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Rotterdam Zoo - On Your Own (RTM08)

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Port Guides

Rotterdam cruise port guide.

Make the most of your time ashore with my guide to some of the things you can do in Rotterdam and beyond.

Rotterdam is a popular stop on Northern European cruises. While at first glance it might not sound that exciting – especially in comparison to Amsterdam – it doesn’t take much digging to discover it is actually a great port to visit.

The second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is known for being a modern, vibrant city with a rich maritime heritage. The Port of Rotterdam is often referred to as the gateway to Europe thanks to its location by the North Sea and at the mouth of the river Rhine.

I’ve visited Rotterdam on two cruises, one of which we ended up staying there for three nights thanks to some bad weather delaying our departure. So, I’ve had plenty of experience seeing the sights from a cruise ship docked in the city centre.

I’ve put together this guide to share information on what you can expect, some suggestions of things to do in the city and a few ideas if you wish to explore further afield.

Rotterdam Cruise Port

The sail into Rotterdam from the North Sea takes a few hours and is more interesting than you might think it would be. As you travel along the narrow channel you pass various towns including the Hook of Holland and Maassluis. It really gives you an idea of how big the port is.

Depending on the time you arrive – and if you are awake – you might catch your ship pirouetting around as it docks. On my second visit we arrived around lunchtime and got see the skills of the crew in action as they manoeuvred the ship into place.

Rotterdam Cruise Terminal

The cruise terminal in Rotterdam is in the centre of the city so all the main sights and tourist attractions are within easy reach.

When you disembark and enter the terminal you’ll be greeted by a tourist information stand. You can pick up maps of the city here and talk to the people manning the stand if you have any questions or are looking for some suggestions on what to do.

The terminal building is large, light and airy. There is plenty of seating, a cafe/restaurant and free wifi. 

To get into the city centre you can walk over the Erasmus Bridge. Don’t worry, you can’t miss this. You’ll see this from your cruise ship.

Alternatively, the Wilhelminaplein Metro station is at the end of the road the cruise terminal is located on. Here you can get a train across the river into the city centre.

Things to do in Rotterdam from a Cruise Ship

While a day or two (if you have an overnighter) is not much time to explore Rotterdam, you can comfortably see a couple of sights on a port stop.

Some of the popular things to do in Rotterdam include…

Stroll over the Erasmus Bridge

Cruise ships dock right next to the Erasmus Bridge, one of the most famous bridges in Holland. Spanning the River Nieuwe Maas, it connects the north and south of the city. 

It is a combined cable-styled and bascule bridge with one single pylon which gives it a unique look. As well as traffic lanes, which carry vehicles and trams, there is a cycle path and walkway.

At 802 meters long, it takes around 10 minutes to walk over the bridge. This isn’t too bad in the summer or if it is dry. However, on one of my trips we had very poor weather so I don’t recommend walking over in rain or a gale force wind! Trust me on that, it was truly awful.

Tip: Head up on deck to get some great photos of the bridge and the Rotterdam skyline.

Cube Houses

The iconic Cube Houses are one of Rotterdam’s most well-known attractions. Designed by Dutch architect, Piet Blom, each cube is tilted at a 45 degree angle so it looks like they have been tipped on their side. 

With three floors connected by steep stairs, walls and windows at odd angles, it might come as a surprise to learn that people do call these houses home. 

You can you look inside one of the Cube Houses at the Kijk-Kubus Museum-House. It costs just €3 to pop inside and it is well worth it. 

The fully decorated house gives you an idea of what it would be like to live in one of these. Although I’m still wondering how you’d get your furniture in. Flat pack all the way I guess!

You’ll find the Cube Houses on Overblaak Street and above the Blaak metro station. The Kijk-Kubus Museum-house is open seven days a week from 11:00 to 17:00.

Old Harbor  ( Oude Haven)

Rotterdam’s historical old harbor (Oude Haven) is a popular place for locals and tourists alike.

Carefully restored boats give a glimpse into the past while the waterfront terraces of the cafes and restaurants give it a modern feel. It’s a nice area to wander around and you can often see boats being painted or repaired. 

The Cube Houses are nearby so you can easily combine a visit to both places. If you would like to learn more about Rotterdam’s maritime history, the Maritime Museum Rotterdam is just a short walk away.

If you are a foodie – or just interested in unusual shaped buildings – you’ll want to head to Rotterdam’s Markthal.

Home to the largest indoor market in Holland, the Markthal is packed with 100 stalls selling fresh produce. There are also 15 food shops and eight restaurants. So plenty of places to get a quick bite to eat during your day in Rotterdam.

The unusual shaped building is actually a residential and office building with the market underneath. Shaped like a horseshoe, there is a glass facade where you enter and exit the market. 

If you go inside, make sure you look up at the ceiling. It is covered with a spectacular artwork of fruit, vegetables, fish and flowers called the Horn of Plenty.

The market is located behind the Rotterdam Blaak station. It is open Monday to Thursday and Saturday between 10am and 8pm. On Friday’s it extends it’s opening hours to 9.00pm. Sunday’s it is open 12.00 to 6pm. 

Get a bird’s eye view of Rotterdam from the Euromast Tower

Towering over Rotterdam is the 100m high Euromast Tower. A visit here is a great way to get an overview of Rotterdam and learn more about the city. 

As well as providing a 360 degree view of the city, you can enjoy a meal with a view in the restaurant, stay overnight up there in the hotel and even abseil back down the ground. 

Find out more about about Euromast and book tickets .

More things to do in Rotterdam

If you have already visited the main sites of Rotterdam or just fancy doing something a bit different there are plenty of other things to do and areas to explore including…

• Visiting SS Rotterdam , once a passenger vessel and now a hotel and museum. 
• Strolling around one of Rotterdams museums or art galleries
• Visiting Rotterdam Zoo , known for its successful breeding programs, the zoo is one of the oldest in Holland
• Wandering around Delfshaven , a borough of Rotterdam with many historic buildings, restaurants and bars

Popular shore excursions from Rotterdam

Many cruise lines will offer trips to Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands. These will cover full day tours around the city or just a transfer there and back so you can explore on your own.

The city is packed with things to do. With its scenic canal network, interesting museums and galleries and vibrant bars and restaurants you will have a day to remember.

Things to do in Amsterdam include

• Strolling around the Rijksmuseum , home to huge collection of Dutch artwork
• Visiting the Anne Frank Museum , get an insight into what life was like for Anne and her family as they hid from the Nazis for two years
• Exploring the city on a canal tour
• Wandering around the Van Gogh Museum , the world’s largest collection of works by Vincent Van Gogh.

While Amsterdam is not that far away, the traffic can be heavy. I was quoted two hours each way when I looked at a shore excursion, giving me only two hours in the city. As I had planned to meet a friend for dinner, it wasn’t really enough time to make the trip worthwhile. Definitely not enough time for dinner anyway.

So, if you are thinking of a shore excursion that is a shuttle there and back, take a look at the travel time and compare it with the time in Amsterdam. You want to make sure you have enough time in the city and not spending most of it on a coach. 

If you want to do it yourself, taking the train is the fastest way to reach Amsterdam. It takes just over an hour or so. However, if you take this route it is down you to ensure you make it back to the ship on time.

Kinderdijk 

Home to possbily the most famous and most photograped windmills in world, Kinderdijk is a popular day trip.

Around a third of the Netherlands is below sea level and the Dutch have a long history of water management to prevent flooding. The 19 windmills at Kinderdijk were built around 1740 and the system of mills and pumps drained water from the soil into the river, keeping the area dry for centuries.

Today, Kinderdijk is a World UNESCO site. You can wander along the canal paths to see the windmills for free. However, there is also a visitor centre and two windmills you can visit if you’d like to learn more about Kinderdijk and how water management has evolved over the years.

One of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, Dordrecht has a rich history and culture.

Best explored on foot, the city is home to over 1000 monuments including the Great Church (Grote Kerk). Many of Dordrecht’s historic buildings have been converted into tourist attractions, restaurants and shops.

Things to do in Dordrecht include

• Exploring the historic harbours by foot or boat.
• Getting a panoramic view of the city from the tower of the Grote Kerk
• Visiting a museum and learn more about Dordrecht’s past

The enchanting city of Delft is just a half hour drive from Rotterdam. While best known for its blue and white pottery, it is also where Vermeer, the famous dutch painter was born.

Small and compact, Delft is easily explored on foot. Things to do in Delft include

• Exploring the Royal Delft Museum, the only remaining pottery factory from the 17th century. Stroll around the museum or take a guided tour to find out more about the famous Delft Blue
• Visiting the two churches that face each other in the city’s central square, the (not very new) Nieuwe Kerk and the Oude Kerk . Climb the Bell Tower (the second highest in the Netherlands) of the Nieuwe Kirk for views over the city
• Learning about the famous Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer at the Vermmer Centrum Deflt . While you can discover more about this life and work here, there are sadly no original artworks from Vermeer displayed here
• Exploring the Prinsenhof Museum . Originally built as a monstory, then turned into a palace, this was the home of William the Silent more commonly known as William of Orange. He was assassinated here on 10 July 1584 and you can still see the bullet holes in the wall today
• Wandering around Markt , one of the largest historic market squares in Europe
• Strolling along the canals or take a boat trip and view the city from the water.

I know that cheese is probably the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Gouda but if your ship is docking in Rotterdam, the city it is named after is an easy day trip. 

Just over half an hour or so away, this small dutch city is packed with charm. With picturesque canals, medieval buildings and narrow alleys, it is a lovely place to have a wander.

Of course, you can’t escape cheese here. 60% of Dutch cheese is produced in this region. To learn more about how Gouda cheese is made – and even taste a bit – head to the Gouda Cheese Experience. If you are in the city on a Thursday between April and August, you can visit the cheese market which is held in front of the town hall.

It’s not just about cheese in Gouda, there are plenty more places to visit and explore including…

• Sint-Jan church and it’s famous stained glass windows
• Museum Gouda which is packed with items that tell the history of the city
• De Waag , a weighing house for cheese trades which is now a museum
• Syrup Waffle Factory, Gouda is known for its waffles as well as it’s cheese

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Rotterdam cruise port guide and cruise terminal information

Rotterdam cruise port information.

The Rotterdam Cruise Port boasts a state-of-the-art passenger terminal, which serves as the primary point of arrival and departure for cruise ship passengers. One of the notable advantages of the Rotterdam Cruise Port is its proximity to the city center. Passengers can easily explore Rotterdam’s vibrant attractions, including museums, architectural landmarks, shopping districts, and vibrant culinary scenes. The city’s excellent public transportation system ensures easy access to various points of interest. For people who love to walk and explore cities, the location where the ships dock is close enough to much of the city center by foot, starting off with a lovely walk over the iconic Erasmus Bridge (weather permitting of course).

Rotterdam serves as both a starting point and a port of call for many cruise itineraries. Passengers can embark on cruises to various destinations, including the Baltic Sea, Norwegian fjords, British Isles, Mediterranean, and beyond. The port’s central location allows for convenient access to a range of unique cruise routes.

The address of the Rotterdam Cruise Port

The cruise terminal is located at wilhelminakade 909, 3072 ap rotterdam , cruises are not at the “port of rotterdam”.

“Port of Rotterdam” is an industrial facility and is NOT where your cruise will be! Cruise ships dock at the “Cruise Terminal Rotterdam”. If you’re looking for the cruise ship on a map do NOT look for “The Port of Rotterdam” – you’ll be in the wrong place.

How far is Rotterdam city center from the cruise port?

Walking distance from the part of Rotterdam to the city center (Blaak) where Markthal and the Cube Houses are is approximately 30 minutes by foot (1.5 miles / 2.5km). Alternatively, the Metro station just outside of the cruise ship will get you to the same location in just 10 minutes. When you exit the ship, go left towards Wilhelminaplein metro station.

Cruise Terminal Rotterdam public transport options, Getting to and from the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal

The Rotterdam Cruise Port is well-connected to the city’s public transportation network. Passengers can easily access taxis, public buses, and the nearby Rotterdam Central Station (Or Rotterdam Blaak, the actual city center), which provides connections to other parts of the city and the wider Netherlands. Additionally, the port offers ample parking facilities for passengers who choose to arrive by car.

The most convenient method to discover the city with public transportation is to make use of the Metro station (Whileminaplien) just a short walking distance from the ships. 

How far is the train station in Rotterdam from the cruise port? Can you walk to Rotterdam Central Station from the Rotterdam Cruise Port?

Yes, it’s possible with a 45-minute walk (about 2 miles away), however, the Metro goes directly to Central Station which may be a better option for people with more limited time or mobility issues. 

Here’s a map of the Rotterdam Cruise Port

How to get from rotterdam cruise port to amsterdam.

Getting to Amsterdam from the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal is relatively simple using public transportation. However some people may choose a private transportation service, which can be quite expensive.

The train travel time is about 40 minutes from Rotterdam Centraal Station and tickets are available at a ticket counter or via kiosk. The trains are almost all direct without any changes and will end in the city center of Amsterdam. 

How to get from Rotterdam cruise port to Amsterdam airport?

Schiphol Airport is a close train ride from Centraal Station and getting there is relatively simple UNLESS you are traveling with a lot of luggage, then making use of the cruise line shuttle or private taxi is best. 

Cruise Terminal Rotterdam public transport options

The Rotterdam Cruise Port is well-connected to the city’s public transportation network. Passengers can easily access taxis, public buses, and the nearby Rotterdam Central Station, which provides connections to other parts of the city and the wider Netherlands. Additionally, the port offers ample parking facilities for passengers who choose to arrive by car.

Things to do near the port of Rotterdam:

If you’re not doing any shore excursions, then there is plenty of options to spend a day in Rotterdam! Here are the most popular self-guided activities, however, we’ve prepared a full list of our favorite things to do in Rotterdam in detail! 

Walk over the Erasmus bridge

If you’re going to go into the city center on foot, a walk over the New Mass (Nieuwe Maas) via the Erasmusbrug or Erasmus Bridge is required. It’s also a beautiful way to take in the city skyline, take selfies, and observe firsthand the engineering marvel that Rotterdam is famous for.

Explore abundant food options inside the most unusual “food hall” and market in The Netherlands that opened in 2014 with huge fanfare including ceremonies by the Queen. 

Markthal is a vibrant and bustling food market housed within a unique horseshoe-shaped building. The structure features a stunning ceiling adorned with colorful artwork, creating a visually captivating environment. Inside, you’ll find a diverse array of food stalls, shops, and restaurants offering a wide variety of fresh produce, local specialties, international cuisine, and gourmet delights. Discover hundreds of stalls serving just about everything you can imagine. So if you’re in the mood for a quick bite or even a leisurely meal, try Markthal. If you’re in the mood for beer and wine, there are plenty of stalls that have bar areas. 

The combination of its eye-catching design and culinary offerings makes Markthal a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.

Euromast is an iconic observation tower in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Standing at 185 meters (607 feet) tall, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The tower features two observation decks accessible by high-speed elevators. The lower deck, situated at 92 meters (302 feet), provides a wide view of Rotterdam, while the upper deck, located at 112 meters (367 feet), offers an even more extensive panorama. Try Brunch, Lunch or Dinner for a memorable dining experience above the city.

Be sure to book Euromast tickets online , or if you’re dining in the restaurant, make reservations! 

SS Rotterdam Tour

The SS Rotterdam is the original transatlantic oceanliner for Holland America Line and has been docked and converted into a floating hotel, restaurant, bar, and tourist attraction. Docked near the Port of Rotterdam (cruise port), it’s relatively easy to get to.  Buy Tickets to the SS Rotterdam !

Popular Shore excursions from Rotterdam

For visitors who want to experience a more authentic Dutch excursion, there are plenty of easily accessible cities and villages that have a lot to offer! A few of our favorites are:

Experience the iconic windmills of The Netherlands by taking the Waterbus directly to the windmills. This is an easy day trip that can be done self-guided by walking or biking among the windmills. Alternatively, there are two windmills open to the public for a nominal fee, where you can tour and learn about how the windmills have helped the Dutch manage water for centuries. 

A day trip to Gouda, especially on a weekend, is an amazing way to discover the “Real” Dutch culture. The trip is under 20 minutes from Centraal Station and easily done by train & is one of our favorite Day trips from Rotterdam

The picturesque city is located in the western Netherlands, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and the world-famous Gouda cheese. It is situated in the province of South Holland and is easily accessible from Rotterdam.

Gouda is famous for its cheese market, which has been held in the city’s central square for centuries. Visitors can witness the traditional cheese weighing and trading ceremonies that have been carried out since the Middle Ages. Gouda cheese itself is internationally renowned for its distinctive taste and creamy texture. The cheese market operates from 10am until 12.30pm every Thursday from April until September . Be sure to check the Gouda travel information website for actual dates and times, as they vary a little year over year.

Delft is a charming city located in the province of South Holland in the Netherlands. Known for its rich history, picturesque canals, and renowned Delftware ceramics, Delft offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and vibrant cultural experiences.

Delft is particularly renowned for its distinctive blue and white ceramics, known as Delftware. Visitors can explore the Royal Delft factory & museum, where they can watch the traditional production methods and admire the exquisite hand-painted pottery. To complete the experience you can join one of the painting workshops and discover the skills needed to be a Royal Delft craftsman (upon reservation).

With its rich cultural heritage, iconic ceramics, and enchanting cityscape, Delft is a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into the Netherlands’ history and artistic traditions.

Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

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The distance is 6-7km so the normal fare should be under 20 Euros.

You can also take the public transport which costs just a few euros if you want to.

You can plan the route via Google Maps.

The zoo has 2 entrances, a main entrance which is a little further away from the city centre and a smaller entrance (the address is Van Aerssenlaan 49) which can be reached on foot (12 mins) from the Central Station.

From the cruis terminal, you can get the metro to central station and then the tram which stops in front of the old entrance.

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Rotterdam Hotels and Places to Stay

CRUISE PORT GUIDES

Rotterdam – the Netherlands

Travel Information the Netherlands

Official currency – Euro Accepts US dollars – no Creditcards – are widely accepted

Drives on the – right Timezone – UTC +1

About the Netherlands

Inhabitants – Almost 17 million Official language – Dutch Capital city – Amsterdam Sovereign state – Kingdom of the Netherlands

Dutch language

Good day – Goedendag How are you? – Hoe gaat het? Thank you – Dankjewel Cruise ship – Cruiseschip Port – Haven

Also visit our cruise port guides for:

Amsterdam Ijmuiden Southampton Le Havre

Cruise Port Guide Rotterdam – the Netherlands

The Rotterdam cruise terminal

First some background information about the Rotterdam cruise terminal. For locals the cruise terminal is a well known place for its history. This is the exact location where the shipliners would depart for their great journey across the sea taking over half a million passengers towards their new adventures in the USA in a time long before airplanes. The famous Hotel New York build in 1901 was even the headquarters of (what is now) cruiseline Holland America Line.

Public Transport

If you exit the cruise terminal and turn left you will see there is a metro and tram stop at the first crossing. See map above for its exact location. We find the tram is the best way to go in Rotterdam for practical reasons. At the crossing at the foot of the bridge, to the left of the cruise terminal, tram 20, 23 and 25 come by. Make sure to step into the ones saying “Centraal Station” or you’ll be heading the wrong way. Pay the driver 3 euro for a 1 hour ticket. You can pay for the ticket with cash or debit card. Mind you, creditcards are not accepted in the tram. It’s best to take tram 23 or 25 and hop off at the stop “Beurs” or “Stadhuis” for the city centre. The tickets you buy on the tram are more expensive. Please know you can also buy a day travel card for bus, tram and metro for 7,50 euro at any metro station. See map above for the nearest metro to the cruise terminal (300 meters away). You can already plan any journey with public transportation in and out of Rotterdam ahead of time through the following website:  http://9292.nl/en . This website is in English. You simply put in the address or place to figure out how to get from point A to B. Remember that the stop at the cruise terminal is called “Wilhelminaplein, Rotterdam”.

Taxis in Rotterdam

The official cabs of the Netherlands do not have a special color but always wear a taxi sign on the top. All the taxis are metered. You will find the taxis right in front of the terminal building. Underneath is an estimation of the taxi prices: From the cruise terminal to the city centre, one way: 10 euro From the cruise terminal to the central station, one way: 15 euro From the cruise terminal to Delft, one way: 55 euro From the cruise terminal to Kinderdijk, one way: 65 euro These prices are based on normal sized taxis although they usually also have small vans available. What is also conveniënt to know: Ubers are also operational in the city of Rotterdam and can await you outside the cruise terminal.

Shuttle bus Cruise Terminal Rotterdam

Some ships provide a shuttle and others do not. When a ship is in port the tourist information is usually kind enough to provide a free shuttle service into the city centre. Ask the tourist information in the cruise terminal for details.

Tram line 10: Historical tram Rotterdam

For a unique way to discover the city of Rotterdam you can hop on the historical tram from the 30’s. You can catch in on the other side of the bridge (see map above for the exact location) and it comes by every 45 minutes. Pay the driver +/- 7 euro for a ticket. The total route takes about an hour and you can hop on and hop off whenever you want. It operates only in the summer season from 11 am to 5.30 pm.

Hop on hop off bus

Rotterdam also has a hop on hop off bus nowadays. Find a stop at the cruise terminal.

Going to Delft

Delft is a historically unique city in the Netherlands that never disappoints. To reach it you can take tram 20, 23 or 25 (like described above) to the Central station and hop on the train to Delft. It is a simple 15 minute train ride that departs a few times per hour and will cost you about 5 euro one way. The train station is Delft is located right next to the city center.

Going to Gouda

Gouda is place known throughout the world. Visit this city of cheese by train. Take tram 20, 23 or 25 (like described above) to the Central station and hop on the train to Gouda. The ride takes about 20 minutes, departs a few times per hour and will cost you about 6 euro one way.

Going to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the city that doesn’t need a description. A taxi to Amsterdam will cost you +/- 200 euro one way, therefore we think public transportation is a better way. One way will take about 1,5 hours and cost you +/- 17 euro. First take tram 20, 23 and 25 (as described above) to the central station and hop on an Intercity train to Amsterdam Central Station. The train departs every half hour and takes about an hour. We highly recommend getting on an intercity train rather than the “stoptrein” which stops at every station.

Going to Kinderdijk

The best way to get to the famous windmills of Kinderdijk by yourself is to go by watertaxi. Read more information about this on:  http://www.waterbus.nl/kinderdijk-en/  Check the map above to see where you need to catch the waterbus.

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This protestant church is the only remnant of medieval Rotterdam. It was built in the 15th and 16th century and it still stands proudly today in the city centre of Rotterdam.

St. Lawrence church

Grotekerkplein 27, 3011 GC Rotterdam

Your cruise ship will dock at Rotterdam’s cruise dock at the Wilhelmindakade. You will find a great cruise terminal here with some facilities. Read all about Rotterdam’s cruise terminal in our full cruise port guide.

Rotterdam cruise dock

The shopaholics amongst up should make sure to drop by Koopgoot. This is the largest shopping district of Rotterdam where you will find all your local specialtes and big brands.

Koopgoot, Rotterdam

The Steam Ship Rotterdam was launched in 1958 and retired in 2000. She was build for the transatlantic service and became a full-time cruise ship in 1969. She is now permanently moored as a hotel and museum. Drop by for tour of the ship or a nice cup of coffee.

SS Rotterdam

3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25, 3072 AM Rotterdam

When your ship is docked this will be first thing to catch your attention. It connects your dock with the city centre on the other side. Cross it by foot, tram or taxi.

Erasmus bridge

Erasmus bridge, Rotterdam

The Euromast is the eye-catcher of Rotterdam. You’ll find an observation tower 96 meter above the ground. Go for a nice dinner or prearrange to go abseiling from this iconic building.

Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam

If you are looking for the absolute Dutch landscape you simply have to visit the windmills at Kinderdijk. This UNESCO world heritage site features 19 windmills from the 18th century. Learn what the Dutch love about them and why they need them. You even have the opportunity to visit one from the inside. This sight is picture perfect where culture and history come together. Reach it by shore excursion or with the local water taxi.

Nederwaard 1, Kinderdijk, the Netherlands

The area around the cruise terminal in Rotterdam is quite nice. You will find museums, hotels and shops here. One of the unique buildings next to the cruise terminal is the historical Hotel New York. This is the former Holland America Line headquarters where thousands would leave their homeland to find a better life across the Atlantic. Today you’ll find a hotel inside, where they have nice coffee and typical Dutch pastry.

Wilhelminakade

Wilhelminakade, Rotterdam

This zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in the Netherlands. Go for a nice day out and explore this large facility.

Blijdorp – Rotterdam Zoo

Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam

Rotterdam is known for its architecture and the Cubic houses are a true masterpiece. The architect Piet Blom had the idea in the 70’s to create a village of tree houses. The result is 38 cubes that appear to be this forest in the city. One of the houses are open for inside visits where you can discover the crazy way of living in one of these houses.

Cubic Houses

Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam

This is Rotterdam’s newest attraction. In the city centre you will now find the largest piece of art in the world where every foodie needs to go. It is the culinary spot of Rotterdam. Find all kind of vendors here with Dutch and International specialties.

Market Hall

Market Hall, Rotterdam

At the new Rotterdam Central Station you will find quick and frequent services to Delft, Gouda and Amsterdam. If you would like to escape the busy city these 2 might be 2 great alternatives. The train takes about 15 minutes to reach Delft and departs every 10 minutes. The train to Gouda takes about 20 minutes and departs every 10 minutes. Take the metro (line D or E) or the tram (line 20, 23 or 25) to the central station.

Central Station

Stationsplein 2, Rotterdam

If you take a look at a map you will see that Rotterdam is not directly located at sea. To reach the cruise terminal of Rotterdam your ship needs to sail up the New Waterway which will take +/- 3 hours. During this time you will sailing through the largest port of Europe with here and there your typical Dutch landscape. The structure you see on the picture is the Maeslandkering. This is one of the largest moving structures on earth designed to keep the lands of the Dutch dry.

New Waterway

New Waterway, Rotterdam

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Hi there is it easy to walk to the zoo from the...

• Europe    
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• South Holland Province    
• Rotterdam    
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• Rotterdam Zoo

Rotterdam Zoo Questions & Answers

Hi there is it easy to walk to the zoo from the station or what is the best way to get there from Rotterdam central please

It's easy and safe to walk and also not too far to walk. There are signs indicating direction from back of station.

I went there from the Rotterdam central railway station. It was about 25 minutes. The route is very pleasant, the pavement is good and has also a velo ales

If you are with more than two people I would suggest taking an Uber or Taxi as for the bus you buy a ticket valid for 2 hours but naturally you will be in the Zoo at that time so need to buy two tickets back and forth. As the tickets cost 3,50 euro per person/2 hrs, starting from 3 persons taking a cab will cost less. On Uber (also visible on Google Maps if you look for the itinerary) you will get an estimate of the price (ours was lower in reality) and the wait is shorter than with a bus (and no stops ;-). Enjoy the Zoo.

Easy enough walk in good weather and an easy bus ride in all weathers.

I do not live in Rotterdam, so I went to tje zoo by car. There is a big parking plca over there. I do not know the distance between Central Station and the Zoo, but from one advisor I understand it is sone 15 minutes walk and i am sure there is a bus going to the zoo.

Hi Sarahann, whenever I went to Rotterdam Zoo I did so on foot. It did not take long, it took some 10 to 15 minutes and was a pleasant walk. There is also a metro station Blijdorp but I have never availed myself to it. This should be closer to the zoo.

Its about 30 minutes to go from the Central Station

I went there by car but it was easy to find a place

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Get quick answers from Rotterdam Zoo staff and past visitors.

WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

Interactive world cruise map, home | cruise ships | port expenses | hints and tips, rotterdam netherlands cruise port guide.

You will sail directly from the North Sea to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam at Holland Amerika quay in the city center. An easy stroll over the spectacular Erasmus bridge gets you into town.

The railway station is only 5 minutes away by cab, or a nice stroll of about 25 minutes. Tram 23 or 25 are about 500 meter away, get off at Wilhelminaplein. Tickets are also available inside the tram for 3,50 Euro, bus 33 from there will take you to Rotterdam The Hague Airport.

Taxi: about 10 Euro + extra for the suitcases. The ride is about 2-3 km. You have to ride over the Erasmus bridge (if not, they take a longer ride to cheat you).

It is about an hour away from Amsterdam Schiphol airport by train . When waiting for your luggage, you can already purchase your trainticket  at the ticketmachine in the same area. Otherwise there is a ticket window in the same building after you pass the customs. Ticket machines at the Schiphol Amsterdam Airport and Rotterdam Central do accept credit cards, as do ticket machines at other large train stations, other locations only accept coins or local debit cards, for a slight surcharge you can also buy your tickets at a ticket window and not having to fool arround with machines.

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

Printable map to take along.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Rotterdam Netherlands

Sightseeing:

This large and modern port city has risen from the ashes of World War II. In 1940, the Nazis threatened to flatten the city unless it surrendered. Rotterdam capitulated, but the Luftwaffe bombed anyway. Some of the city's architecture is spectacular!

Today, Rotterdam's most notable tourist attraction is the 605-ft-/184-m-tall Euromast Space Tower. Take the revolving, sit-down elevator to the top. From the tower you'll have a good view of the Erasmus Bridge, a modern suspension bridge nicknamed "the swan." The harbor, one of the busiest in the world, is a draw in itself, as is the nearby maritime museum. Another collection worth seeing is the Dutch, Italian and French art displayed at the Boijmans-van-Beuningen Museum. Half a day in Rotterdam is sufficient for most travelers.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

The center of Rotterdam is very walkable.

Hop on/off Tram Line 10 brings you the best touristic spots of Rotterdam. Enjoy a sightseeing ride in a beautiful historic tram along the new Central Station, the Market hall, the cube houses, along the Erasmus bridge, over Coolsingel, the old western part of Rotterdam and historic Delfshaven. A ticket for a day is available on board. With this ticket, you can hop on or off at all the stops along the route.

The cruise port also offers a free shuttle to the Market Hall , an architectural designed masterpiece.

All the year round Spido offers various fascinating harbor trips. The boats are across the Cruise Terminal, just cross the Erasmus bridge, a 10 minute stroll.

Amsterdam is only 1 hour away by train.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

Nearby UNESCO Kinderdijk is a probably the best place in Holland to see working windmills. Take the Waterbus which is across the river, just under the Erasmus Bridge, to make for a very enjoyable trip. At the same time you can visit Dordrecht , a historic and pleasant real Dutch town. Each half an hour a boat will depart, just ask on board where you will have to change boats (Ridderkerk-Schans)

Shopping and Food

The major shopping area is around the Lijnbaan close to the dock as well as the train station.

Just opened in 2014 is the Markthal , A lively market hall which is bursting at the seams with fresh fish, warm bread, tender meat, countless different cheeses and freshly harvested vegetables.

Important things to know about the Netherlands, like tipping, toilets etc.

Euros are divided into 100 cents. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros. There are notes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros (note the pattern 1, 2, 5). Some shops do not accept large denomination notes, and many don't like the 1 and 2 cent coins, and so round cash amounts to the nearest 5 cents.

Credit cards are not as widely accepted in the Netherlands as in many other countries. Always enquire first if you want to pay by credit card.

Communication:

Just about everyone speaks English in Rotterdam, and is proud of the fact. Many speak German and French too. If you are English speaking, speak English (unless you speak Dutch too): you are more likely to offend than do anyone a favor by trying out your French or German.

A common misconception is that Dutch is very close to German. In truth they are not mutually intelligible: Dutch people have to learn German at school, and in general they speak better English than German. German and Dutch are similar in the same sort of way that French and Italian are similar.

Free Wifi at the terminal and most restaurants, trains and train stations.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

General Opening Hours of Shops: - Mondays from 13:00 to 18:00 (department stores often from 11:00) - Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 to 18:00 - Saturdays from 9:00 to 18:00 - Sunday opening hours: from noon to 17:00 in the city center (not all shops are open) - Late night shopping: every Friday until 21:00 in the city center

• New Year's Day (Jan 1);
• Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday;
• Ascension Day (Thursday, 40 days after Easter);
• King's Day - April 27. Amsterdam is one giant party, not to be missed.
• Pentecost Sunday (7th Sunday after Easter) and Pentecost Monday;
• Christmas Day (December 25) and Boxing Day (December 26).
• In addition, there are two World War II Remembrance Days, neither of which is an official holiday, though some establishments close. May 4 honors all those who died in the war, May 5 celebrates the Liberation.

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Cruise Terminal

The Cruise Terminal has a central location in the port city of Rotterdam. The former arrival- and departure hall is known for her characteristic shell roofs. The building is the first in the Netherlands where such construction method was applied. Besides the above the large windows offer passengers a wonderful view of the city of Rotterdam.

Between 1946 and 1949 Five brand new warehouses were built on the North side of the Wilhelminapier, all named after port cities (Philadelphia, Norfolk, Baltimore, New York en Rotterdam). This pier has a lot of history, where many Europeans started the Atlantic crossing to start their new lifes.

Four out of five warehouses have been demolished over the years. The fifth, named Rotterdam, is the building where cruise vessels are moored regularly and passengers are welcomed since 2000. In 2011 the Cruise Terminal received the status of National monument.

SUSTAINABILITY

The Cruise industry is one that is spearheading when it comes to sustainability and environment. The Cruise Terminal in Rotterdam has a focus on sustainability and efficiency aswell. The building has a district heating connection, where residual heat from other parts of the city is used for temperature purposes. Water from the river ‘The Maas’ is used for the cooling systems and to regulate the temperature of the air circulation.

In 2014/2025 the Cruise Terminal was fully renovated. Windows there replaced in an authentic way, however now with double glazed windows. The roof was fully isolated to make the building more energy efficient.

Passengers- and crewlounge (ca. 3000m²)

Tourist information, parking for passengers (and familie) in three different garages, public transportation 1 minute walk away, your ticket for: cruise terminal.

Rotterdam cruise port

Baltic - norwegian fjords - russia.

• Coordinates 51.905, 4.488
• LOCODE NLRTM
• Local Time 2024-04-20 18:48

Rotterdam cruise ship schedule

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Watch CBS News

Holland America crewmember missing after going overboard before vessel docks at Port Everglades

By Hunter Geisel

Updated on: April 13, 2024 / 4:52 PM EDT / CBS Miami

FORT LAUDERDALE  — A search is underway for a cruise ship crewmember who went overboard while the vessel was still at sea before docking in South Florida this weekend.

Around 11:18 a.m. Saturday, deputies with the Broward County Sheriff's Office Port Everglades District responded to a report of a missing crewmember on a Holland America cruise ship.

According to Holland America, the crew member was reported missing when the Rotterdam vessel docked in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday. After reviewing the security camera video, the crew member went "purposefully overboard" around 9:45 p.m. Friday while the vessel was still en route between Cuba and Key West, the cruise line told CBS News Miami.

BSO's Homicide and Crime Scene units have responded to Port Everglades to investigate, while the U.S. Coast has been notified and is currently searching the sea for the crew member.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with the team member's family at this difficult time," the cruise line shared in a statement with CBS News Miami.

This is a developing story. Tune into CBS News Miami on-air and online for the latest updates.

• South Florida
• Fort Lauderdale
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Hunter Geisel is a digital producer at CBS News Miami. Hunter has previously produced digital content for local and national outlets, covering several topics from breaking news and current events to politics and pop culture.

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