Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a testament to reinvention. Once scarred by wartime destruction, it’s now marked by innovative architecture like the Cube Houses. The Old Harbour reflects the city’s maritime past, and by night, its lights dance on the water. For an unexpected delight, visit the Markthal, a stunning indoor market with a ceiling that’s a canvas of colors.

Chapters

Rotterdam Guide
Where to Stay
Best Season
Local Tips

Local Tips

Highlights:

• Markthal
• Cube Houses
• Erasmus Bridge
• Port of Rotterdam tours
• Rotterdam Zoo

Lowlights:

• Modern skyline lacks historical charm
• Can feel industrial
• Less touristy than Amsterdam


Currency: –
Festivities: –

Rotterdam Guide

Guide for 1 Day

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious Dutch breakfast at Bagel Bakery located in the heart of Rotterdam.
  • Next, head to Markthal, a unique indoor food market that offers a wide range of local and international delicacies.
  • After exploring Markthal, admire the stunning architecture of the Cube Houses located just a short walk away.

Midday

  • For lunch, head to De Pasta Kantine, a cozy Italian restaurant that serves delicious pasta dishes at affordable prices.
  • After lunch, visit the Euromast, the tallest tower in Rotterdam offering stunning panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon

  • For a unique off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Witte de Withstraat, a vibrant street filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.
  • Next, head to the SS Rotterdam, a former ocean liner turned floating museum that offers a glimpse into the city’s maritime history.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at FG Food Labs, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers innovative and creative cuisine.
  • After dinner, head to Proeflokaal Reijngoud, a cozy local bar that serves a wide selection of Dutch beers and spirits.
  • End your night with a visit to the Rotterdam Rooftop Bar, a stylish rooftop bar with stunning views of the city skyline.

Guide for 2 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Dudok, a popular local bakery known for its freshly baked pastries and artisanal bread.
  • After breakfast, head to the Markthal, a unique indoor food market where you can explore a wide variety of local and international culinary delights.
  • Continue your morning by visiting the Euromast, the tallest tower in the Netherlands, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Rotterdam and beyond.

Midday

  • For lunch, try some traditional Dutch herring at Visserij Nico de Jong, a local fish stand that serves fresh seafood.
  • Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Delfshaven, a historic neighborhood with charming canals, old houses, and cozy cafes.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Witte de Withstraat, a trendy street lined with art galleries, boutiques, and hip cafes.
  • Discover the unique architecture of the Cube Houses at the Blaak area, a must-see attraction in Rotterdam.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at FG Food Labs, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine.
  • After dinner, enjoy some drinks at Oude Haven, a lively waterfront district with numerous bars and terraces.
  • End the evening with a visit to the WORM, an underground cultural center hosting various events, concerts, and art exhibitions.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Hotel New York, a historic hotel located in the former headquarters of the Holland America Line.
  • After breakfast, visit the Erasmusbrug, also known as the Swan Bridge, and take a walk across this iconic landmark that connects the north and south parts of the city.
  • Explore the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, home to an extensive collection of art, including works by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Mondrian.

Midday

  • Enjoy a tasty lunch at Fenix Food Factory, a food hall showcasing local produce, artisanal products, and street food.
  • Visit the SS Rotterdam, a former ocean liner turned hotel and museum, where you can learn about its rich maritime history.

Afternoon

  • Discover the hidden gem of Historisch Delfshaven, a charming historic district with cobblestone streets, windmills, and traditional Dutch architecture.
  • Explore the Katendrecht area, once a red-light district, now transformed into a vibrant neighborhood with trendy restaurants, bars, and cultural venues.

Evening

  • Savor a dinner of traditional Dutch cuisine at De Matroos en het Meisje, a cozy restaurant with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
  • After dinner, relax at BAR, a popular nightclub and cultural hotspot known for its eclectic music and vibrant atmosphere.
  • End your evening with a visit to De Witte Aap, one of Rotterdam’s oldest and most iconic bars, famous for its lively ambiance and wide selection of drinks.

Guide for 3 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Enjoy a Dutch breakfast at La Buvette with fresh croissants and coffee.
  • Explore the stunning Markthal, an indoor market with over 100 food stalls and shops.
  • Visit the iconic Cube Houses designed by architect Piet Blom.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at De Pasta Kantine with a variety of pasta dishes and salads.
  • Take a stroll along the Old Harbor and enjoy the picturesque views of the boats and ships.

Afternoon

  • Learn about the city’s history at the Museum Rotterdam with interactive exhibits and displays.
  • Visit the Euromast Tower for panoramic views of the city.

Evening

  • Experience the local nightlife scene at Worm, a cultural center with live music, art exhibitions, and a bar.
  • Enjoy a traditional Dutch dinner at Restaurant De Jong with seasonal dishes made from local ingredients.
  • Take a walk through the vibrant Binnenrotte Market with local vendors selling fresh produce and unique souvenirs.

Day 2

Morning

  • Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Brasserie Pierre with a selection of sweet and savory options.
  • Explore the Van Nelle Factory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a unique blend of industrial design and architecture.
  • Visit the Diergaarde Blijdorp Zoo and see over 180 species of animals from around the world.

Midday

  • Enjoy a light lunch at De Bakkerswinkel with homemade bread and sandwiches.
  • Stroll through the charming streets of Historic Delfshaven and admire the historic buildings and canals.

Afternoon

  • Discover the city’s street art scene on a guided tour with Street Art Rotterdam.
  • Visit the SS Rotterdam, a former ocean liner turned museum with exhibits and tours.

Evening

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hopper Coffee with artisanal coffee and pastries.
  • Explore the Maritime Museum Rotterdam and learn about the city’s rich maritime history.
  • Take a scenic bike ride through the Kralingse Bos, a large park with a lake and forested areas.

Midday

  • Enjoy a tasty lunch at Uit je Eigen Stad, a farm-to-table restaurant with fresh and seasonal ingredients from their own farm.
  • Visit the Chabot Museum and admire the art and sculptures of Dutch artist Henk Chabot.

Afternoon

  • Discover the local fashion scene at Rotterdam Concept Store with unique clothing and accessories from local designers.
  • Take a relaxing boat tour through the Rotterdam Harbour and see the city’s impressive skyline from the water.

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Bird, a trendy restaurant with a mix of Asian and European cuisine.
  • Experience the local jazz scene at LantarenVenster, a music venue with live performances and a bar.
  • End your night with a cocktail at The Suicide Club, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

Guide for 5 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bagel Bakery.
  • Take a refreshing walk at Kralingse Plas, a beautiful lake in the heart of Rotterdam.
  • Visit the iconic Euromast Tower for stunning panoramic views of the city.

Midday

  • Satisfy your cravings with a delicious lunch at De Ballentent, known for its traditional Dutch meatballs.
  • Explore the charming streets of the Oude Haven (Old Harbor) district.

Afternoon

  • Discover the unique architecture of the Markthal, a vibrant indoor market with a diverse selection of food and drink.
  • Get a glimpse of Rotterdam’s maritime history at the Maritime Museum.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Fenix Food Factory, a trendy food hall with a variety of local and international cuisine.
  • Unwind with a drink at The Suicide Club, a rooftop bar with stunning views over the city.
  • Experience Rotterdam’s vibrant nightlife scene at the Worm music venue and cultural center.

Day 2

Morning

  • Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast at Hotel New York, a historic hotel located in a former Holland-America Line building.
  • Explore the lush greenery of the Rotterdam Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals from around the world.
  • Admire the stunning art collection at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at Burgertrut, a quirky burger joint with a unique atmosphere.
  • Visit the Witte de Withstraat, a lively street packed with art galleries, boutiques, and bars.

Afternoon

  • Discover the fascinating history of Rotterdam’s port at the Historisch Museum (Historical Museum).
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene of Katendrecht, a former red-light district turned hip neighborhood.

Evening

  • Indulge in a mouthwatering dinner at FG Food Labs, a Michelin-starred restaurant that celebrates culinary innovation.
  • Grab a drink at Bokaal, a stylish bar with a great selection of beer and wine.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of Wijnhaven, a bustling area with plenty of bars and clubs.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Backyard, a cozy cafe with a lovely outdoor terrace.
  • Take a scenic stroll along the Nieuwe Maas, the main river that runs through Rotterdam.
  • Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Cube Houses, a unique residential complex designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom.

Midday

  • Satisfy your hunger with a tasty lunch at Foodhallen Rotterdam, a lively food hall with a variety of vendors and cuisines.
  • Visit the eye-catching Erasmusbrug (Erasmus Bridge), one of Rotterdam’s most iconic landmarks.

Afternoon

  • Explore the unique exhibits at the Museum Rotterdam, which showcases the city’s history and culture.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Delfshaven, an old port district with charming canals and historic buildings.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delectable dinner at Restaurant Zeezout, a seafood restaurant with a focus on sustainability and local ingredients.
  • Enjoy a drink at Level, a trendy rooftop bar with panoramic views over the city.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Witte de Withstraat, which is known for its bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Day 4

Morning

  • Enjoy a delicious breakfast at By Jarmusch, a cozy cafe with a great selection of coffee and pastries.
  • Visit the Van Nelle Fabriek, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of modernist industrial architecture.
  • Explore the unique exhibits at the Wereldmuseum (World Museum), which showcases art and artifacts from around the world.

Midday

  • Satisfy your appetite with a tasty lunch at De Pasta Kantine, a casual Italian restaurant with a great selection of pasta dishes.
  • Take a stroll through the picturesque Schiedamse Vest, a historic canal district with beautiful architecture and charming cafes.

Afternoon

  • Discover the fascinating world of science at the Science Centre Delft, which offers interactive exhibits and workshops.
  • Explore the trendy Kop van Zuid district, which is home to several museums, restaurants, and bars.

Evening

  • Indulge in a mouthwatering dinner at FG Restaurant, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an unforgettable fine dining experience.
  • Sip on a cocktail at Noah, a chic bar with a great selection of drinks and a cozy outdoor terrace.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Pannekoekstraat, a trendy street with a variety of bars and clubs.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baker & Moore, a cozy cafe with a great selection of breakfast dishes.
  • Visit the SS Rotterdam, a historic ocean liner turned museum that offers a glimpse into the golden age of sea travel.
  • Discover the fascinating world of architecture at the NAi (Netherlands Architecture Institute), which showcases the best of Dutch architecture.

Midday

  • Savor a tasty lunch at De Matroos en het Meisje, a charming restaurant that offers a unique dining experience.
  • Explore the vibrant Witte de Withstraat district, which is packed with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.

Afternoon

  • Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum Rotterdam, which showcases the natural history of the region.
  • Take a stroll through the charming Benthuizerstraat neighborhood, which is known for its lively street markets and local shops.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at Bird, a trendy restaurant that offers a mix of Asian and European cuisine.
  • Enjoy a drink at Bar 3, a cozy bar with a great selection of beer and wine.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oude Haven, a historic harbor district that is now home to several bars and clubs.

Guide for 1 Week

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a Dutch breakfast at Groos, known for its local and sustainable food products.
  • Visit the Markthal, a unique architectural marvel that houses a variety of food stalls and shops.
  • Explore the Cube Houses, a unique residential complex with unconventional cube-shaped houses.

Midday

  • Grab a quick bite at Burgertrut, a vegetarian-friendly hamburger joint.
  • Take a stroll through Witte de Withstraat, a bustling street lined with galleries, restaurants, and bars.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Euromast Tower, the tallest tower in the Netherlands with stunning panoramic views of the city.
  • Explore the Rotterdam Zoo, one of the oldest and most diverse zoos in the country.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at FG Food Labs, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative cuisine.
  • Sip on cocktails at Ballroom, a trendy bar with a vintage aesthetic.
  • Experience the local music scene at Bird, a popular jazz club.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Backyard, a cozy café with a charming garden.
  • Visit the SS Rotterdam, a former cruise ship that has been converted into a floating hotel and museum.
  • Explore the Katendrecht neighborhood, once a red-light district now transformed into a trendy hotspot.

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

  • Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Joelia, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a contemporary menu.
  • Sip on craft beers at De Kaapse Brouwers, a local brewery with a cozy atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a performance at Theater Rotterdam, one of the largest theaters in the city.

Day 3

Morning

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Pho Hanoi, a Vietnamese restaurant with authentic cuisine.
  • Visit the Wereldmuseum, a museum showcasing art and artifacts from different cultures around the world.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Worm, a cultural center with a variety of events, exhibitions, and workshops.
  • Visit the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the leading orchestras in the country.

Evening

  • Savor a gourmet dinner at FG Restaurant, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a creative culinary experience.
  • Sip on cocktails at Level, a rooftop bar with a stunning view of the city.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Musicafe, a cozy bar with live music performances.

Day 4

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Op Het Dak, a rooftop café with a stunning view of the city.
  • Visit the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum, a renowned art museum with a diverse collection.
  • Explore the Kop van Zuid, a modern and trendy neighborhood with a variety of restaurants and bars.

Midday

  • Satisfy your taste buds with a delicious lunch at Kiosk Rotterdam, a street food market with a variety of cuisines.
  • Visit the Vegetable and Fruit Market, a colorful and vibrant market selling fresh produce.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Kunsthal Rotterdam, a museum showcasing contemporary art and design.
  • Visit the Miniworld Rotterdam, a miniature world that showcases the city’s landmarks and attractions.

Evening

  • Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Restaurant Fred, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a French-inspired cuisine.
  • Sip on cocktails at Mr. Mofongo, a trendy bar with a Latin-inspired atmosphere.
  • Experience the local music scene at Baroeg, a popular rock and metal club.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Hopper Coffee, a cozy café with a warm atmosphere.
  • Visit the Chabot Museum, a museum showcasing the works of Dutch artist Henk Chabot.
  • Explore the Luchtsingel, a unique pedestrian bridge that connects different neighborhoods.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the Maritime District, a historic neighborhood with a variety of maritime museums and attractions.
  • Visit the Witte Huis, a historic building and one of the first skyscrapers in Europe.

Evening

  • Savor a gourmet dinner at Las Palmas, a seafood restaurant with a contemporary menu.
  • Sip on craft beers at De Pelgrim, a local brewery with a cozy atmosphere.
  • Enjoy a performance at De Doelen, a concert hall with a diverse program.

Day 6

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Stroom, a trendy hotel with a stylish café.
  • Visit the Rotterdam Museum, a museum showcasing the city’s history and culture.
  • Explore the Old Harbor, a charming neighborhood with historic ships and boats.

Midday

  • Satisfy your taste buds with a delicious lunch at Panzero’ Pizza, an Italian restaurant serving authentic Neapolitan pizza.
  • Visit the Markthal Gallery, a gallery showcasing local and international artists.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Maastunnel, a historic tunnel that connects the north and south of the city.
  • Visit the Ro Theater, a theater company known for its innovative productions.

Evening

  • Indulge in a gourmet dinner at FG Bistro, a Michelin-starred bistro with a French-inspired menu.
  • Sip on cocktails at Supermercado, a Latin-inspired bar with a tropical atmosphere.
  • Experience the local music scene at Rotown, a popular music venue.

Day 7

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Breakfast in Rotterdam, a cozy café with a variety of breakfast options.
  • Visit the Van Nelle Factory, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural masterpiece.
  • Explore the Rotterdam Zoo Oceanium, an aquarium showcasing marine life from around the world.

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at De Pasta Kantine, an Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta dishes.
  • Visit the City Hall, a historic building with a modern interior.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Kralingen neighborhood, a leafy and upscale area with a variety of shops and restaurants.
  • Visit the Erasmus University, one of the leading universities in the country.

Evening

  • Savor a gourmet dinner at FG Okonomiyaki Bar, a Michelin-starred bar specializing in Japanese cuisine.
  • Sip on craft beers at Brouwerij Noordt, a local brewery with a cozy tasting room.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Bar 1, a popular bar with a laid-back atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Coming soon for Rotterdam!
Luxury: –
Good: –
Budget: –
Hostel: –

Best Season

Coming soon for Rotterdam!