Rotterdam

Written by Felix Schmidt, Lorraine Aust
03/09/2025
Breathtaking aerial view of Rotterdam cityscape featuring the iconic Erasmus Bridge under a clear blue sky.
Werner Hilversum, Pexels

Rotterdam is a modern and dynamic city in the Netherlands, offering a unique blend of cutting-edge architecture, rich maritime history, and a vibrant art and cultural scene.

Key areas for socialising include the lively Witte de Withstraat, known for its diverse bars and restaurants, and the Old Harbor, which offers dining and nightlife options with a historic feel. The Markthal also functions as a central culinary hub for social gatherings, and the city boasts various clubs for a vibrant evening experience.

Top 10 Things to do in Rotterdam

The city offers a dynamic range of activities, from exploring striking modern architecture and deep-rooted maritime history to discovering vibrant street art and enjoying diverse culinary experiences.

1. Markthal

Stepping inside the Markthal, I am immediately struck by the immense arch adorned with a vibrant ceiling mural, a modern take on 17th-century Dutch still life. It’s a bustling hub where I can sample global cuisines from numerous food stalls, making it perfect for a casual meal or picking up fresh produce and local treats. The unique design, combining apartments with a market, is a sight in itself, and it’s an excellent spot for people-watching. My tip is to visit around lunchtime for the liveliest atmosphere.

Cost: Entry is free. Food and drinks vary in price, typically €5-€20 per item.

Transport: Located in the city center, it is easily walkable from Rotterdam Centraal Station. Metro station Blaak is directly adjacent.

2. Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) and Kijk-Kubus

Walking past the Cube Houses, I am captivated by their peculiar, tilted architecture, creating a visually disorienting yet fascinating streetscape. To truly understand their design, I recommend visiting the Kijk-Kubus, a show-house that provides insight into living within these unique, 55-degree tilted structures. It offers a surprising perspective on compact, unconventional living spaces. They are right next to the Markthal.

Cost: Viewing from outside is free. Entry to Kijk-Kubus is approximately €3.50 for adults.

Transport: Located next to the Markthal, it is easily walkable from Rotterdam Centraal Station. Metro station Blaak is directly adjacent.

3. Euromast

Ascending the Euromast, Rotterdam's tallest building, I am treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city, its innovative skyline, and the sprawling port. On a clear day, the visibility extends for miles, offering a comprehensive perspective of Rotterdam's urban landscape and its connection to the Maas River. The 'Euroscoop' rotating glass lift provides an exhilarating 360-degree experience at the very top. I find it's particularly impressive during sunset.

Cost: Tickets are approximately €12.50 - €15 for adults. Booking online in advance is advisable.

Transport: The Euromast is located in Het Park. From Rotterdam Centraal, take Tram Line 8 towards Spijkenisse Centrum and get off at Euromast, or a taxi for around €10-€15.

4. Water Taxi Ride

For a truly Rotterdam experience, I embark on a water taxi. These distinctive yellow and black boats offer a fast and exciting way to navigate the city's waterways, providing unique perspectives of landmarks like the Erasmus Bridge and Hotel New York. It's not just transport; it's a sightseeing adventure. I particularly enjoy the quick, zippy rides that offer an 'adventurous and active' feel as the boat speeds across the water. They also offer slower, classic boat cruises for sightseeing.

Cost: Prices vary by distance and number of passengers, starting around €6.50 for a short trip within one zone per person, or about €12 for two people for a short trip. Longer cruises or private hires will be more.

Transport: Water taxis have over 50 mooring stops throughout Rotterdam and Schiedam, making them easily accessible. Book via their website, app, or by phone.

5. Explore Witte de Withstraat

I find Witte de Withstraat to be the pulsing heart of Rotterdam's cultural and nightlife scene. This street is an eclectic mix of art galleries, quirky boutiques, and an impressive array of bars and restaurants. It offers a vibrant atmosphere day and night, making it ideal for an evening stroll, enjoying diverse culinary options, or soaking in the local art scene. Café De Witte Aap, once named a top bar by Lonely Planet, is a popular spot to experience the lively ambiance.

Cost: Free to walk around. Food, drinks, and gallery entries vary.

Transport: Located in the city center, it is easily walkable from Rotterdam Centraal Station or accessible by tram to the Witte de Withstraat stop.

6. Discover Historic Delfshaven

Stepping into Delfshaven feels like traveling back in time, as this picturesque district was largely spared from WWII bombings. I enjoy wandering along its historic harbor, admiring the traditional Dutch canal houses, and visiting the Pilgrim Fathers' Church, a site with significant historical ties to America. The area also boasts charming antique shops, art studios, and traditional 'bruin cafés'. It offers a tranquil contrast to Rotterdam's modern city center. I often stop for a local beer at Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim, housed in the old town hall.

Cost: Free to explore. Brewery tours and drinks vary in price.

Transport: From Rotterdam Centraal, take tram Line 4 towards Marconiplein or Line 8 towards Spijkenisse Centrum and alight at Delfshaven. A taxi would cost approximately €10-€15.

7. Maritime Museum Rotterdam / Portlantis (from 2025)

Given Rotterdam's identity as Europe's largest port, exploring its maritime history is essential. The Maritime Museum offers a deep dive into the impact of oceans on our lives with extensive collections and interactive exhibits. From March 22nd, 2025, Portlantis will provide an exciting, futuristic experience showcasing the harbor at its finest, complete with boat excursions to get up close to massive container ships. It's a fascinating look at global trade and the city's economic backbone.

Cost: Maritime Museum adult tickets are approximately €16.00. Portlantis costs are not yet widely published but expect a similar range for entry and potentially extra for boat excursions.

Transport: The Maritime Museum is centrally located in Leuvehaven, walkable from Rotterdam Centraal or by metro to Beurs or Leuvehaven. Portlantis, located at the Tweede Maasvlakte, will require a bus or taxi, or booking a dedicated tour bus or boat trip from the city center.

8. Street Art Exploration

Rotterdam's urban landscape is a canvas for vibrant street art and murals. I enjoy seeking out these large-scale artworks scattered throughout neighborhoods like Chinatown, Westersingel, and around Hofbogen. The Rewriters010 app offers self-guided routes with information on the murals, making it easy to discover both new and old pieces by local and international artists. It's an excellent way to see the city's alternative side and unique creative energy.

Cost: Free to explore. Guided tours are available, typically costing around €20-€30.

Transport: Many significant murals are within walking or cycling distance in the city center and surrounding neighborhoods. The Rewriters010 app helps navigate routes; downloading it in advance means no internet is needed during the walk.

9. Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen

As an art enthusiast, I find the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen a truly unique experience. It is not a traditional museum but rather the world's first publicly accessible art storage facility. Walking through its mirrored facade, I explore five floors of art and design, from classical to contemporary, presented in an innovative, unfiltered way. It offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at a museum collection and a different perspective on art appreciation. The rooftop garden provides excellent city views.

Cost: Tickets are approximately €20 for adults. Booking online is recommended.

Transport: Located in Museumpark, it is walkable from Rotterdam Centraal (around 20-25 minutes) or accessible by tram Line 7 to Museumpark or metro to Eendrachtsplein.

10. Day Trip to Kinderdijk Windmills

A day trip to Kinderdijk is a quintessential Dutch experience and a stark contrast to Rotterdam's urban feel. I discover 19 beautifully preserved 18th-century windmills set amidst picturesque canals and marshes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring by bicycle, rented in Rotterdam or on-site, offers an immersive way to take in this iconic landscape. I always make sure to visit the windmills that function as museums to understand their historical significance in flood prevention.

Cost: Waterbus ticket from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk is approximately €8 for a return trip. Entry to the Kinderdijk area and museums is around €19 for adults; booking online is recommended. Bicycle rental is extra, around €5-€10.

Transport: Take the Waterbus Line 202 from Erasmusbrug in Rotterdam (Ferry Terminal) directly to Kinderdijk. The journey takes about 30 minutes.

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