Rotterdam Rediscovered: 4 Days of Family Fun on a Budget!

Discover endless fun and culture in Rotterdam, the perfect family destination!

19 July 2023

A family friendly trip to Rotterdam, Netherlands offers an enriching and exciting experience for all. Explore the city's modern architecture, such as the iconic Cube Houses and the stunning Market Hall, while enjoying various kid-friendly activities like the Rotterdam Zoo and the Maritime Museum. With its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful parks, and interactive attractions, Rotterdam promises a memorable vacation for the whole family.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Rotterdam's Marvels:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the funky Lilith Café and fuel up with their lip-smacking pancakes and freshly brewed coffee.
  • Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Cube Houses, a peculiar cluster of tilted cubes that will make you feel like you're in a whimsical world.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Witte de Withstraat, indulging in the plethora of art galleries, quirky boutiques, and hipster cafes.
  • Let your inner child loose at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, a treasure trove of art and weirdly wonderful curiosities.
  • Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at Fenix Food Factory, a bustling food hall where local vendors offer a mouthwatering array of gourmet delights.
Day 2

Cruising and Cuisine:

  • Embark on a thrilling harbor tour on the Spido boat, gliding past majestic ships and catching a glimpse of Rotterdam's bustling maritime scene.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant Markthal, a futuristic food market where you can sample an eclectic mix of international delicacies.
  • Head to Delfshaven, the charming historic district of Rotterdam, to wander its cobblestone streets, soak up the atmosphere, and indulge in some local brews at a traditional Dutch pub.
  • Discover the otherworldly beauty of the Floating Pavilion, a sustainable architectural marvel that seems to defy gravity.
  • Savor a delectable dinner at The Suicide Club, a rooftop restaurant and bar offering panoramic views over the city, accompanied by inventive cocktails.
Day 3

Family Fun Extravaganza:

  • Start your day off right with a delicious brunch at Biergarten, a laid-back outdoor beer garden that serves up mouthwatering food and refreshments.
  • Explore the bustling Rotterdam Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with a diverse array of animals from all corners of the globe.
  • Visit the impressive Euromast, an iconic tower that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  • Spend a thrilling afternoon at the Splashtours, where you can hop aboard an amphibious bus and glide through the city's streets before making a splash into the water.
  • Dine at Hotel New York, a historic landmark that once served as the headquarters of the Holland-America Line and now offers delectable seafood dishes in a captivating setting.
Day 4

Art, Nature, and Farewell:

  • Discover the innovative Kunsthal, a unique exhibition space that showcases a diverse range of contemporary art, photography, and design.
  • Escape the urban jungle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the picturesque Kralingse Bos, a beautiful park with serene lakes and lush greenery.
  • Indulge in a traditional Dutch pancake at Pannekoekenhuisje, a charming pancake house nestled in the heart of Rotterdam.
  • Wander through the vibrant and bohemian Oude Haven, a historic harbor transformed into a lively area with trendy bars, cafes, and picturesque water views.
  • Bid farewell to Rotterdam with a dinner at Groot Handelsgebouw's top floor, where you can savor delicious cuisine while enjoying stunning panoramic views of the city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Rotterdam by plane is to fly into Rotterdam The Hague Airport, which is 7.5 km from the city center. You can catch a direct flight to Rotterdam from many European cities such as London, Paris, and Berlin. Alternatively, you can also fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, which is about 50 km away from Rotterdam. From there, you can take a train or bus to Rotterdam.

Car

The best way to get to Rotterdam by car is to take the A16 motorway, which runs from Rotterdam in the south to Breda in the north. The journey from Amsterdam to Rotterdam takes about an hour, depending on traffic. Once you arrive in Rotterdam, you can park your car in one of the many public parking lots or garages located throughout the city.

Train

The best way to get to Rotterdam by train is to take a high-speed train to Rotterdam Centraal Station, which is the main train station in Rotterdam. You can catch a direct train to Rotterdam from many European cities such as Paris, Brussels, and Cologne. The train is a comfortable and convenient way to travel to Rotterdam, and it offers scenic views of the Dutch countryside.

Boat

The best way to get to Rotterdam by boat is to take a cruise from many ports in Northern Europe such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Hamburg. The cruise will arrive at the Port of Rotterdam, which is one of the largest ports in the world. Once you arrive, you can explore Rotterdam's many attractions or take a tour of the port itself.

Bus

The best way to get to Rotterdam by bus is to take a coach from many European cities such as London, Paris, and Berlin. The coach will arrive at Rotterdam Centraal Station, which is the main bus station in Rotterdam. The journey is usually quite long, but it can be a great way to see Europe while traveling to Rotterdam.

More travel plans

Rotterdam on a Budget: The Ultimate Family Adventure!

Rotterdam, Netherlands offers a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip filled with unique attractions and experiences. Explore the bustling Market Hall, where kids can indulge in their favorite snacks while learning about local produce. Take a delightful boat tour along Rotterdam's river, the Maas, to admire the iconic architecture, including the famous Cube Houses, followed by a visit to the interactive Maritime Museum, catering to both young and old explorers.

Weekend Wonders: Rotterdam’s Best Hidden Gems

Rotterdam, Netherlands is an exciting destination for tourists who enjoy modern urban landscapes and culture. The city features a varied collection of architectural designs, including the iconic Cube Houses and the innovative Markthal. Aside from sightseeing, visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant nightlife, festivals, and culinary experiences, all of which make Rotterdam a must-visit destination.

Rotterdam: Modern Marvels and Culinary Delights.

As a tourist in Rotterdam, visitors can expect to admire the stunning modern architecture of the city, explore its rich cultural offerings, and indulge in its world-renowned culinary scene. From the iconic Erasmus Bridge to the bustling Markthal market and the contemporary art galleries, Rotterdam is a dynamic and vibrant destination that has something for everyone. With its easy access to the rest of the Netherlands and Europe, it's the perfect place for a thrilling and unforgettable adventure.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Rotterdam

A romantic trip to Rotterdam, Netherlands offers a beautiful blend of modern and historic architecture to explore. Take a romantic walk along the canals and through the city's parks, like Kralingse Bos, or enjoy a romantic dinner at a trendy restaurant with panoramic views of the skyline. Additionally, surprise your loved one with a visit to the Markthal, an indoor market with a variety of cuisine and specialty shops.