Museums
Museums, Exhibitions, And Art Galleries in Rotterdam
Rotterdam, one of the most dynamic and modern cities in the Netherlands, stands out not only for its innovative architecture but also for its rich cultural offerings. If you enjoy museums, exhibitions, or art galleries, Rotterdam has something interesting for you.
From classical art to contemporary art, including design and digital culture exhibitions, this city offers a lot to explore.
Here is a guide to the best museums in Rotterdam, the most important art galleries, and the key exhibitions to check out.
1940-45 Nu
The museum provides a detailed account of the city’s history during and after World War II.
Boijmanns
The Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is the oldest and best-known museum in the city.
Chabot
The museum manages one of the finest collections of works by expressionist artist Henk Chabot.
Art museums in Rotterdam
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen: The most important art museum in the city. It has an extensive collection ranging from medieval art to the most modern trends. You can view works by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Dalí, among others.
Het Nieuwe Instituut: A journey into the future of design and architecture. If you’re interested in design and architecture, this is the place to visit.
Kunsthal: This museum presents exhibitions on contemporary art, fashion, design, photography, and much more.
Chabot Museum: A small but fascinating museum dedicated to the expressionist art of painter Henk Chabot.
Kunsthal
Kunsthal Museum is a center that organizes temporary exhibitions in the field of art and culture.
Wereld
Wereldmuseum, by the river, has a collection of more than 80,000 objects from all over the world.
Mariniers
In addition to four centuries of martial history, it also features exhibits on recent events.
Historical and themed museums in Rotterdam
Maritiem Museum: One of the oldest museums in the Netherlands and a must-visit if you’re interested in maritime history.
Nederlands Fotomuseum: This museum has a comprehensive collection of historical photography spanning from the 20th to the 21st century.
Natuurhistorisch Museum Rotterdam: A museum focused on environmental conservation, providing a detailed look at the region’s flora and fauna, as well as the natural processes that have shaped Rotterdam.
Douane Museum: A more specialized museum offering a unique insight into the history of taxes and customs in the Netherlands.
RUTAS
Fenix Museum
Museum of Migration
Opened in 2025
Art galleries and contemporary art exhibitions in Rotterdam
Kunstinstituut Melly: An institution famous for presenting creative exhibitions from both emerging and well-established artists.
Fenix Museum: Opened in 2025, this museum focuses on migration and cultural diversity, showcasing how the communities that settled in the city have influenced its development.
Tips for visiting museums in Rotterdam
Opening Hours: Most museums in Rotterdam are closed on Mondays and during major holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s, and King’s Day (April 27).
Ticket Discounts: If you plan to visit multiple museums, use cards like the Rotterdampas, Rotterdam City Card, or Museum Pass, which offer discounts and special benefits.
Guided Tours: Many museums offer guided tours and fun activities that help you better understand the exhibitions.
Fotomuseum
The museum’s collection represents an important part of the photographic history of the Netherlands.
Instituut Melly
Founded in 1990, Kunstinstituut Melly is one of the most important contemporary art institutes in the Netherlands.
Maritiem
The Maritime Museum, founded in 1874 by Prince Hendrik, is the oldest maritime museum in the Netherlands.
Other museums and art galleries you can explore in Rotterdam
In addition to the ones mentioned, there are many more art spaces in Rotterdam worth discovering. Some of the most recommended are:
MaMA Rotterdam
Kunstuitleen Rotterdam
De Galerie Rotterdam
Dock Gallery
Vivid Gallery
Natuur-Historish
Exhibitions, activities, information, and collections in the field of animal life and the natural environment.
Douane Museum
The museum displays objects from the last 15 centuries that illustrate the history of taxes and customs.
Nieuwe Instituut
Het Nieuwe Instituut, located in the Museumpark, is a museum of architecture, design, and digital culture.
Rotterdam is the perfect place for those who want to experience a diverse and enriching cultural journey.
Don’t miss the chance to explore its museums, galleries, and exhibitions!