Things To Do
in Schiedam
Schiedam is a historic Dutch city on the north bank of the Nieuwe Maas, renowned for its tall windmills, preserved harbor warehouses, and a strong gin heritage. Its compact center blends maritime history with canal-side charm, just a short ride from Rotterdam. The Grote of Sint-Jacobskerk towers over red-brick streets, while the surrounding water and mills create classic Dutch scenery.
As a convenient base near Rotterdam, Schiedam offers easy access to city culture and nearby nature while retaining a distinct small-city atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming historic center of Schiedam, where you can admire the impressive windmills that dot the skyline. Visit the St. John's Church, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Enjoy a fresh pastry and coffee at a quaint local café as you soak in the early morning ambiance.
In the afternoon, venture to the Museum Schiedam, where you can explore exhibitions dedicated to the city's rich history and its famous jenever distilling tradition. Afterward, wander along the picturesque canals, taking in the beautiful 17th-century buildings and unique shops that line the waterfront. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant to taste traditional Dutch cuisine, including herring or stroopwafels.
As the sun sets, enjoy an evening walk along the canal, with the reflections of the illuminated buildings creating a magical atmosphere. Dine at a local bistro where you can savor seasonal dishes accompanied by fine Dutch spirits. Cap off the day with a nightcap at a nearby distillery, learning about the art of jenever making from an expert.
Begin your day by visiting the Jenever Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating history of this traditional Dutch spirit. Participate in a guided tour that explains the distillation process and its significance to Schiedam’s identity. Enjoy a tasting session featuring different varieties of jenever, complementing your experience with a light breakfast of local cheeses.
In the afternoon, take a short bike ride to one of Schiedam's historic distilleries, such as the Huis der Alchemisten, for an immersive tour. Engage with the distillers who will share their secrets and techniques of crafting high-quality spirits. Afterward, relax in a nearby park with a picnic, enjoying the serene surroundings and reflecting on your distillery adventures.
For dinner, head to a trendy restaurant offering a modern twist on classic Dutch dishes, paired with handcrafted cocktails. Participate in a jenever tasting dinner event, where each course is paired with a different type of jenever or cocktail. End your evening with a stroll through the lively streets, taking in the local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕️Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer in a pub | $5-7 |
| 🧺Groceries for a small week | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city with a rich gin heritage and harbor scenery
- Excellent access to Rotterdam, The Hague, and Delft for day trips
- Beautiful canal-side architecture and preserved historic sites
- Good value and fewer crowds than larger cities
- Nightlife and large-scale entertainment are more limited than in bigger cities
- Parking can be challenging during peak times and in the historic center
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Goedemiddag" - Good afternoon
- "Goedenavond" - Good evening
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Schiedam
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful gabled warehouses and reflective water create quintessential Dutch canal photography opportunities.
The tall church spire dominates the skyline and provides striking architectural shots against a blue sky.
Red-brick facades and branding along the gin district offer gritty-industrial photo opportunities.
Traditional Dutch windmills set near water and fields make for classic rural-urban contrast photos.
Food in Schiedam
Schiedam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potato mash with kale or sauerkraut served with sausage or smoked meat; a classic Dutch winter dish found on many menus.
Must-Try!
Fried battered chunks of cod, usually served with garlic sauce or tartar; commonly enjoyed as street food along the harbor.
Fresh raw herring served with onions; a traditional seaside and city snack often enjoyed on the go near waterfront spots.
Crispy deep-fried croquettes filled with a seasoned beef ragout; a popular Dutch bar snack paired with a beer.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheese, fish, baked goods, and casual Dutch snacks in the city center.
Casual street-food options and snack stands along the harbor, ideal for a quick bite after sightseeing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; use formal 'u' until invited to use 'jij'; be polite and punctual in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Schiedam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service, typically 5-10% in restaurants unless a service charge is included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and budding greenery; outdoor markets restart and canal views look fresh with increasing daylight.
Warm days with long evenings; outdoor cafés and harbor events are common; occasional showers can occur.
Cooler, damp days with colorful foliage; layers recommended and rain gear is handy for urban strolls.
Cold and wet with short days; many indoor attractions shine and cozy pubs are inviting after sightseeing.
Schiedam at Night
Hiking in Schiedam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive green spaces with water channels, meadows, and farm paths—great for moderate hikes and scenic photography.
Waterfront trails and parklands along the Vliet river, offering easy to moderate hiking options close to the city.
Airports
How to reach Schiedam by plane.
Closest international airport; quick ground access to Schiedam by car or public transport.
Major international hub about 60-70 minutes by train from Schiedam; frequent connections to the city.
Smaller hub serving budget carriers; reachable by train/bus with a longer transfer from Schiedam.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Dutch residents with sizable communities from Turkish and Moroccan backgrounds, plus a growing expat presence due to proximity to Rotterdam.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Netherlands’ national sport; local clubs and matches are common.
Bike-friendly culture with extensive cycling routes through towns and countryside.
Rowing, kayaking, and sailing on the Schie and nearby waterways.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schiedam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most places; look for veggie burgers, cheese and mushroom dishes, salads, hummus, and grain bowls; ask for meat-free versions when needed.