Things To Do
in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a vibrant port city in the Netherlands known for its modern architecture, lively cultural scene, and diverse population. It boasts a stunning waterfront skyline featuring iconic buildings such as the Erasmus Bridge and the Cube Houses. The city is a hub for international trade and commerce, with a bustling port that ranks among the largest in Europe.
Rotterdam also offers a rich mix of museums, art galleries, music venues, and bustling markets for visitors to explore.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Enjoy the views of the iconic Erasmus Bridge and take photos of the modern skyline.
Visit the Maritime Museum to learn about Rotterdam's rich maritime history. Make sure to explore the nearby historic ships and artifacts.
Dine at one of the waterfront restaurants for fresh seafood. Then, take a boat tour for a scenic view of the city lights.
Visit the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum to admire both classical and contemporary art. Don't miss the unique architectural design of the museum.
Explore the Kunsthal, known for its changing exhibitions and engaging architecture. Enjoy a coffee at the museum’s café afterward.
Attend a performance at the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra for a delightful evening of music. Enjoy drinks at a bar in the vicinity to recap your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cultural scene with museums, theaters, and festivals
- Modern architecture and urban design
- Important port city, enhancing trade and economic opportunities
- Diverse and multicultural population
- Strong public transportation network
- Proximity to other major European cities
- Green spaces and parks throughout the city
- Weather can be rainy and windy
- Higher cost of living compared to other Dutch cities
- Can be less picturesque than traditional Dutch cities like Amsterdam
- Traffic congestion in urban areas
- Some areas can be perceived as less safe, especially at night
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Potential language barrier for non-Dutch speakers
Best Activities in Rotterdam
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic walk surrounded by nature in Kralingse Bos, a beautiful park with picturesque lakes and forested trails.
Experience the city's waterfront and iconic bridges by cycling along the Maas River, offering picturesque views of the city skyline.
Explore the bustling harbors of Rotterdam by taking a boat tour, witnessing the city's maritime activity and architectural marvels from the water.
Tours
Uncover the best of Rotterdam with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Rotterdam
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic bridge with great views of the Rotterdam skyline and harbor
Tall tower offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding area
Futuristic indoor market with a colorful art ceiling perfect for photography
Food in Rotterdam
Rotterdam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These deep-fried meat-based snacks are a Dutch classic, usually served with mustard. Try them at Cafe 't Fust or Brouwerij Noordt.
Must-Try!
A thin waffle filled with caramel-like syrup, best enjoyed fresh at the Markthal or the street market in Blaak.
A mouthwatering dish composed of fries, shawarma or kebab, topped with cheese and fresh salad. Visit El Aviva for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Rotterdam better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A must-visit food paradise housing a variety of stalls offering local and international cuisine. Don't miss the diverse street food options here.
Located in Katendrecht, this former warehouse is now home to a collection of food vendors offering everything from artisanal cheeses to craft beer.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rotterdam, it is common to greet others with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Address people with their appropriate titles and last names, unless invited to use their first names.
Dutch people, including those in Rotterdam, value their personal space. It's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid intrusive gestures in social interactions.
Punctuality is highly valued in Rotterdam. Whether for social gatherings or business meetings, it is considered respectful to arrive on time or inform the host if there's a delay.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Rotterdam with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Rotterdam
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rotterdam, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip for good service at restaurants, bars, and cafes. However, tipping is not mandatory and is at the discretion of the customer.
Cash is accepted at most establishments in Rotterdam, but credit and debit cards are widely used and preferred. Contactless payment is also common, and mobile payment apps are becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Rotterdam.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Rotterdam is during spring (April to June) when the city is blooming with tulips and other flowers. The weather is mild and pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's parks and gardens.
Summer (July to August) is also a popular time to visit Rotterdam. The weather is warm, and there are various outdoor festivals, events, and activities happening in the city. It is an excellent time for sightseeing and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage to Rotterdam. It's a great time to explore the city's museums, galleries, and indoor attractions, as well as to enjoy the changing scenery in parks and along the river.
Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season in Rotterdam. The weather is cold, and the city experiences fewer tourists. However, you can still enjoy Rotterdam's indoor attractions, shopping, and festive events during this time.
Rotterdam at Night
Hiking in Rotterdam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park with diverse ecosystems, offering trails and waterways perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
A large park located near the center of Rotterdam, featuring scenic walking trails around a beautiful lake.
A rural area filled with parks, nature reserves, and winding paths ideal for hiking and cycling in a picturesque landscape.
Located just a short drive from Rotterdam, these reserves offer various trails that showcase the region's natural beauty.
A unique freshwater tidal area with walking routes and opportunities to explore its marshes and waterways.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Rotterdam through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Rotterdam by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 55 kilometers north of Rotterdam, offering extensive international connections.
Belgium's largest airport, located about 112 kilometers south of Rotterdam, serving as a major gateway for international flights.
A significant international airport in the Netherlands, approximately 120 kilometers southeast of Rotterdam, catering to low-cost carriers and charter flights.
Located about 150 kilometers southeast of Rotterdam in Germany, serving as a major international airport with numerous global destinations.
Located about 160 kilometers southeast of Rotterdam, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it one of the important airports in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, consisting of people who identify as ethnically Dutch.
A significant community with roots in Morocco, primarily residing in Rotterdam.
Another large ethnic group in Rotterdam, originating from Turkey.
People of Surinamese descent, a prominent cultural group in the city.
Residents originating from the Caribbean Netherlands, particularly the ABC islands.
A growing community of Somali migrants and their descendants.
An increasing demographic group, especially following recent migration trends.
Includes various smaller communities from different backgrounds.
The Soul of Rotterdam
Discover the essence of Rotterdam through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Rotterdam, with renowned clubs like Feyenoord and Sparta Rotterdam attracting large fan bases.
Field hockey is also popular in Rotterdam, with several clubs and a strong local league system contributing to its popularity.
Tennis enjoys a good following in Rotterdam, with numerous clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive players.
Ice hockey has a dedicated fan base in Rotterdam, particularly through the Rotterdam Icehawks team.
Basketball is growing in popularity, with local clubs participating in various competitions and leagues.
Given Rotterdam's port city status, sailing and other water sports are prevalent, with various sailing clubs along the waterways.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rotterdam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Rotterdam offer excellent vegetarian options. For a dedicated vegetarian restaurant, head to Spirit Rotterdam.
Rotterdam is vegan-friendly, with options available at various cafes and restaurants such as Gare du Nord and Bertmans.
While not as prevalent as vegetarian and vegan options, some places like SUE Food and Spirit Rotterdam offer gluten-free choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Rotterdam with these cultural adventures.
