All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Urban industrial port turned futuristic architectural playground, Rotterdam is entering a new era. Nearly entirely flattened during World War II, this sprawling metropolis has been in a constant state of renewal since the 1940s, and newness is intrinsic to the city's identity. After teetering at the grittier end of ‘up-and-coming’ for more than a decade, the city is now emerging as an international hub for sustainable innovation and cutting-edge design.
Now the first stop on the new Eurostar route to Amsterdam, Rotterdam is easier than ever to explore. The city is the antithesis to its more northerly neighbour, and its diversity excites those visitors who come for the warehouse food markets, concept shops and bold architecture. Dubbed the Dutch Brooklyn, Rotterdam offers a fresh alternative to charming, time-locked Amsterdam. Here you’re more likely to find art students on skateboards than tourists taking selfies.
The Markthal is a striking architectural marvel in Rotterdam that showcases Ossip van Duivenbode's artistic brilliance. With its unique design and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a truly immersive experience for visitors.
While Rotterdam may be known for its industrial landscape, it has transformed into Europe's hottest design hub. From its modern skyline to its bustling streets, this city is a treasure trove for design enthusiasts.
Discover Rotterdam's diverse range of attractions and activities, including avant-garde galleries, innovative museums, and cutting-edge fashion boutiques.
Immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural scene, with its thriving music festivals and lively events. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Rotterdam's culinary delights, from trendy food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Whether you're an architecture aficionado, a fashionista, or a food lover, Rotterdam offers endless possibilities for an unforgettable experience.
Discover the Finest Accommodations in Vibrant Rotterdam
Hotel âme: A Fusion of Scandi-Japanese Elegance
Gone are the days when Rotterdam offered only uninspiring business hotels or outdated historical establishments for travelers seeking a place to stay. The city has experienced a surge of creativity in the hospitality industry, resulting in a charming selection of boutique hotels. Among them, âme stands out as the epitome of sophistication, combining Scandinavian and Japanese design elements with a trendy coffee-shop ambiance. Throughout all room types, a minimalist aesthetic prevails, featuring subtly textured walls in soothing shades of taupe and beige. The stylish bathrooms are adorned with sleek black steel fixtures, while linen bedspreads and curtains deliver a tactile appeal.
Situated in the heart of Eendrachtsplein, âme offers a convenient starting point for culinary adventures. Countless exceptional restaurants await within walking distance, ensuring a seamless dining experience for guests. Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Rotterdam, indulging in diverse and delicious cuisine.
As a distinguished travel writer, Chris Schalkx would undoubtedly recommend âme as a first-class accommodation choice in Rotterdam, where guests can enjoy a memorable and refined stay.
Explore the historic Hotel New York even if you're not staying at the hotel. Formerly the office of the Holland-America Line, this iconic building holds immense significance as the departure point for countless European emigrants embarking on their journey to seek a better life across the Atlantic. Exuding a welcoming atmosphere, this establishment features spacious suites that offer stunning views of the serene river Maas.
Adjacent to the pier and within the vibrant Kop van Zuid district, you'll find the trendy and vibrant Room Mate Bruno (as shown in the picture above). Highly popular among young creatives, this hotel provides shared workspaces where guests can be found engrossed in their work, tapping away on their laptops. Its modern and vibrant ambiance attracts a youthful crowd, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a contemporary stay experience in Rotterdam.
For a more personal and unique experience, consider staying at the Suite Hotel Pincoffs, housed in the historic customs house, one of the few remaining pre-war buildings in Rotterdam. Situated in the heart of the Oude Haven (old port), Citizen M provides an affordable accommodation option that offers stunning views of the Maas River through its floor-to-ceiling windows. Ranked as one of the top hotels in Rotterdam, you can find more information on Citizen M and other hotels in the area here >> https://www.hotels-in-netherlands.com/en/. Additionally, Rotterdam's premier wellness hotel, Mainport, boasts a luxurious eighth-floor spa equipped with a Finnish sauna, steam room, and hammam in the same maritime area. Keep in mind that the Dutch spa culture generally entails nudity, but you can still enjoy the swimming pool if you prefer to stay clothed.
It is worth noting that Suite Hotel Pincoffs provides an intimate experience due to its location in a historic customs house. Furthermore, Mainport's eighth-floor spa offers a serene retreat with exceptional views over Rotterdam's skyline.
Discover the Wonders of Rotterdam
Experience the vibrant city of Rotterdam, known for being the largest port in Europe and a global hub of activity. To truly grasp the vastness of this impressive port, make your way up the iconic Euromast tower, offering breathtaking bird's-eye views from a towering height of 185 meters. This unique perspective will leave you in awe of the bustling maritime traffic and the sheer scale of the port.
If you're craving a more immersive experience, embark on a 75-minute boat tour with Spido to explore Rotterdam's bustling harbor up close. Envelop yourself in the sights and sounds of the maritime industry, witnessing colossal vessels and historic landmarks along the way. It's an unforgettable adventure that offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant maritime heritage.
For those seeking a tranquil escape, head to Kralingse Bos, Rotterdam's finest park. Nestled within this verdant oasis is a picturesque lake where you can indulge in activities like sailing boats and swimming during the summer months. Take note of the designated naturist section if you wish to explore this option. The park also boasts a variety of charming restaurants and cafés with waterside seating, providing the perfect spot to relax and savor a typically Dutch brunch at De Tuin van de Vier Windstreken. This delightful meal includes a medley of bread with sprinkles, ham, cheese, and boiled eggs, showcasing the unique culinary traditions of the Netherlands.
The best restaurants and cafés in Rotterdam
Once Europe’s largest red-light district, the Katendrecht has been transformed in recent years and is now the city’s foodie centre. Deliplein square feels almost Parisian with tables spilling out onto the pavements. Bistrot du Bac completes the experience serving up oysters, snails and steak tartare. There are lots of good cafés here too: Nine Bar for rocket-fuel coffee and cookies; Sajoer for zingy detox juices and Kopi Soesoe for brunch through to evening beer with live music to go with it. If you’re with friends and looking for somewhere to host a special dinner, Posse’s private-dining cabin is a quirky and romantic space that seats up to 10. The area is also home of the Fenix Food Factory (pictured below), a waterfront warehouse-turned-street food market with an in-house brewery, Kaapse Brouwers. Anyone with a sweet tooth must sample the Dutch speciality at Stroop Rotterdam where the stroopwafels are pressed on-site and served piping hot with oozing caramel middles.
With nearly half of its population born outside of the Netherlands, Rotterdam stands out as a city that embraces diversity like no other in the country. Exploring the culinary scene reveals an array of international flavors that are sure to satisfy any palate.
Welcome to Hinoki Noodle Soup, a local favorite tucked away on a scruffy street corner behind the bustling Markthal. Despite its unassuming exterior, this hidden gem always draws a crowd eager to savor their steaming bowls of ramen and delectable fried-chicken dumplings.
A short stroll away, the Pannekoekstraat awaits, offering a delightful mix of independent restaurants, cafés, and delis. One standout is Panzero, a culinary haven specializing in Puglian street food. Indulge in their mouthwatering panzerotti filled with gooey mozzarella and sweet peppers, an absolute lunchtime treat.
If wood-fired pizzas are your craving, look no further than Old Scuola. This establishment boasts the city's finest pies, freshly baked in traditional ovens to achieve that perfect crispy crust and gooey cheese combination.
For a taste of the American diner experience, head over to By Jarmusch, where you can savor their all-day menu of fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup. And to complete the experience, enjoy bottomless cups of rich filter coffee, ensuring you stay fueled throughout your adventures in Rotterdam.
Discover Rotterdam's vibrant culinary landscape, shaped by its international influences, and embark on a gastronomic journey that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Rotterdam, known for its vibrant culinary scene, boasts a selection of world-class restaurants that are sure to please food enthusiasts. One such establishment is Héroine, a must-visit spot where patrons can enjoy handcrafted cocktails before indulging in a set tasting menu. For wine connoisseurs, the Michelin-starred Fitzgerald offers an extensive selection of over 1,000 bottles of wine and Champagne to complement their exquisite dishes.
If you're in the mood for Japanese cuisine, Yama is the place to go. Offering a choice between a five or seven-course set menu, this restaurant serves up an array of small plates that change daily, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the flavors of Japan. It is recommended to make a reservation up to two months in advance to secure a table at this popular eatery.
In addition to its diverse culinary offerings, Rotterdam is renowned for its exceptional seafood. Look no further than Zeezout, a dining destination that has attracted diners for over two decades. Their menu includes a mouthwatering Rotterdam paella featuring turbot, octopus, vongole, chorizo, and crispy chicken skin, showcasing the city's love for maritime flavors.
Explore Rotterdam's Unique Shopping Scene
Discover the vibrant shopping scene in Rotterdam that reflects the city's innovative and creative spirit. One must-visit spot is the block surrounding the headquarters of MVRDV, a renowned architecture firm known for designing the iconic Markthal. Immerse yourself in the hipster atmosphere at Groos, a trendy design store that offers a range of unique products created by Rotterdam residents, such as the stylish About Blanks notebooks and printed UNU tote bags.
Feel the pulse of Rotterdam's design community as you stroll along Goudsesingel. This street is home to a fusion of brands that seamlessly blend the boundaries between workshop, studio, office, and shop. Here, you'll experience firsthand the dynamic energy and craftsmanship that goes into creating cutting-edge designs.
Experience the vibrant shopping scene in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where you'll find a variety of unique stores catering to different interests and tastes.
Indulge your passion for cycling at Rook, a shop specializing in sleek road bikes. For green enthusiasts, Evernow offers not only houseplants but also chic homewares to elevate your living space. Explore the range of eco-friendly sneakers at Vico and discover the charm of trinket bowls and fashionable jewelry for both women and children at Lou-La.
Discover even more shopping options along Van Oldenbarneveltstraat, where well-established names like Dutch concept store Hutspot bring their unique flair to Rotterdam (and are also present in Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Eindhoven). Stand out from the crowd with neon backpacks from Susan Bijl or browse fashion boutiques such as Nen Xavier.
Whether you're a cycling enthusiast, a nature lover, or a fashion aficionado, Rotterdam provides a diverse shopping experience to suit all tastes. Plan your visit to these unique stores and indulge in the city's style and charm.
The coolest bars in Rotterdam
If you’re in town when there’s a big game on, Panenka Bar screens the big matches, while providing a cosy and welcoming atmosphere that will keep non-sports fans happy too. Enjoy drinks in the sun on the top deck at Vessel 11 before heading downstairs for live music and dancing. It’s also the dock for the Hot Tug – wood-fired hot tubs to bob about in with a group of friends and a drink. Later in the evening, the mescal bar at Mexican Alfredo’s Taqueria (pictured above) has a hopping terrace at the back that stays open until 2am on Friday and Saturday nights.
Rotterdam's Architectural Marvels
Experience the awe-inspiring Rotterdam architecture as you arrive at the impressive Centraal Station, a masterpiece of modern design that was completed in 2014. Immerse yourself in contemporary sophistication as you enter its wide platforms, adorned with high-glass ceilings and a vast wood-panelled ticket hall. Take a moment to appreciate the station's striking façade, featuring modernist typography and a magnificent diagonal sweep reminiscent of a ship's bow, perfectly directing your gaze towards the city center.
Embark on a captivating journey through Rotterdam's architectural wonders by setting out on foot from the station. Head south down the enchanting Westersingel canal and venture east towards the aptly named Cool District, nestled in the heart of the city. Here, you'll encounter a vibrant blend of innovative buildings and urban charm.
The Dutch are advocates of mixed-use architecture, evident in the Markthal where the football-pitch-sized floor space serves as a buzzing food market, and the horseshoe-shaped surround is filled with affordable housing and office space. Be sure to visit at dusk or after dark when the interior comes alive with Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam’s epic mural, Horn of Plenty, lighting up the vast interior with giant fruits, flowers, seeds and insects.
Across the road is Piet Blom’s Cube Houses (pictured above). It’s almost as if the architect twisted the two-up, two-down like a Rubik’s Cube to create these extraordinary homes. You can take a look around one for just £2.50: it’s a surreal experience and quite a relief to step back outside again into the beehive-like courtyard, which fosters a neighbourly community in an otherwise bleak landscape.
Rotterdam, known for its stunning architecture, is home to several iconic bridges. One of the most famous is the Erasmus Bridge, an engineering marvel that connects the city's north and south sides. Its distinctive feature is a 139-meter-high pylon, earning it the nickname "The Swan." This bridge is not only a striking sight but also functional, as the southern section can be raised like a drawbridge, allowing larger ships to pass by.
In addition to the Erasmus Bridge, Rotterdam boasts the Luchtsingel Bridge, which holds the distinction of being the world's first crowdfunded public infrastructure project specifically designed for pedestrians. Notably, this bright yellow bridge not only serves as a practical means of crossing but also adds a vibrant touch to the city's architectural landscape.
Art and design in Rotterdam
A walk down Witte de Withstraat with its cocktail and beer bars and independent shops is a must for any visitor. It’s also an artistic enclave with colourful graffiti and street art at every corner, and a scattering of bricks-and-mortar contemporary galleries, including the famous Witte de With (pictured above).
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Room dominates the entrance to the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen. Find paintings by big-name artists such as Cezanne and Rothko and an interesting sculpture garden too. Nearby is the Kunsthal that shows a rolling series of exhibitions: 2018 saw a celebration of Dutch design duo Viktor & Rolf; up next is Surf Tribe, a series of black and white photographs from Belgian photographer Stephan Vanfleteren’s (13 October 2018–13 January 2019). The building, designed by famed architect Rem Koolhaas, is as interesting as a space in its own right with a different façade on each side.
Sustainability in Rotterdam
Sustainability is at the forefront of the architectural agenda, and the world’s eyes are on Rotterdam, where innovation is ingrained into the DNA. Exciting projects include the recent Smog Free Tower, which vacuums up pollutive particles and pumps out clean air, and the Windwheel, which will open as a major landmark by 2025. A contemporary take on the traditional Dutch windmill, the huge project will use cutting-edge technology to generate more energy than it uses while serving as a hotel with space for housing, offices, a cruise terminal and a futuristic ferris wheel with mobile touch-screen cabins that will take you under the water in air-tight pods.
Getting about in Rotterdam
Just like Amsterdam, Rotterdam’s primary means of getting about is on two wheels. Rent a bicycle with the city’s bike-hire scheme called Donkey Republic, and explore the streets like the locals, either by the day, or hop on and off. The zippy water taxis are another fun way to get about costing about £4 (per person) to cross from the north to the south side of the river.
Transport Options to Rotterdam
For those seeking to journey from London City to Rotterdam, the option of non-stop flights via British Airways is available. You can conveniently view and secure your seats through booking.com. With these swift air transfers clocking in at a mere 50 minutes, Rotterdam is at your fingertips. Alternatively, there's the direct Eurostar service from London St Pancras, which brings you right into the heart of the city at Rotterdam Centraal in a respectable time of three hours. The return journey, which includes a transit through Brussels, is expected to last a slightly longer duration of four hours.
