yet bright rooms in the heart of the city, with affordable prices and clean public areas.
• Just a two-minute walk from Rotterdam's city center, Bienvenue offers basic rooms for a budget-friendly price. Standard rooms feature comfortable beds, along with work desks and free Wi-Fi. Guests often comment on how peaceful this hotel is, a fact due to its location in a quiet neighborhood of an otherwise large and busy city.
• Hotel Baan is another good budget accommodation option, located near a train station and within walking distance of the iconic Euromast. Rooms are clean and simple, with some offering views directly over a canal.
• Half-Day Walking Tour and Harbor Cruise: You can see Rotterdam's top sights from both land and sea on the half-day Rotterdam Walking Tour Including Harbor Cruise . The Old Harbour, Cube Houses, and Museumpark are just some of the attractions on the itinerary of this private tour. After strolling around the city streets, you can relax on a harbor cruise and view the city from a different perspective.
• Architecture Tour: If you're interested in learning more about Rotterdam's landmark buildings, the Private Rotterdam Architecture Walking Tour is an excellent option. On this three-hour walking tour, you'll see impressive buildings, like Rotterdam Central Station, the Cube Houses, and Rotterdam Market Hall (Markthal), and hear fascinating stories about their history.

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Nearby Places to Visit : Almost any point in the Netherlands is within easy reach of Rotterdam. Just a short commute to the north is the country's porcelain center of Delft , known for its famous Delftware, a type of pottery that has graced shelves and dining room hutches around the world since the 17th century. The capital of the Netherlands, The Hague , also makes for an easy excursion, and is well worth visiting for its fine old palaces. Fun attractions in Leiden , one of the country's main cultural centers, include its old castle and world-class museums.

Netherlands Travel Ideas : Only 40 minutes from Rotterdam by train, busy Amsterdam is another good base for day trips , especially for art lovers, who can enjoy such art-related attractions as the Rijksmuseum, home of many works by Rembrandt. And to the north of Amsterdam is the city of Haarlem , boasting one of the most attractive and pedestrian-friendly city centers in the country. A few kilometers east of Rotterdam is the country's fourth largest city, Utrecht , popular among sightseers for its picturesque setting and well-preserved medieval architecture.

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10 x must see sights and activities in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a must-see city with lots of attractions, monuments and architectural highlights to look out for. There’s always something new to see or do in the city. In the realm of architecture , Rotterdam is a feast for the eyes. Find out where to go and what to do and discover the highlights in this top 10 list of things to do and see. Prefer to explore on your own? Get inspired by our City Map. It is freely available at most hotels and attractions, as well as all our Rotterdam Tourist Information service points (or download the map here ). Or maximize your Rotterdam adventure with the Rotterdam City Card .

1. Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen

Why shouldn’t a depot building have multiple functions other than storing art? The first publicly accessible art storage facility – ‘the bowl’ – is as self-evident as it is groundbreaking. After all, the viewing starts outside, searching for your reflection in the mirrored exterior. Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen – with an ultra-sustainable energy system and its own heat and cold storage – has been packed with visitors since its opening in 2021. You can browse art (the building houses up to 151,000 works), visit the green roof or eat at Restaurant Renilde .

Book your tickets here

Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen - Iris van den Broek

2. Rotterdam Centraal

Rotterdam Central Station is one of the most iconic architectural sites in Rotterdam. The roof over the tracks is covered in solar panels and the striking hall roof points towards the city centre. A number of historic elements from the former station building (1957) by Sybold van Ravesteyn have been re-used, like the original clock in the front façade and the letters spelling out ‘Centraal Station’. In the main hall you can find several shops, information about public transport and the Rotterdam Tourist Information . When you walk out of the station don’t forget to have a look at the impressive statue Moments Contained (2023).

Rotterdam Centraal and Moments Contained - Iris van den Broek

3. Euromast

The Euromast observation tower was constructed to mark the Floriade gardening extravaganza in 1960. The tower, made from reinforced concrete, has an inner diameter of 9 metres with walls that are 30 cm thick. Its floor hangs 96 metres above the ground. The Euromast lift takes just 30 seconds to whisk visitors to a height of 100 metres, where there is an observation deck and brasserie restaurant. The Euroscope revolving lift takes people up to 185 metres. Euromast is Europe’s only attraction from which you can abseil to the ground. Of course, this only takes place under the guidance of a professional.

Get your tickets here

Euromast - Iris van den Broek

4. Markthal

You’ll find an indoor market hall in various world-class cities, but the combination with luxury housing makes Rotterdam’s Markthal  the first of its kind. The apartments are arched over the food market in a horseshoe configuration. The main hall houses the market itself, as well as shops and various restaurants, with a supermarket and a four-storey car park situated below. As you wander amongst the market stands, look up to enjoy the massive artwork sprawled across the ceiling: the ‘Horn of Plenty’ by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam. Sign up for an Open Tour on the weekend via De Rotterdam Tours : a one-hour tour of the Markthal. Don’t forget to visit one of the country’s biggest outdoor markets which is held on the large square (Binnenrotte) in front of the Markthal (Tuesday and Saturday). Did you know that you will soon be able to surf in the Steigersgracht next to the Markthal? In the spring of 2024, RiF010 , a watersports oasis for everyone, will open.

Markthal - Ossip van Duivenbode

5. ss Rotterdam

The ss Rotterdam (1959) is the former flagship of the Holland-America Line and boasts a wealth of history. The steamship was built in Rotterdam, returning to its home port in 2008 after many voyages and nautical miles. Since then, it has been moored at the tip of the Katendrecht peninsula. It’s used as a hotel , restaurant and events venue. The terrace on deck, including a small pool, offers a unique view of the city. The general areas on the ship, including the restaurants, are open to the public. The ss Rotterdam also offers various tours of the decks, corridors, staterooms and platforms, some lasting only an hour and others as long as two; the tours include an audiophone and additional explanations by the ship hosts. The tours show the amazing interior of a large luxury cruise liner and let visitors explore what life used to be like on board. The Rotterdam Complete Tour also includes a peek inside the engine room.

Book a tour here

ss Rotterdam - Iris van den Broek

6. Historisch Delfshaven

This picturesque yacht marina is one of the few parts of the old city that survived the 1940 bombardment of Rotterdam. It has a remarkable history, Delfshaven locals once earned their living by fishing for herring and distilling gin. The historic canal houses now hold cosy shops selling antiques and bric-a-brac, the Dutch Pinball Museum , as well as lovely cafés and restaurants like brewery De Pelgrim and café De Oude Sluis (with waterside patio dining). The Historical Tram Line 10 takes you to Delfshaven in the summer season, offering a ‘hop on hop off’ service. Once there, you can also explore Historic Delfshaven by water with iKapitein .

Historisch Delfshaven

As a port city, Rotterdam has unbreakable ties to the Nieuwe Maas River. There are all sorts of ways to explore and experience the river and the port. Go on a tour with Spido, one of Rotterdam’s biggest attractions. The Port of Rotterdam tour (75 minutes) sails year-round and gives you a short but powerful impression of Rotterdam’s container ports. The route also passes sights like the Hotel New York, the Euromast, and the ss Rotterdam.

Spido - Iris van den Broek

8. Cube Houses

The Cube Houses (Piet Blom, 1978-1984) are part of the Blaakse Bos (Blaakse Wood) development which borders on the Laurenskwartier district and the Waterfront area. The architect wanted to design a kind of village within the city and saw the houses as trees and the whole area as a wood. The Cube Houses are tipped to one side as it were, making three sides face the ground and three face the sky. Don’t forget to visit the Kijk-Kubus (Show-Cube) to experience what life is like in a Cube House.

Cube Houses - Iris van den Broek

9. Erasmusbrug

The 800-metre long Erasmus Bridge (Ben van Berkel, 1996) spans the Nieuwe Maas River and links the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam. The bridge is part of the redevelopment of an old port area and was specifically designed to be an iconic structure to give the area a strong presence. The suspension bridge has a 139-metre high steel pylon which is secured with 40 cables. The shape of the pylon gave the bridge its nickname: The Swan.

Erasmusbrug - Iris van den Broek

10. Museumpark

The ultimate arts and culture street in Rotterdam, de Witte de Withstraat, is known for its artistic, multicultural and lively character. Referred to as the city’s ‘Axis of Art’, it runs from the Maritime Museum to the Museumpark and is lined with galleries, avantgarde fashion boutiques, restaurants and (art) cafés. Fan of street art? Discover impressive wall paintings from local artists with the Rotterdam Street Art Route . More art & culture…

More highlights to discover

Fenix food factory, trompenburg, floating farm, walking in rotterdam.

Rotterdam is a lovely city to explore on foot. You can take in an abundance of sights on a short stroll or long city walk. The options are endless, and if you want, you can use an app like Rotterdam Routes , or a map or join an official guide who will show you all the highlights. There are plenty of interesting sights to discover.

Privacy overzicht

Things to do in Rotterdam

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Restaurants, visit rotterdam.

Welcome to Rotterdam, the dynamic and vibrant city of the Netherlands that effortlessly blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. As you explore this bustling metropolis, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks, innovative architecture, and a diverse array of attractions that cater to every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, foodie, hotel lover or simply in search of adventure, Rotterdam offers something for everyone, ensuring an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.

Art & Architecture

For art enthusiasts, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen houses an impressive collection of Dutch and European masterpieces spanning centuries, while the striking Cube Houses by architect Piet Blom offer a glimpse into Rotterdam’s avant-garde architectural landscape.

Immerse yourself in the sophistication of Rotterdam’s vribant city life and discover a world of luxury hotels to make your stay unforgettable. Book your hotel in Rotterdam through VisitRotterdam.com and receive rewards.

Rotterdam is home to several museums that offer a diverse range of art, culture, and history. We name some of the top museums and other cultural institutions in Rotterdam that you should visit.

In bustling Rotterdam, where old and new merge seamlessly, there are plenty of shopping opportunities waiting to be discovered. Set amidst striking architecture and bustling streets, shopping in Rotterdam is an experience like no other, a fusion of modern sophistication and timeless charm.

Book a hotel in Rotterdam

Hilton Rotterdam Rotterdam Marriott Hotel Mainport Hotel Rotterdam.

More hotels in Rotterdam … .

Restaurants in Rotterdam

FG Restaurant The Millèn FG Food Labs Amarone Euromast Panorama Restaurant

More restaurants in Rotterdam …

Rotterdam for Kids

• Maritime Museum (Maritiem Museum): explore Rotterdam’s maritime heritage through engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

Euromast: ascend Rotterdam’s iconic observation tower for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

Rotterdam Art Gallery

Near Rotterdam, just a 10-minute drive away, you find Art Gallery Voûte . This art gallery is an independent, unconventional (sometimes to the point of being nonconformist) and has an international orientation. The style can be described as somewhat eclectic.

The contemporary art collection consists of paintings, sculptures and fine art photography.  Explore the new arrivals .

TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS FOR TOURISTS IN ROTTERDAM 

• Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug): marvel at Rotterdam’s iconic bridge spanning the River Maas, offering stunning views of the cityscape.
• Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen : delve into centuries of art history with a vast collection of Dutch and European masterpieces
• Cube Houses ( Kubuswoningen ): experience avant-garde architecture in Rotterdam’s innovative Cube Houses designed by Piet Blom.
• Markthal : indulge your senses in Rotterdam’s bustling indoor market, offering a feast of flavors from around the world.
• Delfshaven : wander through this historic district adorned with charming canals, historic buildings, and cozy cafes.
• Euromast : ascend Rotterdam’s iconic observation tower for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
• Het Park : relax in this serene green space, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics amidst nature.
• Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp): encounter exotic wildlife and immersive exhibits in one of Europe’s finest zoological parks.
• Witte de Withstraat : experience Rotterdam’s vibrant nightlife along this bustling street lined with trendy bars and restaurants.

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15 of the best things to do in Rotterdam

Tilting cube houses, floating farms and windmills await in the netherlands’ second city.

W here overcrowded Amsterdam has cutesy cobbles and canals, glassy modern buildings on both sides of the Nieuwe Maas river announce the city of Rotterdam . Look a little deeper, however, and you’ll soon be charmed. Having suffered terribly in the Second World War, the Netherlands’ second-biggest city has rebuilt itself and, in so doing, carved out a reputation for sustainability and innovation. Be it in the realm of art, architecture, transport, housing, food or even farming, conventions are constantly being broken here and the future forged. Just along from Europe’s biggest port, you’ll also find classic stuff — a masted merchant ship here, windmills over there, even a sandy beach nearby — but the overall energy is youthful and wonderfully free-thinking. There’s nowhere quite like it.

Main photo: Rotterdam’s Markthal (Alamy)

1. Gasp at the Cube Houses

Blitzed by bombs in 1940, Rotterdam made use of its many unexpectedly blank canvases by becoming an architectural powerhouse. Today, innovation, intelligence and imagination inform countless contemporary structures here. Most distinctive is Piet Blom’s Overblaak Development, which was completed in 1984. Alongside its pencil-shaped tower are the 38 banana-yellow Cube Houses: small homes atop a hexagonal base, each of which tilts forwards at a 54.7-degree angle. Although most are residential, remarkably, the fully furnished Show-Cube acts as a museum. Visit as part of private, architecture-themed walking tours which also admire the swan-like, 802m Erasmus Bridge.

2. Feast in the Markthal

Opposite the Cube Houses stands another Rotterdam jewel. Designed by local studio MVRDV — also responsible for London’s maligned Marble Arch Mound — the 120m-long, horseshoe-shaped Markthal reinvents traditional Dutch food halls. Each 40m-high end is composed of steel around huge panels of glass; in between is a curving ceiling mural whose food, flowers and insects reference 17th-century still lifes. Most attention-grabbing, however, are the gourmet fast-food stands, delicatessens, cafes and cheesemongers below. Activity is unrelenting, and a riot of smells and colours captivate. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, 500 additional clothing, book or produce-selling stalls are outside.

3. Admire art in Museumpark

Premier art spaces flank Rotterdam’s Museumpark. The Kunsthal offers five contemporary exhibitions — kinky taxidermy one quarter; kinetic spirals the next — while the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen’s pioneering Depot acts as a publicly accessible warehouse for hundreds of thousands of classical paintings, ceramics and more. Also here are the Het Nieuwe Instituut’s fashion and design exhibits and a fascinating Natural History Museum. The buildings dazzle, too: architect Rem Koolhaas created the Kunsthal’s squat zigzags, the Sonneveld House leaves hypermodernist pilgrims weak at the knees and a giant reflective bowl houses Depot.

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4. Follow a Sculpture Route

Prefer open-air art? No problem: beginning from Chinatown, the Westersingel Sculpture Route (Beeldenroute Westersingel) features 17 works by such luminaries as Rodin and Picasso. Aided by the fact that Rotterdam has Europe’s largest collection of public art, it follows the Westersingel Canal all the way to Museumpark. Halfway along stands the strangest Santa Claus you’ll ever see. Known as the Buttplug Gnome and found beside Binnenweg, the Netherlands’ longest shopping street, Paul McCarthy’s provocative, sex toy-carrying Christmas tribute is firmly in Marmite territory. Free maps are available from the tourist information centre on Coolsingel.

5. Cycle around Kinderdijk’s windmills

Nothing screams “The Netherlands” more than windmills, and some supremely pretty 18th-century examples lie ten miles southeast of Rotterdam. Accessible by ferry, Unesco world heritage-listed village Kinderdijk is situated on low-lying land between bird-rich marshes and lily-lined canals; its system of 19 mills do vital work in draining out water. Boat tours are one option; but it’s more fun to pedal around, relishing the peace and quiet. Guided tours take in superior vantage points, pause at museum mills and throw in optional pastry and cheese-farm stops for good measure.

6. Paint the town red on Witte de Withstraat

Part of the boutiquey Cool district, Witte de Withstraat and its satellite lanes are Rotterdam’s liveliest spots after dark. Mezze restaurants sprawl onto covered pavement terraces beside artisanal ice-cream parlours, speakeasies, theatres and beer bars. For something more alternative, head for Hofbogen. Daubed in street art and linked by a network of yellow-painted elevated walkways, this free-spirited quarter is home to a railway-arch jazz den, Bird, and white-walled Mono. Morphing into an avant-garde, early-hours electro den at weekends, this café-gallery typifies the city’s penchant for nightclubs in unlikely spots.

7. Preserve pandas at the zoo

Perfect for families, Rotterdam Zoo (or Diergaarde Blijdorp) is split into themed areas including a Mongolian steppe, a Malaysian forest, a crocodile river, a vast butterfly enclosure and an oceanarium. Among the residents are rhinos, lions, tigers, giraffes, gorillas, polar bears, penguins and elephants, as well as ultra-rare Amur leopards; children can also learn about 70 breeding programmes which help endangered species such as irresistibly cute red pandas. Lots of interactive, educational exhibits make life easy for parents, as does a giant treehouse-style playground. Booking tickets in advance also eliminates faff.

8. Hit the beach

Running riverside opposite the port of Rotterdam — one of Europe’s biggest — mostly overground metro services now journey all the way east to Hook of Holland. The sand dunes of this small town are peppered with Nazi-built defensive bunkers (some of them now hip holiday lets) and give way to vast, clean North Sea shores backed by slick beach clubs. It thrums on hot summer days, as half of Rotterdam comes to tan, swim and socialise. Food-wise, De Pier is a classic snackbar on the sea wall and eco-friendly PLSTK serves brunch atop an old German radar tower.

9. Dine at FG Food Labs

While François Geurds’ two-Michelin-star FG Restaurant is always booked solid, spaces at his more casual, one-star Food Labs in Hofbogen’s railway arches are easier to come by. A rule-bending kitchen uses Geurds’ “flavour laboratory” to concoct delicious dishes such as popcorn ice cream beneath crispy chicken-skin. Other local institutions are friet — a chunkier version of French fries, best doused in rich stoofvlees meat stew — at the Tante Nel snack shack in Centrum and slices ofappeltaart from Dudok. Now nationwide, this chain began here and has a branch inside the beautiful, chevron-shaped Rotterdam Centraal station.

10. Tour Rotterdam’s rooftops

A quirky consequence of 1940s bombardment is that there are more flat rooftops here than in any other Dutch city. Many are sadly unused, but others display canny multi-functionality and typical Rotterdam resourcefulness. Led by Esther Wienese, who has published a book on this subject, private walking (or bicycle-based) tours take in four of the most memorable — all of them not normally open. As well as impressive views — the last a full panorama — expect ingenious designs, sustainability principles and frequent inspiration.

11. Explore by boat

Rotterdam is strung around the Nieuwe Maas river and its many man-made tentacles. Boat tours are common, and the most exciting way to get around is by booking water taxis. For more freedom, however, hire out a seven-person electric sloop. No licence is required for drivers over 26, and they’re easy to use. You might putter under the distinctive Erasmus and Willems bridges, dock for a pre-arranged tour of the eco-friendly Floating Farm or admire the attractive Old Harbour, where historic Maritime Museum ships and 16th-century merchant houses are juxtaposed against slick modern versions.

12. Climb the Euromast

Within Het Park’s English-style landscapes you’ll find cool lunch café Parqiet — also one of the many great coffee options in this java-obsessed city — as well as lawns, lakes, mini golf and the 185m-high Euromast tower. Roughly halfway up the Netherlands’ tallest building is a formal restaurant, with the highest observation platform currently at 112m (rides to the top should be possible later in 2022) and accessed via a slowly rotating glass lift. In summer, daredevils can usually abseil the last 100m back down to Het Park.

13. Delve into Delfshaven

The picture-perfect western neighbourhood of Delfshaven was one of Rotterdam’s few to survive the Second World War. That allows walking tours to visit Pelgrimskerk, the church from which founding fathers left for America, and longstanding mills, breweries and brown cafés (traditional Dutch pubs). In between come quaint, flower-lined canals. You’ll learn that the town was created as a port — accessed via those waterways — for inland city Delft, which is seven miles north and chiefly famous for two things: native son painter Jan Vermeer and its beloved blue-and-white pottery.

14. Explore Katendrecht and Kop van Zuid

Once a red-light district, the rejuvenated Katendrecht peninsula now hosts trendy restaurants (try De Matroos en Het Meisje) and the Fenix Food Factory, whose craft beer and tapas stalls support a waterside terrace where cool cats recline under fairy lights. Custom walking tours can stop at Holland America Line’s old SS Rotterdam ship, which criss-crossed oceans for 40 years before becoming a hotel, then cross a pedestrian bridge to Kop van Zuid’s redeveloped docklands. Here you’ll find floating offices and stellar skyscrapers plus, most arrestingly, Holland America’s old art nouveau headquarters — now the swanky Hotel New York* .

15. Stay at the Culture Campsite

Just west of the centre, the Culture Campsite is Rotterdam’s funkiest place to stay. Open from May to September amid a former parking lot, its dozen, plant-flanked units have been dreamed up by professional architects and designers. One pea-shaped confection is forged from old animal silos; another sees a cladded crane mast become a four-floor hideaway. Each is surprisingly comfortable. There’s also a shared common area where guests can play board games or raid an honesty bar. People of all ages come, including Rotterdammers seeking an exotic night’s stay.

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Inspired to visit Rotterdam but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from British Airways* and Expedia* .

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Related articles

25 Top Things to Do in Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

How to get to Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Things to do in Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Ds. Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam

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

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

Address: Geldersekade 1C, 3011 WB Rotterdam

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

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

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

Address: Grotekerkplein 27, 3011 GC Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Delistraat 1, 3072 ZL Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Daniela

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The 13 best things to do in Rotterdam

From a special elevation tower to a visit to a beautiful bridge, these are the best things to do in Rotterdam

Rotterdam has a very different personality from Amsterdam  and a mere glance at our list of best things to do in Rotterdam proves just that. The second biggest city in the Netherlands was virtually razed to the ground during World War II and the subsequent rebuilding effort—which included constructions by some of the twentieth century’s most renowned architects — gives the city its modern, varied landscape and distinctive character.

Straddling the River Maas, Rotterdam is split in two: the city centre and traditional hubs of power are located on the northern bank, while the south retains a grittier, industrial feel (even while gentrification continues apace). Boasting a youthful exuberance and "why not?" attitude, there’s a lot going on here culturally and economically, making this a very exciting place to visit. 

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.  Find out more about  how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world .

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Best things to do in Rotterdam

1.  Euromast

What is it? Built as an observation tower in 1960, Euromast is not simply a place to cast an eye across the cityscape; aside from the open-air viewing platform 112 metres up, there’s an excellent restaurant, an enclosed, rotating glass elevator (complete with voiceover tour) that takes you up to 185 metres, and even two hotel suites with private balconies.

Why go? Few things are as thrilling as a birds-eye view of a city, and the sweeping panoramas from Euromast are no exception. And if that’s not enough, adrenaline junkies can even abseil down it.

2.  Erasmusbrug

What is it? Known locally as ‘the swan’, the most distinctive of the three main bridges across of the Maas fits in perfectly with the city’s modern, daring architectural outlook.

Why go? Connecting the central part of the north side to the south bank, a walk across it is the perfect starting point for an exploration of the south’s up and coming neighbourhoods. At night, it’s spectacularly lit up, and while you’re here, pop along to the lovingly preserved, art deco wonder that is Hotel New York; Rotterdam’s most famous hotel. What’s now a hip luxury hangout used to be the starting point for those sailing west to the New World in search of a better life.

3.  Museumpark

What is it? This leafy, tranquil space – bequeathed to the city by the Hoboken family in 1927 – lies at the heart of the Museum Quarter, a studied, elegant enclave devoted to culture.

Why go? All the heavyweight galleries and museums are within a five-minute walk; the architecture and design temple of Het Nieuwe Instituut, the 1930’s art museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, the Natural History Museum, and Kunsthal, A Rem Koolhaas-designed space that hosts contemporary exhibits of modern art, photography, fashion, and design. If the weather is nice, grab some food to go for a picnic at nearby Roffa Streetfoodbar; if not, there are many classy, old-world Dutch restaurants a stone’s throw away.

4.  Witte de Withstraat

What is it? The hub of all things cool in the city. Set aside an hour or two to explore the length of this buzzy, happening street next to the Museum Quarter.

Why go? Home to the Centre for Contemporary Art, an innovative public cultural centre, there’s something going on no matter what time of day or night you visit; quirky bars eccentric locals, cool kids, music venues, independent boutiques, vintage stores, and excellent Chinese, Vietnamese, and Surinamese food all happily mingle and co-exist. Do try to catch a show at WORM, known for their eclectic, progressive programming, and have a beer at Schouw, a hangout for artists, poets, journalists and drunks that’s the cutest little bar you’re ever likely to see.

5.  Luchtsingel Pedestrian Bridge (Yellow Path)

What is it? The Luchtsingel – literally ‘air canal’ – is billed as ‘the world’s first crowdfunded public infrastructure project’. More than 8,000 people pledged €25 each to make this 400-metre-long pedestrian bridge a reality.

Why go? Connecting three previously disconnected areas close to the central station, it’s led to regeneration and the transformation of unused urban spaces. There’s Schieblock, an incubator for young entrepreneurs with a rooftop urban farm; Annabel, a cool hangout where Operator Radio broadcast from a shipping container; Roodkapje, ‘a communal living room, project space, and underground laboratory for art, music, and food’; Hofbogen park; and numerous other coffee spots, bars, food venues, and green spaces.

6.  SS Rotterdam

What is it? Now permanently moored on the south shore of Katendrecht, this former ocean liner and cruise ship – known as ‘The Grande Dame’ – was the jewel in the crown of the once sizable transatlantic Dutch fleet. Since 2010, she’s been a hotel ship, but she also houses various bars, restaurants, a nightclub, a museum, and can be booked for conferences, meetings, and even weddings.

Why go? Guided tours are available, and if you’re lucky – and the weather is nice – one of the on-deck swimming pools might be open. For a truly authentic sea experience, arrive by water taxi – the ship has a small, purpose-built dock for this very purpose.

7.  Katendrecht

What is it? As the city’s former Chinatown and the place where sailors would step back on dry land after months at sea, this peninsula was home to pawn shops, seedy dive bars, tattoo parlours, and whorehouses. Most of that is gone now, and Katendecht is now hip and happening, with a plethora of young, arty types starting up new venues and businesses.

Why go? To hang out. There’s the Dutch Pinball Museum, the Fenix Food Factory – an indoor market for fresh produce and food stalls – and Kaapse Brouwers for some local craft ales. More upmarket fare is available in the cosy restaurants around Deliplein Square, or grab a table on a waterfront terrace for a very memorable sunset.

8.  Spido Harbour

What is it? The Dutch have a rich, maritime history, and nowhere is this more evident than in Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe. The historic Maritime Quarter is the only part of the city to be spared the WWII bombs. These docks and shipyards are still bustling today.

Why go? It might not boast the majesty of Amsterdam’s historic canal ring, but a tour around the harbour and waterways here is just as impressive and fascinating. Tours provide a close-up view of the riverside’s most iconic buildings, and sail past De Nolet, the world’s tallest windmill (a wind turbine in disguise). Booking in advance is recommended.

9.  Schaatsbaan Ice Rink

What is it? A far cry from sad, neglected rinks illuminated by sickly strip lighting, this place boasts a state-of-the-art, 400-metre oval tunnel that lights up with LEDs and disco lights.

Why go? If you’re visiting in the colder months, this is the spot to have a go at ice-skating, one of the few winter sports the Dutch take seriously. Kids can be entertained on their own patch of ice, and you can also try your hand at curling. In the depths of winter, there are outdoor food stalls selling hot snacks and beverages alongside various other sporting installations which come into their own in the warmer months.

10.  Arboretum Trompenburg / Kralingse Bos

What is it? The Arboretum Trompenburg botanical garden is home to over 4,000 plants and trees, and a quaint little teahouse with a beautiful terrace in which to enjoy their homemade cakes. The surrounding area – around the Erasmus University (the highest ranked research university in the Netherlands) – is perfect for nature lovers who quickly tire of the urban hustle.

Why go? The botanical garden is a quiet den of peace and tranquillity, but those feeling a little more active should head instead to Kralingse Bos, where locals go for long bike rides, runs, open water swims, and active strolls. For a spot of head-clearing natural splendour, it’s pretty hard to beat.

11.  Nederlands Fotomuseum

What is it? If you only have time for one museum on your visit, head to the national photography museum, located just south of Erasmusberg next to the Hotel New York. Its focus is historical, cultural, and social images from the twentieth and twenty-first century.

Why go? It has more than three million pictures by Dutch photographers in their archives and collections. Exhibitions range from star names in the field to more obscure work from the in-house collections – part of its remit is to preserve the Netherlands’ visual heritage. And don’t miss the basement Dark Room, an interactive installation of photos and videos that overlays the history of both the country and the art form.

12.  Markthal

What is it? You can get your food and architecture fix at Markthal, a stunning residential and office building that also houses a food market.

Why go? It’s something of an architectural wonder – it boasts the largest glass-window cable structure in Europe, and is decorated on the inside by the world’s largest rendered digital print (the food on offer more than matches the surroundings). It’s also right next to the famous Cube Houses, the interconnected group of tilted residencies designed by Piet Blom – do take the time to visit the Kijkkubus (show home) and marvel at their strange interiors.

13.  Delfshaven

What is it? Take a trip back in time with a wander around Delfshaven, a quaint, historic harbour that was once an independent city until subsumed by the growing metropolis of Rotterdam.

Why go? To visit the Oude Kirk, where the Pilgrim Fathers held their last service before sailing to the Americas in 1620, and check out a working genever distillery, still brewing the traditional Dutch liquor. And besides a number of cute little cafes and restaurants, you can play street golf; Café De Ooievaar will rent you a special golf set and give you the itinerary of the 9-hole golf course that crosses old bridges, treacherous cobblestones, and weaves through narrow alleys.

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Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 15 Best Things to Do in Rotterdam (The Netherlands)

15 Best Things to Do in Rotterdam (The Netherlands)

Rotterdam is located in the southern Netherlands and is the second largest city in the country after the capital Amsterdam with a population of approximately 630,000. Rotterdam has been a major city for many hundreds of years and has always served as a large port as it lies on the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt river delta.

Since the 1300’s the port of Rotterdam has developed and served as a major port of the Dutch East India Company. During WWII Rotterdam saw extensive bombing and its centre was almost completely destroyed, however after this the city was slowly rebuilt and once again stands as a modern port.

Aside from its fascinating port, Rotterdam also features some fantastic architecture like the modern cube buildings and the Euromast Tower, but also has a wonderful variety of museums, eateries and activities to enjoy.

1. Markthal Rotterdam

The Markthal is a stunning piece of architecture that was constructed in 2009 and serves as both an office building and a marketplace. The design of the structure is quite unique with a large semi-circular grey façade and a large windowed section facing out to the surrounding courtyard. The inside of the structure has some amazing artwork by Arno Coenen and shows various colourful fruits, plants, insects and flowers.

The market section of the Markthal contains a huge array of shops, stalls, restaurants and bars such as a Tea bar, a tapas bar, a “world of drinks” shop and over 70 other different businesses. It really is a cool and vibrant place to explore and sample some find food and drink.

Recommended tour : Markthal Tour, Meet & Taste, and Het Witte Huis

2. Rotterdam Zoo

Also known as the Diergaarde Blijdorp, the Rotterdam Zoo had stood for many years despite having to change locations during WWII to avoid bombing. The zoo is in great condition and features a Botanical garden and Oceanium and also operates breeding programs to help endangered species such as the Red Panda.

The zoo is split into several different themed areas including a Chinese garden, a Malayan Forest, Mongolian Steppes and a crocodile river. Animals include the Black Rhino, Greater Kudu, Sumatran Tiger, Asian Elephant and the Amur Leopard. This zoo really is a fantastic place for both children and adults alike and the wide variety of enclosures and interactive elements will provide hours of fun.

Book online : Rotterdam Zoo Skip-the-Line Ticket

3. Euromast Tower

The Euromast Tower is an observation station that was created in 1960 to provide panoramic views of the Rotterdam Cityscape. The towers stands at 606ft and with its antenna it is the tallest building in Rotterdam. The tower features a restaurant, a conference room for business meetings, a hotel suite and of course the observation deck.

This is the perfect way to see the sprawling expanse of Rotterdam and its ports and the entrance fee is quite modest for both adults and children. If you are looking for a little adrenaline action you can even zip-line or abseil from the tower.

Combo discount: River Cruise and Euromast Entrance Ticket

4. Erasmus Bridge

This monumental bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas distributary of the Rhine and runs from the confluence of the Noord and Lek rivers. The length of this impressive bridge stretches to an immense 802m making it the second largest in the Netherlands. The bridge is nicknamed the Swan due to its large upright mast that resembles the neck of a swan.

In the centre of the bridge there is a bascule section that opens to allow larger ships passage through the waters. This feat of modern engineering creates an impressive backdrop to the port of Rotterdam and is a fine construction to admire and walk across.

5. Rotterdam Central Station

Rotterdam is a city that is full of modern and unique architecture and the central station is one such building. The new terminal was opened in 2014 and its architecture has become quite iconic. The building has a triangular shape that points towards the sky at a protruding angle.

The clock and the large letters that are set in the station entrance were transferred from the old station to retain some of its memory. The station connects to many other destinations in the Netherlands including Amsterdam, Den Haag, Groningen and Tilburg and sees 100,000+ passengers come through its doors on a daily basis.

6. Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk

The Church of Saint Laurence is the only remaining piece of medieval architecture that survives in Rotterdam. The church was constructed in 1449 and was added too over the years.

The church was one of the first all-stone buildings to be created in Rotterdam and has served as a place for many important events. Located in the old town centre, near the Maritime Museum and the Erasmus Bridge, the church stands out against the relative modern skyline of Rotterdam.

The interior of the church is quite beautiful with many decorated arches, high vaulted ceilings and a variety of stone reliefs and rich religious decoration.

7. Europort

The area labelled the Europort is an area of the ports in Rotterdam and is considered one of the busiest ports in the world and a major trade entry point into Europe.

The port is huge beyond belief and is a fascinating place to visit, to understand its importance and the role it plays in the cities and countries economy.

Boat tours are a great way to view the port and you will see many immense cargo ships, the large number of quays, storage facilities and boat yards and be blown away by the sheet scale and operation of this industrial marvel.

8. Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum is one of the largest of its type in the world with a huge collection of cartography, maritime memorabilia and art. The museum is located in central Rotterdam near the Markthal and the Cube houses.

Some of the interesting exhibitions include a controversial paiting of the Battle of Trafalgar, a collection of figureheads from various ships, different navy uniforms and flags from sea battles.

This really is a place full of interesting objects relating to the maritime world and the artefacts you can find here are world-class.

9. Fenix Food Factory

This food factory provides a unique experience where you can delve into the food world and take part in workshops, tastings and open markets.

The factory promotes fresh local produce and you can find some delightful treats here and even freshly roasted coffee and home brewed beer.

Aside from the beer and coffee you can also indulge in tasty cheeses, a selection of butchers meats and bread and cakes from Jordy’s Bakery.

Food lovers will find this place to be delightful and if you let yourself you can really pig out on the things you can find here.

10. Rotterdam Boat Tour

A boat tour is the perfect way to see the fantastic harbours and ports of Rotterdam.

As the port is so extensive and huge, it is silly to try and walk around it yourself – A boat tour will provide a comfortable means of transport and you will learn a great deal from the tour guides.

There are many companies that provide boat tours, but one particular tour is the Spido Harbor Tour which last approximately 75 minutes.

The boats are really modern with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and fantastic wide windows for unobstructed viewing.

You can also enjoy food and drink and the commentary is both in Dutch and English.

For a relaxing ad informative tour, this really is a great way to see the magnificent ports of Rotterdam.

Book online : 90-Minute Harbor Cruise with Live Guide

11. Kinderdijk’s Windmills

Windmills are an iconic structure that has come to define the Netherlands and is one of the main things people associate with the country.

Around 20km to the east of central Rotterdam lies the small village of Kinderdjik which is a charming place to visit in its own right.

What makes this village an especially magical place however is the many windmills that line the canals here.

The 19 windmills stand proudly and have been restored to their original condition and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This truly is a delightful place to visit and the surrounding countryside and network of canals is extremely impressive.

Recommended tour: UNESCO Kinderdijk, Euromast & Spido Day Trip

12. Depot Boijmans-van Beuningen

This peaceful and charming museum is located in the Dijkzigt district of Rotterdam and is one of the country’s most important museums of art.

The museum contains a fine display of sculptures, paintings and decorative arts from many different artists and countries including works from Van Gough, Dali and Rembrandt.

Notable pieces include the “Tower of Babel” by Pieter Bruegel, and “Couple with their heads full of Clouds” by Dali.

Aside from the fantastic collection of art, the building and grounds of the museum are really impressive and a pleasant place to walk around.

13. SS Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam is a large ocean liner that was originally known as the Grande Dame and constructed in the 1950’s.

The ship was one of the last lavishly decorated liners and was finally retired in the year 2000. Over the years the ship has had many names aside from the Grande Dame including the Rembrandt and now rests in Rotterdam as a combined hotel and museum.

Guided tours are available of the ships bridge and engine room which provide an interesting insight into how the ship operated during its glory days.

Book online : Steamship Rotterdam Audio Tour Entry Ticket

14. The Witte Huis

This wonderful building is one of the only buildings to survive the Blitzkrieg in WWII in central Rotterdam and stands proudly as a reminder of the cities heritage and history.

The striking Art Nouveau style of this building, make it easily recognisable and the white façade, ornate turrets and decorative roof give it great character.

The beautiful design of this building and its extensive history have made it a National Heritage Site and was the first high-rise building in Europe.

15. Cube House Rotterdam

The cube house is as you would expect – A set of houses that are cuboid fashion.

This bizarre and eccentric housing block was designed by Piet Blom and the cubes that it is formed from are tilted at a 45 degree angle.

The cubes are like no other type of house you will see and they really are an interesting concept; it makes you wonder how the people living here cope with the strange angles of the walls and windows.

From afar the structure looks like some old 2D computer game and one of the cubes is open to the public so you can see what the interior is like.

15 Best Things to Do in Rotterdam (The Netherlands):

• Markthal Rotterdam
• Rotterdam Zoo
• Euromast Tower
• Erasmus Bridge
• Rotterdam Central Station
• Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk
• Maritime Museum
• Fenix Food Factory
• Rotterdam Boat Tour
• Kinderdijk's Windmills
• Depot Boijmans-van Beuningen
• SS Rotterdam
• The Witte Huis
• Cube House Rotterdam

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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

9 Best Things To Do in Amsterdam

Volendam and marken: visit in a day trip from amsterdam, zaanse schans windmills: a perfect day trip 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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The 15 Best Things to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

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One of the Netherlands ’ most exciting, vibrant, and innovative cities, Rotterdam was completely rebuilt following WWII, giving it a much more modern vibe than other places in the country. From picture-perfect scenery and engrossing art galleries that guard centuries-old treasures to spectacular architecture you’ll struggle to believe is real and a thrilling events calendar that offers something all year-round, you’ll never get bored in Rotterdam!

Visit during the chilly winter months, and you can spend your time exploring cozy museums, shopping at vintage boutiques, and ice skating on frozen lakes. Or travel to the city in summer for the chance to enjoy romantic boat trips along the river, dig into local eats al fresco, and take leisurely walks through some of the most beautiful parts of the Netherlands.

With so many cool things to see and do, you may not know where to begin. So I’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Rotterdam. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Rotterdam bucket list, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring the Gateway to Europe!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The Top 15 Things to Do In Rotterdam

1. visit the windmills of kinderdijk.

Hidden away on the outskirts of the city, you’ll find some of the best sights in Rotterdam – Kinderdijk’s windmills . Dating back to the 18th century, these gorgeous feats of engineering have been declared an official UNESCO World Heritage Site and are definitely worth the 30-minute drive.

The collection of 19 windmills dates back as early as 1722 and is currently the biggest accumulation of windmills in the Netherlands. The first thing that will strike you about them is their size – they’re absolutely huge! Each windmill sail is a staggering 92 feet (28 meters) long.

The area that surrounds the windmills is full of bike trails, footpaths, and waterways, giving you plenty of options for exploring. You’ll also find museums hidden inside some of the windmills which go into detail about how important they are to Rotterdam and the Netherlands.

If you’re planning to visit Rotterdam between April and October, you’re in luck. At this time of year, the sails are set in motion, giving you the chance to admire the windmills in all their glory.

2. Admire Artwork At Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

For one of the most unique things to do in Rotterdam, snap up tickets for Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen ’s exclusive “ Depot ” experience. Every now and then, the museum hosts this one-of-a-kind event, allowing you to explore the secret storage areas. 

Here you can go behind the scenes to discover how the museum works. You’ll also get a chance to see some remarkable pieces of art that are rarely displayed in the main museum.

Don’t worry if the experience isn’t running during your visit. The art gallery is still worth visiting. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is one of the most important galleries in Europe and is brimming with superb collections of sculptures, paintings, and decorative art from all over the continent.

The majority of the exhibits are dedicated to painters from the 14th to 16th centuries. If you know your stuff, you’ll spot pieces by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Hieronymus Bosch, and Jan van Eyck. There’s also a generous number of 17th-century works, mostly represented by Rubens and Rembrandt. 

Van Gogh, Gauguin, and Monet dominate the later centuries, while modern art displays are filled with the works of Chagall, Matisse, and Picasso.

3. Take A Walk Through Trendy Coolsingel

If you really want to get a feel for the city, one of the best things to do in Rotterdam is to explore Coolsingel. Known as the city’s trendy district, this neighborhood is jam-packed with fascinating things to see.

In the center of the city, you’ll find the eye-catching town hall. Known as Stadhuis in Dutch, this centerpiece was built between 1914 and 1920 and is known for its beautiful Dutch Renaissance style. The building was lucky enough to escape the devastating bombing the city experienced in WWII and today invites visitors to explore its grandiose interior as part of a guided tour. 

Other Coolsingel highlights include the Stadhuisplein – a war memorial created by designer Mari Andriessen, the dazzling Beurs-World Trade Center, and the captivating Bijenkort department store. 

Coolsingel is also where you’ll find the hugely popular shopping streets of Koopgoot and Linjnbaan. Here you can spend hours window-shopping, trying on glamorous new outfits, and pausing for coffee at streetside cafes. 

4. See Treasures From All Over The World At Wereldmuseum

Wereldmuseum is one of the very best Rotterdam attractions. The name translates into “World Museum” in English, and that’s exactly what this place is. Founded in 1883, Wereldmuseum boasts more than 1,800 unique artifacts collected from all corners of the globe.

You’ll find fascinating pieces from all modern and ancient cultures here, giving you a deep insight into how the world has changed over the years. You’ll find everything from clothing, cooking utensils, and children’s toys to priceless artwork, authentic weapons, and musical instruments.

The museum is set inside an elegant 19th-century building on the banks of the River Maas and provides a window into the world of international culture and history. When the museum first opened, it was one of the few ways locals could discover what had gone on in the world around them. 

Although we’re much more connected today, the museum continues to be loaded with fascinating facts and information.

5. Order Kibbeling For Lunch

When you need a break from all the Rotterdam sightseeing, stop by a local restaurant and order yourself a plate of kibbeling . This dish is massively popular throughout the city because it’s cheap, simple, and tastes amazing.

Kibbeling is made from delicate pieces of white fish, which are covered in a thick batter flavored with spices and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. To cut through the richness of the dish, kibbeling is always served with a cool tartare sauce or garlicky aioli. 

Kibbeling is loved so much that you’ll find it available from practically every restaurant, fishmonger, and street vendor in Rotterdam. For the very best kibbeling , head to Blaak Markt. This farmers’ market is open every Tuesday and Saturday in front of the Markthal and is home to a fish stall that serves amazing kibbeling .

If you’re traveling to Kinderdijk to see the gorgeous windmills, you can also pick up some fantastic kibbeling from the food truck at the entrance.  

6. Explore Rotterdam’s Last-Standing Medieval Building 

You’ll find some of the most impressive things to see in Rotterdam at the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk. This spectacular church is all that’s left of the city’s medieval buildings, almost all of which were completely destroyed in WWII. 

The church was designed in a Gothic style and dates back to the 15th century. While it was partially damaged during the bombings, it was fully restored after the war was over and looks truly stunning. 

Step inside the church, and you’ll be awe-struck by the beauty of the light and airy interior. When the sun is shining, the colorful stained glass windows create a stunning effect that really lights up the whole church.

The building is best known for its three Danish organs, the largest of which is perched on a marble base on the inside tower wall. The bronze doors at the main entrance of the church are also worth a look. They depict the theme of war and peace and were designed by Italian artist Giacomo Manzu.

7. Party For Days At Zomercarnaval

One of the coolest things to do in Rotterdam is to check out the annual carnival that takes place each July. Known locally as Zomercarnaval , this dramatic street party lasts for several days, during which the city comes to life with Latin American flair and excitement. 

During the carnival, the streets of the city are filled with spectacular parades made up of more than 2,000 dancers, brass bands, and colorful floats designed to get you into the Latin spirit. Several parades wind down the streets throughout the two-day event, while more than 60 amazing musicians perform at various outdoor stages set up throughout the city. 

The spectacular costumes and vibrant atmosphere are so incredible that you could easily forget you’re in Rotterdam and think you’re actually in Rio de Janeiro. So you never have to leave the fun behind, you’ll find tons of trucks throughout the streets selling all kinds of local and exotic food and drinks. 

8. Explore Beautiful Buildings During Rotterdam Architecture Month

If you’re planning your trip for June, you’re just in time for Rotterdam Architecture Month . One of the best things to do in Rotterdam, this artsy event gives you the chance to explore buildings most often closed to visitors and admire their spectacular design.

Rotterdam is famous throughout the world for its remarkable architecture, and this annual event invites you to discover the best ways to appreciate it. The program of events changes every year, but some previous activities include rooftop walking tours, art displays created by local artists, guided tours of places of worship, food and drink tastings, future-predicting exhibits, and visits to secret gardens.

Check the website to find out exactly what’s going on and when so you can plan your trip. If you’re not going to be in Rotterdam in June, there are still plenty of ways you can check out the local architecture. The groups that organize Rotterdam Architecture Month put on a range of tours and cultural experiences throughout the year, which you’ll also find on the website.

9. Check Out The Quirky Cube Houses

For one of the most fun things to do in Rotterdam, take a walk alongside the Kubuswoningen. Known as the “Cube Houses” in English, these quirky examples of modern architecture look like they belong in an art gallery – not in the street!

Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, this one-of-a-kind block of houses is instantly recognizable thanks to their unique cube-shaped upper stories painted in a cheery yellow. One of the best places to see them is from the walk along the Old Harbour. Their special tilt and shape provide the optimum living space with the minimal room available. 

If you find yourself really intrigued by the buildings, you can visit the Show Cube Museum, which is open to visitors. Inside you’ll find all sorts of information, plans, and blueprints of the buildings. The museum also highlights the everyday challenges people who live in these homes face, such as buying furniture and hanging artwork without straight walls.

10. Test Your Taste Buds With Herring, Sour Cream & Onions

If you’re feeling adventurous, one of the top things to do in Rotterdam is to try herring. A classic local dish that works equally well as a snack or a meal, you’ll find herring available from all the same places as kibbeling , as well as street food carts that exclusively specialize in the delicacy.

In Rotterdam, herring is traditionally served with thick sour cream and thin slices of raw onion. The combination of the slightly sweet pickled fish, the cooling sour cream, and the strong raw onion work perfectly together and satisfy all appetites, whatever it is you’re craving.

The very best place for fresh and delicious herring is the Blaak Markt which is open on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The food stalls here serve the classic dish plain, but the sour cream and onions make it extra special! 

11. See Baby Animals At the Rotterdam Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands, Rotterdam Zoo is an excellent place to spend a day. One of the top Rotterdam activities, the family-friendly attraction (known as Diergaarde Blijdorp in Dutch) first opened in 1857 and is well-known for its incredibly successful breeding programs.

Rotterdam Zoo has welcomed into the world a number of adorable baby elephants, flamingoes, red pandas, gorillas, komodo dragons, and vicuñas. The breeding program is ongoing and continues throughout the year, so there’s a great chance you’ll get to spot cute babies during your visit, whichever time of year you travel!

As well as the outstanding breeding program, the zoo is also proud of its large enclosures. They’re filled with things to provide the animals with extra enrichment and are designed to closely resemble their natural habitats. 

In the Asian section of the zoo, you’ll discover a huge swamp with spacious aviaries for exotic birds, a deep dark bat cave, a Chinese garden, and a Mongolian grassland filled with indigenous creatures.

12. Feast On Dishes From All Over The World At The Market Hall

When you’re feeling ravenous, one of the best things to do in Rotterdam is to head straight for the Market Hall . Nicknamed “Koopboog” (Horseshoe) by locals due to its iconic shape, this gorgeous complex is home to every type of food you could ever imagine.

A hugely important part of the community since 2014, this food hall is filled with everything from gourmet restaurants dishing up fancy Dutch classics to laid-back food stalls specializing in Spanish tapas.

The largest indoor market in the Netherlands is also one of the best places in Rotterdam to pick up fresh ingredients to whip up your own Dutch dishes at home. Take a look around, and you’ll find amazing deals on everything from seasonal produce, local dairy products, and charcuterie to top-quality meat, homemade baked goods, and beautiful flowers. 

The towering ceiling means the market never feels cramped, no matter how busy it is. And the floor-to-ceiling food murals give the place an artsy, gallery-like vibe.

13. Check Out The Latest Exhibit At Rotterdam Kunsthal

If you’ve always wanted to get into art but you haven’t quite found what you’re looking for yet, spend some time at Rotterdam Kunsthal . This cool and trendy art gallery opened its doors in 1992 and has been wowing people from all over the world with thought-provoking artwork ever since.

Boasting a spectacular rotation of ever-changing artwork, Rotterdam Kunsthal is guaranteed to have something that clicks with your inner art critic. Instead of hosting permanent exhibits, this art gallery features five distinctly different exhibitions that change every few months. This gives you a great excuse to come back time and time again!

As well as the captivating artwork, Rotterdam Kunsthal also organizes a number of events throughout the year. From music concerts and weekend parties to children’s activities and theatrical performances, there’s always something fun going on here. Check the website to find out exactly what’s happening during your visit. 

14. See The Best Views From The Euromast Tower

If you want to get a good view of the city, one of the best things to do in Rotterdam is to climb to the top of the Euromast Tower . From up here, you can enjoy dramatic views that sweep all across every inch of the city.

The Euromast Tower stands 607 feet (185 meters) tall, making it the highest building in the city. Because this attraction is so popular, there’s often a long line to get to the top. To avoid wasting time waiting, we suggest you buy tickets in advance and skip the queue.

When you’re done admiring the view, you’ll find a handful of things to do at the top of the tower. There’s an excellent restaurant where you can enjoy lunch with a view, as well as two luxurious suites if you want to spend the night. If you’re feeling brave, you can even zipline from the top of the tower!

15. Buy Frikandel From A Vending Machine

If you’re hungry, but you’re in a bit of a rush, grab a frikandel from one of Rotterdam’s many vending machines. Vending machines in the Netherlands aren’t limited to chips and candy bars. In Rotterdam, you’ll find vending machines selling all kinds of delicious hot foods – from burgers to croquettes!

One of the best things to buy from a vending machine for a quick yet filling snack is a frikandel . This classic local eat is similar to an American hog dog, but without the skin and deep-fried. 

Snackbarcorner near the Beurs Metro Station is a great place to buy some cheap frikandel . The vending machines here are connected to a kitchen that makes fresh and tasty treats throughout the day – so you don’t have to worry about them sitting in the machines for hours.

When they’re freshly made, frikandel are deliciously crisp on the outside and beautifully tender on the inside.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Rotterdam. What’s your favorite?

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About the Author:

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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70 Fun things to do in Rotterdam

Looking for things to do in Rotterdam? You’ve come to the right place! In this article you can find the best things to do in Rotterdam, from popular sight seeing spots to lesser known places in our city and with lots of inspiration for fun hangout spots, art, architecture, food and drinks!

Most people only think of Amsterdam when they hear about the Netherlands, but Rotterdam is actually the second biggest city in this tiny country. And it’s completely different from Amsterdam and most cities in the Netherlands.

Did you know that Rotterdam was bombed during the Second World War? Immediately after the bombing, Rotterdam began rebuilding the city. Because of this, Rotterdam has a lot of unique, modern architecture. But there’s more to this city. Expect lots of street art, museums, art galeries, hotspots, fun events and more.

Below you can find fun things to do in Rotterdam. In the article we’ve linked to lots of other useful articles for your stay in our city. Enjoy! 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. For more information please check our Disclaimer page. 

1. The Euromast

If you’re a first-time visitor to Rotterdam , I definitely recommend a visit to the Euromast for a panoramic view of the city. The Euromast, with its 185 meters, is the highest building of the Netherlands.

The Euromast is part of the World Federations of Great Towers (WFGT): the 37 most beautiful and highest towers of the world, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building.

Not only can you enjoy the beautiful view over Rotterdam, it’s also possible to book a table and have a delicious dinner or just get some drinks. Also with a view of our city, of course!

TIP: Here you can already buy your ticket to go on top of the Euromast !

2. The Cube Houses

You just can’t skip the iconic Cube Houses during a visit to Rotterdam! These famous houses, designed by architect Piet Blom, are all built at 45 degrees.

Are you wondering how anyone can live in such a place? Then be sure to pay a visit to the Kijk-Kubus, which is basically a show room of one of the houses.

To really have the full experience of living in a Cube house, you can also decide to stay at Stayokay Rotterdam Cube Hostel , which is a hostel in one of the Cube houses. Or rent a luxurious Cube house entirely for yourself via Airbnb.

3. The Markthal

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Rotterdam is definitely the iconic Markthal. This unique architectural structure serves as both an office building, housing and a marketplace.

With over 40 food vendors that sell all sorts of international food and drinks, it’s definitely one of the highlights for most tourists.

There are several tours that will introduce you to typical Dutch food. For instance, this 2-hour walking tour with multiple snack breaks .

TIP: During the construction of the Markthal, many historical items were found in the ground of the site during the excavation. It’s possible to admire those items at the escalators in the middle of the Markthal, and it’s called De Tijdtrap – which means the time stairs.

4. Rotterdam Central Station

Photo by our blogger Fatima @timavisual .

Another perfect example of how unique the architecture is in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Central Station. This relatively new building, which opened up in 2014, has a unique triangular shape that points toward the sky.

Locals also call Rotterdam Central Station with the nickname ‘Kapsalon’, naming it after one of the local fast food dishes that comes in a aluminium box.

There’s a big chance that you’ll visit Rotterdam Central Station, as this station connects to many destinations in the Netherlands and international destinations as well. If you’re not planning on travelling to Rotterdam with the train, then I definitely still recommend a visit and check out the commute at this unique location.

5. The Erasmus bridge

Foto door Menno Verheij @roffalove .

The Erasmus bridge is yet another iconic structure in Rotterdam. It’s just not possible to skip it, and there’s a high chance you’ll run into it it whether you’re planning on checking it out or not.

The bridge connects the Kop van Zuid with the center of the city. This beautiful bridge, nicknamed the Swan due to its large mast that resembles the neck of a swan, is ever so photogenic. So be sure to take lots of photos!

Another great idea is to have a walk over the bridge to the Kop van Zuid to explore this area.

6. De Rotterdam

This huge building can’t be missed. The Rotterdam is located on the Wilhelminapier in our city, right next to the Erasmus bridge. In no time after it was built it became one of the most iconic buildings of our city.

In De Rotterdam you can find homes, offices, restaurants, a hotel and a parking garage. Because the building has so many functions, it can also be seen as a vertical city.

Discover our city with this tour, it takes you to De Rotterdam, Cube Houses, Watertaxi and the Markthal.

TIP: Do you want to enjoy the view over our city from De Rotterdam during your stay in Rotterdam ? Then book a room at Nhow ! Later in this article you can find more info about this unique hotel.

The Koningshaven Bridge, better known as De Hef, has been out of use since 1993. Before that it was a bridge with a train track and therefore very important for train traffic. The railway bridge has been replaced by a tunnel in the Maas.

Today it remains an iconic bridge and a sight worth seeing in Rotterdam. The monumental bridge connects Noordereiland to the South of Rotterdam and every now and then the bridge still drops down.

8. The Luchtsingel

The Luchtsingel connects the center of Rotterdam with Rotterdam North. This unique bright yellow structure is a 390 meters pedestrian bridge. It’s completely free to visit!

From the Schieblock, where you can find Annabel, Biergarten and the DakAkker, you can walk to Pompenburg and Hofplein station. Here you’ll find various restaurants and shops.

9. The Recycled Park

The Recycled Park, Floating Pavilion and Bobbing Forest can be found close to each other, so it’s easy to visit them together.

The Recycled Park collects the plastic litter that comes the Nieuwe Maas to the North Sea. It’s a great initiative to stop, or at least minimise, the pollution of the North Sea.

The plastic litter that is collected is used to make building blocks that are used as floating platforms, creating a new green area in our city.

So not only does it look cool, the Recycled Park is also of great value to our city!

10. The Witte Huis

Het Witte Huis or the White House – don’t confuse it with the White House in Washington, is a remarkable building in the so called Oude Haven or Old Port. This building was once the highest building of Europe with its 43 meters. Nowadays, that’s kind of hard to imagine!

Do you love historical spots? Then be sure to stroll around Oude Haven, a great area for a bit of history in Rotterdam, and admire this beautiful building!

TIP: Learn more about the history of Rotterdam in a playful manner with this fun exploration game ! During this exciting game you take on the role of a spy that tries to safe Rotterdam of an apocalyptic bombing during the World War II.

11. Schielandshuis

The Schielandshuis is located in the middle of the center, hidden between modern high-rise buildings. If you walk out of the Korte Hoogstraat you will encounter this beautiful building.

This renovated historic building was built when the Coolsingel was still a canal. It has experienced a lot in the many years it existed, such as the bombing of Rotterdam, which it miraculously survived.

Today the building is an office for tenants with a big heart for Rotterdam. Think of Rotterdam Partners, Rotterdam Expat Center, Atlas van Stolk and Sinfonia Rotterdam.

In the garden of the Schielandshuis you can find the Rotterdam Tourist Information. Handy for your visit to Rotterdam!

12. Veerhaven

Photo by @marionro.cks .

Visit the Veerhaven in the Scheepvaartkwartier, a picturesque part of Rotterdam with a rich history. The ferry service used to go from here to Katendrecht, hence the name Veer (meaning ferry) haven.

Nowadays historic sailing ships moor here, which you can admire while walking. Walk past the stately mansions and you will find yourself back in the rich shipping history of Rotterdam. Also discover the many nice cafes and restaurants in this area and enjoy good food and drinks!

13. Historic Delfshaven

After you’ve explored some of the modern architecture in Rotterdam, you might crave a bit of history. Even though most of Rotterdam was bombed during WWII, there are still spots that have survived the bombing.

One area that remained untouched is Delfshaven. Especially Historic Delfshaven is worth a visit, the oldest part of Rotterdam and a beautiful yacht marina. It was a very important part of our city, as it was the departure point from which the Pilgrim Fathers sailed for America.

Now it’s a beautiful historic spot in Rotterdam, where you can admire traditional houses and historic buildings.

TIP: Do you want to learn more about the Rotterdam history and WWII? Then this  WOII private day tour might be something for you!

14. The Distilleerketel in Delfshaven

The historic Distilleerketel in Delfshaven was still in use until 1922. Eventually, the corn miller’s trade died out and the mill fell into disrepair.

Eventually, the mill was bought by Stichting Stadsherstel Historisch Rotterdam and the national monument was completely restored.

Since 1984, the still has been restored to its full glory. The best part is that the mill grinds grain again in a traditional way and it supplies flour to local bakers!

TIP: Are you curious how the mill looks from the inside? You can make an appointment and visit it (there is an entrance fee).

15. Stay on the Wikkelboat

This unique hotel is multifunctional, sustainable and super tiny. The Wikkelboat is located within walking distance of the center and at the same time it is your own peaceful oasis on the water. Ideal if you want to travel environmentally conscious and are looking for something extra special. After all, Rotterdam is a port city, so an overnight stay on water is essential!

The first two Wikkelboats can be found in the Rotterdam Wijnhaven. Since the summer of 2021, four new Wikkelboats have been added in the Rijnhaven, next to the Floating Office Rotterdam. Awesome!

Book a night on the Wikkelboat here.

16. Stay at Nhow

Hopefully you’ll spend more than just one day in Rotterdam! If you’re spending a couple of nights, make sure to make your time here extra special with a unique hotel.

One of our favourite hotels is definitely Nhow . During your stay here you’ll feel as if you’re in New York City instead of Rotterdam. With a view of the Erasmus Bridge and the Skyline of Rotterdam you not only get to see a beautiful sunset, you’ll see Rotterdam getting up in the early morning.

Book your stay at Nhow here  or check out  more unique hotels in Rotterdam .

17. Spend the night in prison

Are you looking for a unique Airbnb in Rotterdam ? Then Penthouse Prison might be something for you. Here you can voluntarily spend the night in a prison!

Above the Heilige Boontjes in Rotterdam is an old cell complex of the former police station. In total there are six cells, four of which have comfortable beds, the prison cell is still intact. In addition, a cell has been used as a toilet and as a communal lounge room.

During your stay you have access to the kitchen and shower on the fourth floor, which you share with other guests. In addition, you can go to the unique roof terrace with a view of the Rotterdam skyline.

18. Spend a night at the unique Culture Campsite

Camping in the city? That’s definitely possible in Rotterdam! At the Culture Campsite in Delfshaven, you sleep in art objects made from already existing material. The 12 objects can accommodate 24 guests who are looking for a unique experience. Just like the ‘rooms’, you will find the toilet and shower in a sustainable art object.

The Campsite also offers a hot tub and a place for food: a nice terrace and a place where guests can cook. A truly unique experience, in which visitors, art, architecture and sustainability come together.

Check out these hidden spots in Rotterdam for more hidden spots! Perfect if you want to escape from the crowds or you just want to see a side of Rotterdam that goes beyond modern architecture.

19. Remastered Experience

Visit the newest interactive experience in Rotterdam: Remastered. In this attraction you will be taken on an audiovisual journey for an hour and you become one with the art.

Walk under a waterfall, go on an adventure with the unearthly creatures of Hieronymus Bosch, learn to time travel and surround yourself with paintings by Dutch Old Masters such as Van Gogh and Mondriaan. Each time you enter a new world and you don’t know what to expect.

Read more about this unique new attraction in our city and buy your entrance ticket here!

20. Join the splash tour

It may look like a normal bus tour, that will take you to the most special places in Rotterdam. But that is not the only thing! During the tour, the bus literally takes a dip in the Maas. The bus sails further and shows you the city from the water.

TIP : Buy your ticket for the splash tour here.

21. Experience Virtual Reality at Zero Latency VR

Experience virtual reality in Rotterdam! For instance, you can do this at Zero Latency VR. Here you can experience the most advanced free-roam virtual reality with two to eight people at the same time. Free-roam VR means that you can move and walk around freely, in this case in a gigantic hall of 200 square meters.

Together with your team, you fight against zombies, space robots or discover a fantasy world. A fun and exciting way to work on team building. A f un activity with your friends !

22. A sporty outing at Padelife

Are you looking for a sporty outing in Rotterdam ? What about a game of padel!? The popularity of this originally Mexican sport is growing so fast that former tennis halls are rapidly being converted into padel centres throughout the country.

And the same counts for Rotterdam, or at least close to our city. In the autumn of 2021 an indoor padel centre opened at the Rottemeren! Padelife has new panorama padel courts and sleek glass walls. There is also a contemporary restaurant, a shop and a lounge to relax after your game.

23. Book a flying lesson

Have you always wanted to admire Rotterdam from above? Your dream can come true! At Rotterdam The Hague Airport you can board a small plane and then fly over the city and admire it from the air.

For example, book a flying lesson or a sightseeing flight via Sand Air . Together with an experienced pilot you will fly over Rotterdam. Wave to all our icons: the Erasmus Bridge, Euromast and the Market Hall. A really special experience!

24. Rotterdam Highlight Bike Tour

A fun and typical Dutch way to explore the highlights of Rotterdam is by bike! Because Dutch people love to bike. We bike to work, get groceries with it and take the children to school.

If you are a tourist in the Netherlands you will also notice that you see bicycles and designated paths everywhere. Thanks to all those cycle paths, you as a cyclist can drive around as safely as possible!

To get the real Dutch feeling as a tourist, cycling in Rotterdam should not be missing on your bucket list.

With the highlight bike tour of seeRotterdam, the guide will take you to all the sights of the city. You start in the center, cycle to the Coolsingel, the Willemsbrug, Erasmusbrug, over the Kop van Zuid and towards the Markthal. Of course, the Cube Houses and the Oude Haven should not be skipped either.

Would you like to experience this tour for yourself? Then check out the website of See Rotterdam.

25. Shopping in the Koopgoot

Rotterdam is an excellent destination for shopaholics. For instance, the Lijnbaan is full of amazing shops. The best part is that there aren’t any cars allowed, so you can walk around carefree.

Another very famous shopping street is the Koopgoot. The official name is the Beurstraverse. Koopgoot is a nickname and roughly translates as Shopping Gutter – if you haven’t noticed already, Rotterdam is fond of giving nicknames!

You won’t find any cars in the Koopgoot, just like on the Lijnbaan. In the Koopgoot you will find large retail chains such as the Hema, H&M, Zara, Lush and Douglas.

The Koopgoot has been the heart of the shopping center of Rotterdam for over 20 years now. During that time, it has won many awards! Definitely visit the Koopgoot for a unique shopping experience in Rotterdam .

26. Guilt free shopping at an eco-friendly store

Gimsel in the Groene Passage. Photo by @marionro.cks .

If sustainability is of importance to you, then it is definitely worth a visit to one of the sustainable stores in Rotterdam.

For example, Gimsel is a great eco-friendly supermarket in Rotterdam where you can buy organic food and cosmetics. You will also find everything you need to make your own household products, such as detergent. A good choice if you think zero-waste is important and want to avoid harmful products for the environment and yourself.

Be sure to also check out these eco-friendly stores in Rotterdam .

27. Discover cool vintage shops

The Dearhunter vintage shop.

From the centre in Rotterdam and Kralingen, to Rotterdam Noord, there are really a lot of shops that sell all kinds of beautiful vintage items.

For example, you have Dearhunter, located in a gorgeous building on the Eendrachtsweg in the Witte de Withkwartier. The store is nicely decorated with beautiful fitting rooms, cool mannequins and interesting props.

At Dearhunter they always select the most beautiful clothing, shoes, bags, sunglasses, hats and jewelry. Discover even more great vintage shops in Rotterdam !

28. Get your fruit and veggies on the Binnenrotte market

Every Tuesday and Saturday you can find more than 300 stalls on the Binnenrotte. At this huge Rotterdam market you can buy everything: from daily groceries and flowers to (second-hand) clothing and furniture.

Because this market is next to the Blaak metro and train station, it is very easy to reach.

29. Buy jewelry from local jewelry designers

Photo from jewelry designer Lynn Somers.

Of course you prefer to buy everything locally. If you are looking for a special piece of jewelry, it is nice to purchase it from a local jewelry designer.

Julia already recommended the best jewelery designers from Rotterdam . These designers create and design their own jewelry. This is real craftsmanship and that’s why it’s extra cool that we have such talents in this small town. Supporting your locals is always more fun than buying something from a big chain.

30. Sunbathing at Kralingse Plas

Feel like escaping the busy city? Kralingse Plas is another great option. Here you can lay on the grass by the water and enjoy a picnic with friends .

If the weather is really good, you can even decide to go for a swim! Be sure to check zwemwater.nl to check if the water is safe to enter. Sometimes the quality of the water isn’t good enough, especially when it’s really hot.

Kralingse Plas is surrounded by the Kralingse Bos. So if you feel like going for a walk, it’s an excellent place to do so.

31. Rent a sloop on the Kralingse Plas

Surrounded by the Kralingse Bos, this lake is the place where the Rotterdammer goes during a summer day. When the sun shines it is full of people barbecuing, children playing and friends enjoying a drink. Our tip is to rent a boat and float around on the Kralingse Plas.

A quick Google search and you will find several places where you can rent a boat!

Be sure to also check out these activities for a summer day in Rotterdam .

32. Discover the Heemtuin in the Kralingse Bos

The beautiful Heemtuin is hidden in the middle of the Kralingse Bos. Here you will find all kinds of plants, trees and shrubs.

Walk across the narrow jetty through all the greenery and eventually you will arrive at the Kralingse Plas and you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the skyline of Rotterdam.

Looking for more off the beaten track places? Then read Marion’s article with 24 non-touristy spots in Rotterdam .

33. Take the Watertaxi

Foto door @maarten_see_hooijmeijer.

Explore the Maas and go in one of the many watertaxi’s in Rotterdam. It is a form of public transport, but a hundred times more fun! The fast watertaxi’s bring you to more than 50 locations in Rotterdam and Schiedam.

It’s possible to go to one of the docks and grab a watertaxi there or request one beforehand. A nice way to see Rotterdam from the water and also an adventure, because the watertaxis can ride over the waves pretty quickly.

In addition to the practical function of the water taxi, you can also book it in combination with a tour. For example, this walking tour with an architect that takes you to iconic buildings, such as the Markthal and Cube houses, and on board of a watertaxi!

Check out our article with  fun water activities in Rotterdam !

34. Get a tour of the port

As the largest port city in Europe, the port is an important part of Rotterdam. It provides 385,000 direct and indirect jobs at companies in the Netherlands and extends over a length of no less than 40 kilometers. Unique in its kind and therefore an essential part during your visit to Rotterdam.

With this haven cruise you will be part of the traffic around the harbor, view the shipyard, the dock and the modern handling of thousands of containers.

It is also nice to explore the harbor through a bicycle tour. With this port bike tour , you drive through the center, board (by bike) for a 30-minute boat trip and then go ashore to see all aspects of the port.

35. Float around in a HotTug

We already talked about renting a boat on the Kralingse Plas, but this is also a great idea for a warm summer day. A HotTug is an electrically powered sailing hot tub that takes you through the canals of Rotterdam. Put on your swimsuit, have a drink, put on some music and enjoy!

36. DakAkker

We’ve already mentioned the view from the Euromast, the highest observation tower in the Netherlands. But our city has so much more viewpoints to offer. From green rooftops where fruit and vegetables are grown to cozy office terraces, there are many unique rooftops in Rotterdam that offer a great view!

DakAkker is another great viewpoint in Rotterdam. It looks like a green courtyard, but then 20 meters in the air. In addition, it’s the first green rooftop in the Netherlands where fruit and vegetables are grown and honey bees are kept. Be sure to also check out the restaurant Teds All Day Brunch for delicious food and drinks!

Be sure to read Fatima’s article with hidden rooftops in Rotterdam .

37. Walk over the Maasboulevard

It’s always a beautiful sight to witness the gorgeous skyline of Rotterdam from the Maasboulevard! It doesn’t matter how often you may have seen it, each time you’ll marvel at the impressive skyline of our city.

Take some time and stroll along the Maas. Sit down, take some photos and watch the boats that move across the water.

Be sure to also check out our article with great places for a walk in Rotterdam !

38. Het Park

Rotterdam offers a lot of lush gardens and parks . Vroesenpark, Kralingse Bos or Het Park located at the Euromast.

Het Park is a great option, with the beautiful Euromast as a backdrop and plenty of room to find a serene spot for yourself. Take your own picnic with you and a big blanket, and you’ll have a lovely day.

Don’t feel like laying in the grass? Another wonderful option is visiting Parkcafé Parqiet. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and drinks. Parqiet is located in the former carriage house and together with Dudok in the Park, is one of the few spots in the Park to enjoy a drink and food.

39. Museumpark

At the grounds of Boijmans van Beuningen: currently closed

There are a lot of museums that are worth a visit in Rotterdam. Around Museum Park you will find many famous museums where you can visit amazing exhibitions.

Just to name a few: Museum Boijmans van Beuningen (unfortunately it is closed for seven years from 2019!), Het Nieuwe Instituut, Chabot Museum, Villa Sonneveld, Natural History Museum and De Kunsthal. These are all located near each other at Museumpark.

40. Depot Boijmans van Beuningen

The new Boijmans van Beuningen Depot is finally open. Due to the mirrored exterior and extraordinary architecture, it is already an iconic building in Rotterdam.

The Boijmans van Beuningen Depot is the first depot in the world to offer public access to a complete collection. Here we can browse between 151,000 art objects and watch the conservation and restoration of art. In addition, visitors and residents can go to the roof garden with restaurant, which is accessible for free, to enjoy the view over Rotterdam.

41. Visit the Maritime Museum

Photo by Theo de Man

A fun museum to visit, that isn’t located in the Museumpark, is the Maritime Museum Rotterdam. This museum is located in one of the largest and oldest museum ports in the Netherlands and here you can learn more about the past and present of the port of Rotterdam. With exhibitions, activities and a collection of historic ships and cranes, you’ll be here for a while.

Ideal for a rainy day in Rotterdam and/or when you are visiting Rotterdam with children .

TIP: buy your ticket for the Maritime Museum in advance.

42. Discover Miniworld Rotterdam

Miniworld Rotterdam is a super fun place for a day out with your kids in Rotterdam . It is an indoor miniature world of Rotterdam with everything you can imagine. Here the kids discover the world in miniature size, a unique way to get to know the metropolis of Rotterdam better.

Expect over 650 square meters with Rotterdam polder landscapes, modern and historical architecture and of course the port of Europe. Everything is surprisingly detailed. Really a top place for a family outing in Rotterdam!

TIP: Already get your ticket for Miniworld Rotterdam !

43. Pannenkoekenboot

If you are looking for the real Dutch experience with the family, you should go with the “Pannenkoekenboot” or Pancake Boat. In addition to tasting the typical Dutch pancakes, you will explore Rotterdam with a boat trip on the Maas. A super fun children’s activity, but secretly also fun (and delicious of course) for the grown ups.

Be sure of a spot on the Pancake Boat via this link !

44. Kids Marina

Kidsmarina is a super fun water attraction in Rotterdam. Children can feel like a captain as soon as they get on one of the children’s boats. The great thing is that at Kidsmarina they immediately gain insight into the port and its functions and vehicles. So it’s an educational and fun day out in Rotterdam!

The kids can easily drive the model boats themselves and the boats are powered by electric motors. A boat trip takes 15 minutes from sailing to mooring.

45. A day trip to Kinderdijk from Rotterdam

Do you have a whole day? Then visit Kinderdijk. It may not be in Rotterdam, but it is easy to visit from our city. Did you know that you can take the Waterbus from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk? It only takes 30 minutes.

Kinderdijk, with its 19 windmills, has been a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Tourists from all over the world come here to admire the beautiful windmills. The ingenious system of mill and ground has kept the grounds of Kinderdijk dry for centuries.

TIP: Already buy yourself the Kinderdijk ticket , which includes entrance to two Dutch mills and a boat tour through the village.

46. Visit a cool place near Rotterdam

Photo by @Marionro.cks

If you’ve seen enough of Rotterdam, it’s always possible to visit a cool city or spot that is close to Rotterdam. For instance, Delft is only 15 minutes by train from Rotterdam.

Check out Marion’s article with great places to visit near Rotterdam .

47. Calaboose

If you’re looking for a fun night out in Rotterdam, then it’s a great idea to visit one of the hotspots that offer delicious cocktails . There are plenty of great hotspots in Rotterdam that create the most unique drinks and it often comes with some delicious snacks.

Calaboose, located in Kralingen, is a great place for cocktails. Especially on beautiful sunny days it’s a top choice, because of the spacious terrace where there’s enough seating for large groups. In addition to a cocktail, try one of the Indonesian dishes from the menu, such as the saté or gado gado. A fun night is guaranteed!

Discover these amazing terraces in Rotterdam and these restaurants with a garden in Rotterdam .

48. Dutch Dukes

Photo by Wendy van Bree.

In the middle of the bustling Witte de Withstraat you can find the first English gastropub in Rotterdam: Dutch Dukes. The hotspot wants to introduce the city to the casual British pub atmosphere.

You will be welcomed here by the smell of typical English dishes, such as fish & chips and steak & guiness pie, but you can also opt for appetizers such as avocado fries and beetroot ‘bitterballen’.

The high-quality dishes are freshly prepared daily, the drinks menu is filled with British beers, ciders and gin tonics, of course. But in addition to the food and drinks menu, the interior is also as you would expect from a gastropub. With a burgundy, oak and brass colour palette and stained glass, it will feel like you’re in London for a moment.

Read more about this English gastropub .

49. Pub crawl through Rotterdam

According to our blogger Julia, there is nothing better than hanging out in a pub. This is possible in the evening, in the afternoon, during the week and at the weekend. Actually, a pub feels a bit like a living room. You can have a relaxed drink and play games. You might be lucky and there’s a good old pub quiz.

So, if you want to discover even more fun pubs in our city, a pub crawl through Rotterdam is a good idea!

50. Harvest Coffee Brewers

The owners of Harvest Coffee Brewers used to work in Melbourne, where making coffee is considered a true art. With their obtained experience and skills, they returned to Rotterdam to set up a coffee bar as they know them in Melbourne: with delicious food and the perfect cup of coffee. In our opinion, their mission has certainly been successful.

At Harvest Coffee Brewers you enjoy sitting by the water, drinking a really good cup of coffee and eating delicious avocado toast, eggs benedict or any of their other delicious dishes.

Check out more coffee spots in Rotterdam !

51. Breakfast in Rotterdam HQ

Rotterdam is a real foodie paradise and there are a lot of great hotspots for breakfast and lunch. So be sure to schedule enough time for a big breakfast or brunch at least one morning in our city and pick one of the best spots to enjoy a big breakfast. You’ll find plenty of vegan options in our city too!

A great hotspot to have breakfast in Rotterdam is, what a surprise, Breakfast in Rotterdam HQ! It’s located in a second-hand store full of furniture, plants and more. Everything in their breakfast shop is also for sale. So if you happen to sit in a nice chair, you can take it with you after you ate!

These breakfast spots in Rotterdam are our favourite options and these are our favourite lunch spots in Rotterdam .

For even more inspiration, be sure to check out the Instagram account Breakfast in Rotterdam . Yes, the Instagram account is run by the owners of Breakfast in Rotterdam HQ!

52. Go to one of the Escape Rooms

Foto door Live Escape in Rotterdam

Do you and your friends love adventure? Then a visit to one of the Escape Rooms in Rotterdam is a great idea. For instance, you can visit Live Escape. Here you have three rooms: The Safe House, Lab13 and The Boiler Room.

At The Safe House, you and your friends unexpectedly witnessed a murder in the Rotterdam Underworld. In anticipation of the court case, in which you are the most important witnesses, you will be placed in a Safe House. But is it really safe?

In LAB13, horrible experiments were done by Russians. According to local residents, the lab is still being used. You must do the first exploration…

In The Boilerroom, your group enters a largely burned-down apartment to find Sophie. Once inside you will find out what has happened in the apartment and that Sophie is not the only one who has disappeared without a trace. Will you be able to find Sophie before you get caught?

Read Mathilde’s article for more fun Escape Rooms in Rotterdam !

53. Play games at POING

A real arcade hall with classic pinball machines, karaoke and a classic dance machine! At POING you can play all kinds of fun games, but also have a drink and order something tasty from their Asian kitchen. It’s a unique hotspot where you can catch up with friends and have a fun time together.

POING often organizes fun parties during the weekends!

54. Mooie Boules

Mooie Boules is the first food hal in Rotterdam where you can play jeu de boules (lawn bowling).

You can find this hotspot in an old metal factory in the emerging ZOHO area.

The old factory has been completely transformed into a typical French village square. Local restaurants will serve signature dishes and the bar will serve a wide range of wine, special- and local beers. Of course all in combination with a game of lawn bowling.

55. Team building during a pub quiz

How well is your general knowledge? Time to test it during a pub quiz! Grab a drink and make sure to work together as a team.

Where can you take a pub quiz in Rotterdam? One hotspot where you can enjoy a pub quiz with friends is Weena Rotterdam. Here they organise a pub quiz every Tuesday night from 8:30 pm to 11:00 pm.

Check these 3 nice places for a pub quiz in Rotterdam .

56. Have dinner at one of the best restaurants in the city

Amarone. Photo by Adinda de Boer.

As Rotterdam is such a great place for foodies, with food from anywhere in this world, you should definitely try out one of the highest-rated restaurants in the city!

Next to many affordable restaurants , there are also a lot of fancy restaurants that have amazing food, topnotch service and impressive interiors.

If you’re looking for restaurants in our city that go the extra mile, be sure to check out these best restaurants in Rotterdam or these amazing restaurants in Rotterdam .

57. Lührs Viewpoint

Photo by our blogger Fatima @timavisual.

Lührs Viewpoint is a 40-meter high hill, something you don’t easily find in Rotterdam. This makes it a special place to watch the sunset in our city.

You will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the Rotterdam skyline and, if the sky is clear, the skyline of The Hague! You escape the busy city and enjoy the nature, while the sun slowly hides behind the horizon.

Other great places to watch the sunset is from the Euromast for a panoramic view or visit the Kralingse Plas for a serene spot to really enjoy the sunset.

Check out this article with beautiful sunset spots in Rotterdam !

58. Courtyard City Hall Rotterdam

Photo by our blogger @olivia.in.rotterdam .

The city hall is one of the few buildings in the center of Rotterdam that is still standing after the bombing in the Second World War. It’s also a building that most people have only admired from the outside.

Walk in and you will see that the city hall is a large square building with an intimate inner garden in the middle. The historic architecture and appearance of the courtyard almost make you forget that you are in Rotterdam. The fountain, statues and beautiful flowers such as roses and hydrangeas make the inner garden of Rotterdam City Hall an oasis of peace in the middle of the city.

59. Witte de Withstraat

Witte de Withstraat is also known as Rotterdam’s cultural street and together with Museum Park it’s the cultural heart of Rotterdam. This artistic street shouldn’t be skipped during your visit, and it’s filled with nice cafes, shops, art galleries and restaurants.

There are also several accommodations on and around Witte de Withstraat, which means you’re in the middle of the cultural center of our city.

Julia shares fun hotspots on and around Witte de Withstraat , so that you are sure you’re not missing a thing.

60. Nieuwe Binnenweg

The Nieuwe Binnenweg is another great street to have drinks with friends. It’s a typical street in Rotterdam with a great vibe. You’ll find a couple of popular, local bars here, such as Rotown, Bar3 and Stalles.

If you love beer, you should most definitely go to Boudewijn, a Belgian beer café. There are over 24 tap baars and more than 200 bottled beers. Hungry?

Order some sides with your beers, such as fries, bitterballen, mussels and more!

61. Kabouter buttplug

Locals call this kind of weird statue Kabouter Buttplug, but the official name is actually Santa Claus by Paul McCarthy. The statue is Santa Claus with a Christmas tree and is supposed to represent the consumption culture. But, as you can see, Santa Claus looks to be holding on to something else than a christmas tree…

There has been a lot of discussion around Kabouter Buttplug, and it has been dragged around to various spots in the city because of its sexual image.

Finally, the statue has found its place at Eendrachtsplein and the streets wouldn’t be the same without Santa Claus.

62. The Hofbogen

If you’re visiting the Luchtsingel, you might as well cross over to the North of Rotterdam. This neighbourhood has changed a lot in the recent years. Instead of sexshops and snackbars, you can now find lots of vintage stores, art galeries and cosy lunchrooms.

The Hofbogen, located at the border of the Oude Noorden, are definitely worth a visit. In this unique structure you’ll find lots of creative hotspots: Clone Records, BIRD, FG Food Labs and more. Around the Hofbogen you’ll also find lots of street art.

63. Admire the street art all across Rotterdam

Street art door Telmo Miel & Smug in Afrikaanderwijk.

In Rotterdam, there’s actually no need to spend money to enjoy art, because there is plenty of art to explore on the streets. If you’re a street art lover, you’ll definitely love our city.

Next to well-known spots, such as the street art around the Hofbogen by Opperclaes that changes four times a year, there are also lesser known spots in our city where you can find street art. This makes it so fun to roam around our city and find pieces of art in unexpected places.

Want to discover more cool murals in Rotterdam? Then check out our article about cool street art in Rotterdam !

64. The Rotterdam Art Ride project

Rotterdam Art Ride (ROAR) is an art project whereby 18 pillars under the metro line of Rijnhaven are painted by an international group of artists from all over Europe. The goal of this great art project is to make visual art accessible to a wide audience and to inspire residents on a daily basis.

The Rotterdam Art Ride can be found under the metro line between stations Rijnhaven and Maashaven in the South of Rotterdam.

Be sure to check out their website for more information about the project and its contributing artists!

65. Eiland van Brienenoord

If you’ve been to Rotterdam a few times already and feel like skipping the popular sights and see more of our city, be sure to explore more of the lesser known parts of Rotterdam. One of them is the Eiland of Brienenoord (Island of Brienenoord), located right below the Van Brienenoord Bridge.

As soon as you set foot on the island you discover a beautiful piece of nature where you can walk peacefully. You will not find many people on this island.

On the path you will find wooded areas, grass fields, small pools, open waters and a nature playground. In addition, there are 40 different bird species, plants and butterflies that live in the nature reserve. Perhaps the most surprising habitants are the Scottish Highlanders who roam around and graze the grass all year round.

There are so many unique hotspots in our city, but one that really stands out is Weelde. This creative, utopian free stat is a place where music, art, performance and food and drinks come together. It’s a place where both young and old can enjoy themselves.

There’s a lunchroom, restaurant, bar, garden, a big shed and a huge greenhouse. So whether you’re looking for a serene spot for a bite to eat or really want to party, both is possible at Weelde.

67. Take the metro

The metro in Rotterdam is actually a great and easy way to travel around. Besides that it’s functional, there are actually some pretty cool stations in our city.

For instance, Wilhelminaplein (pictured above), Marconiplein and Blaak. It may sound a bit weird to call a subway station a place of interest, but these are pretty photogenic places and reflect our raw city quite well!

If you want to learn how to use the public transport in our city, be sure to check out this article with information on how to use public transportation .

TIP: Already buy a  one day ticket for public transportation in Rotterdam

68. Enjoy a classic in Cinerama

There’s a big chance that you’ll visit Rotterdam on a rainy day . Don’t let it spoil your fun!

One of the things to do on a rainy day in our city, is visiting one of the cinema’s. Whether you want to watch the latest blockbuster or an arthouse film and classics, it’s all possible.

You can visit Cinerama, located at Westblaak, for that old skool movie experience. Both the exterior and interior of Cinerama is fantastic.

Another great option is KINO. It’s also possible to have dinner and drinks here, perfect before you go watch that old classic film.

69. Visit one of the many events that take place in Rotterdam

Of course everything is a bit different right now, but usually there are lots of fun events planned in Rotterdam and there’s something for everyone. From the free annual festival Metropolis and the annual theaterfestival De Parade to the city mediation and international yoga day.

Be sure to check out our calender to see if there’s anything fun to attend while you’re visiting our city!

70. Van Nelle Fabriek

Photo by our blogger @olivia.in.rotterdam

De Van Nelle Fabriek is a remarkable building made of concrete, steel and glass. It’s an event location, office building and museum. There’s a chance that during your visit in Rotterdam that there’s a event organised in this building. Van Nelle Fabriek is an excellent spot to take photos!

Hopefully you’ve got enough inspiration for things to do in Rotterdam after reading this article! Have an amazing time in our city, and be sure to follow us on Instagram @WeekendsinRotterdam and tag your photos in Rotterdam with #WeekendsinRotterdam . 

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Lisanne van Beurden

15 replies on “70 fun things to do in rotterdam”.

We should definitely explore Rotterdam!! Thanks for this great list.

Thank you for your comment Maartje! Hope you get to visit Rotterdam soon! 🙂

You bring some great tips 🙂 Ive been to Amsterdam bot never to rotterdam, maybe its well worth to rethink! And Op Het Dak really seems like a place that I would like

Rotterdam is definitely worth a visit! Completely different from Amsterdam. 🙂

Braw city have been going for 16 years, been all over staying with my family in CHARLAIS over from maashaven by tram and metro.

Ive never thought about going to Rotterdam but now i want to go! It looks gReat.

Wow I had no idea there is so much to see and do in Roterdam! Sadly, we had no time to stop here during our netherlands road trip last year, but definitely putting it on the list for next time! Thanks for sharing such informative post.

Wow this is great thank you! I’d never considered visiting rotterdam before as I didn’t know there were so many things to do! Im living in paris at the moment so will definitely have to explore more of the netherlands!

50 things to do!!wow that’s really awesome.i never new Rotterdam has so many options .thanks for sharing

Can’t believe i live this close and I have never made it to rotterdam! lovely post!

A great and detailed list with so many ideas! I was only once in Rotterdam but loved it! I was also living in Amsterdam for about 4 years hehe.

wow, I didn’t realize there was such a wide variety of unique thins to do in Rotterdam – thanks for sharing!!

Wow! I never realized how much there is to do in Rotterdam. I especially love the idea of having a surprise dinner. I wish that existed everywhere.

Nice list ! maybe you have heared that ‘dobberend bos’ will be moved to Almere City. The ss Rotterdam is nice option option instead

This article is the definitive guide to almost everything in Rotterdam Lisanne. Well done 😉

Seb Come To Rotterdam Insta and Youtube

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Home » Europe » Netherlands » 14 Fun Things to Do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

14 Fun Things to Do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: January 17, 2024

Rotterdam is full of surprises. We knew very little about the second-largest city in the Netherlands before we decided to add a few days here onto our trip to Amsterdam . What we discovered was a modern, vibrant city full of architecture, art, culture, and lots of great food. Here’s a look at some of the fun things to do in Rotterdam if you have 48 hours to explore.

Take a Spido boat tour

Eat your way through fenix food factory, explore museumpark, visit the ss rotterdam, shop at the market hall, browse binnenrotte market, see the old harbor, visit the cube houses, see the city from the euromast, visit delfshaven, stroll witte de with street, see the original holland america headquarters, get outside at keukenhof tulip garden, visit the kinderdijk windmills.

One of the best ways to see things in the city is by water—specifically by exploring its harbor on a Spido boat tour . The port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and one of the busiest in the world. On a 75-minute Spido cruise, you can experience the activity of the harbor and see many of the city’s sights from a different angle.

From the distinctive Erasmus and Willems bridges to the De Rotterdam building, you’ll see some of Rotterdam’s unique architecture . You’ll also get a view of the shipyards and docks that make the port hum with energy. It’s a great way to orient yourself to all the places to see in Rotterdam.

The Fenix Food Factory space is occupied by seven entrepreneurs, including a brewery, cheese monger, and soda fountain, among others. It’s a great place to try out everything from Dutch foods like stroopwafels to Moroccan tapas.

Vintage furniture and benches make inviting places for you to hang out in this hip market with a great view of the city. When you’re done eating, check out the cute bookstore.

Museumpark is home, as the name suggests, to a group of the city’s finest museums. These attractions showcase everything from the work of Old Masters to temporary fashion shows to animals preserved in formaldehyde.

At the Kunsthal Rotterdam , you can find rotating exhibits of all types of art and photography, while the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen has an impressive collection of masterpieces from medieval to contemporary artists. The New Institute (Het Nieuwe Instituut) focuses less on pieces of art and more on innovation in architecture, fashion, and design.

Nearby is the Huis Sonneveld , an actual home that is one of the best-preserved houses in the Dutch branch of the International School of Modernism. To round out the offerings, the Natural History Museum features skeletons, fossils, and a wide variety of items from nature.

Rotterdam is home to one of the most unique hotels/museums we’ve encountered—the ss Rotterdam . This ship from the Holland America line was once known as “The Grande Dame” and sailed the oceans for over 40 years until being permanently docked in the port. She opened as a combined hotel and museum in 2010.

You can visit the ship for events, to dine, or to take one of the many tours available. Possible stops include the bridge, engine rooms, Captain’s quarters, and the various public spaces of the ship. They even have two escape rooms. Staying overnight in one of its 254 hotel rooms (decorated in 1950s motif, of course) is also quite an experience—one of the more unusual things to do in Rotterdam.

Market Hall (Markthal) is an explosion of colors and scents. From the moment you walk through the doors of this enormous, horseshoe-shaped building, all you see are bright fruits, vegetables, and other foods—both actual items at the numerous food stalls and images of items on the massive ceiling artwork.

You can browse your way through the 100+ shops and stands or stop for a meal at one of the 15 restaurants in the market. Pretty much anything you can think of from tapas to hamburgers is available here.

One of the largest street markets in the Netherlands, Binnenrotte Market has over 500 stalls. Every Tuesday and Saturday, you can browse the massive area just outside Market Hall. There’s everything from clothes to books to produce at great prices, and it’s truly a local experience.

Dating from the 14th century, the Old Harbor (Oude Haven) is one of the more historic places to visit in Rotterdam and is the city’s oldest harbor. This unique area is home to an eclectic mix of old and new.

In the Old Harbor, you’ll find a small shipyard where historic ships are renovated (part of the Maritime Museum ) as well as a group of regal, old ships that are actually moored in the harbor. There are also historic merchant houses, which are some of the oldest surviving buildings in the city. This history is juxtaposed against a lively group of waterfront cafes, modern architecture, and innovations like the first skyscraper in the city. It’s a great place to grab a drink or a snack and take in the view.

Rotterdam’s unique Cube Houses are recognized around the world for their striking appearance. Dutch architect Piet Blom designed each cube to be tilted at a 55-degree angle and perched atop a hexagonally-shaped base. Plus, they’re bright yellow, so they more than stand out from the nearby buildings.

Many people just walk by the Cube Houses and marvel, but it’s also possible to visit the Show-Cube —a fully-furnished cube house that serves a museum. A step inside shows that it is indeed possible for people to live in these unique structures.

The 185-meter-tall Euromast is Rotterdam’s highest tower. From its rotating elevator that ascends to the top of the building, you can see brilliant 360-degree views of some of the city’s most notable landmarks.

For those a little bit less adventurous, the observation platform and restaurant at 96 meters also offer a great view of the city, perhaps paired with a meal or cup of tea. I chose the traditional elevator route down to the ground, but it’s also possible to abseil or zipline down from the tower during the summer if you’re looking for something heart-pounding to do.

The inner-city harbor of Delfshaven is one of the few areas that survived the bombing of Rotterdam during World War II. In this charming enclave, you can visit Pelgrimskerk , the church from which the Pilgrim Fathers left for America, and De Pelgrim Brewery which has been making craft beer for over 20 years. The restored grain mill “ De Distilleerketel ” is also worth a visit. Or, if you’ve had your fill of sites, just walk around and enjoy the historic marina area.

Witte de With Street is one of the cool areas. Filled with cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and shops, there’s always something happening on this street adjacent to the Museumpark. Pop into Bazar restaurant for some hummus, browse for sleek fashion at Design Studio Armeni, or stop by a thought-provoking exhibit at the Kunstinstituut Melly .

In the Kop van Zuid neighborhood, you’ll find the original headquarters of the Holland America line built in 1901. For decades, the distinctive Art Nouveau building was the point of departure for many Dutch people leaving for America.

Now, the historic building is the stylish Hotel New York . Despite the changes, many of the building’s architectural elements have been preserved, including its distinctive signage. It’s a great place to stop in for a drink or one of the restaurant’s seafood specialties.

For eight weeks every spring, Keukenhof, the most famous tulip garden in the Netherlands, opens less than an hour away . With over 1600 varieties of flowers and lots of sculptures, demonstrations, and unique exhibits, visiting Keukenhof is a gorgeous experience.

The 80-acre garden is accessible by public transportation from The Hague or Leiden, which are only 30 minutes away by train. Once you’ve seen Keukenhof, rent a bicycle in the parking lot to explore the flower fields nearby.

To easily visit Keukenhof from central Rotterdam, consider this tour .

Like tulips, windmills are quintessentially Dutch. The ones you can see at Kinderdijk are some of the most historic and majestic things to see in the Netherlands. They’re so close to the city that a visit to Kinderdijk is a must do day trip from Rotterdam.

The Kinderdijk windmills aren’t just amazing to see in person—they’re an essential part of life here. At 5 feet below sea level and surrounded by water, the mills are necessary to help keep the water out, and they’ve been doing their job for centuries.

On a walk around this UNESCO World Heritage site, you can see inside the windmills and learn about their history and their importance to the Netherlands, or you can just take a canal cruise and enjoy the peaceful scenery. We loved seeing the windmills at Zaanse Schans near Amsterdam, but the authenticity and history at Kinderdijk takes it to a different level.

Where to Stay

The Bilderberg Parkhotel Rotterdam is located in easy reach of the Rotterdam attractions. It’s a place where you can unwind from your day with great food, an expertly crafted cocktail, and a super-comfortable bed.

The Restaurant, The Park, is one of the city’s most popular restaurants, inspired by a chef with two Michelin stars. It features simple but high-quality flavor combinations in a modern, casual environment.

Our visit was hosted by Rotterdam Partners . All opinions of the artistic and entertaining are our own.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Wednesday 19th of July 2017

Yep, this is a great overview of what to do in Rotterdam. My husband is from near Rotterdam, but has lived in Utrecht for over 20 years. So we're going back soon, to discover some new hotspots. Can't wait!

Laura Longwell

I had a great time, and I think the city has continued its renaissance over the last year since I visited. I'm sure there will be lots of new fun spots to explore.

Saturday 13th of May 2017

Heading to Rotterdam in a fortnight, this is great! Had no idea there's a cidery, no way can I miss that...

Monday 29th of February 2016

Is it wrong that I want to go to Rotterdam just for that cider and grilled cheese? :-)

Not a bit! It's a cool place :)

Sunday 28th of February 2016

I've lived in the Netherlands for nearly 1.5 years and still haven't made it to Rotterdam. Definitely bookmarking this post for later use--especially the places to eat/drink (my favorite in every city...)!

That's great. I ate at Bazaar on Witte de With and the seafood restaurant at the Hotel New York. Both were delicious. In warmer weather, Hotel New York has a great outdoor space right on the water.

Stephen Garone

Monday 15th of February 2016

I spent two weeks in the Netherlands last year, and Rotterdam didn't make the cut. But now it's on the list for the next time! Thanks for the post.

51 Things to See In Rotterdam

What to see when you visit rotterdam.

This list helps you to make decisions. Rotterdam has many attractive places. Most museums, for example, are located in the centre. But there are also 5 museums in Hoek van Holland, about 30 minutes from the city centre. Rotterdam is divided into North-Rotterdam North and South-Rotterdam, separated by the Maas. In Rotterdam, we say Rotterdam-Zuid and Rotterdam-Noord.

We have 14 Districts in Rotterdam. If you intend to walk on the Rotterdam Beach, by car, it takes 30 minutes to get there. The metro will bring you to Hoek van Holland in 1 hour. The list of the locations is in random order.

We are super curious about which spots you will visit. Have fun, and let us know what you like the most. To teach you some Nederlands, the names of the locations are written in Dutch.

1. Let’s Kick off with a Popular Museum

The first hotspot on the list is an Art Museum. The Kunsthal is a crowd-puller in Rotterdam. It regularly hosts a variety of exhibitions or shows, from modern art to cultural art or architecture. The museum building is a piece of architectural art with several visible artworks on the outside. Even people who never really visit a museum will enjoy visiting the Kunsthal.

The art exhibitions vary depending on what the team of museum experts has put together at the time. They usually focus on a theme going on in Rotterdam or the world. The Kunsthal can be found near the Eendrachtsplein on the Museumpark. Museumpark is home to several museums. So if you want to have a cultural day, there is plenty to see.

2. Photos from Professionals

Photography is a big part of our life, if we like it or not. People take pictures on every corner with their high-tech cameras or phones. The Nederlands Fotomuseum holds a little less than 6 million pictures. All collections held by the museum are about photography in the Netherlands.

The photographers are from all over the world. So if you are lucky, the pictures of a visual artist from your country can be seen in the museum. You can find the museum in Rotterdam-South in the district Feijenoord. If you like to take some spectacular photos yourself, the Kop van Zuid, where the museum is located, inspires photographers. There is a permanent collection on display and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. You can see the current collection and what exhibition is coming.

3. You will Look like a Giant in this Tiny City

If you are lazy, then you should go to Miniworld Rotterdam. In less than 2 hours, you can enjoy the mini version of Rotterdam. You see the city by daylight and Rotterdam by night. How do they do this? That’s a surprise you have to find out yourself.

Miniworld Rotterdam is a perfect getaway when you visit our city with children. You will discover the miniature version of Rotterdam in a set-up of over 650 square metres. It is a surprising place full of information about the city and, of course, about Europe’s largest port. I give you a guarantee that you will enjoy what you see. Put on your glasses because there are many funny situations which will put a smile on your face.

4. Remember the Holland America Line

A visit to the SS Rotterdam is an experience you won’t forget. Going back in time when so many Dutch people travelled to the promised land, America. The experience of a guided tour on this historic Holland America Line passenger ship is impressive. The beautiful historical details, such as the 1950s interior and the deck with the swimming pool, were restored to their former glory.

At the end of the tour, you can feel how the passengers and crew experienced the wild trip over the ocean. This famous Dutch steamship has found her resting place at the quay near Katendrecht and shows off her 228 long, 51 metres high and 28 metres wide. The SS Rotterdam has been docked since February 2010. On board, there is a hotel and a few bars and restaurants. Many events are organized on the old cruise ship, and you can play Escape Rooms.

The 2 Passenger ships below were also part Of the Holland America Line (source city archive)

5. Here, You can look in the Mirror and see the Rotterdam Skyline

We would rather not tell you which of these 51 places on this list you should visit. But if you do not go to the Depot, you will regret this for a long time. The depot has been open since November 2021, and 250.000 people have been inside. It’s not a museum, although you can see some stored art. You can learn how the museum keeps the old paintings safe. There is also a room where you can see how people work on a painting restoration.

The Depot is the world’s first storage where visitors can look inside. The complete art collection consists of 151,000 art objects that are being restored and conserved. The exterior is a massive mirror, which made it an instant Rotterdam icon. Thousands of pictures can already be found online. Can you shoot an original photo?

Visitors can go to the roof garden, where a restaurant and stunning 360 city views await them.

6. Would you Like to Live above the Market?

Since the opening of the Depot, the Markthal next to Blaak Station is the second-best place you can visit. The design of the building is unique, and on the inside, the world’s most enormous work of art awaits you, called the Horn of Plenty. I’m sure you’ll look at the ceiling a few times.

You can eat delicious food at one of the 40 permanent market stalls in the Market Hall. Multiple tastes and cultures come together. For instance, you will find Asian, Dutch, Arabic and Italian products and dishes. Rotterdam is proud of the Market Hall because of the 175 cultures in the city.

7. The Former Biggest Port of the World is still..

Visiting Rotterdam is also visiting the biggest port in Europe. For some years, the port of Rotterdam was the biggest in the world. In 2022, we are still in the top 10 of the world.

If you want to learn about our port’s history, Maritiem Museum Rotterdam might be your place. This museum tells you everything about the past and present of the port of Rotterdam through exhibitions and activities. The Maritime Museum Rotterdam offers an impressive collection of cranes and (historic) ships. You can find this important museum in the centre of Rotterdam.

8. Another Memory of the Holland America Line

Hotel New York is the former office building of the Holland America Line. It oversees the port of Rotterdam from the terrace in front of the Hotel. The building dates back to 1901, and almost all the details are still authentic. There are even tower rooms where you can spend the night.

The restaurant at Hotel New York is very popular, and you almost always have to book a table one week in advance.

9. Two Young Elephants

Blijdorp Rotterdam Zoo is one of the most beautiful animal parks in the Netherlands. Many families with small children are regular visitors to the animals in the zoo. But even many adult locals visit the zoo now and then. You can find the zoo in the city district, Rotterdam North.

The zoo is divided into themed areas: a Malaysian forest, Mongolian steppes, a Chinese garden and a crocodile river. You also walk among the extraordinary marine life in the covered section of Oceanium. In short: there are plenty of exciting things to experience at Blijdorp Zoo.

10. Dutch Architecture, Functionalism

The extraordinary architecture of Van Nelle Fabriek still captures the imagination. Made of steel, glass and concrete, the building is a meeting place for fair and congress visitors. Creative entrepreneurs are building the next successful businesses.

It was once Europe’s most modern factory. Today, you can visit parts of the building. If you like to shoot some architectural photos, this is where you should go.

11. It’s green, and you can have a BBQ here

Besides being the biggest port in Europe, Rotterdam is among the world’s top 50 green cities. You can find almost 70 parks, gardens, forests and green areas in and around the city. In Het Park, you will find lots of peace and nature in the middle of the city! And when you relax on your back on the green grass, you see the Euromast.

It’s allowed to enjoy a BBQ in Het Park. There are a few spots in the park where you can prepare your steak, hamburger or mashed potatoes. You have a few cosy places in and around Het Park where you can sit down and buy food. One of those is the eatery De Ballentent , a well-known spot where you can eat lovely Dutch meatballs. Now we teach you Dutch. Just ask for a bal gehakt .

When the best meatballs in Rotterdam are not good enough for you, there is also Restaurant Parkheuvel. This restaurant from Erik van Loo holds 2 Michelin Stars. And of course, you can also have a nice picnic on a blanket on the green grass.

Under the Euromast, next to Het Park, you can play mini golf on the 18-hole course Midget Golfbaan Parkhaven. If you want to have a relaxing day in nature and be surrounded by people and trees, this is where you would like to go.

12. The Swan

The official name is the Erasmus Brug, and the Swan is the nickname of this bridge. You understand the nickname when you see this white giant connecting both sides of Rotterdam. The bridge is 800 meters long and 139 metres high.

You can cross the bridge by car or tram. But you will enjoy the view so much better when you walk. Some ships on the Maas cross under the bridge when you are lucky. Crossing the Erasmus bridge from north to south can make you thirsty.

Next to the bridge, in Rotterdam-south, you can’t miss the building De Rotterdam . Inside this building is the NHOW hotel. This hotel has a rooftop terrace at the site of the river Maas. Here you can enjoy a cold beer and see the Erasmus Bridge simultaneously.

The 3 photos below show the building process of the Erasmus Bridge. Photos made available by Rotterdam Archive.

13. Some Cornwine Distillery History

Many people know the Netherlands because of our windmills. In Rotterdam, we also have a few windmills. In the historic Delfshaven district, you can visit Korenmolen De Distilleerketel. This beautiful mill was built in 1986, but there’s a lot of history to be found here.

In the same area, there already was a mill in 1727. This mill was burned down 172 years later. The mill was rebuilt again, but in WWII, tragedy destroyed the mill again.

You can visit the inside of the mill. You will then see how the mill is still working and traditionally grinding grain. The nice thing is that this flour is supplied to local bakers, so the mill is actively used. Daily, from 11:00 until 17:00, you can have a look inside.

14. Kabouter ButtPlug

Do you want to see something funny? Let’s go to Eendrachtsplein in the city centre. This statue, ‘Santa Claus,’ will catch your eye. It’s from the contemporary artist Paul McCarthy from Utah, USA. Since 2001 this has been one of the pieces of art you can see everywhere in Rotterdam.

I don’t have to explain why the locals call this statue ‘Dwarf Butt Plug.’ The official story is Father Christmas holding a Christmas tree, representing consumer culture. One thing is for sure, the statue attracts a lot of attention when people walk by for the first time.

15. A Gothic-style Church

Sint Laurenskerk is one of the few historical buildings that survived the bombing of World War II. You will find this beautiful Gothic-style church dating back to the Middle Ages in the centre of Rotterdam.

Every Sunday, people are welcome in the Laurenskerk to join church service. And to maintain the perfect condition of the church, there are also diners, events, exhibitions and performances. For a few euros, you can see the church on the inside.

From April to October, you can see the Rotterdam skyline from the top of the Laurenskerk tower. This is not for everyone. You need to climb 300 steps to arrive at the top. It is worth every step. That’s a promise.

16. Street Art is Everywhere in our City

In 2001, Rotterdam was the capital cultural city of Europe. This was the start of more visible art in the streets of Rotterdam. One of the initiatives was Rewriters010. This group work with the street artist to make the city more colourful.

The best part of this art is that it’s free to enjoy for everyone. I’m sure you will see some lovely paintings while you walk in the streets of Rotterdam. There’s also a possibility to walk an organized tour from the Rewriters010.

Rewriters010 offers six walking tours for free. Download them in the App Store or Google Play . You can also book a guided tour to learn more about the background or artists. Book a guided tour on the website REWRITERS010.

17. An old green Railway Bridge

Rotterdam is a city with many bridges. De Hef , translated as ‘Uplift’ in English, is a household name in Rotterdam. The real name of this green bridge is the Koningenshavenbrug.

The old railway bridge made of robust steel was no longer needed when a tunnel in the river Maas became the new route for train traffic. The bridge connected The North Island was connected to the South by this monumental bridge.

In 2022 ‘De Hef’ was in the news worldwide. The bridge should be dissembled so that the new Superyacht from Jeff Bezos, built by the Dutch company Oceanco, could pass. For example, this article was written in The Guardian. After protests and threats to damage the ship, another solution was found to transport the ship to his following location.

18. If you like Books

Treat yourself to the Rotterdam Public Library and take in all its beauty and interest. This library is one of the city’s busiest cultural institutions, with over 2.6 million annual visitors. Both the contents and the exterior of the building are fascinating. The design is also known as Rotterdam’s Centre Pompidou, as its distinctive style makes it look just like this building from France. It’s close to Station Blaak.

19. A Modern Church is helping People

Are you a fan of modern architecture? Then be sure to look at De Pauluskerk on Mauritsweg. This church has an unusual and futuristic appearance. Standing in front of the church, its copper-brown colour and triangular shapes will never cease to amaze you.

The Paulus Church serves as a religious centre and supports needy people such as addicts and the homeless. So besides a religious one, it also has a social function.

20. What was Napoleon doing in Rotterdam?

Among all the modern buildings in the middle of Rotterdam city centre, you will come across Het Schielandshuis. Luckily for the people of Rotterdam, this historical building from 1662 survived the World War II bombing of the city.

Check out the authentic and detailed architecture of the Schielandshuis and take a walk into the beautiful garden. Maybe you feel why Napoleon and his wife slept in the Schielandshuis in 1811.

21. A farm in the Middle of Rotterdam

Where can you find a farm in the middle of the big city? In Rotterdam, we have a 1000 m², fully functioning Dakakker Roof Farm on top of the building Schieblock. In the centre, close to the Hofplein.

On the farm, edible flowers and fruits are grown, and bees are kept. You can visit the farm and the restaurant, both on the same roof.

22. WWII Memory

Near Blaak and between the Maritime Museum and the Chamber of Commerce is Plein 1940. This square became a memorial beacon for the devastating bombing of Rotterdam on 14 May 1940.

You will behold an impressive and powerful sculpture by artist Zadkine in the middle of the square. The Destroyed City looks like a body without a heart, which can be interpreted as the Rotterdam heart that was ripped out of the city by the bombings.

23. You have to Look Up to See This Beautiful piece of Architecture

We talked about this building before. Rotterdam attracts many architectural lovers from all over the world. De Rotterdam, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is drawing impressive attention.

Find your way to the Kop van Zuid, and spot the Rotterdam, among many other exciting things you can see. Don’t forget your camera.

24. Famous Football Stadium

In Rotterdam-South, you can visit the home ground of Feyenoord. After winning all their international finals outside Rotterdam, in 2002, Feyenoord defended Borussia Dortmund to win the UEFA Cup for the second time in their history.

Numerous other essential football finals were played in De Kuip, and tens of well-known artists performed in the stadium. You can book a 90-minute tour in de Kuip.

25. Yellow Houses

When searching for information on Google, you probably have seen pictures of the Kubus Woningen. The square houses look impossible to live in. But when you are inside one of the Cube Houses you can visit, you will see that they were designed and built practically.

Visiting the cube house doesn’t take much time, but it will give you unforgettable memories and exciting pictures.

26. Shopping Street

Do you like shopping in Rotterdam? De Koopgoot is a must-see for any shopaholic. This shopping street is full of big chain shops like Hema, Zara, Lush and Douglas.

Beurstraverse, the official name, is located in the heart of Rotterdam’s shopping centre. To enter the Koopgoot, you will have to walk down quite a set of stairs, described by many Rotterdammers as ´pleuristrap´ because it is somewhat uncomfortable. Have a look and judge for yourself!

27. The White House

Yes, Het Witte Huis. No, it’s not a copy of the presidential mansion in Washington. The White House in Rotterdam was the first skyscraper. In September 1898, it was a state-of-the-art modern office building. Despite the building being only 43 metres high, it was the highest in Europe. If you fancy architecture, it’s worth seeing the building. It was built in Art Nouveau style.

Nowadays, there is a Grand Cafe, Het Witte Huis, on the ground floor. Here you can have a drink or something to eat. They also have the key to the top floor of the White House. On special occasions, they open the secret door upstairs.

28. You Should see this 360 View

If you don’t get the key to seeing the top of the White House, I advise you to visit De Euromast . This was the highest place you could visit in Rotterdam for a long time. There are 2 viewing platforms at 100 and 112 metres. When you want to go to 187 metres, a special elevator rotates to the top.

After this spectacular 360 view over Rotterdam, you can enjoy lunch or dinner in the restaurant. This is still 100 metres high. But be aware you have to reserve a table, at least a few days before, if you want to eat and enjoy the view simultaneously.

For your information. With 215 metres, Zalmhaventoren is the highest building in Rotterdam. Unfortunately, this building is not open for visitors yet.

29. This is a Beautiful Lake

This Lake in the district of Kralingen will surprise you with its dazzling nature. The Kralingse Bos surrounds the water. The forest gives people a place of peacefulness next to the big city of Rotterdam. Every year, 3.5 million people find their way to the Karalingse Plas.

In summer, you can enjoy the sun on the beach, swim in the lake or have a picnic. The year through, you can stroll among the trees, appreciate nature and breathe fresh air. You can sit down in several locations and buy something to eat.

The hidden gem in the Kralingse Plas is the Heemtuin. This peaceful garden is an oasis of rest.

30. Uitkijkpunt Lührs

Viewpoint Lührs treats visitors with a fantastic view of the skyline of Rotterdam. This vantage point is located in Bergschenhoek, a small village next to Rotterdam. You must climb a 40-metre-high hill in the middle of nature, but the rewarding view will be astonishing. On a clear day, you can even see The Hague’s skyline!

Bonus Thing to See in Rotterdam

A few kilometres from Lührs, there’s another high point to look over Rotterdam. You can wave at each other if you are on Lührs and the other person on Watchtower Bergschenhoek.

The view from the watchtower is a little better than from the viewpoint. The road up to Lührs, between the green bushes and beautiful lawns, is more spectacular.

No, we do not show you the beautiful view from both locations. Put on your shoes and walk to the top yourself. Tip: Head to one of these locations to see the sunrise.

Bonus Thing to Do

If you like to be active, you can spend a whole day around these places. From the top of Lührs, you can almost ski down the artificial slopes of Outdoor Valley Winter Sports. The perfect place for people who are eager to learn skiing. Or maybe you want a warm-up before heading to the mountains with real snow.

Almost next to the watchtower, you can let off steam on the other Outdoor Valley attractions. Rent a canoe or climb the 35-meter-high outdoor climbing wall. You can do archery, do outdoor fitness and eat lovely food. Definitely, you’re going to get hungry after all these activities. The children can just come along. There are plenty of activities for young people.

next locations under these photos

31. Witte de Withstraat

Art and fun lovers, beware: Rotterdam’s Witte de Withstraat is waiting for you. This cultural and hip street full of life in the city centre is full of cafés, restaurants, and shops with special collections.

Several galleries display their art pieces. Visit the art institute Melly to sparkle your creative spirit. All in one of the most intimate streets in Rotterdam.

32. Futureland

Have you ever realized what is going on in the port of Rotterdam? We see massive vessels and giant container ships, but it requires great effort to let this 24/7 business operate smoothly.

FutureLand offers the opportunity to see all aspects of the Maasvlakte and Europe’s largest port up close. Here you can see with your own eyes what container terminals look like and how huge container ships sail past and dock. It’s a perfect outing for young and old, and also free.

33. Sparta Stadium, Het Kasteel

Sparta is the oldest professional football team in the Netherlands. The club was founded in 1888. For more than 100 years, Het Kasteel has been the home ground of Sparta. In 1999, the stadium was largely rebuilt.

The buildings responsible for the nickname Het Kasteel, the castle, are still part of the stadium. You can visit the stadium, tour the castle and see the Sparta museum. Check this website for bookings.

34. ROAR Rotterdam Art Ride

Pillars under a bridge, that’s what I like to show you. In the city district Afrikaanderwijk, 18 pillars are around Rijnhaven and Maashaven metro stations. Visual art is accessible to all, conceived and created by a group of European artists.

The paintings are another project of the ongoing street art development. This spot is in the south of Rotterdam. The Afrikaanderwijk district was one of the first neighbourhoods with the most non-western inhabitants. A multicultural area. Waiting for your visit.

35. Rotterdam City hall and courtyard

Two in one, when you go to the Coolsingel number 40. The city hall was built in 1920 and survived the bombings in WWII. When you like to see old buildings, visit the Rotterdam town hall. The architecture is remarkable, and an inside tour shows you unique art pieces and impressive rooms.

Tours are on Monday, 9:00 and 15:00 and Friday, 9:00 and 13:30. The courtyard is always open for the public during working hours. So if you like architecture and gardens, you will go home with many beautiful pictures.

36. Floating farm

Water, innovation, and sustainability come together in the Floating farm in Rotterdam. Locals can buy fresh dairy every day. The raw material used in the Floating farm consists of residues from Rotterdam. This is a win-win for humans and animals.

No, the cows don’t get seasick. Look for yourself in the Merwe-Vierhavens (M4H) area in Rotterdam West.

37. Netherlands’ longest shopping street

The Nieuwe Binnenweg is officially the longest shopping street in the Netherlands. Want to taste the atmosphere of a typical Rotterdam street? Then head to the Nieuwe Binnenweg. No big brands but local shops, bars, restaurants and vintage boutiques. Go to Eendrachtsplein, cross the street, and there the fun begins.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, and drinks are more affordable than in the city centre. But still of good quality. There’s also exciting nightlife with Bar3 for alternative music and pop stage Rotown. Maybe you will have the longest day of your life on this 2 kilometres shopping street. Have fun.

38. Have a walk in the statue park

This creative park, AVL Mundo , from artist Joep van Lieshout, shows new sculptures every year. Not just everyday art, but extraordinary sculptures. It’s free to visit.

Next to the statue park, you can see more modern art at the Brutus Art Playground. This creative spot displays art from international artists next to exhibitions of new artistic talent.

39. Two Kilometres Railway Arches

The typical Hofbogen Viaduct is immediately recognizable by the arches and rails draped over it. This railway was once the connection between Scheveningen and Rotterdam. The Hofbogen has been registered as a National Monument since 2002.

Nowadays, you can check out art galleries and vintage shops there. Creative concepts like BIRD, Clone Records and FG Food Labs house under the arches. On the roof, the new garden is almost finished. See if you like it here.

40. You can’t visit the Netherlands without visiting a windmill

The Ster and Lelie are two typical old Dutch mills. You can enter them for free and find them just outside the centre in the district of Kralingen. Free to enter, although a small donation for maintenance is welcome.

These mills are still in service. They produce snuff and spice. Regulations have forbidden the sale of snuff, but you can still see how it is produced. The self-produced spices are still for sale. The mills can be found on Plaszoom street, next to the Kralingse Plas.

41. If you are strolling through the streets of Rotterdam

Walking is a perfect way to observe the beauty of any city. That’s not different in Rotterdam. Sculpture Route Westersingel leads you along 17 pieces of art from well-known artists.

Walk ahead when you leave Central Station at the front side. After 200 metres, you will enter the Westersingel. Send us a picture of the sculpture you like the most.

42. An Oasis of Nature in the Big City

The Eiland van Brienenoord is located in Rotterdam South. This island is a way to escape from the busy city. This nature reserve is an unexpectedly beautiful, peaceful, green piece of nature.

This Brienenoord island is not an artificial island. The nineteenth century saw the creation of Brienenoord Island. In the Maas, mud flats developed then and were soon covered in trees and vegetation. The island offers open water, a nature playground, lawns, a forest and even small swimming pools.

43. Some Train Stations are Boring

Rotterdam Centraal Station is an architectural highlight of the city. The rebuilt train station was opened in March 2014. You can take away lovely food, drinks, and coffee inside the station. You will notice that the toilets are clean, if necessary.

Most pictures you will shoot from the outside of the building. And if it’s raining, you can visit MiniWorld Rotterdam. The miniature version of the train station was already built before the real version was finished. It’s only a 4-minute walk from Rotterdam Central Station.

44. The only City in The Netherlands with a Skyline

Every major city in the world has a fantastic skyline. The Rotterdam Skyline is still growing. With the White House, we even had the first skyscraper in Europe in 1898. Now, Rotterdam has around 30 buildings visible in the Skyline. 15 more high buildings are in development.

We will mention a few places where you can see the skyline. First, the Euromast, here you have a 360 view over Rotterdam. The second one is very spectacular. You need a car for this. Driving over the A13 highway towards Rotterdam, in the turn on junction Kleinpolderplein to the A20, you have an impressive 10 seconds view of the Rotterdam Skyline. PLEASE BE CAREFUL.

In the 2 other places we mention, you’ll have a lot more time to enjoy the view over the city. From the north side of the Kralingse Plas and the Island of Brienenoord, you also have a good overview of all the high buildings in Rotterdam.

And, of course, you can shoot astonishing skyline pictures during a boat tour. The Spido boat tour company has 3 cruises where you can see the skyline from different viewpoints. Under the Erasmus bridge, at Willemsplein, the Spido ships are waiting for you.

45. Do you like to see the History and Heritage of Rotterdam?

Museum Rotterdam should be on your list of places you visit. The exhibition about the bombing of Rotterdam in WWII will make you understand why the people are so proud of their city. After your visit, you will know the complete story. How was Rotterdam before the war? What was left after the bombings? And why do the people in Rotterdam have the saying, in Dutch, ‘ Niet Lullen maar Poetsen ‘?

The collection of the museum is over 100.000 pieces of Rotterdam heritage. Unfortunately, during the corona pandemic, 1 location had to close. We are optimistic about the opening of a new location. In the meanwhile, you can browse the collection online here. It’s in Dutch, more lessons are here to come.

46. How many Nationalities can you count in Rotterdam?

In the Wereldmuseum , cultures from around the world and Rotterdam come together. The people of Rotterdam collect over 83.000 objects in the museum. Our city shows that it is possible to live with many people from all backgrounds.

The Wereldmuseum is located next to the Veerhaven and the river Nieuwe Maas. Before you go, I will answer my question; 172 nationalities. Happy counting.

47. The most Historical area in Rotterdam

The most preserved area in Rotterdam is Delfshaven. You can still find old buildings here. Sadly, the majority of the old property in Rotterdam was destroyed in WWII.

The Pilgrim Fathers Church is one of these buildings, built in 1417, and the city hall of Delfshaven was built in 1580 are a few we mention. Delfshaven is an exciting area to walk and breathe a bit of history.

48. Did you book a Beach Holiday?

Yes, Rotterdam even has three beaches where you can enjoy the sun. So, don’t forget your swimwear and sun cream. In the northwest of Rotterdam, you can go to Strand Nesselande. This recreational lake is where you can sunbathe, swim and even surf.

The next beach is in south Rotterdam. It’s not easy to find, but the reward is a lovely, quiet beach with a view over the Nieuwe Maas. This beach is located at Heijplaat, just past Waalhaven. People call it ‘Het verborgen strand’.

You must travel to the North Sea coast for the third and final beach. Here you can enjoy Rotterdam Beach. The beach is over 3 kilometres long and 250 metres wide. You can enjoy food and drinks at the beach houses. Please let us know which beach you have been to.

49. Today, the Children are in Control

Young kids also like to do fun things in Rotterdam. One of the top attractions in Rotterdam is Plaswijckpark. This park is divided into 3 areas. Children can release their energy in the play park. Ride a go-kart, build things, or get wet in the spray lane.

The animal park is a lot of fun. Kids can pet the animals and learn about some cool animals. When papa and mama are tired, you can picnic in the garden. You can even take your food. The kids shall be happy if you take them to the Plaswijckpark. And you will have 50 more pictures of your children.

50. What Size is your Garden?

Our garden is 8 hectares, and we name it Trompenburg Tuinen & Arboretum. A private foundation now manages this garden. For years, this backyard was a resident’s hobby.

Our park has a vast collection of trees, perennials, bulbs and tubers. They all have a name. If you do not know the name of a plant or tree, you can always look at the nameplate.

51. The Coolest Neighbourhood

Assuming you stay in a hotel in the City centre, the Cool neighbourhood is where you will spend some time. It’s the city centre where you will find the most bars, restaurants and shops. Walk around and choose your favourite spots. Have fun.

For now, this is the end of the list. We will add some bonus locations in the future.

• The Netherlands
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Rotterdam

Planning a trip to Rotterdam in the near future? Then make sure to check out Culture Trips’s guide to the city’s principle attraction in order to discover the best museums, culinary hotspots and landmarks in the city.

The cube houses.

These peculiar residential buildings were designed to resemble a forest with each unit representing a singular tree. Although most of the Cube Houses are still occupied, it is possible to experience living inside their slanted walls by visiting an onsite museum called Kijk-Kubus . 📍 Kijk-Kubus, Overblaak 70, Rotterdam , +31 10 414 2285

Experiencing Rotterdam’s skyline from the Euromast is absolutely incredible as this 91m high tower looks directly onto the city’s modern centre. There’s also a restaurant and hotel inside. 📍 The Euromast, Parkhaven 20, Rotterdam , +31 10 436 4811

Unlike most art museums, Kunsthal only presents temporary exhibitions and doesn’t actually own a permanent collection. This means that its content is constantly changing and allows the museum to focus on cutting-edge, innovative or under appreciated artwork. 📍 Kunsthal, Westzeedijk 341, Rotterdam , +31 10 440 0300

SS Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam is among the finest cruise ships ever built and started off as a transatlantic ocean liner before it was converted into a recreational vesse l. Today it is permanently moored in Rotterdam’s harbour and contains a hotel , several restaurants and visitor centre. 📍 SS Rotterdam, 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25, Rotterdam , +31 10 297 3090

Windmills at Schiedam

Around 50 gigantic windmills were built in Scheidam during the 17th and 18th centuries in order to provide grain for the city’s booming jenever industry . Eight of these machines have survived until the present day and are collectively recognised as the tallest windmills in the world. 📍 De Nieuwe Palmboom, Noordvest 34, Schiedam

This charming, historical neighbourhood was largely unharmed during World War II and features the largest concentration of pre-20th century buildings in Rotterdam. The area’s docklands are particularly stunning and still contain many buildings from the 17th century. 📍 Delshaven, Rotterdam

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Rotterdam’s largest museum was established 1849 after Frans Jacob Otto Boijmans bequeathed his large art collection to the city. Since then, Boijmans has continued to update its collection and now owns many groundbreaking artworks including paintings created by Rembrandt, Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh. 📍 Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, Museumpark 18, Rotterdam , +31 10 441 9400

Nederlands Fotomuseum

The Nederlands Fotomusuem permanent collection includes many important series and images created by renowned photographers such as Ed van der Elsken , Henri Cartier-Bresson and Viviane Sassen. The museum also organises temporary exhibitions throughout the year. 📍 Nederlands Fotomuseum, Las Palmas, Wilhelminakade 332, Rotterdam , +31 10 203 0405

Museum Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s municipal museum collects and presents items related to city’s multi-faceted heritage. The museum currently houses over 40,000 items and regularly creates temporary exhibitions that revolve around important periods. people and places from Rotterdam’s past and present. 📍 Museum Rotterdam, Timmerhuis, Rodezand 26, Rotterdam , +31 10 217 6750

Fenix Food Factory

Around two years ago, several local culinary entrepreneurs decided to band together and created the Fenix Food Factory . This modern food hall is housed within a former shipping warehouse and contains many awesome initiatives, including the Kaapse Brouwers brewery . 📍 Fenix Food Factory, Veerlaan 19D, Rotterdam , +31 6 46136799

Erasmus Bridge

This stunning suspension bridge connects the northern and southern banks of the river Maas in Rotterdam’s city centre. Many Rotterdammers prefer to call the bridge de Zwan (the swan) due to its unique, sloping design. 📍 Erasmus Bridge, Rotterdam

Santa Claus

After this municipally funded statue was unveiled in the city, Rotterdammers almost immediately calling it ‘Buttplug Gnome’ due to the oddly shaped object grasped within its right hand. Since then the statue has become something of a local mascot and still spurs controversy. 📍 Santa Claus – Paul McCarthy, Eendrachtsplein, Rotterdam

Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s natural history museum launched in 1927 and has continued to collect and preserve scientific artefacts ever since. Its archives feature many important natural objects including an entire Asian elephant skeleton that is known as Ramon. 📍 Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam, Westzeedijk 345, Rotterdam , +31 10 436 4222

Rotterdam’s Witte Huis was among the first high-rise buildings in Europe and was one of the few buildings inside the city’s centre to survive German airstrikes during World War II. The building is currently protected as a national monument and was designed according to Art Nouveau standards. 📍 Witte Huis, Geldersekade 1, Rotterdam , +31 10 414 2142

Chabot Museum

The stunning modernist villa on Rotterdam’s Museumpark contains an equally important museum that is dedicated to Dutch painter and sculpture Hendrikus Chabot. Chabot often depicted Rotterdam in his artwork and lived in the city for most of his life. 📍 Chabot Museum, Museumpark 11, Rotterdam , +31 10 436 3713

Van Nelle Factory

After the Van Nelle Factory was completed in 1931, many famous architect showered it with praise and Le Corbuiser even called it ‘the most beautiful spectacle of the modern age’. The factory is currently protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and organises tours around twice a year. 📍 Van Nelle Factory, Spaanse Polder, Rotterdam

Diergaarde Blijdorp

Diergaarde Blijdorp has cared for an enormous menagerie of animals for over 150 years and is among the oldest zoos in the Netherlands. There are hundreds of rare, endangered and exotic critters inside from every corner of the globe. 📍 Diergaarden Blijdorp, Blijdorplaan 8, Rotterdam , +31 900 1857

Miniworld Rotterdam

There are thousands of scale-models of Rotterdam and its surrounding locales inside this charming indoor theme park . The miniature world is currently expanding and will soon include an entire section dedicated to England and Scotland. 📍 Miniworld Rotterdam, Weena 745, Rotterdam , +31 010 240 0501

Witte de With Centre for Contemporary Art

Over the past 25 years, Witte de With Centre has played a pivotal role within Rotterdam’s art scene. The centre regularly organises events and exhibitions within its three-storey gallery on Witte de Withstraat that cover a broad spectrum of themes, genres and mediums. 📍 Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art, Witte de Withstraat 50, Rotterdam , +31 10 411 0144

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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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. 

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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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