Dakpark

Dakpark: a rooftop park in Rotterdam

Dakpark Rotterdam is one of the city’s most unusual urban parks. Built around nine metres above a shopping boulevard, it stretches for approximately 1.2 kilometres and is considered one of the largest rooftop parks in Europe.

The park opened in 2013 after a long process of transforming this former railway and industrial area in the west of Rotterdam.

Its elevated position creates an unusual contrast between nature and city, with views across the surrounding neighbourhoods and parts of Rotterdam’s port area.

What to see at Dakpark

The park has large lawns, trees, shrubs, gardens and plenty of places to sit, relax or enjoy a picnic.

One of its most distinctive features is the water staircase, a structure around 70 metres long where water flows down a series of steps, creating small cascades.

Across the park you will also find play areas, gardens and community spaces managed with the involvement of local residents and volunteers.

A park created with the neighbourhood

One of the special features of Dakpark is the involvement of local residents in its development and maintenance.

The park includes a community garden and several initiatives connected with nature, biodiversity, sustainability and neighbourhood life.

This combination of public park, community project and urban architecture makes Dakpark an interesting example of how former industrial areas in Rotterdam have been transformed into green public spaces.

Visiting Dakpark

Dakpark is particularly enjoyable on sunny days in spring and summer. You do not need to spend too much time here: around an hour is enough to explore much of the park and enjoy the views.

Marconiplein metro station is close to the park, making it easy to reach from Rotterdam city centre.

Dakpark Rotterdam: practical information

Other parks in Rotterdam

Arboretum Trompenburg | Blijdorp Zoo | Eiland van Brienenoord | Het Park | Kralingse Bos | Luchtpark Hofbogen | Museumpark | Plaswijckpark | Schoonoord | Vroesenpark