Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands after Amsterdam, is one of the most captivating destinations in the country. From flower fields to cheese, the city is a microcosm of Dutch culture, attracting more than a million visitors annually. One of the most popular times to visit the city is during the lively North Sea Jazz Festival. However, you shouldn’t limit your visit to the city to this festive period. To help you navigate this vibrant city of 600,000 people, we have curated a selection of the top things to do in Rotterdam, most of which won’t break the bank.
Admire the Kinderdijk’s Windmills
Given that windmills are emblematic of the Netherlands, visiting Kinderdijk’s Windmills are among the best things to do in Rotterdam. Situated just outside the city, the charming village of Kinderdijk features picturesque canals and 19 incredible windmills that are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This location offers an ideal escape to the Dutch countryside, where the serene atmosphere feels like stepping into a fairytale. A half-day visit is ample to appreciate this incredible place, and you can take an exciting ride on a canal boat to fully admire the windmills’ beauty.
The windmills, dating back to the 18th century, have retained their original form over the centuries. Visitors can explore the interiors of these historic structures, gaining insight into their fascinating past. Best of all, Kinderdijk is merely a 35-minute journey by water bus from Rotterdam, ensuring you can relish the experience without dedicating an entire day to travel.
Enjoy the Views from the Euromast Tower
Tourists looking to experience Rotterdam from an elevated vantage point should not miss the Euromast Tower. As the tallest observatory in the Netherlands, it offers stunning panoramic views of the city’s skyline that will leave anyone breathless. Originally constructed for a flower exhibition, the tower has since become one of Rotterdam’s most popular tourist attractions. Ascending the tower is one of the most exciting things to do in Rotterdam, given the breathtaking landscapes and vistas it provides.
Explore the Cube Houses
Travelers who appreciate unconventional design will enjoy visiting the Cube Houses in Rotterdam. These distinctive, cube-shaped buildings, designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, offer a prime example of extraordinary architecture. Blom envisioned these structures as abstract trees in a forest, which contributes to their unique appearance.
If your stay in Rotterdam is brief, be sure to prioritize a visit to these captivating houses, as they are unlike anything you will see elsewhere. To maximize your experience in the city, consider joining a private walking tour that includes the Cube Houses. A tour allows you to explore these houses as well as other remarkable landmarks on foot effieciently.
Visit the Old Harbor and Maritime Museum
Also called Oude Haven in Dutch, the Old Harbor is a historically significant port that dates back to the late Middle Ages and holds the distinction of being the city’s oldest harbor. Initially a modest fishing harbor, Oude Haven evolved into a bustling trading center, facilitating connections between Rotterdam and other European ports. Today, the Old Harbor is considered one of the most scenic spots in the city. Visitors can admire a variety of meticulously restored old boats, take leisurely walks along beautiful pathways, and explore numerous trendy restaurants and cafes. In addition to the boats and dining options, the area also houses the Maritime Museum. This museum showcases an array of exhibits, including historical navigation instruments, making it a fascinating destination for history and maritime enthusiasts.
Try Tasty Delicacies in the De Markthal (The Market Hall)
While delving into the city’s rich history can be deeply rewarding, it’s equally important to experience places that offer glimpses into daily life. One such place is De Markthal, a bustling indoor market shaped like a horseshoe and featuring the “Horn of Plenty,” a stunning artwork created by artist Arno Coenen. At De Markthal, you can relish a variety of delicious and fresh goodies while immersing yourself in the artistic brilliance that makes this place truly special.
Get a Taste of the Fenix Food Factory
When in Rotterdam, trying the city’s cuisine is a must. A prime destination for food and drink enthusiasts is the Fenix Food Factory. This vibrant spot features an array of local delights, from cheese boards and BBQ to delectable cakes. Key vendors not to be missed include the Kaapse Brouwers microbrewery for craft beer, Firma Bijten for quality meats, Booij Kaasmakers for artisanal cheeses, and Jordy’s Bakery for irresistible cakes. You may leave feeling quite full, but the experience is undeniably worth it.
Take a Walk Down Delfshaven
Known for its well-preserved old harbor, charming buildings, and spectacular canals, Delfshaven is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas in Rotterdam. This part of the city is also dotted with delightful houses and warehouses along the canals, exuding a 17th-century port atmosphere. It’s one of Rotterdam’s most significant historical landmarks, and remarkably, it survived heavy bombing during World War II.
See the Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge, which spans the Nieuwe Maas River, is the second-largest bridge in the Netherlands and an architectural marvel. Locally known as “The Swan” due to its strikingly elegant design, the bridge is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Its beauty is captivating both during the day and night, with its sweeping lines and grand structure. For an especially magical experience, visit the Erasmus Bridge at night. The twinkling lights that illuminate the entire expanse create a mesmerizing sight, offering a unique perspective on Rotterdam after the sun sets. Walking across the bridge in the evening allows you to appreciate a different side of the city.
Walk Along the Luchtsingel Pedestrian Bridge
Constructed in 2015, the Luchtsingel Pedestrian Bridge features a striking sunny yellow hue and is made from wooden planks. What makes it even more special is that over 8,000 individuals contributed €25 each to have their names engraved on these wooden boards. The bridge, aptly named Luchtsingel, which translates to “air canal” in English, weaves its way through a building and stretches across roads and railways. In doing so, it connects three previously separate parts of the city, creating a unified urban landscape.
Visit Museumpark
Museumpark is a dynamic urban park and cultural hub situated in the heart of Rotterdam. Its name is derived from its unique feature of being surrounded by several noteworthy museums, all within a five-minute walk. The area has a long history that traces back to the Van Hoboken family, prominent figures in Rotterdam known for their philanthropy. Their former estate has been preserved and now serves as the Natural History Museum, offering a glimpse into both the family’s legacy and natural history. For those with limited time in Rotterdam, Museumpark is an excellent place to go. You can easily spend half a day exploring the diverse array of museums, each offering different forms of art and cultural heritage.
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