Things To Do
in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a vibrant city in the Netherlands known for its modern architecture and rich maritime history. It was heavily bombed during World War II, which led to a unique blend of contemporary and historical buildings. The city's bustling port is one of the largest in the world, contributing to its dynamic economy and cultural scene.

Rotterdam is also famous for its diverse culinary offerings and lively arts community, making it a must-visit destination in Europe.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Modern Architecture
morning
:

Start your day at the iconic Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) and take a guided tour to learn about their unique design.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen to explore Dutch and European art, followed by a stroll in the nearby Kralingen Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant in the harbor, followed by a visit to the Euromast for breathtaking views of the city.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Cuisine
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Markthal, where you can enjoy breakfast and shop for local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Explore the Maritime Museum to learn about Rotterdam's seafaring history and then wander through the historic district of Delfshaven.

evening
:

Dine at a local eatery in Witte de Withstraat, the cultural heart of the city, known for its vibrant art scene and nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
Coffee$3
🥗Restaurant Meal$20
🚇Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Hotel (1 night)$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Vibrant modern architecture and cultural scene.
  • Excellent public transport and walkability.
  • Diverse culinary offerings and food markets.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • Less picturesque than other Dutch cities like Amsterdam.
  • Some areas can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wat kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?

Places to Visit in Rotterdam

Visit one of these nice places.

Erasmus Bridge

An iconic symbol of Rotterdam, this bridge offers stunning views and is a favorite spot for photographers.

Kunsthal

A contemporary art museum with striking architecture, perfect for capturing innovative design.

Rotterdam Central Station

Famous for its futuristic design, this railway station offers great angles for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rotterdam

Rotterdam offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Dutch dishes and international flavors, making it a food lover's paradise.

Rotterdam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Haring

Raw herring fish typically served with onions and pickles, enjoyed by holding it by the tail.

Must-Try!

Kroket

A deep-fried roll filled with a mixture of meat ragout, often served as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Markthal

A covered market with diverse food stalls offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet street food.

Fenix Food Factory

An indoor food market featuring local vendors, craft beers, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rotterdam experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late summer and early autumn. Windy conditions are common due to the city's proximity to the North Sea.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Dutch culture; it's seen as a sign of respect.

Direct Communication

Dutch people appreciate honesty and directness in conversations; it's considered polite to be straightforward.

Bicycles Have Right of Way

Always yield to cyclists on bike paths, as they have the right of way.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rotterdam is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Tipping in Rotterdam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists. Enjoy outdoor dining and various events, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors make it ideal for photography and exploring parks.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, winter is perfect for enjoying cozy cafes and holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Rotterdam at Night

Rotterdam boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Witte de Withstraat is particularly popular, filled with trendy spots offering everything from craft cocktails to local brews. For live music, check out venues like the Maassilo or the Rotterdamse Schouwburg. The city also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, ensuring there's always something happening after dark.

Hiking in Rotterdam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kralingse Bos

A large park on the edge of Rotterdam, featuring scenic trails around a lake, ideal for walking and cycling.

Delftse Hout

Located a short drive from Rotterdam, this nature reserve offers tranquil hiking paths through woods and along the water.

Airports

How to reach Rotterdam by plane.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

Located about 8 km from the city center, it offers flights to various European destinations and easy access to Rotterdam via public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rotterdam is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and numerous crosswalks. The city center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, many attractions are within walking distance of each other, and public transport is readily available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Rotterdam attracts many young professionals due to its job opportunities in various sectors, including technology and maritime trade.

Students

Home to several universities and colleges, Rotterdam has a vibrant student population contributing to the city's youthful energy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Rotterdam is home to several football clubs, including Feyenoord, one of the most successful teams in Dutch history.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a popular winter activity, with various rinks available in the city for both recreational and competitive skating.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rotterdam can be heavy during rush hours, but the city has an efficient public transport system, including trams, buses, and metro services. Biking is also a popular and effective way to navigate the city. Parking is available but can be expensive, so using public transport is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rotterdam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and vegan options are increasingly available.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, but it's advisable to check with staff regarding specific items.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Rotterdam is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access, while travelers from outside the EU should ensure they have travel insurance. Emergency services can be reached at 112, and many hospitals have English-speaking staff.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide