Introduction
Rotterdam is a bustling port city in the Netherlands that is often overlooked by tourists in favour of Amsterdam or other popular European destinations. However, those who take the time to visit Rotterdam will discover a city with a unique and fascinating character.
Rotterdam is a city of contrasts, with modern architecture and cutting-edge design sitting side-by-side with historic landmarks and cultural treasures. From the iconic Erasmus Bridge to the lively Witte de Withstraat, Rotterdam offers plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages and interests.
In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do and top attractions in Rotterdam, providing you with all the information you need to make the most of your trip to this exciting city. Whether you are interested in art, architecture, or history or just want to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere, Rotterdam has something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover the best things to do in Rotterdam!
Table of Contents
Map of the Best Things to Do in Rotterdam
Rotterdam Central Station
Rotterdam Central Station is a major transportation hub located in the heart of the city. The station was completely rebuilt in 2014, transforming it into a modern and spacious facility that has won numerous awards for its innovative design. The station serves both domestic and international trains, making it a crucial transportation hub for the Netherlands and beyond.
Aside from its functional importance, the station is also a popular destination in its own right. Its striking design features a swooping roof that covers the entire station, allowing natural light to flood the space. The station also boasts an impressive artwork collection, including a giant mural by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam that covers the ceiling of the main hall.
In addition to its architectural and artistic features, the central station is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries or browse the selection of shops for souvenirs and gifts.
Markthal Rotterdam
The Markthal, or market hall, is a unique and striking building that combines residential and commercial spaces in a single, visually stunning structure. The building is located in the heart of Rotterdam, next to the famous Cube Houses, and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.
Designed by the Dutch architecture firm MVRDV, the market hall features a distinctive horseshoe-shaped arch that encloses a massive indoor market. It boasts over 100 food stalls and restaurants, selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to international cuisine and gourmet treats.
One of the most striking features of Markthal is its massive mural that covers the interior arch of the building. The mural, titled “Cornucopia,” features colourful images of fruits, vegetables, and other food items, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere within the market.
In addition to its culinary offerings, the market hall also houses residential units and office space, making it a truly unique and multifunctional building.
Rotterdam Old Harbour
Miniworld Rotterdam is a unique and fascinating attraction located in the heart of the city. It is a miniature world, featuring a scaled-down version of the city and its surroundings, complete with moving trains, cars, and even ships.
Opened in 2007, Miniworld Rotterdam is one of the largest miniature worlds in the Netherlands, covering an area of 535 square metres. The exhibit is designed to showcase the city’s history, culture, and daily life in a fun and interactive way.
Visitors can explore the miniature city, which includes detailed replicas of Rotterdam’s iconic landmarks, such as the Erasmus Bridge and the Euromast Tower. They can also watch as trains travel through the miniature city, complete with realistic sound effects.
One of the most impressive features of Miniworld Rotterdam is its attention to detail. The miniature city includes tiny figures and intricate models that bring the world to life, creating a sense of immersion and wonder for visitors of all ages.
Cube Houses
The Cube Houses, or Kubuswoningen in Dutch, are an iconic architectural landmark in Rotterdam known for their unique and striking design. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, they were completed in 1984 and have become one of the city’s most popular sights.
The Cube Houses are a series of 38 individual houses that are grouped together in a complex that resembles a cluster of trees. Each house is built in the shape of a cube, tilted at a 45-degree angle, and rests on a hexagonal pylon.
The interior of each cube is divided into three levels, with the ground floor serving as a living room, the middle floor as a bedroom, and the top floor as a study or workspace. Visitors can take a tour of one of the houses and see for themselves how the unique design has been put into practice.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, the Cube Houses are also an important part of Rotterdam’s architectural history. They represent a unique approach to urban design, with Blom’s innovative concept of “living as an urban roof” creating a sense of community and connectivity among the residents.
Maritime Museum
Het Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Rotterdam, adjacent to the Euromast Tower. It was originally designed in 1851 as a private garden for a wealthy Rotterdam family but was later opened to the public in the early 20th century.
The park is known for its beautiful and well-maintained gardens, walking trails, and picnic areas. It features a variety of trees and plants, including exotic species from around the world, and is a popular destination for birdwatching.
The park also boasts several cultural attractions and historic buildings, including the former residence of the park’s original owners and the Park Pavilion, a popular event space that hosts concerts, festivals, and other cultural events throughout the year.
One of the highlights is the annual Summer Carnival, a colourful and vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture that takes place in July. The festival features live music, food vendors, and a lively parade that winds through the streets of Rotterdam.
Witte de Withstraat
Witte de Withstraat is a vibrant and lively street located in the heart of Rotterdam’s city centre. It is known for its trendy bars, restaurants, and cultural institutions, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
The street is named after Dutch naval hero Witte Corneliszoon de With and is home to a variety of art galleries, museums, and cultural centres. One of the most notable institutions on the street is the Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art, which showcases cutting-edge contemporary art from around the world.
The street is also a popular spot for food and drink. It boasts a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants, serving everything from traditional Dutch cuisine to international dishes.
The street is particularly known for its lively nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs staying open late into the night. Make sure to check it out on weekends when locals and visitors flock to its trendy bars and clubs to dance and socialize.
Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge, also known as the Erasmusbrug, is an iconic landmark in Rotterdam that spans the River Maas. It was completed in 1996 and has become one of the city’s most recognizable and beloved symbols.
Designed by Ben van Berkel, the bridge is a cable-stayed bridge that features a towering asymmetrical pylon and a curved deck that stretches over 800 metres. The bridge’s design was inspired by the swan, with its sweeping curves and graceful lines.
Visitors to Rotterdam can take a stroll across the bridge and enjoy stunning views of the city and the river. The bridge is also illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight that is not to be missed. It’s also a popular spot for cyclists, with a dedicated bike lane that runs along the length of the bridge.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Erasmus Bridge is also an important transportation link, connecting the north and south of the city. Thousands of people use the bridge every day, making it an essential part of Rotterdam’s infrastructure.
Museumpark
Kunsthal Rotterdam is a contemporary art museum located in the Museumpark area of Rotterdam. The museum was designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and opened in 1992.
It is known for its innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions, which showcase works by established and emerging artists from around the world. The museum’s collections include a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and design.
One of the museum’s most notable exhibitions was the 2012 retrospective of Jean Paul Gaultier’s work, which attracted visitors from around the world. Other past exhibitions have included retrospectives of the work of Pablo Picasso, Edvard Munch, and Ai Weiwei.
Euromast Tower
Euromast Tower is an iconic landmark in Rotterdam that was built in 1960 to mark the occasion of the Floriade, a horticultural exhibition held in the city. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest building in the Netherlands.
Today, Euromast Tower stands at a height of 185 metres and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings from the observation deck.
For those seeking an even more thrilling experience, Euromast Tower also offers several adrenaline-pumping activities, such as abseiling and zip-lining from the top of the tower.
The tower also features a restaurant that rotates slowly, allowing diners to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city while they eat.
Delfshaven District
Delfshaven is a historic district located just west of Rotterdam’s city centre. This charming neighbourhood is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and rich maritime history.
Delfshaven was originally a separate town but was annexed by Rotterdam in the 19th century. Today, the district is a popular destination for visitors who want to explore Rotterdam’s rich cultural heritage.
One of the most notable sights in the district is the Pilgrim Fathers’ Church, also known as the Old Church. This historic church is where the Pilgrims, a group of English separatists who later founded the Plymouth Colony in North America, worshipped before embarking on their journey to the New World.
Delfshaven is also home to a variety of charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering visitors a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine and culture. The district’s canals are also a popular destination for boat tours, allowing visitors to take in the sights of the neighbourhood from the water.
Rotterdam Zoo
The Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, is a large and modern zoo located in the northern part of Rotterdam. The zoo was established in 1857 and has since become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
The zoo is home to over 1,500 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and many other exotic species. It is divided into different areas, each representing a different ecosystem and featuring animals that are native to that region.
One of the most popular highlights is the Oceanium, a large indoor aquarium that showcases a variety of marine life from around the world. Visitors can see everything from sharks and stingrays to sea turtles and penguins.
The zoo is also known for its innovative and sustainable approach to animal care. It has implemented a variety of conservation programs and initiatives, including breeding programs for endangered species and sustainable food sourcing for the animals.
Fenix Food Factory
Fenix Food Factory is a popular food hall in Rotterdam’s historic harbour district. It was established in 2014 and is housed in a restored warehouse dating back to 1922.
The food hall features a variety of local food and drink vendors, including artisanal cheese shops, bakeries, craft beer breweries, and food trucks. Visitors can sample a wide range of delicious foods, from fresh oysters and charcuterie to gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas.
What sets Fenix Food Factory apart from other food halls is its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. Many of the vendors use organic, locally sourced ingredients and follow eco-friendly practices. Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of the Rotterdam Harbour district through exhibits and guided tours.
SS Rotterdam
SS Rotterdam is a historic ocean liner that has been converted into a floating hotel and tourist attraction. It was built in the 1950s as a flagship for the Holland America Line and sailed the seas for over 40 years before being decommissioned and transformed into its current state.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the ship’s many decks and rooms, including the bridge, engine room, and passenger cabins. They can also learn about the history and legacy of the Holland America Line through exhibits and interactive displays.
One of the highlights is the opportunity to dine on board. The ship features several restaurants and bars, including a fine dining restaurant with panoramic views of the harbour and a laid-back bar with live music and a relaxed atmosphere.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, SS Rotterdam also offers a variety of hotel rooms and suites, allowing guests to spend the night on board and experience what it was like to travel on a luxury ocean liner in its heyday.
Arboretum Trompenburg
The Witte Huis, which translates to “White House,” is a historic skyscraper located in the city centre. Built in 1898, it is considered one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a prime example of the Art Nouveau architectural style.
The Witte Huis was built after a fire destroyed the city’s historic centre in 1864. It was designed by Dutch architect Willem Molenbroek and was the tallest building in Europe at the time of its completion.
The building is characterized by its striking white facade and intricate Art Nouveau details, including floral motifs and curved lines. It has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years, most recently in the 1990s, which restored the building’s original grandeur.
Today, the Witte Huis is a popular destination for visitors interested in Rotterdam’s history and architecture. The building houses various offices and businesses, including a restaurant on the ground floor that offers sensational views of the city.
Kinderdijk’s Windmills
Kinderdijk’s Windmills are a group of 19 windmills located in the village of Kinderdijk, just outside of Rotterdam. These windmills were built in the 18th century and are a symbol of Dutch ingenuity and innovation in water management.
The windmills were constructed to help drain the polders, or low-lying areas, surrounding Kinderdijk. They pump water from the polders into canals that lead to the nearby River Lek, preventing flooding and maintaining the area’s water levels.
Visitors to Kinderdijk can tour the windmills and learn about their history and function. The windmills are also surrounded by scenic walking and cycling paths that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to their practical function, the Kinderdijk windmills are also an important part of Dutch cultural heritage. They represent a time when wind power was essential to everyday life and showcase the innovation and engineering skills of the Dutch people.
Conclusion
Rotterdam is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich history and culture, and there is no shortage of exciting things to see and do for visitors. From iconic landmarks like the Erasmus Bridge and Euromast Tower to hidden gems like the Delfshaven District and Fenix Food Factory, Rotterdam offers a wide variety of experiences for travellers of all interests.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, art, or just exploring the local cuisine and culture, Rotterdam has something to offer. And with its convenient location and excellent transportation links, it’s easy to explore all that the city has to offer in just a few days.
So if you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, be sure to put Rotterdam on your itinerary. With its vibrant energy, beautiful scenery, and endless attractions, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.