Parks and Green Spaces in Rotterdam: A Natural Breath in the City

Rotterdam, famous for its modernity, large ports, and innovative architecture, is also one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands.

Over 20% of its area is dedicated to parks and natural spaces. This means that tourists can enjoy a peaceful environment, explore nature, and experience local life.

If you enjoy green spaces or want to get away from the city noise, Rotterdam’s parks are the perfect place to relax.

Most Popular Parks in Rotterdam

Het Park: One of the city’s most well-known parks, located near the city center. It’s perfect for a walk or a picnic. The park has large grassy areas, a small lake, and views of the famous Euromast. In the summer, it’s common to see locals barbecuing or participating in outdoor activities.

Kralingse Bos: This park surrounds the Kralingse Plas lake and offers many opportunities for activities such as walking, running, cycling, or renting a boat. In the summer, the area is filled with people enjoying the sun, playing frisbee, or simply relaxing by the water.

Vroesenpark: A peaceful area in northern Rotterdam, with spacious grassy fields, a lake, and playground areas. It’s ideal for families, friends, and tourists who want to enjoy an outdoor day in a relaxed setting. Additionally, the park hosts summer events, such as concerts and festivals.

Museumpark: As its name suggests, this park is located near Rotterdam’s major museums, such as Kunsthal and Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum. It combines green spaces with culture and art, making it an ideal place to rest after visiting the museums.

A Commitment to Sustainability: Green Roofs and Urban Projects

In addition to traditional parks, Rotterdam is committed to becoming a greener city.

Between 2018 and 2021, the city added 9.1 hectares of green roofs on more than 1,000 buildings. These green roofs help make the city more sustainable and improve air quality. In the coming years, more green spaces are expected to be added on buildings like the Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot and De Doelen Theater.

These urban gardens not only offer a visual retreat but also help increase wildlife in the city.

Additionally, in 2020, Rotterdam launched the Rotterdam Sterker Door plan, investing 233 million euros to create new green spaces.

Key projects include Rijnhavenpark, Maashavenpark, and Schouwburgplein, which are expected to be completed by 2030.

These new parks will not only improve the quality of life for residents but also attract more visitors looking to explore the city’s green areas.

Other Parks and Green Spaces in Rotterdam

Rijnhavenpark: Part of the Rotterdam Sterker Door project, this park will be an important place to enjoy nature near the port.

Maashavenpark: With views of the Maas River, it’s a great spot for peaceful walks or a picnic by the water.

Hofplein & Blaak: These areas are under development and will provide more green spaces to the city, ideal for those seeking an urban environment with a touch of nature.

Enjoy Nature in Rotterdam

Whether you want to ride a bike, walk among trees, have a picnic with your family, or simply enjoy the sun, Rotterdam’s parks and green spaces have something for everyone.

These spaces are perfect for relaxing, exercising, meeting new people, or simply enjoying the tranquility that nature offers—even in a bustling city like Rotterdam.

If you visit Rotterdam in the summer or spring, there will always be a park inviting you to have a good time. And with the constant investment in green projects, the city is transforming into a true gem at the heart of Europe.

Tips for Enjoying Rotterdam’s Parks

Have a picnic in the park: Rotterdam’s parks offer large areas where you can enjoy a picnic. Bring your blanket and some local food.

Explore by bike: Rotterdam is a bike-friendly city, and many parks have dedicated cycling paths to explore nature while riding.

Visit during festivals: In the summer, several parks organize outdoor festivals, like concerts or flea markets, so there’s always something interesting to do.

Follow urban projects: If you’re into sustainability, keep track of new green space projects, like green roofs and new parks under construction.