Intro
Things to see and do in Rotterdam: complete guide
Welcome to Rotterdam360, a guide created to help you discover one of the most surprising cities in the Netherlands.
If you are planning a trip to Rotterdam, here you will find everything you need to organise your visit: the main attractions, museums, architecture, charming neighbourhoods, walking routes, public transport, day trips, events, restaurants and plenty of practical tips for enjoying the city.
Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and is home to the largest port in Europe. Located in the province of South Holland on the banks of the River Maas, it has become internationally renowned for its contemporary architecture, multicultural atmosphere and ability to reinvent itself.
After the bombing of the Second World War, Rotterdam embraced a completely innovative approach to urban design. Today it is a modern, dynamic city unlike any other in the Netherlands, where striking skyscrapers, avant-garde architecture, spacious green areas and a lively cultural scene exist side by side.
Its transformation has received international recognition. In 2016, Lonely Planet included Rotterdam among the ten best cities to visit in the world, strengthening its reputation as one of Europe’s most interesting urban destinations.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or considering moving to Rotterdam, this guide provides up-to-date information to help you make the most of your stay.
Explore Rotterdam by category
We have organised all the information into categories so you can easily find everything you need before and during your trip to Rotterdam.
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
Architecture is one of Rotterdam’s defining features and the main characteristic that sets it apart from other Dutch cities. Walking through the centre feels like exploring an open-air museum where skyscrapers, historic buildings and some of Europe’s best-known works of contemporary architecture stand side by side.
Some of the most iconic buildings and landmarks include:
Rotterdam Central Station: One of Europe’s most modern railway stations and one of the main gateways to Rotterdam.
Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen): One of the city’s most famous architectural icons.
Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug): Known as “The Swan”, it is the symbol of Rotterdam and connects the city centre with Kop van Zuid.
Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen: Its spectacular mirrored façade has made it one of Rotterdam’s most photographed buildings.
Markthal: A covered market combining food, architecture and apartments in a single building.
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
Rotterdam has one of the most interesting cultural scenes in the Netherlands. Museums devoted to art, photography, history, architecture and maritime culture make the city an ideal destination for visitors looking for more than urban sightseeing.
Some of the most highly recommended museums include:
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen: One of the most important art museums in the Netherlands.
Kunsthal: Temporary exhibitions devoted to art, photography, design, fashion and culture.
Maritime Museum: The perfect place to discover Rotterdam’s close relationship with the sea.
Fenix Museum: Opened in 2025, it is dedicated to migration and is also known for its spectacular architecture.
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.
Charming neighbourhoods and local life
Beyond its architecture, Rotterdam also stands out for the character of its neighbourhoods. Each has a different atmosphere and reveals another side of the city, from historic Rotterdam to the modern districts along the River Maas.
Delfshaven: Rotterdam’s best-preserved historic neighbourhood. Its canals, windmills, cobbled streets and traditional buildings show what the city looked like before the bombing of 1940.
Witte de Withstraat: One of Rotterdam’s liveliest streets, filled with bars, restaurants, art galleries and nightlife.
Kop van Zuid: Rotterdam’s most modern district, home to some of the city’s most spectacular skyscrapers and excellent views of the River Maas.
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
Although Rotterdam is famous for its port and contemporary architecture, the city also has numerous parks, lakes, gardens and viewpoints where you can relax and enjoy nature without leaving the urban area.
Places not to miss include:
Euromast: The tallest observation tower in the Netherlands, offering impressive panoramic views of Rotterdam and its port.
Het Park: Rotterdam’s best-known historic park, located beside the Euromast and perfect for walking or having a picnic.
Diergaarde Blijdorp Zoo (Oceanium): One of Europe’s leading zoos and an excellent place to visit with children.
Kralingse Plas: A large lake surrounded by woodland, beaches, windmills and routes for walking or cycling.
RUTAS
NETHERLANDS THINGS
Visit our weblog with traditions
and other things from Rotterdam
Day trips from Rotterdam
The Netherlands’ excellent transport network makes it easy to take many day trips from Rotterdam. In less than an hour, you can visit historic windmills, beautiful old cities or the beaches of the North Sea.
We particularly recommend:
Kinderdijk: The famous windmills listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located about 30 minutes from Rotterdam.
Hoek van Holland beaches: Wide beaches, dunes and the place where the Port of Rotterdam meets the North Sea.
Brielle, Gouda and Delft: Three of the most beautiful historic cities in the Netherlands and excellent day trips from Rotterdam.
RUTAS
WALKING ROUTES IN ROTTERDAM
If you like to go for a walk
check out our walking routes
Useful tips for visiting Rotterdam
Before travelling to Rotterdam, keep these practical tips in mind to make the most of your visit and get around the city more easily.
Best time to visit: from May to September, when temperatures are more pleasant and there are more daylight hours for exploring the city.
Transport: Rotterdam has an excellent network of metro, tram, bus and train services, making it easy to travel around the city and surrounding areas.
Events: check our events calendar for festivals, concerts, markets and the main activities taking place during your stay.
Tickets: it is advisable to book popular attractions, such as the Euromast and certain harbour cruises, in advance, especially during the high season.
Why visit Rotterdam?
Rotterdam is one of Europe’s most surprising cities. Its innovative architecture, story of resilience, multicultural atmosphere and constant evolution make every visit a different experience.
Whether you visit Rotterdam for a weekend or plan a longer stay, you will always find new places to discover, neighbourhoods to explore and activities to enjoy at any time of year.
Rotterdam360 provides up-to-date information on things to see, places to eat, museums, monuments, parks, neighbourhoods, day trips, public transport, accommodation, events and much more to help you plan your trip as easily as possible.