rotterdam travel ideas

Rotterdam Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Rotterdam

1. See the Erasmus Bridge

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

2. Walk the harbor

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

3. Go up the Euromast tower

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

4. Visit the Cube Houses

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

5. Relax in the park

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

Other Things to See and Do in Rotterdam

1. attend the rotterdam summer carnival.

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

2. Visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

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

3. See City Hall

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

4. Peek in the Oude Kerk

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

5. Do a harbor tour

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

6. Visit the Kunsthal Rotterdam

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

7. Grab a bite to eat at the Markthal

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

8. Explore the Het Nieuwe Instituut

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

9. Wander the Rotterdam Zoo

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

10. See Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk

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

11. Tour the Maritime Museum

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

12. Explore the SS Rotterdam

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

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

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

Rotterdam Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Rotterdam Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Rotterdam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

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

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

How to Get Around Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Rotterdam

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Rotterdam

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

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

Rotterdam Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Rotterdam Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

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The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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

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

GUEST POST BY ROMI R. BLOG: Medium

Plan your trip to Rotterdam

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

Best time to visit Rotterdam

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

A few facts about Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

One Day in Rotterdam Itinerary

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

Start Your Day at Rotterdam Central Station

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

Stop by St. Lawrence Church

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

Step Into The Cube Houses

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

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

Visit The Witte Huis At The Old Harbor

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

Have Lunch At Markthal Rotterdam

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

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

Learn at The Maritime Museum

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

Take Photos by The Erasmus Bridge

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

Have a Drink at The Euromast Tower

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

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

Have Dinner at Delfshaven

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

Shop And Party at The Cool District

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

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

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

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

SS Rotterdam

Derde Katendrechtsehoofd 25, Feijenoord, 3072 AM Rotterdam

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

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Sparks Hostel

Westersingel 1A, Centrum, 3014 GM Rotterdam

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

Hotel New York

Koninginnenhoofd 1, Feijenoord, 3072 AD Rotterdam

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

Best Day Trips From Rotterdam

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

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

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

Extra tips for visiting Rotterdam

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

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One Day in Rotterdam: An Itinerary for First Timers (2024)

Are you looking for the perfect itinerary for one day in Rotterdam? Then you have come to the right place!

The Netherlands’ second-largest city, Rotterdam, is often overshadowed by its big sister Amsterdam, and therefore a lot less touristy. This is, however, one of the best cities to visit in the Netherlands !

Due to its strategic location, Rotterdam was bombed by the Nazis in 1940. Almost the entire historic centre was destroyed. When the time came to rebuild the city, the people of Rotterdam wanted to make it better than it was before the war.

This is the reason why Rotterdam is now a very modern city that’s packed with unique architecture . From its iconic cube houses to the historic Delfshaven, here’s the perfect itinerary to explore Rotterdam if you only have one day.

One day in Rotterdam: Best Things to Do

This itinerary is perfect for first-timers who want to see the highlights of Rotterdam in one day .

Although it is true that you could spend a couple of days exploring this city, one day is just enough to see Rotterdam’s most beautiful sights.

So without further ado, here’s what to see in Rotterdam in one day!

What to do in Rotterdam in one day

There’s a pretty good chance that you will start your visit to Rotterdam at the Rotterdam Central Station . This is a modern building that’s definitely worth checking out while you’re there.

If you start your visit at the central station, it is worth climbing the stairs of the yellow Luchtsingel Bridge . This is a wooden pedestrian bridge that connects the two sides of the city.

As you cross this bridge, you will notice hundreds of names on wooden boards. The bridge was the first crowdfunded public infrastructure project in the world , and the names are from the sponsors.

Tip : If you would like to try some delicious vegan food, some of the best vegan restaurants in Rotterdam are close to the central station.

1. Admire the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen)

Rotterdam’s cube houses are definitely one of the quirkiest houses I’ve ever seen and they’re my favourite place in this city!

Architect Pieter Blom designed the houses to resemble a forest, each house representing a tree. He took a conventional house, turned it by 45 degrees and put it on a hexagon-shaped column. The houses were built in the eighties, and all except for two are inhabited.

One of the uninhabited cubes is open to tourists , this house is called “Kijkkubus”. You have to pay a small fee to enter, but it is well worth it. It is pretty interesting to see what these oddly shaped houses look like from the inside.

It is good to know that it is possible to stay in one of the cube houses if this is something you’re interested in. One of the two uninhabited cube houses was turned into a hotel. You can book a stay here on the website of this Cube House Apartment .

2. Soak up the atmosphere at the Old Harbour (Oude Haven)

The old harbour is located right behind the cube houses. This is a nice place to breathe in the atmosphere of the city.

This harbour was built in the 14th century, making it the oldest harbour in Rotterdam. It is a place where you can truly see the mix of historic and modern buildings , which is a characteristic of this city.

Make sure not to miss the beautiful White House while you’re there. This is one of the few buildings in this area to survive the WWII bombings, and it is also the city’s first skyscraper!

3. Eat lunch at the Market Hall (Markthal)

The Market Hall is another striking piece of architecture that’s located right across the Cube Houses. It was built in 2014 to replace an open-air market that was here before.

You will find a gigantic food market inside selling wheels of delicious Dutch cheese, spices, pastries and yummy Dutch street food .

On top of that, you will also find bars and restaurants at the Market Hall. So it is the ideal place to have lunch while enjoying this building’s mind-blowing interior with massive pieces of market produce decorating its walls.

Another cool thing about the Market Hall is that it combines the use of a market with apartments. The outer horseshoe shape that covers the market contains 228 luxury apartments.

4. Explore the Delfshaven district

Unlike the rest of Rotterdam, the picturesque Delfshaven district was not destroyed by the 1940 bombings. This is the perfect place to get an idea of what Rotterdam looked like before the war.

With its beautiful canals and historic buildings, Delfshaven is a place worth exploring if you want to get a better understanding of the city.

5. See the panoramic view from the Euromast

The view of the city from the top of the Euromast is spectacular. Climbing its stairs is a great way to see how Rotterdam’s waterways connect. On a clear day, you will be able to enjoy views stretching up to 50 km (31 miles).

When you take the elevator to go to the top, the glass lift will rotate 360° to make sure you see the view from every possible angle.

There’s a restaurant at the top and if you would like to spend the night at 100 m (328 ft) high, you can book one of the Euromast suites .

Tip : During weekends it is possible to go abseiling or zip-lining. However, as this is a popular activity, you will have to book a ticket at least a week in advance.

6. Cross the Erasmus Bridge

You can’t go to Rotterdam and not see the ultra-modern Erasmus Bridge, which is nicknamed “The Swan”.

This bridge was completed in 1996, ten years after its construction began. It stretches 800 m (0,5 mi) long, which makes the Erasmus Bridge the second-largest bridge in The Netherlands, and it connects the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam.

A fun thing to do is to cross the bridge on foot, you will be able to get some nice shots!

Tip: If you’d like to go on a 75-minute boat tour of the harbour of Rotterdam, which is one of the biggest harbours in the world, these tours start from the foot of the Erasmus Bridge.

7. End your day at Witte De With Street

The Witte De With Street is the perfect street to end your day. This is a lively area full of boutiques, galleries, bars and restaurants.

This street is famous for its vibrant nightlife , but if this is not something you’re interested in, it is also worth visiting during the day.

It is also good to know that there’s some cool street art here that decorates the Witte De With Street facades.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Rotterdam in 1 Day

You will find t a map with the best places to see on your Rotterdam day trip below. Click the pin on the map to find out a little bit more about the place.

Best Time to Visit Rotterdam

The best time of the year to visit Rotterdam is from mid-April to early October . This is when the weather will be at its best.

Rotterdam is a city that can be visited all year round, though, it all depends on your personal preferences. You can find an overview of the seasons below:

• Spring (April to June): This is a great time to visit Rotterdam. In Spring, you can expect temperatures between 8°C and 25°C (47°F and 77°F)
• Summer (July to August): The Summer months are the warmest in Rotterdam. At this time of the year, temperatures will be between 18°C and 32°C (65°F and 90°F)
• Autumn (September to November): During Autumn, temperatures will be between 6°C and 24°C (43°F and 75°F), with November being the coldest month.
• Winter (December to March): Winter is the coldest time of the year with temperatures between -5°C and 6°C (23°F and 43°F). If you like Christmas markets, the month of December is a good time to visit Rotterdam.

How to Get to Rotterdam

The easiest way to get to Rotterdam is by train . Train travel across The Netherlands is very reliable, and tickets can easily be purchased from the Eurorail website .

Rotterdam is a 1-hour train ride from Amsterdam, a 35-minute train ride from Schiphol Airport and a 1.5-hour ride from Brussels in neighbouring Belgium .

How to Get Around Rotterdam

There are plenty of good ways to get around Rotterdam. It all depends on your personal preferences:

• Walking : As most of Rotterdam’s tourist sights are close to each other, walking is a great way to get around the city.
• Public transportation: If you don’t feel like walking or if something’s a bit too far, it is good to know that Rotterdam’s metro, tram and bus systems are great. You may want to opt for a day pass if you’re planning on doing a lot of travelling using public transport.
• Water taxi: This is another popular and fun way to get around the city, and the water taxi is super fast too. You can book tickets online through the website of Watertaxi Rotterdam .
• Bicycle: Renting a bicycle is another possibility. Like many cities in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is a very bicycle-friendly city, and there are various bicycle rental services here.

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

There are plenty of nice places to stay in Rotterdam, it all depends on your personal preferences and budget. You will find my top recommendations below.

• Savoy Hotel Rotterdam ( ⭐ 8.3/10): Located just a 5-minute walk from the Cube Houses, Savoy Hotel is ideally located in the centre of the city. It has all the amenities you will need and there are plenty of restaurants nearby.
• Hotel Breitner (⭐ 8.1/10): This affordable hotel is located just 5 minutes from the city centre. It offers nice and clean rooms and there’s a breakfast buffet every morning.
• Mainport Design Hotel (⭐ 8.3/10): Mainport Design Hotel is a luxurious hotel located by the Maas River in the centre of Rotterdam. Here, you will find a spa, wellness and swimming pool, which makes it a great place to relax after visiting the city.

Rotterdam Itinerary for 1 Day: Final Thoughts

And that was it! I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this guide on what to do in Rotterdam in one day.

Rotterdam is a city I really enjoyed visiting. It is unlike any other city I have ever been to and there are plenty of nice things to do here. If you’re into architecture, this is a city you will love, as Rotterdam is home to some pretty impressive modern buildings.

All in all, Rotterdam is one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands and I would love to visit it again one day!

Read more about The Netherlands:

• The Yellow Cube Houses of Rotterdam: A Useful Guide
• The Best Places to Visit in The Netherlands
• Souvenirs From Amsterdam

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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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.

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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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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Things To Do In Rotterdam

Last Updated: May 8, 2023

Gerrit Vandenberg

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

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I enjoy sharing useful tips about the beauty of this county.

As your train rolls into Rotterdam, you’ll quickly notice that this city departs from the classic Dutch charm you might expect. Instead of quaint canal houses and cobblestone streets, you’re welcomed by a contemporary skyline that has won many architectural prizes.

In this post, I’m sharing my favorite things to do in Rotterdam. A city that may be a little unpolished around the edges, but this distinctive character sets it apart from other Dutch destinations.

Discover Rotterdam’s vibrant downtown and experience a different side of the Netherlands.

Table of Contents

What makes rotterdam different.

The city, as we know it today, got defined by an event lasting only 13 minutes on May 14th, 1940.

Up to that point, the Dutch defiantly resisted the German occupation of Holland. However, the Germans wanted to break this resistance once and for all and decided to flatten the city, and they did.

In less than 15 minutes, almost the entire historic city center was gone. About 1000 people died, as did almost all animals in the landmark Rotterdam Zoo (which today is one of the most well-known zoos in the Netherlands). Eighty thousand people lost their homes.

When the Germans threatened to do the same to Utrecht , the resistance broke, and the Netherlands became occupied by Germany.

However, Rotterdam rose from its ashes and built a new city with a unique identity. They deliberately choose not to rebuild the old but to look to the future instead.

Now you can almost say this city is very “Un-Dutch.” It became the capital of architecture, with daring structures and bridges around the city (more on that later).

It also built one of the most important harbors in the world, which made this city the economic engine of the country (and of Europe) ever since.

Rotterdam is now also a major tourist destination because it is that different. Not despite it being different. Architecture lovers from around the country and the world come to Rotterdam to marvel at its creations. 

What To Do in Rotterdam in One Day

With so much to explore, it’s nearly impossible to experience all of Rotterdam’s attractions in a single day. This article serves as your gateway to the city, with ten hand-picked highlights that make for a great introduction to the city. These are the very activities I’d do with my friends visiting from abroad.

On this self-guided trip, I’ll explore various architectural highlights of Rotterdam. And, of course, you’ll also explore the classic must-see attractions.

Getting around in Rotterdam:

There are multiple ways to get around in Rotterdam. You can use public transport like buses, trams, and the metro. Here is my guide on how to get around Rotterdam .

However, you need to plan carefully because, in Rotterdam, you can lose quite some time getting from one sight to another, especially if you need to transfer from one line to another.

Another fun option is using the water t a xi . These little speed boats will take you along the river and connect many attractions. They might look like they’ll make you seasick, but it looks worse from the outside then when you’re in them. It feels pretty smooth.

My preferred way of getting around is renting a bike and cycling everywhere. You can also go on this fun Rotterdam bike tour to learn more about the city from a guide.

The good thing about Holland is that there are specific bike lanes anywhere, and Rotterdam is no exception. Most often, you’re separated from motorized traffic.

Using your own two feet is another great way to get around. Dutch cities are very walkable, including Rotterdam! You can easily create your architecture walking tour this way 🙂

The Yellow Luchtsingel Bridge

Just a short 10-minute walk from Central Station is the Luchtsingel Pedestrian Bridge. It’s an architectural masterpiece.

The bright yellow walls are painted as book covers. It’s also unique because it’s the city’s first crowdfunded public infrastructural project.

Locals paid a small amount each to have their name painted on one of these book covers, which is how the project was built. It’s pretty cool.

Three neighborhoods of the city that were once not well connected due to busy roads and railway tracks are now easily accessible.

Cube houses Rotterdam

From the Luchtsingel Bridge, it’s a leisurely 15-minute stroll to the world-famous Cube Houses of Rotterdam designed by the Dutch architect Piet Blom.

These houses are tilted by 45 degrees. They look fun, but I wouldn’t want to decorate them. Not a single wall is straight inside 🙂

Did you know the cubical houses were built in the early 80s? Still, it’s one of the main reasons to visit Rotterdam for many. The courtyard is free to enter, but the houses are private. But there is one you can see.

Cube house museum Rotterdam

You can visit this museum if you’re curious and want to look inside one of them. The Cube House Museum is open daily. I was disappointed going into it. Being 6 foot 4 inches tall, the rooms are tiny, and the walls came at me. The decor is quite dated, but then again, it was the 80’s. They kept everything original. If you are an architect/80’s do go, it’s just a few euros to get in.

The Rotterdam Markthal (market hall)

Another recent new landmark in Rotterdam is the “Markthal” (market hall). It was built in anticipation of new European laws to outlaw outside food markets. Thankfully that legislation did not get passed, or much history would be lost.

But the Markthal was built in anticipation of this, and it’s an architectural highlight. The inside walls look like a massive painting. The structure itself consists of apartments. And in the basement, you’ll find a supermarket. On the ground floor, you’ll see the shops and stalls.

There are tourist shops in the market hall today and lots of fun options to eat. You can use it as a food hall and enjoy lunch or a break here.

If you are here on a Saturday, you’re in luck. Then there is an outdoor market outside. Much, much more authentic! Great for a snack. For example, I love the Turkish food place opposite the market hall.

You know you’ve found them when you see enormous Boreks (puff pastries with savory fillings).

Or if I’m in the mood for some fries with mayonnaise, I go to the Bram Ladage fries stall (look for the long lines). They’re famous in Rotterdam and the surroundings for their fries. For a fresh stroopwafel warm of the plate you need to go to the other side of the market, but once you get to the end, you’ll find it.

Maritime Museum Rotterdam

Another of my favorite things to do in Rotterdam is the Rotterdam Maritime Museum. Here you can discover the enormous effect that shipping had, and still has, on this city.

What makes the museum great is that the exhibitions are actual experiences. Kids and adults love this museum.

The outdoor part is free to visit for all. To see the excellent indoor exhibitions, you can buy tickets to the Maritime Museum Rotterdam here.

Erasmus Bridge Rotterdam

It’s just a leisurely 10-minute walk from the Maritime Museum to the iconic Erasmus Bridge. This remarkable structure is a true testament to engineering, drawing visitors from across the globe.

When you take in its design, watch container ships navigate beneath the bridge, carrying goods from the far reaches of the world to Rotterdam before journeying inland to Germany.

It’s a perfect spot to take pictures of the bridge itself and the modern Rotterdam skyline, for example, opposite the bridge of the very modern Nhow hotel .

PS: If you’ll stay here, pay for an upgrade to a waterside view room on a high floor, speaking of a room with a view!

You can also see the historic Holland America line terminal building from the bridge. One of the few historic buildings still standing. This is where regular ferry services departed to New York City in its day.

Harbor Sightseeing Tour in Rotterdam

The harbor boat tours in the port of Rotterdam are one of my first childhood memories of Rotterdam. I was raised in a small village about 30 minutes from Rotterdam along the coast. And my grandparents loved to take me on the boat tour.

And I loved going (still do). The boat tour leaves from the quay to the right of the Erasmusbrug (center side). It takes you on a 75-minute sailing through one of the largest harbors in the world.

You’ll see plenty of enormous cargo ships along the way. And experience the hustle and bustle you would expect from the largest harbor in Europe and the 3rd busiest in the world (after Singapore and Shanghai).

The Rotterdam Harbor is enormous, and it’s impossible to cover all of it in just 75 minutes

I’ve read a few complaints online that people don’t understand why the tour only shows you part of the port and why boats won’t continue to the sea. The reason is quite simple. The size of the port is immense. It’s so big it would take a whole day to visit the end of the port at the Maasvlakte and then come back.

Full-day trips are available to visit Europoort Rotterdam and the Maasvlakte. Those take 7 hours. If you’re really into it, this can be fun. But most people usually have seen enough ships long before the 7-hour tour ends.

I think 75 minutes is perfect so you can also explore other great city sites. You can buy your 75-minute Spido Harbor Tour Boat ticket here.

SS Rotterdam Cruise Ship

You’ve seen the SS Rotterdam on the boat tour just before. But did you know you can also visit this former cruise ship? It’s restored to its full glory from the 1950s.

The SS Rotterdam was once one of the main steamliners of the Holland America Line that connected Rotterdam with New York City. But the ship was deemed for demolition. Thankfully a group of investors and the government came together to save the ship as a national treasure to restore and repurpose it.

Today the SS Rotterdam is a hotel ( book the SS Rotterdam Hotel ), a museum, and a conference center, and it offers different restaurants inside. I first thought this could be a tourist trap before I visited it myself. But when I did, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the tour. I loved it.

The interior of the boat is just gorgeous. Art Deco style from the ’50s throughout. Go on a paid tour. The hosts (all volunteers) will enthusiastically bring the stories of the ship to life for you. Most have worked on the boat itself or had relatives who did. It’s so informative, and it won’t be long before you’re transported back in time and imagine yourself on a journey to New York City in the 50s.

The Euromast Rotterdam Tower

Once, the Euromast was the tallest building in the city. It opened in 1960 as part of a flower exhibition in Rotterdam. The Euromast is now an iconic landmark in Rotterdam.

You’ll have fantastic views of the harbor and city from the top. And whether you visit during the day or at night, the view is always just as impressive. I love coming up here.

On the main level, there is a restaurant for a drink or a meal. The view as your backdrop is quite something.

Did you know you can sleep on top of the tower?

You can buy a regular skip-the-line entrance ticket for the Euromast here.

Apple Pie at Cafe Dudok

At the foot of the Euromast is an English landscape–style park called “The Park.”

Inside it, you’ll find a restaurant called “Dudok in the Park.” This landmark country house is a great setting to enjoy the famous Dudok Apple Pie. It’s a classic.

PS : This park is also home to a wooden Norwegian Church!

The Pancake Boat Rotterdam

The next tip might be a bit more touristy. Yet, I love ending my day in Rotterdam with a pancake dinner cruise.

The reason I like it is that one: I love Dutch pancakes. 2nd, it brings the kid out inside in me because you can decorate your pancakes freely. And third, the Rotterdam skyline as your background is just spectacular.

If you want to meet the Dutch, this is an excellent way of doing so since mainly Dutch tourists book this trip. It’s a great place to go with the whole family since it’s super kids friendly. They have an enormous indoor playground on the lower deck, opening twenty minutes into the cruise.

The cruise lasts 75 minutes. During this time, they prepare three different types of pancakes (plain, with bacon, and with apple) nonstop. Then there’s a buffet with different toppings from cheese to chocolate sprinkles.

This is not a fancy dinner; your clothes will smell terrible when you exit, but the quality is good, and you won’t leave hungry.  Book your tickets for the Rotterdam Pancake Cruise here.

The Fenix Food Factory Rotterdam

If the Pancake boat doesn’t sound fun, or you’re in the city when they’re not sailing, the “Fenix Food Factory” is a fun alternative.

The Fenix Food Factory is much smaller today than it used to be. Still, it’s a nice place to visit because it has some hyper-local stores and a small cafe serving food from the stores. They have great sandwiches available and a large outside terrace. It’s also an excellent place for a drink with a full bar. For more food options in the neighborhood, you can also go to the Holland America Terminal or the food hall just down the street.

TIP : If you go to the Fenix Food Factory make sure to pick up a jar of “Ria’s Homemade Advocaat.” from the Booij’s cheese shop. It’s a very thick, creamy type of eggnog but then with alcohol, it’s soooo good!

Best served cold and with sweetened whipped cream (buy ready-made whipped cream in the cooling section of a supermarket if you want to devour it immediately).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easy to take a day trip from amsterdam to rotterdam.

Taking a Rotterdam day trip from Amsterdam is a breeze. The domestic high-speed rail link is your best option.

Other modes of transport include regular trains, long-distance buses, and the car.

I’ve written a complete post about getting from Amsterdam to Rotterdam for more in-depth information.

How long does it take to get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam?

By high-speed train, the journey only takes 40 minutes. It’s worth the small surcharge. By regular train your travel time increases to one hour. By car and bus, it depends on the traffic but account for 1.5 hours.

Do I need to buy a separate transportation ticket for Rotterdam, or can I use the same ticket from Amsterdam?

You’ll need a separate ticket for local transportation in Rotterdam.

Nowadays, you can pay directly with your debit or credit card, which works for buses, trams, and metros in the city. As long you have the contactless feature activated on your card. Just make sure to check in (tab) when you board and check out (tab again) when you exit to avoid unnecessary costs.

What is the best time of year to visit Rotterdam for a day trip

Rotterdam is a year-round destination. However, the best period to visit is April – October because the weather tends to be milder, and especially the outdoor attractions are more enjoyable.

Which Rotterdam Attraction Excites 🌟 You The Most ?

I’d love to hear your thoughts: Which of the highlighted things to do in Rotterdam are you most excited to visit and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s start a conversation 💬.

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48 Hours in Rotterdam: Itinerary for a Magical 2 Days in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Last Updated on: 2nd April 2022, 10:29 pm

Do you only have  two days in Rotterdam, Nederlands?  Well, even with a short amount of time, you can see so much in this  fabulous Dutch city!

Whether you’re coming for a  Rotterdam weekend getaway  or as part of a longer trip around the Netherlands, you can use this  Rotterdam itinerary  to plan the perfect  two-day visit to Rotterdam.

To make things simple, here’s what you need to know to check out the  most iconic places in Rotterdam in two days,  including a visit to one of the  12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Netherlands  and one of the most famous Dutch attractions –  Kinderdijk . 

If you are short of time and have only  one day in Rotterdam,  then you can skip the afternoon activities, for example, and do the  tour to Kinderdijk instead.

As a bonus, check out these important  Rotterdam travel tips  like where to stay and what to eat.

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

Good to Know:  this guide to  what to do in Rotterdam in two days  comes to us from  Daniela Koleva,  author of the authoritative Netherlands travel blog,  Exploring the Netherlands , an online travel resource that helps you plan and organize the trip yourself.

This post has been edited by Stephanie Craig (the girl in the sidebar). I have added tips from my own trips to the Netherlands as well as things that it is important for travelers (especially those coming from the US) to know.

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2024

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

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Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

The Top 7 Most Popular Rotterdam Tours & Attractions

Before you dig into all the city has to offer, you should know that these are the  most popular  guided tours, attractions, day trips, and skip-the-line tickets in Rotterdam.

Rotterdam: 90-Minute Harbor Cruise and Euromast Entry Ticket

Rotterdam: Rotterdam Zoo Skip-the-Line Ticket

Rotterdam: River Cruise and Euromast Entrance Ticket

Rotterdam: Euromast Lookout Tower Ticket

Rotterdam: 1-Hour Sightseeing Splash Tour

Day Trip: Keukenhof Garden and Flower Fields Day Tour from Rotterdam

City Sightseeing Rotterdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

The choice of places to stay in Rotterdam is overwhelming. There are hotels and accommodations for each budget and taste.

You can stay in the emblematic  Hotel New York,  which is housed in the former headquarters of the Holland America Line.

Famous for skyline views and iconic Art Nouveau architecture, it’s right out of a Wes Anderson dreamscape.

Book your room at the Hotel New York

Another great option is the comfortable  Rotterdam Marriott Hotel , which is located in the Millenium Tower near the Centraal Station (Rotterdam’s main train station).

The location is wonderful, but guests also love the beautiful views and comfortable-yet-elegant rooms.

Book your room at the Rotterdam Marriott Hotel

If you are traveling on a budget, there are several great hostels to choose from: 

Hostel Ani&Haakien  is close to the train station and is very cozy. There’s a shared garden, kitchen, and terrace. Be aware that this hostel books up quickly.

Book your room at the hostel Ani&Haakien  

If you want something special,  Stayokay Hostel Rotterdam  is located in one of Rotterdam’s iconic yellow cube houses across from the Blaak Metro Station.

Book your room at the Stayokay Hostel Rotterdam

An Introduction to Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the  other face of the Netherlands,  far from the iconic images of clogs, tulips, and windmills. 

Rather, Rotterdam is a thriving  modern city  with the architecture to prove it.

It is also not the place where you will find the traditional Dutch canals and stepped-gable houses. 

Instead, there are  high-rises, avant-garde buildings, and lots of street art.  

You can’t visit the Netherlands, without spending at least one day in Rotterdam!

Rotterdam is the perfect destination for a day trip if you are visiting Amsterdam or staying in the country. 

You can tailor this 2-day Rotterdam itinerary into just one day if you will not be staying overnight.

Why Rotterdam is Different

Although Rotterdam is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, with city rights from 1340, you won’t find in Rotterdam the typical Dutch architecture as seen in Amsterdam, Delft, or Leiden, for example. 

The destruction and suffering that the Netherlands experienced during World War II is sometimes not understood by outside countries.

During WWII, Rotterdam suffered a heavy bombing campaign that destroyed the city center. 

There are only a few old buildings that survived the day after 14 May 1940, among them are the  St. Lawrence Church (Sint-Laurenskerk),  the  City Hall on the Coolsingel,  and the  White House (Het Wittehuis).

Instead of restoring Rotterdam to its pre-war appearance (the way that  Dresden  did, for example), the city council decided to take on adventure and allow for  modern and unique architecture  to be constructed.

Rotterdam became a playground for the architects who wanted to look forward into the second half of the twentieth century and beyond.

Thus, there were born buildings like the famous  Cube Houses,  the  Pencil building , the  Rotterdam   Centraal Station,  the  Market Hall,  the  Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot,  and a whole row of skyscrapers, winning Rotterdam the nickname –  Manhattan on the Meuse.

While these started as modern and futuristic, they have become  historic buildings  in their own right as most are now fifty to seventy-five years old.

One thing is without a doubt – Rotterdam is one of the  most beautiful places in the Netherlands  and is worth visiting.

How to get to Rotterdam

As the second-largest city in the country, Rotterdam is easily accessible by  public transport  from anywhere in the Netherlands. 

Once you are in Rotterdam, getting around is easy.  Rotterdam Central Station  is within walking distance of many of the city’s most important sites.

Taking the Train to Rotterdam

If you are staying in Amsterdam, it takes about  40 minutes   to an hour  to go by train from the Central Station in  Amsterdam to Rotterdam.

You can reach  Rotterdam from Utrecht  in under an hour by train.

London, Paris, and Brussels are also well connected with Rotterdam. 

With the  high-speed train Thalys,  you are in Rotterdam from  Paris just in 2 hours and 40 minutes  and from  Brussels in an hour and 10 minutes . 

The trip between  London and Rotterdam with the Eurostar is only 3 and a half hours.

Flying to Rotterdam

Rotterdam has its own airport –  Rotterdam The Hague Airport,  where you can fly to with several budget airlines from all over Europe. 

From the airport, you can take public transportation to your accommodations or you can arrange a  private transfer  before you arrive.

Book a Rotterdam Airport private transfer

If you fly to  Schiphol International Airport near Amsterdam,  it takes about 25 minutes by train to get from the airport to Rotterdam. 

If you would prefer to go from Amsterdam to Rotterdam by car instead of the train, you can arrange your  private transfer  ahead of time.

Book an Amsterdam to Rotterdam private transfer  

The other low-cost airport in the country – the  Eindhoven International Airport,  is only an hour and 40 minutes by train.

5 Dishes to Eat in Rotterdam

During your weekend in Rotterdam, make sure to taste these five Dutch dishes! 

While Kapsalon is the only dish from Rotterdam, travelers should try as many Dutch dishes as possible if Rotterdam is your only stop in the Netherlands.

Kapsalon:  a local dish of french fries covered in gyro meat and melted gouda cheese. Think of it as a Dutch version of loaded fries.

Pannenkoeken :  Dutch pancakes are more like crepes than flapjacks. You can eat these yummy treats with sweet or savory toppings.

Stroopwafels:  Unlike Belgian waffles, Dutch stroopwafels are two thin waffles with caramel in the middle eaten like cookies.

Appletaart:  If you love a good Dutch Apple Pie when you’re not in the Netherlands, then you’ll flip when you try the real thing.

Oliebol:  delicious fried balls or “oil spheres” referred to often as Dutch doughnuts, though they look more like donut holes.

The Perfect 2 Days in Rotterdam Itinerary

This  two-day Rotterdam itinerary  includes the  most famous attractions in Rotterdam  and is suitable for  first-time visitors  who want to discover this cosmopolitan city.

See below for an in-depth overview of the different landmarks you’ll see during your time. 

Rotterdam Itinerary Day 1

Here we go!

Morning: Start the day by discovering the city! 

You can choose to do this on your own or join one of the many  Rotterdam walking tours  in the city. 

A good idea could be to take a  walking tour of Rotterdam   that ends at the Market Hall, as this is the perfect stop for a lunch break!

Book the Rotterdam: 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour for your trip.

Pro Tip:  Select the morning option if you are arriving the night before and starting your first day in the morning. Otherwise, there are afternoon options if you will be arriving in the morning and want to hit the ground running.

Lunch: Select from Two of the Best Lunch Spots in Rotterdam

There seems to be an infinite number of places in Rotterdam where you can have lunch, but there are two of them that are pretty unique and emblematic of the city.

You can choose between the  Market Hall  and the  Fenix Food Factory.  

Both places offer an amazing choice of culinary temptations. 

If the weather is nice, I would recommend the Fenix Food Factory, as you can sit outside and enjoy the nice vibe in  Katendrecht .

Afternoon: Take in Rotterdam’s Water & City Views

For the afternoon I highly recommend a  boat tour in the harbor.  

After all, Rotterdam has one of the  biggest harbors in the world.  

After the tour, you can climb the  Euromast  for an amazing  view of the city  and the harbor.

You can also have some refreshments there, which is a perfect opportunity after so much sightseeing in Rotterdam.

Book your Rotterdam: 90-Minute Harbor Cruise and Euromast Entry Ticket

Dinner: See the Cosmopolitan Side of Rotterdam

For dinner stop at one of the many restaurants on  Witte de With Street (Witte de Withstraat).  

The vibe of the city, which is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, can be best felt on this street.

There are restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and more to see here.

Evening: Get a Taste of Rotterdam Nightlife

Popular neighborhoods for going out in the evening are the  Old Harbor  neighborhood or you can stay on  Witte de With Street.

Rotterdam Itinerary Day 2

The 2nd day of this two-day itinerary is dedicated to the most iconic Dutch landmark – Kinderdijk, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Kinderdijk is located some 15 km to the east of Rotterdam. 

The best way to get from  Rotterdam to Kinderdijk  is via waterbus. 

In the summer there’s a direct line between the two places. 

During the rest of the year, you will need to  change in Ridderkerk  and get the  ferry Driehoeksveer to Kinderdijk.

If you want a hassle-free experience, the best way to visit Kinderdijk is with an organized tour.

There are a few different organized tour options. 

You can go on a  bike tour of Kinderdijk , a  photography tour,  or a  private customizable group tour.

Good to Know:  You can spend your full day here. If you end up with more time in Rotterdam, you can eat dinner at whichever dinner location you did not select on day one. 

If you want to do more sightseeing, see below for ideas of more things to do in Rotterdam.

What to See in Rotterdam in Two Days

Here is an overview of the best things that you can experience in Rotterdam if you are visiting only for two days.

Rotterdam Centraal Train Station

The main train station of Rotterdam –  Rotterdam Centraal Station , is a real eye-catcher right in the city center  (city centre).

The new building was officially opened in 2014 and quickly became a beloved landmark and a famous Instagram spot in the city. 

Wood, stainless steel, and glass are the main materials used for the construction of this futuristic building. 

Rotterdam Centraal is not only pleasing to the eye, but it also serves as a solar farm that generates electricity sufficient for one hundred households – as about a third of the roof is covered with glass solar panels!

From the  old train station,  which was demolished in 2008, there remain today only the letters that spell ‘Rotterdam Centraal’ and the clock on the façade, and two modernistic sculptures the so-called ‘ Speculaasjes’  (nicknamed after the famous Dutch gingerbread biscuits).

Cube Houses

Rotterdam is famous for its  yellow cube houses  balancing on one vertex tilted at a 45-degree angle. 

The cube houses were designed in the 1980s by  architect Piet Blom. 

They are a great example of Structuralism, which is a school of  modern architecture  that was quite popular in the Netherlands during this era.

Piet Blom also designed the so-called  Pencil (De Potlood),  an apartment complex located just next to the Cube houses.

If you are curious as to what it is to live in one of those cubes, you can have a look at one of them. 

The  Kijk-kubus  is a private house, which is open for visits and functions as a museum.

Alternatively, you can book a stay at the  Stayokay Hostel Rotterdam , which is located inside one of the Cube Houses!

Although they call it the  Old Harbor (De Oudehaven)  and the first dock was laid there in 1350, the Old Harbor is not the oldest in the city. 

The first harbor in Rotterdam was a simple dock and they called it  The Dock (De Steyger).  

It’s located in the heart of today’s city center and was first mentioned in documents in 1334.

Today, the Old Harbor neighborhood is popular for its numerous  cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs.  

The White House

On one side of the Old Harbor, you can find the first skyscraper in Europe – the so-called  White House (Het Witte Huis).  

With its 43 m, it was the tallest office building in Europe when it was finished in 1898. 

The  Jugendstil building  is heavily influenced by the eclectic architecture of New York of the time. 

It was only in 1931 when The White House had to surrender its title as Europe’s tallest skyscraper to the Boerentoren in Antwerp (Belgium), which won with its 87.5 m.

Erasmus Bridge

Another iconic structure in Rotterdam is the  Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug),  or  the Swan,  as they call it with affection. 

The bridge that connects the north and the south part of the city is named after one of the greatest figures of European Humanism – Desiderius Erasmus (1466 – 1536). 

The bridge, completed in 1996, is perhaps the most photographed landmark in Rotterdam. It’s a combination of a cable-stayed bridge and a drawbridge.

St. Lawrence Church

The most unique thing about the  St. Lawrence Church   (Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, Sint-Laurenskerk, or Grote Kerk)  is that it’s the only medieval building that survived the bombing of the city in May 1940.

The first church to stand in this place was built in 1350 and the church tower was erected in 1449. 

From April till March on Wednesdays and Saturdays, you can climb the church tower for a lovely  view of the city.

In front of the church, you can see the statue of  Desiderius Erasmus,  which was placed there in 1622.

Market Hall

The  Market Hall (Markthal)  opened in 2014 and quickly became one of the most famous attractions in Rotterdam. 

The building in the form of a horseshoe is an apartment complex with a food hall on the inside. 

The vaulted structure serves as a canvas for the gigantic artwork  ‘The Horn of Plenty  by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam, which looks stunning, especially in the evening. 

The Market Hall has been nicknamed the  Sistine Chapel of Rotterdam.

There are tours of the Market Hall with a guide but you can visit it on your own. 

It’s also the perfect place to  grab lunch  at one of the numerous stands and eateries inside.

Rotterdam Harbor Cruise

Once the  harbor in Rotterdam  started with a single dock in the early 14th century to become Europe’s largest port today with a total area of 12.686 ha and cargo throughput of almost 440 million metric tons in 2020. 

Because of the significance of the port, they call Rotterdam the  Gateway to Europe . Until 2004 the Port of Rotterdam was the largest in the world.

You can see the harbor of Rotterdam with a  harbor cruise,  which is a must-do for any first-time visitor of the city.

This Rotterdam itinerary won’t be complete without one of the most popular things to do in Rotterdam –  climbing the Euromast  for a stunning view of the city and the harbor. 

The observation deck of the tower is sitting at 100 on a so-called crow’s nest – a lookout point on a ship’s mast. 

Euromast was built in 1960 for the first  Floriade , a flower and garden exhibition which takes place once every 10 years.

 Originally one hundred meters tall, in 1970 Euromast grew by 85 m and got a Space Tower –  the Euroscope , which travels up and down and rotates around the mast.

In the crow’s nest, there’s a restaurant which is open for lunch and dinner.

Kinderdijk   is perhaps the most iconic landmark in the Netherlands. It is also a  UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Kinderdijk is a  network of nineteen windmills  that work together to pump out the water from the older. 

Most of the windmills were  built between 1738 and 1740  and were part of a large water-management system that was used to reclaim land from the water.

Today three  Kinderdijk windmills  are open for visits. 

The  Nederwaard Museum Mill  tells the story of Kinderdijk and you can see how the mill is functioning. 

The  Blokweer Museum Mill  is the oldest mill in Kinderdijk, built in 1610, but it shows how life was in the 1950s. 

During this period, all mills were serving also as homes for the millers and their families. 

The third mill that you can visit is the  Overwaard Windmill No. 4.  When it was built in 1739, it was the first mill in the world that could scoop water in two directions.

The best way to visit Kinderdijk from Rotterdam is with an organized tour.

What to Do if You Only Have One Day in Rotterdam?

If you are trying to decide  how many days in Rotterdam  should you spend during your trip to the Netherlands, I hope we’ve convinced you that  48 hours in Rotterdam  is barely enough to scratch the surface!

However, if you only have  24 hours in Rotterdam,  here’s how to make it work!

Option 1:  Morning Walking Tour + Kinderdijk Tour (Only do this option if you can get a guided tour in the afternoon).

Option 2:  Follow Day 1 Exactly and Skip Kinderdijk

What to Do if You Have 3 Days in Rotterdam?

There’s still more to see in Rotterdam if you want to add an extra day and enjoy a  long weekend in Rotterdam.

Here are some ideas to add to your itinerary:

A trip to the  Rotterdam Zoo  (Diergaarde Blijdorp) (great for those traveling to Rotterdam with kids)

Plan a  day trip to the Keukenhof Garden and flower fields if you are visiting from March through Mid-May.

Go on a  Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Visi the  Maritime Museum

Check out some of the museums in so-called Museumpark.  The park is famous for being home to a wide selection of some of the best museums in the city: 

The Netherlands Architecture Institute,   Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen  (masterpieces from Dutch Masters),   The Chabot Museum,   The Kunsthal  (Modern Art Musuem),   Huis Sonneveld, and the Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam.

Explore  Delfshaven ,  the only place in Rotterdam where you will see stepped-gable houses. Worth visiting for the atmosphere and architecture, but it has historical significance for Americans visiting the Netherlands since it’s where the  Pilgrims  left to settle in Massachusetts.

Take a  Meuse River Cruise

Visit the  Op het Dak (‘On the Roof’)  in the  Schieblock  and then walk around the  yellow Luchtsingel.

Go  abseiling  (rapelling) from the Euromast.

5 Things to Pack for Your Trip to the Netherlands

You know to bring  sunscreen and sunglasses,  but here are five items you do not want to forget!

First, get a guidebook like the  Lonely Planet The Netherlands  or   Rick Steves Amsterdam & the Netherlands  (or both).

It’s not easy to find traditional guidebooks once you land.

Second, make sure to bring your  cell phone . You will want to stay connected during your trip, plus it will serve as a navigation system and a go-to camera. 

I use an  iPhone 12 Pro  these days, but I have also used  Samsung  phones in the past.

Third, grab a  camera . While it’s great to have a cell phone with you for quick pics, if you want to do more serious photography or take more videos, I find it nice to travel with a separate dedicated camera as well.

If I will be wrestling with my toddler on the trip, I’ll grab my  Sony ZV-1 , which is a powerful compact camera with great video capabilities as well. 

If it’s just me, I’ll take my  Nikon   (though if you’re buying a new camera I have my eye on this  Sony ).

Fourth, bring a  backup charging bank  for your phone. 

Even though my new phone has an awesome battery life, I would not want to be out on a boat or a tour for the day and end up with a dead phone. 

It’s a safety issue as well as an inconvenience.

Finally, bring a  great day bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc). 

My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe ,  which is especially great for tourist destinations because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets plus RFID technology to keep your credit card digits safe. 

It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day.

More Dutch Travel Resources

Here are all my Netherlands travel blogs.

25 Fantastic Amsterdam Puns & Inspiration for Amsterdam Instagram Captions

25 Fantastic Quotes about Amsterdam & Amsterdam Instagram Captions

15 Exhilarating & Romantic Things to Do in Amsterdam at Night

13 Amsterdam Souvenirs & Gifts for an Unforgettable Trip!

How to Visit the UNESCO Site the Seventeenth-Century Canal Ring Area of Amsterdam inside the Singelgracht

48 Hours in Rotterdam: Itinerary for a Magical 2 Days in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

The Netherlands is Included in these Round-Ups

27 of the Best Opera Houses in Europe for a Perfect Night Out

27 Stunning Places to Visit in September in Europe for a Late Summer Getaway

17 Houses of Famous Authors You Can Visit in Real Life!

10 Stunning UNESCO World Heritage Cities For Your Bucket List

Before You Leave for the Netherlands – Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Make sure you have a valid  Travel Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road.

I use  World Nomads  for my long trips to Europe, and I happily recommend them.

It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging out in cities (like Amsterdam and Rotterdam…ahem) where tourists can be the victims of pickpockets.

I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  as far back as 2016, and I happily recommend them.  

If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

Get a  Travel Insurance  quote for your trip.

Pin this Guide to How to Visit Rotterdam in Two Days for Your Dutch Adventures!

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48 hours in Rotterdam – A 2 day Itinerary

Perhaps best known as a port city, Rotterdam, in the south of Holland, is often overlooked as a place to visit. However, it is actually the second largest city in the Netherlands and therefore well worth visiting, hence this 2 day itinerary for Rotterdam.

After being nearly completely destroyed during the war, Rotterdam has been entirely rebuilt, using bold, innovative and modern design to attract people to this contemporary city.

It now has a truly urban feel to it, with plenty of attractions and museums to explore, festivals to attend and street art to find, amazing restaurants to try and nightlife to challenge Amsterdam, meaning there are plenty of things to see and do in Rotterdam during a weekend trip.

In a hurry and need help quick?

Making last-minute plans for your Rotterdam itinerary. We’ve got you covered. Our recommended hotels and tours for a getaway to Rotterdam are listed below.

Recommended hotels:

• King Kong Hostel (hostel)
• Hotel Bienvenue (budget hotel)
• Motel One Rotterdam (mid-range hotel)
•   The James Rotterdam (family hotel)
• Rotterdam Marriott Hotel (luxury hotel)

Recommended tours:

• Rotterdam in half a day: All-inclusive, Authentic private Tour of Rotterdam
• Biking Rotterdam Food Tour with Local Guide
• Walking Rotterdam Food Tour
• Rotterdam Architecture Highlights Walking Tour
• Rotterdam + Kinderdijk: All Inclusive, Guided Private Tour in Rotterdam

Other Helpful Links

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Wise Card : hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Table of Contents

How to get to Rotterdam

One of the best ways to reach the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands, is via train. If travelling from the UK, you can get a direct train from London, St Pancras International to Rotterdam Centraal, in just over three hours.

Likewise, if you are doing multiple city breaks within the Netherlands, there is a high-speed, intercity train system that is extremely popular.

For those looking to fly in, the closest airport is Amsterdam Schiphol. After landing, head to the train station and within 45 minutes you will be in Rotterdam for around 20 euros.

While for those looking to take the ferry from the north of England, you can travel from Hull to Rotterdam directly in under 12 hours.

Getting around Rotterdam

Rotterdam is pedestrian-friendly, and strolling down the canals and traffic free areas is often the best way to see the city. The Netherlands are also renowned for their cycle paths, and Rotterdam is no exception, with plenty of cycleways leading into the centre from the outskirts and bike parking available in abundance. 

For those looking to use public transport, there is a great network of buses, 9 tram lines and a metro system consisting of 5 different lines. The most cost-effective way to travel on any of these is via an OV-chipkaart which you can top-up online and then use to tap on-tap off any transport links you use.

You could decide to purchase a Rotterdam Welcome Card , valid for 1,2, or 3 days costing between 15.50 euros and 25.50 euros and includes both public transport as well as bike hire and ferry discounts, and plenty of discounts for attractions, tours, restaurants and cafes.

The best time to visit

While Rotterdam is a city that can be explored throughout the year, the most popular time to visit is between June and September while it is warmer, especially if you also want to attend one of the many festivals that take part during this time of year.

This is obviously during the height of the tourist season however, so accommodation is likely to be more expensive and the city itself will be more crowded.

For those that still want to experience Rotterdam during the warmer months but wish to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in May.

Where to stay in Rotterdam

Rotterdam can be broken down into five different areas or districts. For those looking to explore the shops and the cultural elements of the city, the vibrant central (Centrum) is perhaps the best place to situate yourself.

Inntel Hotels Rotterdam Central is situated in a lively area close to the many waterside bars, museums and the food market. Alternatively, if you are after something more unusual, CityHub Rotterdam , is a pod-type hotel that will appeal to budget travellers and those visiting on their own.

If you would prefer to stay in a tranquil setting, try the historical centre of Delfshaven, which has a more traditional feel to it and offers accommodation at very reasonable costs.

La Marin Boutique Hotel is beautifully decorated and at only 10 minutes from the central station on public transport, you can easily return to the centre. Perhaps an area to consider if you are looking to spend longer than 48 hours in Rotterdam.

The areas of Kralingen-Crooswijk, Kop van Zuid and Katendrecht are more upscale and exclusive, making accommodation more expensive.

If you are looking to spend a few days in absolute luxury consider staying at The Slaak Rotterdam , a former newspaper pressroom. While if you are travelling with youngsters Rotterdam Noord has several family-friendly options surrounded by parks and greenery.

48 hours in Rotterdam Itinerary

As previously mentioned, this is the second largest city in Holland and therefore while 2 days in Rotterdam will allow you to see most that the central part of the city has to offer, if you have longer to explore both centrally and on the outskirts you will see that this is a very diverse part of the Netherlands.

Therefore, if you are wondering how many days in Rotterdam is too many, the answer will vary. However, if you have just a weekend this itinerary will highlight the best places to visit in Rotterdam in two days.

Day 1 in Rotterdam

What better way to start your trip than with breakfast on the waterfront in Rotterdam. At Harvest Cafe and Bakery , they pride themselves on serving excellent coffee and good food, and because they serve breakfast staples like Eggs Benedict all day, it doesn’t matter whether you are an early riser or prefer a lie in.

From here, head into the heart of the city to start your first day of exploration.

The Maritime Museum 

No trip to one of the largest port cities in Europe would be complete without a stop off at the Maritime Museum , which highlights what impact the shipping industry has had on this part of the world and dates back to 1874.

Once you have explored the exhibitions and gallery that include navigational instruments, maps, ship models and manuscripts, head to the open-air museum which is home to an impressive collection of historical ships and a lighthouse for you to explore.

City Hall Rotterdam

From the Maritime Museum walk towards theWestblaak and up Coolsingel. Once you have passed the iconic Beurs building, the Rotterdam World Trade Centre, you will shortly see the city hall.

Built between 1914 and 1920, this is one of the most traditional looking landmarks in all of Rotterdam, being one of the few that survived the bombings of World War II and is now a national heritage site.

Take a guided tour inside to see more of the grandiose rooms which were designed by Henri Evers who took inspiration from Byzantine and from the Renaissance and Romanesque style.

Make sure you allow time to explore the well-maintained courtyard full of sculptures and a spectacular water fountain. 

Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk

After touring the city hall head towards the canal, cross over the bridge and head to Grotekerkplein where you will find the only remaining structure of medieval Rotterdam.

Again, this was another casualty of the war and at one point only the walls and tower remained. However, the people of the city soon got to work restoring this magnificent building and it is now seen as a symbol of resilience and is now one of the best places to visit in Rotterdam.

If you visit between March and October, the tower itself is open, and you can climb the 300 steps to the top, where you will be greeted with a 360 degree view of the city.

While inside the church you will find bronze door panels depicting war and peace, a brass choir screen dating back to the 18th century, the largest organ in the country and tombs dating back to the 17th century.

Kubus Museum House

Next on your itinerary and close to the Central Library is the famous Cube Houses, Kijk. These unique homes are a must-see attraction in Rotterdam and are considered an architectural phenomenon.

Dutch architect Piet Blom known for his innovative and unconventional designs has created one of his most famous works with the cube houses, a series of homes built in the 1970s in the Overblaak neighbourhood of Rotterdam. 

The cube houses are made up of a series of cubes tilted at a 45-degree angle, and they are connected by a series of walkways and bridges. Visiting the cube houses is a must-do activity for anyone interested in architecture or design.

You can take a tour of one of the houses to get a sense of what it’s like to live in such an unconventional space. The Kijk-Kubus Museum House is open to visitors and is furnished to show what it’s like to live in one of the cube houses.

If you’re interested in learning more about Piet Blom and his work, you can also visit the Blaakse Bos Visitors Centre. This centre is also located in a cube house and offers information about the history and design of the cube houses, as well as other works by Piet Blom.

Lunch at Cafe Vader Kleinjan

After a full morning of sightseeing, and close to the cube houses, Cafe Vader Kleinjan is situated in the trendy neighbourhood of Rotterdam West, which is known for its diverse restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops.

The cafe is known for its cosy atmosphere, friendly staff, and great selection of drinks and food.

One of the unique features of Cafe Vader Kleinjan is its interior design. The walls are decorated with vintage posters, paintings, and other eclectic pieces, creating a cosy and quirky atmosphere that is perfect for hanging out with friends or enjoying a solo drink.

The menu features a range of classic dishes, including snacks and light meals, such as sandwiches, salads, and soups. 

Take a Free Walking Tour

After lunch head towards the main entrance of the Markthal and take part in the 2 hour walking tour . It is during this tour that you will learn more about the history of this city including why Eramus has both a university and a bridge named after him.

Find out more about the destruction of World War II and how this changed the face of the city while also learning more about the modern aspects of Rotterdam and the surrounding area.

The Markthal

After learning more about the city, finish your first day exploring with a wander around the Markthal, the iconic arched market hall-cum-apartment building, full of fresh produce market stalls, food shops and restaurants.

It is here that you can wander around trying local foods, including dutch cheeses and herring or try one of the many different sweet doughnuts available.

Even if you are not yet in the mood for some food, make sure to take a wander through the market to look at the mural that covers the underside.

A Casual Dining Experience

To finish off the first of your 24 of 48 hours in Rotterdam itinerary, head for a casual dining experience at Restaurant Panzero ‘ close to the market hall.

This Italian Street Food restaurant focuses on food from Puglia and serves authentic pizzas and paninis, with vegan and gluten-free options available. The outdoor seating area is perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends or family.

Day 2 in Rotterdam

Breakfast at lebkov and sons.

Start the second day of your 2 days in Rotterdam itinerary with breakfast at Lebkov and Sons , a family run business situated in a historic building next to Centraal Station with high ceilings and an industrial interior.

It is here that you will find some of the best coffee in all of Rotterdam and fresh, handmade breakfast goodies baked right there on the premises. 

Explore the mini world of Rotterdam

Just around the corner from your breakfast stop you will find Miniworld Rotterdam , a unique and fascinating attraction that offers visitors a chance to explore the city of Rotterdam, its history, and its architecture in a miniature world, covering an area of over 600 square metres.

The miniature world has been designed and constructed with great attention to detail and offers a bird’s eye view of the city of Rotterdam complete with the Erasmus Bridge, the Rotterdam Centraal Station, the Euromast, and the Markthal. 

Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the miniature buildings and landmarks, watch as trains pass through the miniature train stations, and see the miniature ships sailing through the miniature harbour.

Apart from the miniature city of Rotterdam, visitors can also explore vast rural Dutch landscapes filled with windmills and typical Dutch villages. The miniature landscapes are also highly detailed and realistic, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the Dutch countryside.

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Wander past Sonneveld House, a villa designed back in 1933, and head towards the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen which is one of the oldest museums in the Netherlands, located in the Museumpark area in Rotterdam.

It was established in 1849, making it one of the earliest museums to collect art and display it to the public. The museum’s collection includes a vast array of artworks from different periods and styles, ranging from medieval to contemporary art, and everything in between.

The museum’s collection is extensive, with over 150,000 pieces, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings and is known for its outstanding collection of applied arts and design, which includes furniture, glass, ceramics, and jewellery.

The museum’s most famous works include paintings by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Monet, among others.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot, which is a storage facility that houses the museum’s entire collection.

It was designed by Rotterdam-based architectural firm MVRDV and is located in the Museumpark. The Depot is a six-story building with a futuristic, mirrored exterior that reflects the surrounding park, creating an illusion of transparency. 

The Chabot Museum

Today is definitely the day dedicated to museums, so just a short distance from the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is the Chabot museum dedicated to expressionism art.

Housed within a unique white villa dating back to 1938 in Museumpark, Chabot is home to the work of Dutch artist and sculptor, Hendrik Chabot as well as work by other artists, writers and poets.

Kunsthal Rotterdam

Located on the edge of Museumpark, Kunsthal is another marvel of modern architecture added to the city. Designed back in 1989 it is newer than many of the other buildings in this part of town and therefore, stands out in its surroundings with its glass walls and high tower.

Inside, there are several constantly changing exhibitions and activities, any art lover will enjoy spending time here.

Have lunch with a view

After spending the morning exploring museums, head to Euromast , Rotterdam’s iconic tower offering a stunning view of the city.

The Euromast is 185 metres tall, making it the tallest building in the city and visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the top of the tower in just 30 seconds, where they can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Rotterdam and its surrounding areas.

On a clear day, visitors can even see as far as the city of The Hague, which is located over 30 kilometres away.

In addition to the observation deck, the Euromast also features a restaurant that rotates 360 degrees, allowing diners to take in the breathtaking views while enjoying a delicious meal.

The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner and offers a range of international cuisine, so if you don’t want to stay for lunch and have longer than 48 hours in Rotterdam, consider returning for a romantic dinner one evening.

For the adventurous types, the Euromast also offers the opportunity to abseil down the tower. This activity is available every weekend from May to September and allows visitors to experience an adrenaline rush while taking in the stunning views from the tower.

The Erasmus Bridge

After lunch, head to the Erasmus Bridge, a stunning architectural landmark in Rotterdam, and it is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city. It spans the Nieuwe Maas River and connects the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam.

The bridge is named after the Dutch philosopher Desiderius Erasmus, and is known as the Swan or the Swan Bridge due to its graceful curves and shape resembling a swan’s neck.

The Erasmus Bridge was designed by the architect Ben van Berkel and completed in 1996. It is an iconic example of modern architecture, and it has won numerous awards for its design and engineering.

The bridge is 802 metres long and has a 139-metre high pylon, which is the tallest structure in Rotterdam.

It is a perfect place for photographers and offers a stunning view of Rotterdam’s skyline. Visitors can walk or cycle across the bridge or take a boat tour and pass under it.

There is a viewing platform on top of the pylon, accessible by an elevator, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and the river. While at night, it is illuminated to give it an even more striking appearance.

Enjoy Rotterdam from the waterways

After nearly two days on your feet, spend the afternoon relaxing on the water and there are several boat tour companies to choose from, with tours lasting between 1 – 2 hours.

During the boat tour , you can admire the city’s skyline, which is dotted with impressive skyscrapers.

Visitors can also see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks from the water, including the Cube Houses, the historic Delfshaven district, and the Markthal.

Most boat tours provide a guided commentary that gives visitors information about the city’s history, architecture, and culture while longer tours will see you heading towards the port of Rotterdam.

During the tours, visitors can admire the impressive harbour and see the enormous container ships that dock there.

Overall, a boat tour in Rotterdam is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the city. It’s a relaxing and enjoyable way to explore the city’s architecture and landmarks.

It provides a unique perspective that can’t be seen from land which everyone, young and old will enjoy.  It is also one of the most popular things to do alone in Rotterdam.

Pre-dinner drinks at The Fenix Food Factory 

After whiling away an hour or two on the water, head to the Fenix Food Factory is a unique market hall located in the Katendrecht district of Rotterdam.

This area has been transformed from an old red-light district into a trendy and vibrant neighbourhood, with the Fenix Food Factory being one of the highlights. Inside the food hall, you’ll find several food stalls offering a variety of local and international dishes.

There are also several bars serving beer and other drinks. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, with people from all walks of life mingling and enjoying good food and drink.

A favourite is the Kaapse Brouwers brewery, which offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site. If you’re looking for a full meal, you could try the fish and chips from the Fishtales stall or the wood-fired pizzas from the Old Scuola stall.

A final dinner in Rotterdam

For those looking to end their Rotterdam experience with something special head to Ze

ezout , located just half a mile from the Erasmus Bridge. The restaurant serves French and Dutch cuisine, including seafood and is a Michelin-starred restaurant, making it a perfect spot for a fancy dinner and a great place to end your 48 hours in Rotterdam.

Whether you are visiting for just 48 hours or looking to spend longer in the city, there are plenty of things to see and do in this often underrated Dutch city.

This comprehensive 2 day in Rotterdam Itinerary can easily be extended to include more museums, attractions and day trips to nearby locations including Amsterdam, The Hague, Leiden and the Kinderdijk windmills.

Recommended Tours in Rotterdam

• Rotterdam Highlights Bicycle Tour
• Cultural Walking Tour in Rotterdam
• Architecture Highlights Walking Tour in Rotterdam
• Private Tour: Rotterdam Walking Tour Including Harbor Cruise
• Rotterdam Rooftop tour

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

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A Design Lover’s Guide to Rotterdam, Netherlands

By Jeanine Barone

Rotterdam often takes a backseat to Amsterdam in terms of attracting cultural tourism. But for wildly innovative design, this port city is a standout. Creatives have long been drawn to the artistic freedom bubbling in a place that became almost an architectural blank slate after the historic center was flattened during World War II. Tilted, cube-shaped homes resembling funky tree houses (designed by Piet Blom); a housing project in the shape of an open paper clip; Daan Roosegaarde’s smog-removing tower; and De Rotterdam, a “vertical city” with a triad of cantilevered towers conceived by OMA (the firm founded by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Rem Koolhaas), are but a small sampling of Rotterdam’s radical creations. We explore stylish, chic, and daringly designed venues, as well as those spots blending traditional surroundings with a contemporary aesthetic. Take a look at Architectural Digest’s guide to Rotterdam and, if you’ve already planned a trip to Amsterdam, hop on the train for the quick ride to a city whose central station will take your breath away.

Mainport Hotel Located in the Maritime district, with stellar views of the delicate Erasmus Bridge and the skyscraper-dotted skyline, Mainport celebrates Rotterdam and its influences from far-flung lands. Designer Feran Thomassen referenced every continent by giving each corridor a different symbolic motif. In the sun-filled lobby, a compass dominates the ceiling, and one wall is splashed with a world map illustrating sea routes throughout history. From $136/night; mainporthotel.com

Pincoffs Hotel Rotterdam Many of the evocative historic details of this 19th-century former customs building remain and blend with the hotel’s contemporary style. The walk-in safe, fireplaces, and steep staircases have been preserved, and more than two dozen original doors were transformed into furnishings, including a writing desk and a daybed. Among the modern design features is an avant-garde reception desk of cardboard honeycomb panels and papier-mâché, and furniture in the Maarten Mees Suite fashioned from car tires and other recycled materials. From $124/night; hotelpincoffs.nl

Hotel New York Aptly named for the former waterfront headquarters of the Holland America cruise line, from which emigrants once sailed to New York, the hotel is ensconced in an early-20th-century building. Ephemera from that time period, such as suitcases once owned by Holland America employees and passengers, decorates the public spaces as do maritime artifacts (teapots, tableware, and menus) housed in glass display cases. One mode of transport to the front door—water taxi—couldn’t be more scenic. From $168/night; hotelnewyork.nl

Dertien The rustic-chic decor of this restaurant owned by young chefs Pepijn Schmeink and Remco van Erp fits in with their locavore, nose-to-tail cuisine. The two constructed most everything by hand, including a concrete communal table and wood benches repurposed from found items from various shops and work spaces. Especially creative is the 3-D wall menu spelling out the dishes almost like a Scrabble tile rack. Schiedamsevest 30; dertienrotterdam.nl

FG Food Labs Dutch interior designer Mehdi le Mair created a stunning arched space in the former Hofplein train station, using contrasting materials (a shiny tin ceiling pairs with rough recycled-wood walls) to reflect the strength and the gregariousness of the acclaimed chef and owner, François Geurds. A nod to the travelers who once passed through this station, the bar top has a suitcase-inspired look, with leather pieces and brass studs. Katshoek 41; fgfoodlabs.nl

Las Palmas Housed in the former Holland America warehouse, Las Palmas, helmed by celebrity chef and owner Herman den Blijker, melds the industrial with the stylish and the whimsical, thanks to Dutch architect Robert van Oosterom. Hanging from the raw concrete ceiling are dazzling, circa-1950s, Czech crystal chandeliers. On the walls, specially designed tiles bear crimson images of crabs and langoustines, using original 17th-century gravure on paper. The open kitchen and Carrara marble bar stretch almost the entire length of the restaurant, providing visual excitement aplenty. Wilhelminakade 330; restaurantlaspalmas.nl

Aloha The Tropicana, a defunct water park popular with local families in the 1990s, was resurrected as Aloha, a trendy bar/coffee roaster/restaurant that, appropriately, radiates a tropical motif, complete with a terrace lounge overlooking the river Maas. The owner, Femke Snijders, along with designer Sophia van den Hoek, balanced the old hardscape with midcentury West Coast Americana elements, such as a surfboard and a black Artifort couch. Maasboulevard 100; alohabar.nl

Bokaal This brewpub exudes an urban aesthetic that appeals to the eclectic crowds flocking here for the diverse selection of beers (more than 100), mostly from Belgium and the Netherlands. Vintage Dutch tiles handmade in Friesland line the walls, while the shelves are recycled railway sleepers. Old doors double as tabletops, as do wine barrels from Valencia, Spain, on the spacious outdoor terrace. Nieuwemarkt 11; bokaalrotterdam.nl

Café Labru Owner Femke La Brujeere-van Doren is passionate about the vintage finds she’s collected to furnish the bar she co-owns with her husband, Raimond. Copper candleholders, organic-shaped lounge chairs by Pastoe, Gispen club chairs from the 1950s, and immense wall clocks sourced from Rotterdam’s squares all contribute to the retro yet elegant vibe. Known locally as the “living room of Rotterdam,” this laid-back bar attracts everyone from expats to musicians and artists. Hartmansstraat 18a; +31-10-737-1205

Markthal One of the most distinctive farmers’ markets around, Markthal (Market Hall) is an immense horseshoe-shaped hangar where the walls and vaulted ceiling are covered with a boldly hued mural of fruits and vegetables by artists Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam. Piercing this psychedelic inner space are windows from which residents of the building can gaze down on the floor crowded with trendy restaurants, a supermarket, and food stalls. Ds. Jan Scharpstraat 298; markthalrotterdam.nl

Sonneveld House Considered one of the best examples of the Dutch Functionalist style, Sonneveld House, designed by architects Leendert van der Vlugt and Johannes Andreas Brinkmann, offers the public a peek into the life of a prominent Rotterdam family of the 1930s. Everything in the natural light–filled interior is in keeping with modernism, including Gispen’s signature tubular steel furniture. Currently, an artist-in-residence program examines how the house influences contemporary art. Jongkindstraat 12; huissonneveld.nl

Kunsthal For Rem Koolhaas fans, his iconic exhibition space showing everything from sculpture to photography, both old and new, is a delight to behold. The renowned architect mixed marble, parquet, and other premium materials with the inexpensive, such as rugged tree trunks and corrugated plastic. Steep ramps traverse the curtain-walled building, linking the different exhibition spaces that have distinct personalities: Daylight interacts with art in one, while another space appears to float. Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341; kunsthal.nl

Groos Selecting works solely from Rotterdam artists, co-owners Tjeerd Hendriks and Joost Prins Groos relish promoting undiscovered local talent. Among the products from more than 150 suppliers showcased in this bright, airy, and inventive concept shop: Marleen Elenbaas’s innovative leather bags and Studio Thomas Voorn’s boldly patterned “tapestry” wallpaper. Schiekade 203; groosrotterdam.nl

By Erika Owen

By Briana Feigon

By Katherine McLaughlin

& Surprising and unique artisanal products—many from Rotterdam—are what the Dutch design duo Elwin and Nynke van der Hoek look for when stocking &, their shop-studio. Fun and creative items abound, including paper sleeve vases and folded lampshades, both by Pepe Heykoop. Lenneke Wispelwey’s ceramics bear geometric folds, and collectors, both local and from as far away as Japan, stop in to purchase her limited-edition pieces. Zwaanshals 520; en-designshop.com

Contemporary Showroom Anyone enamored of high-end art and design pieces from the 20th century should make this showroom their first stop. Owner Jarno Kooijman personally curates the rare, the elegant, and the distinctive found here. His collection includes a sensual rosewood bench by Brazilian designer Jorge Zalszupin, luxurious Murano chandeliers, and some exclusive Italian pieces, including a leaf floor lamp in brass by Tommaso Barbi. Zaagmolenkade 41-42; contemporary-showroom.com

By Megan Wahn

By Karalyn Hoover

By Rachel Fletcher

By Elizabeth Fazzare

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

The North Sea Jazz Festival

Spido cruises.

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

Travel ideas for Netherlands, created by local experts

8 days  / from 2834 USD

The best of the Netherlands and Belgium

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

9 days  / from 3052 USD

Experience the Liberation Route in BeNeLux

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

The North Sea Jazz Festival ( w northseajazz.nl ), held every year in mid-July, is the country’s most prestigious jazz event, attracting international media coverage and the world’s most famous jazz musicians. For many years, the festival was held in Scheveningen near Den Haag, but in 2006 it transferred to Rotterdam’s Ahoy’ centre, about 4km south of the city centre at Ahoy’-weg 10. To get there by metro, take the Erasmuslijn and get off at Zuidplein. Details of performances are available online and from the VVV, which will also reserve accommodation – virtually impossible to find after the festival has begun. Various tickets can be purchased; a dagkaart , for example, valid for an entire day, costs €89.

The shape and feel of the Leuvehaven, Rotterdam’s first artificial harbour, has been transformed by the Boompjes freeway, which scoots along the top of the old enclosing sea dyke. Beside the Boompjes, at the south end of the Leuvehaven, is the departure point for Spido cruises ( t 010 275 9988, w spido.nl ). They have several different tours of the surrounding waterways and port facilities, heading off past the wharves, landings, docks and silos of Europe’s largest port, but the standard harbour tour costs just €10.50 (April–Oct 5–11 daily; Nov–March Mon–Wed 1 daily, Thurs–Sun 4 daily; 1hr 15min). In July and August, there are also longer trips to several destinations, most notably the series of colossal dams that make up the Delta Project along the seaboard southwest of Rotterdam (July & Aug 1 weekly on Wed; 7hr; €55).

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Rotterdam travel guide

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

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

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Rotterdam

1. tour the museums.

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

2. Music Festivals

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

3. Superb Architecture

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

4. Food and Drink

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

5. Explore Rotterdam's Maritime Heritage

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

What to do in Rotterdam

1. euromast: cityscape and beyond.

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

2. Erasmusbrug: Travel North to South

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

3. Kijk Kubus: Life in a Cube

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

4. Rotterdam Zoo: Animal Planet

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

5. Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk: Last Church Standing

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

Activities & attractions in Rotterdam

Where to Eat in Rotterdam

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

When to visit Rotterdam

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

How to Get to Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

Airports near Rotterdam

Airlines serving rotterdam, where to stay in rotterdam.

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

Popular Neighborhoods in Rotterdam

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

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

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

Where to stay in popular areas of Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

The Cost of Living in Rotterdam

Shopping streets.

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

Groceries and Other

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

Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Best Nightlife
• Organized Tours
• Planning a Trip

Things to Do in Rotterdam

58km (36 miles) SW of Amsterdam; 23km (16 miles) SE of the Hague

Although just an hour from Amsterdam by train, Rotterdam is Holland's most futuristic city, centuries away from the capital in both appearance and personality. Here, instead of the usual Dutch web of little streets, alleyways, and winding canals, there are spacious and elegant malls and one of the world's busiest ocean harbors. This bustling metropolis (pop. 590,000) is fascinating to see, particularly when you consider the city was a living monument to Holland's Golden Age until it was bombed to rubble during World War II. Traces of Old Rotterdam survive most vividly in only two areas -- Delfshaven (Delft Harbor) and Oude Haven (Old Harbor).

Rotterdam has an abundance of modern architecture, some of it fascinating. At the war's end, rather than try to recreate the old, Rotterdammers looked on their misfortune as an opportunity and approached their city as a clean slate. They relished the chance to create an efficient, workable modern city. The results, though they're not always elegant, are a testimony to their ability to find impressive solutions to their problems.

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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.

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

Day trips less than 30-minutes from Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day trips less than one hour from Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day trips over an hour from Rotterdam

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

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

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

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

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 12 minutes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Going with OV — the Dutch public transport system

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

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

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

Driving around Dutch cities, towns, and national parks

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

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

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

Hop on your bike and explore Rotterdam’s surroundings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Rotterdam worth visiting?

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

How many days should I spend in Rotterdam?

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

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

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

How do I spend a day in Rotterdam?

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

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

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

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

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

Is it better to stay in Rotterdam or Amsterdam?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Blissful beaches and hidden gems: these unique dutch tours will make your summer, islands of the netherlands: a guide to the wadden islands, where are the ‘i amsterdam’ letters the complete selfie guide, what do you think.

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

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

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39 Fun activities in and around Rotterdam

Are you looking for fun activities in Rotterdam? Fortunately, there are plenty of fun outings in and around Rotterdam. In this article you can find enough inspiration for a fun packed day with your friends, loved one or kids!

From the best water activities to things to do on a rainy day, you can find plenty of inspiration in this article. Below you will find all kinds of fun activities and places that you can visit for a fun day out.

Need more inspiration for your time in our city? Check out these fun things to do in Rotterdam .

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

Table of Contents

Fun activities with friends in Rotterdam

1. ball tossing at boules bites bar.

© MarcVerhees Fotografie – www.marcverhees.nl

Boules, drinks and fun – that’s pretty much what you can expect at Boules Bites Bar near De Kuip soccer stadium. Sometimes eating out alone is just too boring – you want some action too! Conjure up your best shot on one of the eleven boules courts while enjoying a tasty snack and cocktail from bar Jules.

If you prefer to take it easy, you can of course have lunch or dinner on the terrace without playing a game. Also ideal as a group outing where urban vibes and Burgundy enjoyment go together perfectly!

2. Play cool games at Hollywood Event Center

Hollywood Event Center ‘s new state-of-the-art indoor activity center is Rotterdam’s largest leisure center, so we promise you: you’ll never be bored here. Take a seat in one of the 64 racing simulators at Race Square and experience a race at Circuit Zandvoort or another F1 circuit. Or step inside the X-Cube escape room, a unique mix between an escape room and video game.

Other activities include interactive beer pong, interactive darts, pool table, shuffleboard and shuffle pucks, street curling on synthetic ice and Lucky Putt Mini Golf. Settle down tired but satisfied and eat great American food at the Sports Bar (while watching live sports games) or the Hollywood Café, surrounded by movie stars. If you can’t enjoy yourself here, we don’t know what else to do.

3. Visit one of the Escape Rooms in Rotterdam with your friends

Are you looking for a bit of excitement? Then visit one of the many Escape Rooms in Rotterdam. Such as Escape Mission.

In addition to two fun escape rooms for kids, you can escape three fun rooms at Escape Mission. For example, choose the Castle. In this room you step into the shoes of Robin Hood and your mission is to steal the King’s crown. Finally, you can go to the Missing Room, where different teams just disappeared and you have to solve the mystery.

Check out more Escape Rooms in Rotterdam in this article.

4. Cinema Culinair

Looking for a unique brunch with friends? At Cinema Culinair you watch films and eat exactly the same dishes as in the film. Down to the second, so you eat what you see. In addition to the dinner shows, a sweet brunch variant is also organized, where you can enjoy delicious homemade chocolates and a beautiful etagere with different sandwiches and rolls to alternate with sweets while watching the film Chocolat (2000).

This is a fun activity with friends, but also as an intimate date with a loved one!

Cinema Culinair is organized several times a year in Rotterdam. The next edition is from April 4 to 14 in the Keilepand, where you can enjoy it with all your senses every Thursday to Sunday! The brunch show is on Saturday April 6 from 12:00 – 16:00.

Read everything about Cinema Culinair here.

Keilepand (Keilecollectief) – Keilestraat 7-9, 3029 BP Rotterdam

5. 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!

6. Take a flying lesson

Have you always wanted to admire Rotterdam from above? That’s possible. At Rotterdam The Hague Airport you can board a small plane and then fly over the city and see the city 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 in no time. Wave immediately to all icons: the Erasmus Bridge, Euromast and the Market Hall. A really special experience!

Please note: there is a maximum of 3 people per plane. So you could experience it with more people by booking multiple planes.

7. Play a game of lawn bowling at Mooie Boules

You can find Mooie Boules in a characteristic metal factory in the emerging ZOHO area. It’s a unique hotspot , because it’s the first Rotterdam food hal where you can also play a game of lawn bowling. It’s a fun place to go if you’re looking for a fun activity with your friends .

The factory has been completely transformed into a French village square.  Local restaurants serve signature dishes and the bar serves a wide range of wine, specialty and local beer. And of course you can play a game of lawn bowling here.

Mooie Boules is a perfect spot for fun with friends!

Fun water activities in Rotterdam

8. explore the maas with the water taxi.

Photo by @maarten_see_hooijmeijer.

There are a lot of fun ways to explore the Maas. For instance, you can go for a ride on the watertaxi. Book a ride on the website or order a taxi by phone and get dropped off at one of the 50 locations in the city.

It’s a nice way to see Rotterdam from the water and also an adventure, because the taxis 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 here! ). On this walking tour you first get an extensive explanation from an architect guide before the tour with the water taxi starts.

9. Join the Splash tour

Another fun water activity is 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.

10. Get on board for a cruise in Rotterdam

River Cruise in Rotterdam.

The best way to experience Rotterdam is of course by taking a boat trip. Sail under the Erasmus Bridge and the Willems Bridge, view the various ports, see where the Holland-America Line once left and experience Rotterdam’s unique character.

We recommend this tour for a quiet one hour cruise , which covers all the highlights of Rotterdam. On the boat you can sit on deck, but you can also sit inside if it rains.

11. 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.

Learn more about the port during this cruise . You will be part of the traffic around the harbor, view the shipyard, the dock and the modern handling of thousands of containers.

Check out more water activities in Rotterdam !

12. Spend the night on the water

Are you planning on spending the night in Rotterdam? Then I definitely recommend to choose a special accommodation and luckily there are plenty of amazing places to stay in Rotterdam.

For instance, you can stay on the steamship ss Rotterdam . Here you can stay in one of the 254 rooms with a choice of six different room types. If you want something a little cozier, we recommend the Wikkelboat (pictured above):  a multifunctional, sustainable and super tiny place to stay on the water.

Be sure to read about more unique hotels in Rotterdam .

Fun things to do on foot in Rotterdam

13. discover the highlights of rotterdam during a walk.

The Cube Houses, the Markthal, the City Hall, but also the Central Station… All iconic buildings in Rotterdam to admire. Visit them all during a lovely walk!

Take a look at our highlights walking rout e. In this route you will pass the places that really stand out in the city and are characteristic of Rotterdam.

14. Follow a street art route in Rotterdam

Street art by Smug and duo Telmo Miel in the Afrikaanderwijk.

In recent years, more and more street art can be found in Rotterdam . The great thing is that the municipality of Rotterdam gives artists the space to create something cool.

For example, in our city you can find the interactive Make It Happen artworks and there are often initiatives by Pow Wow Rotterdam and Rewriters010 (among others). They brighten up boring walls with high-quality street art!

Download the Rewriters app to follow a street art route in Rotterdam. This app takes you to the most beautiful street art in Rotterdam and gives you background information about the artwork and the artist. The routes are updated several times a year, so there is always something new to discover.

15. A day of shopping in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is definitely a good city for shopping. In the center of our city you can find all kinds of nice shops within walking distance of each other. Walk up the iconic Koopgoot or the Lijnbaan and you will find all the popular shops neatly lined up.

Of course there are also many nice boutiques and vintage shops in our city . Do you love vintage shopping? Then I recommend the Zwaanhals in Rotterdam Noord. There you will be amazed at all the vintage places.

To help you find your way around when you come shopping in Rotterdam, we also have a handy shopping route on offer, with which you can visit as many stores as possible in one day.

16. Learn more about the history of Rotterdam

The bombing in 1940 destroyed a large part of the city center. The reconstruction has made Rotterdam as we know it today: a modern metropolis with a lot of unique architecture.

Fortunately, there are certainly still traces of the past in our city. Take a walk along the fire border in Rotterdam, for example. This border shows the border of the area that was destroyed in 1940.

TIP: check our historic route in Rotterdam . Because some places are quite far apart, it is best to follow this route by bicycle or public transport.

Fun summer activities in Rotterdam

17. visit a rotterdam swimming pool.

How wonderful it is to go for a swim when it’s hot! But where? I like to tip the Van Maanenbad in Blijdorp. According to our bloggers Kim one of the most beautiful swimming pools in Rotterdam. The nice thing about this pool is that you can also swim outside in the summer. Great for cooling off during those sultry summer days!

Do you want to know where you can find the best swimming pools in Rotterdam ? Then read the article by Kim.

18. Visit Hoek van Holland and the beach club Pele Surf Shack

Looking for an amazing summer activity ? Then be sure to visit Pele Surf Shack, the first plant-based beach club in the Netherlands. Although it is not in the center of our city, it is definitely worth traveling to Hoek van Holland and trying one of their plant-based dishes. And while you’re there, you can make it a fun day at the beach!

Pele Surf Shack is open all summer, seven days a week. Unfortunately they are closed during the winter, but the doors open again in March.

19. 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.

A fun summer activity is renting 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!

20. Discover hidden green spots

Our city has an infinite number of sights and tourist attractions, such as the Erasmus Bridge, the Markthal and the Euromast, but the city offers so much more! There are also a lot of beautiful, green spots to discover.

For example, visit Historische Tuin Schoonoord, which can be found near the Euromast Park. Despite its central location, it is a quiet oasis where you will not meet many other people. A nice place to walk around and enjoy all the greenery.

Other hidden green spots include the inner garden of the City Hall, Ons Park on the Noordereiland and the Heemtuin in the Kralingse Bos.

Here you will discover even more hidden places in Rotterdam !

21. Enjoy a beautiful cycling tour on the island of IJsselmonde

Foto by Michel Mees

From the heart of Rotterdam you can easily reach Island IJsselmonde, a surprisingly varied and undiscovered area.

Here you will find green oases with beautiful forests, landscaped gardens and historic farms. Beautiful cycling routes take you across the island via dikes, woods and river paths.

Does this sound like something you would love to do? ‘Discover IJsselmonde’ has listed the 5 most beautiful cycling routes for you.

22. Get a breath of fresh air on the Euromast

If you’re visiting Rotterdam for the first time, a visit to the Euromast is the perfect way to spend your day. Especially if the sun is shining! Because of the clear sky, you’ll be able to see for miles in the distance! We recommend going during sunset to see how the golden rays of sunlight illuminate the city. Also: don’t forget to bring your camera!

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: Buy your ticket for the Euromast here .

Fun things to do during a rainy day in Rotterdam

23. immerse yourself in the world of vr at lantarenvenster.

Going to the movies, but just a little different! That is possible at LantarenVenster. They are one of the first cinemas to offer virtual reality in their film programme.

Step inside for Nu:Reality’s Inner Journey, which runs through September 2023. Be immersed in five VR experiences with beautiful visuals and special stories.

The adventure already starts in the foyer, where you can choose from two interactive VR games: The Book of Distance or Goliath. Then you take a seat in a cinema room for a magical journey with three special films in 360º: Passenger, Ferenj and Conscious Existence.

Otto Reuchlinweg 996, 3072 MD Rotterdam

24. Have an audiovisual journey in the 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.

Fun on a rainy day, with friends or for a one-on-one date !

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

25. Enjoy a high tea

Afternoon tea on the ss Rotterdam.

Nothing is cozier than sitting inside and drinking a warm cup of tea, while outside the raindrops fall down. So, a perfect moment to book a high tea!

During a high tea you get unlimited cups of tea and sweet treats such as scones, pies and chocolate. On the ss Rotterdam they offer a special Afternoon Tea. It starts off with a glass of Prosecco or jus d’orange, followed by sandwiches, wraps, vegetable muffins, fresh fruit and sweet delicacies. Think of homemade nougat, brownies and macarons.

Are you already getting hungry? Check out the best places for a high tea in Rotterdam .

26. Have a swim at an indoor swimming pool

Luckily Rotterdam has a wide variety of indoor pools! Having a swim indoor is a great way to stay active when it’s cold and rainy outside. There are swimming pools with fun recreational sections for children, but also pools that include saunas and steam cabins.

27. Visit one of the many museums in Rotterdam

Photo by Theo de Man.

A day at a museum is always fun and in Rotterdam there are plenty of museums to visit .

A fun museum to visit 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 fun activity with kids and on a rainy day.

Tip: buy your ticket in advance for the Maritime Museum here .

28. Have a look in the Kijk-Kubus

A visit to the Kijk-Kubus is a great thing to do on a rainy day in Rotterdam . In the Kijk-Kubus you get a glimpse what a Cube House looks like from the inside.

Rotterdam is known worldwide for its architecture. This is partly due to the iconic Cube Houses. So rain or shine, you must visit the Cube Houses!

TIP: 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 cubes. Or rent   a luxurious Cube house entirely for yourself via Airbnb.

29. Go on the Rotterdam hop on, hop off bus

Are you in Rotterdam for the first time and do you want to see as much as possible? Then a hop-on hop-off is more convenient than you think. With a 24- or 28-hour ticket you can get in and out wherever and whenever you want.

Of course it is best to discover Rotterdam on foot or by bike, but during a rainy day it is nice that you can hide from the rain in a bus and warm up. Then to brave the rain again with your umbrella and still admire all the sights of Rotterdam !

Fun kids activities in Rotterdam

30. visit plaswijckpark.

Plaswijckpark is fun for the whole family! It consists of Speelwijck, Dierenwijck and Wandelwijck.

You can find all kinds of playgrounds in Speelwijck. In the Verkeerstuin or Traffic Garden you can drive a car, in the Apenspeeltuin or Monkey Playground you can lie around on the ropes. Is it raining? Then go play inside the Huis in de Heuvel or House in the Hill. Do you love animals? Then visit the Dierenwijck and meet the different animals that live there.

De Wandelwijck is where you, but especially your parents, can relax for a bit. There is a Picnic Pasture, a Rosarium with 40 varieties of roses and an English garden with several fountains.

Be sure to also discover these fun family outings in Rotterdam !

31. Discover miniature Rotterdam at Miniworld Rotterdam

Miniworld Rotterdam is a super fun place for a day out with your kids. 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 !

32. Visit Kids Marina

Kids Marina 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 sail the model boats themselves and the boats are powered by electric motors. A boat trip takes 15 minutes from sailing to mooring.

33. Villa Zebra

Villa Zebra is a children’s museum with contemporary visual art. Visit Villa Zebra for interactive exhibitions and art installations, art workshops and reading afternoons.

34. Pannenkoekenboot (Pancake Boat)

If you are looking for the real Dutch experience with the family, you should go with the Pannenkoekenboot (which is Dutch for 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.

TIP:  already book your ride in the Pancake boat !

Fun things to do in the surrounding areas of Rotterdam

35. discover miniature netherlands in madurodam.

Photo by Julia de Vries.

Another fun children’s activity, but in The Hague: Madurodam! Here you can discover the whole of the Netherlands in miniature.

But that’s certainly not all. Madurodam offers all kinds of fun attractions and activities. In the summer you can cool down here at Het Grote Hansje Brinker game and you can extinguish the fire in the port of Rotterdam together with friends and family. Or take a unique flight over the Amsterdam canals on board The Flying Dutchman.

TIP: get  your tickets for Madurodam !

36. Escape the bustle of the city at Ackerdijkse Plassen

Ackerdijkse Plassen is a beautiful nature area between Delft and Rotterdam. So you have to leave Rotterdam for this walking spot (20 minutes by car from the center of Rotterdam), but it is definitely worth a visit, especially if you want to escape from the city.

The nature reserve is a popular place for cyclists, hikers it’s a true bird watchers paradise. From the De Tureluur observation tower you can see how different birds, such as Redshank and Black-headed Gulls, fly and breed. You also have a beautiful view of the Rotterdam skyline!

There are several walking routes you can take. With  this walking route around the Ackerdijkse Plassen  you walk around the nature reserve.

TIP:  Bring a blanket, some food and drinks and enjoy a picnic in the grass during your walk! Take your waste home with you, of course.

37. 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.

38. A cultural day at Museum Voorlinden

In Wassenaar, a half hour drive from Rotterdam Centre, you will find Museum Voorlinden . The museum is a privately funded initiative of the Dutch art collector Joop van Caldenborgh and displays his personal collection.

The permanent collection of Museum Voorlinden is very cool and the museum also offers nice exhibitions. The works are often interactive, so as a visitor you become part of the artwork yourself. An example is the work Open Ended, photographed above, by American artist Richard Serra. While walking you experience the work of art.

And there is a good chance that if you have ever seen Museum Voorlinden on Instagram, you have seen the work Swimming Pool by Leandro Erlich. Erlich gave his artwork all the characteristics of a real swimming pool, but as a visitor you can still walk dry on the bottom.

Museum Voorlinden is definitely worth a visit! In addition to the permanent collection and exhibitions, there is a sculpture garden and you can walk around the estate. Got an appetite? There is also a restaurant with a terrace.

39. A magical time in the Efteling

A day at Efteling is unforgettable and fun for friends and family, young and old. In this magical amusement park you will visit the Sprookjesbos (Fairytale Forest), meet the Volk van Laaf and get your adrenaline pumping from a ride in the exciting Vogel Rok (Bird Roc) and Vliegende Hollander (Flying Dutchman). And of course you go for a magical experience in the Droomvlucht (Dream Flight) and Fata Morgana!

How do you get from Rotterdam to the Efteling? This is possible, for example, with the NS train, often discounts are available. You travel by train to Tilburg and from here you take the bus to the Efteling (bus lines 300, 301, 136 and 801). Get off at the Efteling bus stop. Do you have a car? Then it takes about 50 minutes from Rotterdam Centre.

TIP:  already book your tickets for the Efteling .

These are the best activities in and around Rotterdam. Hopefully, after reading this article, you’ll have enough inspiration for a fun packed day.

Do you have any great tips for a fun day in Rotterdam? Let us know in the comments below.

Lisanne van Beurden

2 replies on “39 fun activities in and around rotterdam”.

I spend a lot of time in Rotterdam as I have a local friend who I visit (pre-crisis) regularly. There are several things on this list I’ll have to ask her to show me next time, but I am such a fan of the Water Taxi!

Rotterdam is on my bucket list! I’ve been almost all around Europe stopping by all the cites but I am still missing Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Really great list! I will make sure I’ll do everything!

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Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay

937 Phillips Lane, Louisville

Distance from downtown Louisville: Around 4 miles or 10 minutes.

Kentucky Kingdom is an amusement and water park in Louisville that doesn't require much of a drive for locals.

The amusement park features a variety of rides from family-friendly to thrilling rollercoasters. There are also water rides, wave pools and other features at the Hurricane Bay water park. Ticket prices vary by ticket type, day of the week and frequency of visits. General admission tickets for one day range from $29.99 to $49.99. Season passes are also available.

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay are open to the public for the season.

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay: When does Kentucky Kingdom open in 2024? How much do tickets cost? Rides? What to know

Mammoth Cave National Park

1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave

Distance from downtown Louisville: Around 90 miles, or an hour and a half.

Mammoth Cave National Park, located in south central Kentucky, spans more than 52,000 acres and is home to the world's longest cave system, according to the National Park Service. A variety of experiences are offered, including cave tours, horseback riding, canoeing and kayaking. There are also three camp sites located on the grounds, as well as a designated section for backpackers.

Several tours are available ranging in distance from 0.25 miles to 2.5 miles, taking anywhere up to three and a half hours. Two crawling tours are also available for visitors starting at age 10 and over, but special equipment is required.

You can view a full list of available tours here .

French Lick

Distance from downtown Louisville: Around 80 miles, or an hour and a half.

French Lick, located in Southern Indiana, is home to the French Lick West Baden Museum and the French Lick Scenic Railway.

The museum , established in 2007 as a pop-up before finding its current location in 2014, discusses the history of the circus, and the town's involvement in the renowned Hagenbeck-Wallace circus diorama, featured at the museum.

"Today, we continue to tell the incredible histories of our towns through impressive exhibits, interactive experiences, and first-person stories," according to the museum's website.

General admission is $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors, $6 for children 6-12 and free for 5 and under.

At the French Lick Scenic Railway , visitors can "experience harking back to a time when rail travel was the primary means of long distance travel," according to the organization's website. Operated by the Indiana Railway Museum, the Scenic Railway spans 25 miles from French Lick to Jasper.

Those who climb aboard for a ride will travel along the edges of Hoosier National Forest and through one of the state's longest railroad tunnels. Various family events and 21+ events are offered, and a Polar Express train ride is also offered during the holiday season beginning in November. Ticket prices vary throughout the year.

At the French Lick Resort , visitors will have easy access to the French Lick Casino and countless other activities like horseback riding, archery, pickleball, indoor and outdoor swimming and more.

National Corvette Museum: See how Kentucky attractions ranked in USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice Award

National Corvette Museum

350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green

Distance from downtown Louisville: Around 110 miles or close to two hours.

Ranked second on USA TODAY's 2024 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for best car attraction is Kentucky's National Corvette Museum.

According to the museum's mission, they hope "to educate worldwide audiences on the evolution of the Corvette — America’s Sports Car — through collection, preservation, and celebration of its legacy." The museum also had a sinkhole swallow eight cars around 10 years ago, the last of which was  pulled in March 2014 , as previously reported by  The Courier Journal.

Ticket prices fluctuate by dates, times and add-ons. Available add-ons include a guided tour and a Corvette racing simulator.

Natural Bridge State Park

2135 Natural Bridge Road, Slade

Distance from downtown Louisville: About 135 miles, or two hours and 15 minutes.

The Natural Bridge State Park is home to Kentucky's natural bridge, formed from natural sandstone over millions of years, spanning 78 feet and wavering 65 feet in the air. Located near the Red River Gorge Geological Area and the Daniel Boone National Forest, visitors can hike around 2.5 miles out and back to see the Natural Bridge or use the skylift.

Visitors can also participate in activities at the Natural Bridge State Resort Park like canoeing and kayaking, available from Memorial Day through Labor Day, fishing at Mill Creek Lake or playing a game of miniature golf. Also close by are the Red River Gorge Zipline Tours.

Want to get out of town but not out of state? Five ideas for a summer vacation in Iowa

Who says you need to go out of state for a great vacation?

If you're looking to leave behind your daily grind for a week or a weekend, Iowa has plenty of memorable attractions. Here are some ideas to get you started as you look for your next great getaway.

Field of Dreams, Dyersville

The rural property where beloved baseball movie "Field of Dreams" was shot is located just outside Dyersville in northeast Iowa. The field and farmhouse shown in the film are open for guided tours.

In recent years the site has grown, hosting its first Major League Baseball game in 2021. In future years, developers plan to build a permanent, 3,000-seat stadium, surrounded by youth sports fields, an amphitheater, a hotel and other amenities.

More: Visiting the Field of Dreams? Here are things to do and restaurants to try in Dyersville

Riverboat cruises and National Mississippi River Museum

Iowa's history has always been closely tied to the Mississippi River, the second-longest in North America. Today, there are lots of opportunities to experience this famous waterways for yourself on a variety of cruises, ranging from short excursions to multi-day tours.

Of particular interest to history buffs will be those offered on two paddlewheel steamers. Celebration Belle sails from Dubuque and from Moline, Illinois, and LeClaire in the Quad Cities with a mix of lunch, dinner and daylong cruises. Riverboat Twilight offers two-day cruises from LeClaire to Dubuque and back, as well as a one-day cruise from Dubuque and a 90-minute jaunt from LeClaire.

While in Dubuque, you can also visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium , which combines history and biology to tell the story of the past, present and future of the great river.

Camping in Maquoketa Caves State Park

From old-growth forests to lakeside views, Iowa has many scenic locations for outdoor lovers to go camping in. A particularly memorable location is Maquoketa Caves State Park , where visitors can explore the park's famous cave systems.

Other popular campgrounds include Ledges State Park near Boone and Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Keosauqua, all operated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, as well as other private- and county-owned campgrounds around the state.

More: 7 super-fun campsites in Iowa

Check out Iowa's many trails

Whether for mountain biking, hard-core hiking or just a pleasant evening stroll, Iowa has numerous options to get out on the trails.

Some of the top-rated trails, according to AllTrails.com , include the 1.7-mile Maquoketa Caves Loop, the 4.2 mile Wildcat Den Trail at Wildcat Den State Park, and the 6.3-mile loop through the Dozer Cut, Bunker Hill and Badger Ridge trails at the Hitchcock Nature Center.

Explore the lakes at Okoboji

Iowa has many scenic lakes, but few that draw as many visitors as the Iowa Great Lakes, primarily Big Spirit Lake and East and West Lake Okoboji.

In addition to the beaches and scenery, visitors can check out the Arnolds Park amusement park, several concert venues and Friday night firework displays throughout the summer.

More: Summer's coming and the time is right for Okoboji. Here are 7 things to do at the lake

William Morris writes for the Des Moines Register. He can be contacted at  [email protected]  or 715-573-8166 .

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This Sunny Spanish City Is Known for Amazing Tapas and a ‘Magical Vibe’ — and It Won’t Break the Bank

Here's everything you need to know to plan a perfect trip to Granada, Spain.

• Best Hotels & Resorts
• Best Things to Do

Best Restaurants

Best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Granada is about as captivating a city as they come. The city, tucked at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Spain's Andalusia region, is filled with more historic charm than perhaps one place deserves. Here, travelers can walk through winding cobblestone streets, drink in views of Moorish architecture, and stroll through buildings dating back to the 14th century, all within the span of an afternoon.

"Granada is a gem filled with history, culture, and stunning scenery," Tim Hentschel, the CEO and co-founder of HotelPlanner , shares with Travel + Leisure . "Granada is also known for its delicious cuisine, particularly its tapas culture. You can enjoy various mouthwatering dishes while exploring the city's vibrant culinary scene. And what is especially remarkable is that Granada doesn't break the bank like other big Spanish cities, but it still oozes authentic charm. The locals are friendly, the vibe is lively, and your wallet stays happy without missing out on that classic Spanish charm." 

And, as Alicia Benito, a Spanish language and culture specialist at Promova , notes, it's a place where you really can kick up your heels, too. 

"It's like the perfect mix of history, amazing sights, and a very lively culture. Also, the people there really know how to live," Benito says. "There are cool street markets everywhere, cozy tapas bars on every corner, and passionate flamenco shows in Sacromonte. It's just got this magical vibe that grabs you and doesn't let go."

Not only that, but Granada is also a destination that experiences some 3,000 hours of sunshine a year , practically ensuring at least one beautiful day while you're there. Here's how to plan the perfect trip to Granada. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

Stay in a former monastery when you book a room at Parador de Granada. 

Explore the stunning Alhambra. 

See a zambra flamenco show in Sacromonte. 

Go for a tapas and wine crawl around the city’s best bars and restaurants.

Visit in the spring or fall for beautiful weather and fewer crowds. 

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Best Hotels & Resorts

Hospes palacio de los patos.

Hospes Palacio de los Patos is the perfect representation of Granada. It's a 19th-century palace turned modern retreat located in the heart of the city. Here, guests can unwind in stately rooms with soaring ceilings and royal-ready beds, relax in the Bodyna Spa, or dine on local dishes — including plenty of tapas — on its outdoor terrace. 

Parador de Granada

Sleep amid history at Parador de Granada , located within Alhambra's grounds. The former monastery has been transformed into an inviting escape with rooms overlooking the Generalife's lush gardens. It's a modest accommodation, but one that is ideal for those looking for a quieter stay and access to utmost tranquility. 

Hotel Casa 1800 Granada

Pining for even more history? Then book a stay at Hotel Casa 1800 Granada . As the name implies, the hotel was once a private home, built in the late 16th century, and it maintains much of its charm — including the original facade. Every room here is unique, but all offer historical touches, including original balconies, shutters, and frescos. 

Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol

Get a room with a view at Carmen de la Alcubilla del Caracol . The boutique hotel's privileged position atop a hill provides spectacular views from every window of both the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Spring for a room with a terrace for an unforgettable stay. 

Best Things to Do 

Explore the alhambra..

We're not sure it's possible to visit Granada without visiting the Alhambra , often regarded as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and art. "The number one must-see is definitely the Alhambra palace," Benito shares. "It's like the crown jewel of Granada, with its amazing Islamic architecture and beautiful gardens. You can spend hours exploring the different palaces and courtyards, and the views from up there are incredible."

Visit the Granada Cathedral.

The Granada Cathedral , also known as the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is a stunning Roman Catholic church dating back to the 16th century. Outside, travelers can spend hours looking at its imposing arches and pillars, while inside, they'll be in awe of the spectacular dome and frescos lining the walls. Guests can come to worship or go on a cultural tour to learn more about its fascinating history. 

See a flamenco show in Sacromonte.

Immerse yourself in local culture with a flamenco show in Granada's historic Sacromonte district . Here, you'll find a unique form of flamenco known as zambra, passed down for generations. It's emotional and rhythmic, and it will leave you fully inspired. 

Check out the Parque de las Ciencias.

Have a day filled with fun and science with a visit to the Parque de las Ciencias . Here, guests can learn about everything from the human body to the outer edges of space all in one afternoon. Don't miss the outdoor astronomy garden, where you can play with all the observation instruments. 

Stroll through the Albaicín.

"If you're into history and culture, don't miss wandering around the Albaicín neighborhood, where you feel like stepping back in time with all these narrow streets and cool Moorish architecture," Benito says. Indeed, the neighborhood is known as Granada's oldest and most traditional neighborhood. The historic Moorish quarter is a melting pot of cultural influences, including Iberians, Greeks, Romans, and Visigoths, who have all passed through these streets, just like you. 

Bodegas Castañeda

Find a traditional atmosphere matched by a traditional tapas menu at Bodegas Castañeda . Go for one of its famous platters that come with a taste of everything, including its tabla fria , with two croquettes, a Russian salad, tortilla española (a potato omelet), ham, cheese, and chicken. They offer plenty of wines by the glass, but make sure to check out the Wine of the Week menu for something special. 

Bar Los Diamantes

Famed for its fried fish tapas, Bar Los Diamantes is a hit among both locals and tourists alike. Yes, it's crowded, but that's because it's just that good. There are several locations around the city, but no matter which one you visit, you'll be delighted by the fried prawns, calamari, or daily specials.

La Sitarilla

La Sitarilla , a family-run restaurant, is one more spot where you can find plenty of traditional bites. Go ahead, get the pig feet. But also get the meatballs, the fries, or whatever else is offered to you alongside each beer or wine you order. 

Bjoern Bremer/Getty Images

According to Benito, the best time to visit Granada "really depends on what you're looking for. But generally speaking, spring and autumn are probably the best bet." That, Benito says, is when the weather is at its best, as it's not too hot nor too cold, and the crowds are at their thinnest, allowing you to explore more and wait in line less. "But honestly, Granada is beautiful year-round, so whenever you go, you're going to have an amazing time," Benito adds. 

Spring also offers travelers the chance to take part in festivals like the Cruces de Mayo , celebrated on the third of May. And in the fall, guests can swing by the Granada Film Festival to check out the latest cinematic talents or visit all September long to honor Virgen de las Angustias , the patron saint of the city.

Courtesy of Parador de Granada

By plane: The nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport , located about 12 miles outside the city. The airport offers mostly domestic flights and a few international connections (most flights connect through Spain's larger cities, Madrid and Barcelona). 

By train: Travelers can also make their way to Granada by train from both Madrid and Barcelona. Madrid to Granada takes about four hours, while the Barcelona to Granada train takes about six. By car: Anyone can get to Granada by car as well, as the city is well-connected to major highways traveling to and from Madrid, Seville , and other coastal cities. 

KavalenkavaVolha/Getty Images

By car: Renting a car in Granada is simple. Several major rental car companies have outposts here, including Sixt, Europcar, and Avis. Having a car will allow you to explore the outer regions of the city and into the mountains, but be warned — parking in the heart of town can be difficult. 

By public transit: Buses are the main form of public transport in Granada. The system covers most of the city, making it simple to hop on and off between neighborhoods. A regular bus ticket runs at about $1.50. See the map and full fare schedule here . 

By taxi: Taxis are also easy to come by throughout Granada. As Love Granada explains, there are two types of fares — daytime rates for weekdays and nighttime rates for late weeknights and holidays. Just like in cities around the world, you can hail a cab on the street by throwing up your hand in the air and by trying to spot any taxi with a green light on its roof (which indicates it's open for a ride).

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