Bridges
Discover the Most Iconic Bridges of Rotterdam
Rotterdam, a city built around water, is a place where bridges not only serve to connect areas but also symbolize how the city has changed over time and reflect its history.
Since its founding in the 13th century, with the construction of a dam on the Rotte River, Rotterdam has always been linked to water.
Over the years, bridges have been essential to its growth, allowing different areas to be connected and facilitating the movement of people and goods.
If you’re visiting Rotterdam and you’re interested in architecture, engineering, or history, you can’t miss its impressive collection of bridges.
De Hef
Part of the old Rotterdam-Dordrecht railway line.
Koninginne
At the time, it was the largest double bascule bridge in Europe.
Regentesse
Its four lions guard the corners of this bridge.
Bridges in Rotterdam: Between Destruction and Innovation
After the devastating bombing of 1940, which destroyed much of the city, many old bridges were lost.
Instead of giving up on the idea, the city decided to build new, innovative, and efficient bridges to meet the needs of a growing port city.
Over time, Rotterdam has developed a bridge infrastructure that reflects its modernity and dynamism.
Brienenoord
The bridge owes its name to the nearby island of Brienenoord.
Rijnhavenbrug
Put your love lock on this bridge built in 2012.
Willemsbrug
It replaced another bridge with the same name in 1981.
Discover the Most Iconic Bridges of Rotterdam
Erasmusbrug. One of the most famous bridges in Rotterdam. It connects the north and south of the city and was inaugurated in 1996. It’s a showcase of modern engineering, and its architectural design makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. It is a symbol of Rotterdam.
Willemsbrug. Built in the 19th century, the Willemsbrug was one of the first bridges to connect the Feijenoord district with the city center. Although it has been renovated several times, it remains an important historical element of Rotterdam’s urban landscape.
Rijnhavenbrug. This bridge connects the port area with the city center, helping to revitalize the district. It’s a clear example of how bridges can transform urban areas, turning old port locations into new residential and commercial neighborhoods.
Erasmusbrug
Symbol and top 10 architectural landmarks in Rotterdam.
Luchtsingel
Wooden pedestrian bridge financed by the people.
Maastunnel
The first undersea tunnel in the Netherlands.
Bridges in Rotterdam: A Reflection of Urban Change and the City’s Future
The bridges of Rotterdam are not only important for getting around—they’ve also played a key role in the city’s growth.
Older bridges, like the Willemsbrug, made it possible for people to cross the river, while modern bridges like the Erasmusbrug are now part of the architectural landscape and connect Rotterdam to its future.
Moreover, with the increasing popularity of living and working near the water, bridges remain essential.
Recently, there has been a proposal to build a third urban bridge between the neighborhoods of Feijenoord and Kralingen, which shows how infrastructure continues to evolve to meet the needs of a constantly changing city.