Drinking

Where to Drink In Rotterdam?, Best Bars And Terrace Areas

If you’re looking for where to go out and drink in Rotterdam, we’ve got you covered.

Instead of listing specific bars, we show you the most popular areas to enjoy drinks, loved by locals. Perfect if you want to fit in with the scene and have a real Rotterdam experience.

You’ll find a good selection of beers in almost every bar in Rotterdam. The most popular ones include Amstel, Heineken, Grolsch, Bavaria, Hoegaarden, Wieckse Witte, Hertog Jan, and Palm. When you order a beer from the tap (bier van het vat), it’s common for the bartender to ask what size you prefer:

Kleintje: small size
Fluitje: between 19 and 25 cl
Vaasje: between 23 and 33 cl

To go with your drink, you can’t miss the classic Dutch snacks: bitterballen, frikandel, kaassoufflé, or loempia. Many bars offer a bittergarnituur, a mixed selection perfect for trying a bit of everything. You can read more about these on our eating section.

Also, since the nearby neighborhood of Schiedam is famous for its gin production (jenever), you might find that many local bars favor a shot of this traditional drink. Try it chilled!

Bar and Terrace Areas in Rotterdam

Here are the areas with the most atmosphere for enjoying drinks in Rotterdam, whether you’re looking for local beers, cocktails, or a terrace to watch the sunset.

Oudehaven. One of the busiest areas in summer. Its pubs with terraces along the harbor are perfect for enjoying a drink with a view. Very popular with both locals and tourists.
Stadhuisplein. Several bars and cafes are right next to each other, and at night they turn into clubs. If you’re looking for nightlife in Rotterdam, this is your spot.

Wilhelminakade and Deliplein. A modern area with a great food offering and amazing views of the city skyline. Perfect for sunset. Don’t miss the iconic Hotel New York.
Biergarten and surrounding areas. A very popular spot all year round. Around it, you’ll find clubs and concert venues. Great for starting the night with a craft beer outdoors.
Witte de Withstraat. The most artistic street in Rotterdam. Full of bars with terraces and a lively atmosphere. Standouts include Witte Aap and Nieuwe Rotterdam Café. Looking for cocktails? Supermercado has an impressive menu.
Meent. Another popular street in the center with several bars. If you like an international vibe and watching European football matches, stop by Paddy Murphy’s.
Weena. Frequented by office workers, it’s a good place for after-work drinks in Rotterdam.

Oostplein. Very popular with students, especially Erasmus students. We recommend Locus Publicus, which has over 200 different beers on its menu.
Nieuwe Binnenweg y Oude Binnenweg. These streets have lots of bars and terraces. In Rotown, there are always events and live concerts. It’s ideal if you’re looking for something more alternative.
Delfshaven. A neighborhood with lots of character. Bars and terraces by the canal in a picturesque setting. Don’t miss Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim, a brewery that makes its own beer.
Westersingel. A quiet area to have a drink and some snacks by the canal. Great if you’re looking for a more relaxed plan.
Corner of Nieuwe Binnenweg with Heemraadsingel. Three bars with a great atmosphere, especially for people over 35. A unique area with its own style.

Where to have a drink in Rotterdam?

Rotterdam offers something for every taste: from craft beers on a terrace to creative cocktails in trendy spots. Whether you’re looking for a quiet bar, a sports pub, or a nightclub, in these areas you’ll find the perfect vibe for you.

Other options to go out in Rotterdam