Questions and answers
Here are some of the questions people send me, together with their answers, about work, tourism and what life is like in Rotterdam. If you have another question, send it to me through the contact section and I will try to include it.
WORK
What jobs are most in demand in the Netherlands?
There continue to be good employment opportunities in the Netherlands in a variety of sectors, including:
- Construction
- Technical and installation work
- Transport and logistics
- Healthcare
- Hospitality
- Engineering
- Skilled professions
What is the minimum wage in the Netherlands?
From 1 July 2026 (gross minimum hourly wage):
| Age | Minimum hourly wage |
| 21 years or older | €14.99 |
| 20 years | €11.99 |
| 19 years | €8.99 |
| 18 years | €7.50 |
| 17 years | €5.92 |
| 16 years | €5.17 |
| 15 years | €4.50 |
The minimum wage is updated periodically, normally on 1 January and 1 July.
Where are there the most job opportunities in the Netherlands?
The Randstad region accounts for a large part of the country’s economic activity and includes cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht. There are also good employment opportunities in other regions, depending on the sector.
What do I need to work in the Netherlands?
If you are a citizen of a European Union or European Economic Area country, or Switzerland, you can work in the Netherlands without a work permit. You will need a valid passport or identity card and a BSN number.
If you are going to live in the Netherlands for more than four months, you must register with the municipality where you live.
What is considered a good salary in the Netherlands?
It depends greatly on the sector, your experience, age and where you live. Salaries in the Netherlands are generally higher than in Spain, but rents, insurance and other everyday expenses are also higher.
What is the working day like in the Netherlands?
People generally work a continuous working day. In office jobs, it is common to start between 8:00 and 9:00 and finish in the afternoon. Many companies also offer some flexibility in working hours.
How many hours do people work per week in the Netherlands?
A full-time working week is usually between 36 and 40 hours, depending on the company, employment contract and collective labour agreement.
How long does it take to find a job in the Netherlands?
It depends greatly on your profession, experience and whether you look for work directly or through an employment agency. In sectors with labour shortages, the process can be quite fast.
What are working conditions like for foreigners in the Netherlands?
In principle, they should be the same as for local employees. Salaries and working conditions may also be regulated by a collective labour agreement (CAO).
Is it difficult to find a job in Rotterdam without speaking Dutch?
Not necessarily. If you have specialist skills or experience, you may be able to find work at international companies where English is commonly used. For other jobs, speaking Dutch will considerably increase your opportunities.
TOURISM
What are the main tourist attractions in Rotterdam?
Some of the must-see attractions include the Cube Houses, Markthal, Erasmus Bridge, Museumpark, Wilhelminakade, the Nieuwe Maas river, Kinderdijk, Depot, Oudehaven, RIF010, Chinatown, Central Station, Rotterdam’s modern architecture, Witte de Withstraat and Euromast.
What can I do in Rotterdam if I only have one day?
Suggested itinerary:
- Central Station
- Take the metro to Wilhelminaplein, Hotel New York and the waterfront area
- Take the metro back to Beurs
- Walk to Sint-Laurenskerk, Markthal and the Cube Houses
- Walk around Oudehaven
- Take the metro to Eendrachtsplein and visit Museumpark and Depot
- Continue towards Euromast
- Return via Veerhaven, pass the Maritime Museum, walk along Coolsingel, see City Hall (Stadhuis) and Hofplein, and return to Central Station
- If you have time, take the metro to Delfshaven
If you have more days, you can find several routes for exploring Rotterdam in our walking routes section.
What is the weather like in Rotterdam throughout the year?
Rotterdam has a maritime climate, with moderate temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. Visit our Rotterdam climate guide for more details.
How can I get around Rotterdam by public transport?
Rotterdam has an excellent network of metro, tram and bus services, mainly operated by RET. The metro network has five lines: A, B, C, D and E. You can also use public transport on the river. Visit our public transport guide for Rotterdam.
What are the best restaurants in Rotterdam?
It depends on your tastes. Visit our eating and restaurants section to discover different options by cuisine and nationality.
What activities can I do in Rotterdam with children?
There are plenty of options. Visit our Rotterdam with children section for ideas.
What are the most important museums in Rotterdam?
Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, Fenix, Maritime Museum, Kunsthal and Wereldmuseum are among the most important. Visit our Rotterdam museums section for more information.
What is the best time to visit Rotterdam?
Spring and summer are generally the best times to visit, as the days are longer and temperatures are more pleasant. However, Rotterdam can be visited throughout the year. Check our climate information before travelling.
Is it easy to rent a bicycle in Rotterdam as a tourist?
Yes. There are several bicycle rental companies in the city centre and close to Central Station.
LIVING IN ROTTERDAM
What are the best neighbourhoods to live in Rotterdam?
It depends greatly on your budget and lifestyle. Kralingen, Rotterdam West, Crooswijk and Kop van Zuid are some popular areas, although every neighbourhood has its own characteristics.
Is Rotterdam an expensive city to live in?
Compared with many Spanish cities, yes. Salaries are generally higher, but so are rent, health insurance and other everyday living expenses.
What cultural differences should I keep in mind in Rotterdam?
Rotterdam is a very multicultural city where you will meet people from all over the world. If you have an open mind, integrating into the city can be relatively easy.
What is the nightlife like in Rotterdam?
During the week it is generally fairly quiet, but at weekends there are concerts, clubs, festivals and many other events. Check our Rotterdam events calendar.
Where can I find affordable accommodation in Rotterdam?
Prices vary considerably depending on the time of year and location. Visit our Rotterdam accommodation section for more information.
Is Rotterdam a safe city?
Rotterdam is generally a safe city for residents and visitors. As in any large city, it is advisable to take the usual precautions, especially at night and in very crowded places.
Where can I buy typical Spanish food in Rotterdam?
There are Spanish restaurants and shops specialising in Spanish products in Rotterdam and the surrounding area.
How can I open a bank account in Rotterdam?
Requirements depend on the bank. You will normally need to provide identification, and many banks ask for a BSN number and an address in the Netherlands. Some digital banks have different requirements.
What health insurance do I need to live in Rotterdam?
If you live or work in the Netherlands, you will normally need to take out Dutch basic health insurance. Visit our formalities section for more information.
How much does it cost to live in Rotterdam per month?
It depends greatly on your lifestyle and, above all, your accommodation. Rent is usually the largest monthly expense, so it is advisable to check current prices before moving to Rotterdam.
Is Rotterdam a student-friendly city for international students?
Yes. Rotterdam has universities and educational institutions that welcome large numbers of international students every year, so using English in everyday life is very common.
What are the main shopping areas and shopping centres in Rotterdam?
In the city centre you will find Koopgoot, Lijnbaan and the surrounding shopping streets. Outside the centre, Alexandrium Shopping Center and Zuidplein are two of the main options. You can also visit our shopping in Rotterdam section.
What can I do in Rotterdam if I enjoy outdoor activities?
There are parks, cycling routes, water activities and many other possibilities. Visit our activities section to discover more things to do in Rotterdam.
Where are the best parks in Rotterdam?
Visit our Rotterdam parks section to discover the city’s main green spaces.
What languages are spoken in Rotterdam besides Dutch?
Rotterdam is a very multicultural city and you will hear many different languages. English is widely spoken, particularly among younger people and in international companies, hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions.
How can I buy a train ticket from Rotterdam to other cities?
Visit our train section for more information about travelling by train from Rotterdam to other cities in the Netherlands and beyond.
How does public transport work in Rotterdam?
Visit our Rotterdam public transport guide, where we explain how to use the metro, trams, buses and other forms of transport.
What are the best events in Rotterdam?
Rotterdam hosts concerts, festivals, sporting events and many other activities throughout the year. Check our Rotterdam events calendar.
How can I connect to the Internet in Rotterdam as a tourist?
Many hotels, cafés, bars and public spaces offer free WiFi. You can also use a SIM card or eSIM to stay connected during your visit.
Where are the main markets in Rotterdam?
One of the best known is the Binnenrotte market beside Markthal. There are also markets in several other neighbourhoods. Visit our shopping and markets section for more information.
What is the best way to get from Rotterdam Airport to the city centre?
There are several options, including bus and metro, taxi and other transport services. Visit our Rotterdam Airport guide for detailed information.
What is social life like in Rotterdam for young people?
Rotterdam is a dynamic city with a wide range of leisure activities, including bars, concerts, festivals, museums, sports and cultural venues. Its modern, creative and multicultural character offers plenty of opportunities for an active social life.
Is Rotterdam an inclusive city for the LGBT+ community?
Yes. Rotterdam is an open and diverse city with bars, cafés, organisations and events aimed at the LGBT+ community.
Does Rotterdam offer good opportunities for entrepreneurs?
Yes. Rotterdam has an important business and innovation ecosystem. There are organisations and programmes that support entrepreneurs and businesses, particularly in sectors such as technology, logistics, sustainability and the circular economy.