Often overshadowed by Amsterdam, Rotterdam is a vibrant port city known for it's striking architecture, dynamic art scene, incredible food, and vast harbor.
As one of the most multicultural cities in the Netherlands, Rotterdam also hosts a wide variety of festivals and concerts throughout the year.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Rotterdam
1. Visit the Erasmus Bridge
Often called The Swan, the Erasmus Bridge is a stunning cable-stayed bridge that spans the Nieuwe Maas river, connecting the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam. This impressive structure towers over Europe’s largest harbor and can even raise its bascule section to let large ships pass.
2. Stroll Along the Harbor
Rotterdam is home to Europe’s largest and busiest harbor, stretching over 40 kilometers (25 miles). A visit to Futureland (free admission) is a great way to learn about the Maasvlakte 2 expansion, which opened in 2013.
3. Take in the Views from Euromast Tower
The Euromast tower offers panoramic views of Rotterdam from 185 meters (606 feet) above ground. A rotating elevator takes you to the top, where you can enjoy the stunning flat landscape stretching for miles. For those seeking a bit of excitement, the tower also offers the chance to abseil down from the top (May to September).
4. Explore the Cube Houses
Rotterdam is famous for it's avant-garde architecture, and the Cube Houses (Blaak Forest) are a prime example. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, these 38 bright yellow cube-shaped houses are elevated on hexagonal pylons.
5. Unwind in Het Park
Situated by the river near the Euromast, Het Park is a sprawling green space ideal for picnics, strolls, and outdoor activities.
Other Things to See and Do in Rotterdam
1. Attend the Rotterdam Summer Carnival
Rotterdam hosts one of the largest street parties in the Netherlands each summer—the Rotterdam Summer Carnival. Held during the last weekend of July, this colorful event features over 2,500 dancers, 25 carnival groups, and 30 floats.
2. Visit Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
Founded in 1849, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen boasts a remarkable collection, including works by Dutch masters and surrealist icons like Salvador Dalí and René Magritte.
3. See City Hall
It's exterior features several large statues, including the Memorial to the Fallen, a tribute to those lost during the bombing of the city. Guided tours are available through the local tourist office.
4. Take a Harbor Tour
Rotterdam's harbor is one of the largest in the world, and a boat tour offers a fascinating look at the bustling docks and shipping yards. These tours provide excellent views of the city’s skyline while exploring the ports and cargo operations.
5. Visit Kunsthal Rotterdam
Kunsthal Rotterdam is a contemporary art museum that hosts temporary exhibitions from renowned artists across various fields. With no permanent collection, the museum constantly evolves, offering something new with each visit. Admission is €16.50.
6. Grab a Bite at the Markthal
The Markthal is a vibrant indoor market with over 100 food stalls, restaurants, and even a supermarket. The horseshoe-shaped building features a massive mural of food, flowers, and insects on its vaulted ceiling.
7. Explore Het Nieuwe Instituut
Dedicated to architecture, design, and digital culture, Het Nieuwe Instituut provides insight into Rotterdam’s contemporary architecture.
8. Wander Around Rotterdam Zoo
One of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands, Rotterdam Zoo spans 60 acres and showcases animals from across the globe. From giraffes to polar bears, and elephants to penguins, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of exhibits.
9. See Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk
The Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk is the only remaining Gothic structure in Rotterdam. Visitors can also climb the tower during spring and summer.
Where To Stay?
While Rotterdam may not have an extensive selection of hostels, there are still some great budget-friendly accommodations to choose from. Here are a few top recommendations:
Sparks Hostel
Stayokay Rotterdam
King Kong Hostel Rotterdam
CityHub Rotterdam
HostelRoom Rotterdam
Rotterdam Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips
Rotterdam may not be the most budget-friendly destination in the Netherlands, but with a little planning, you can save quite a bit. Here are some practical tips to help you keep costs low:
1. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Tap water in Rotterdam is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and save on buying bottled water. For extra peace of mind, consider using a filter bottle like LifeStraw to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
2. Rent a Bike
Cycling is one of the most affordable and efficient ways to get around the city. Download the Donkey Republic app, which has bike stations throughout Rotterdam. Prices are around 3.30 EUR per hour or 10-13 EUR for a full day.
3. Eat on a Budget
Rotterdam has plenty of affordable options for quick bites, such as snack shops and falafel stands, where meals cost between 5-10 EUR. You can also save by shopping at local markets and preparing simple meals for yourself.
4. Get the Welcome Card
It offers discounts on many attractions (some are free) and includes three days of unlimited travel on the city's buses and trains. The 24-hour version is just 13.50 EUR.
5. Stay with Locals
Use Couchsurfing to find a free place to stay with local hosts. It’s a fantastic way to connect with locals, get insider tips, and save on accommodation costs. Just be sure to book early as hosts can be limited in the city.
6. Buy a Museumkaart
For museum lovers, the Museumkaart is a great investment. At 64.90 EUR for one month, it provides access to over 400 museums across the Netherlands. While tourists can only use the temporary card for up to five museums, it still offers significant savings if you plan to visit multiple museums.
7. Get the Rotterdam Pass
If you're staying longer or plan to visit a lot of attractions, the Rotterdam Pass offers great value. At 60 EUR, it provides free or discounted access to over 500 attractions, including 20 museums, and discounts at select restaurants. It’s valid for a year, so it’s ideal for repeat visitors.
8. Take a Free Walking Tour
These tours offer an excellent overview of the city’s history and highlights—just be sure to tip your guide!
9. Save on Rideshares
If you need to get around quickly, Uber is often cheaper than taxis. It's a convenient way to travel without waiting for public transport or paying higher taxi fares.
Rotterdam Travel Guide - The Netherlands
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