Intro
What To See And Do In Rotterdam? Complete Guide For Tourists
Planning to visit Rotterdam?
This lively Dutch city, is a destination that surprises all travellers. Known for its port, one of the largest in the world, its modern architecture, and its multicultural atmosphere, Rotterdam offers a unique mix of history, modernity, and urban culture.
The city of Rotterdam is located in the industrial zone of the province of Zuid-Holland.
It is the second most populated city in the Netherlands and hosts one of the most important ports in the world. It is also the capital of the Rijnmond region, the estuary of the Rhine River, and is located on the banks of the Maas River, which flows into the North Sea.
The 2016 Lonely Planet guide included Rotterdam in its list of the 10 best cities to visit.
If you are looking for interesting places in Rotterdam, here is the best of what you can see and do during your trip.
What to see
Surroundings, the port, bridges, parks, monuments, architecture, sculptures, docks, museums and walking routes.
Going Out
Where to eat, dance, drink, coffee shops, concerts, shopping, what to do with children, events…
History
The city had to reinvent itself after World War II. Learn a bit about its history and its historical figures.
Rotterdam and its modern architecture
Rotterdam is considered the capital of contemporary architecture in the Netherlands. Walking through the city center is like visiting an open-air museum:
Central Station: one of the main entrances to the city and an icon of modern design.
Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen): these tilted and peculiar houses are an ideal place to take photos.
Erasmusbrug: connects the center with Kop van Zuid and is the symbol of the city.
Depot (The Pot): an oval-shaped building that resembles a flower pot and houses artworks.
Markthal: the most visited market in Rotterdam.
Sleeping
Find the best 5, 4, 3, 2 star hotels and other accommodations in the city. How to find your new home in Rotterdam.
Weather
Rotterdam’s climate is one of the things that can put you off changing your place of residence.
Transit
Find out how to get to Rotterdam depending on where you are in Europe, by land, sea and air. Public transport.
Museums and culture in Rotterdam
If you like art and history, Rotterdam has much to offer:
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen (currently under renovation, but with exhibitions in other spaces).
Kunsthal: hosts changing exhibitions of art, design, and pop culture.
Maritime Museum: ideal for learning about the city’s close relationship with the sea and ships.
Fenix Museum: opened its doors in 2025 and will surprise you with its design.
Agenda
We present you a list with the best events that happen every year in the city of Rotterdam.
Gallery
In our photo gallery, you can see images of the city that we take on our walks around Rotterdam.
Maps
Some maps of the city and its public transport, as well as maps of the towns near Rotterdam.
Cool neighborhoods and local life
Rotterdam not only has architecture, it also has lively neighborhoods:
Delfshaven: a historic neighborhood that survived the bombings of World War II. It has cobbled streets, canals, and traditional breweries.
Witte de Withstraat: the liveliest street with bars, galleries, and restaurants.
Kop van Zuid: a modern area by the water with skyscrapers and spectacular views.
Formalities
Here you can find some things you need to arrange when you move to The Netherlands.
DigiD
You will need DigiD to arrange few things online in The Netherlands.
Doctor
It is a good idea to sing up with a family doctor in case you get sick.
Insurance
In The Netherlands you need to have a medical insurance. Compare prices.
Find a Home
Findind a home can take you a considerable amount of time. Check some links.
Find a Job
Here you can see some agencies which will help you to find a job. Also tips to pass an interview.
The Language
Discover some academies and online sites to learn Dutch in Rotterdam. Good luck with it!
BSN Number
The first thing you need to arrange when you move into The Netherlands.
Labour Contract
Find out all the bullet points which should be include on your new labour contract.
Basic Dutch
If you want to start training with the Dutch, here you can find some basic phrases.
RUTAS
VOLUNTEERING
Check the opportunities
working as a volunteer
Nature and panoramic views
Rotterdam not only has architecture, it also has lively neighborhoods:
Delfshaven: a historic neighborhood that survived the bombings of World War II. It has cobbled streets, canals, and traditional breweries.
Witte de Withstraat: the liveliest street with bars, galleries, and restaurants.
Kop van Zuid: a modern area by the water with skyscrapers and spectacular views.
Useful tips for your visit to Rotterdam
Best time to visit: from May to September, when the weather is cooler for walking and outdoor activities.
Transport: the city has a good system of trains, buses, and trams. You can also use bicycles, like the locals.
Events: don’t forget to check our agenda with concerts, festivals, and other outdoor activities.
RUTAS
NETHERLANDS THINGS
Visit our weblog with traditions
and other things from Rotterdam
Day trips near Rotterdam
If you have extra time, you can explore nearby places:
Kinderdijk: home to the famous windmills, which are a World Heritage Site, just 30 minutes away.
Beaches of Hoek van Holland: ideal for a sunny day.
Brielle, Gouda, and Delft: historic cities that can be visited by train.
RUTAS
WALKING ROUTES IN ROTTERDAM
If you like to go for a walk
check out our walking routes
Rotterdam, a destination that does not leave you indifferent
Rotterdam is a city that is always changing, with a unique energy that mixes history, innovation, and diversity.
Whether you come for a few days or plan to stay longer, you will always find something new to do and see.
Explore more on our website and discover articles about monuments, docks, museums, surroundings, parks, activities in the city, walking routes, how to find housing and work, and many other things.
Rotterdam is waiting for you!