Weekend in Rotterdam: Culture, Cuisine, and Charm

Discover the eclectic charm of Rotterdam - where modern architecture and historic sites collide.

22 April 2023

Rotterdam, Netherlands is a vibrant city filled with amazing architecture, culture, and history. As a tourist, you can explore the charming streets by foot or bike, and visit renowned attractions like the iconic Erasmus Bridge and the Rotterdam Market Hall. While there, be sure to indulge in local cuisine, such as stroopwafels and bitterballen, at one of the many cozy cafes or restaurants.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get Acquainted with Rotterdam

  • Check into the "CityHub Rotterdam," a futuristic hotel with pod-like sleeping chambers and virtual assistants
  • Wander the vibrant streets of Witte de Withstraat, lined with cafes, bars and galleries
  • Climb the Euromast tower for panoramic views of the city and harbor
  • Visit the famous Markthal to marvel at the colorful murals and savor some Dutch delicacies
  • Take a water taxi to the hip Katendrecht neighborhood and grab dinner at Fenix Food Factory, a food hall showcasing the city's best artisanal products
Day 2

Art and Architecture Adventure

  • Start with breakfast at the majestic Hotel New York, a 19th-century former headquarters of the Holland America Line
  • Explore the cutting-edge architecture of the Rotterdam Central Station and the Koolhaas-designed De Rotterdam tower
  • Wander the grounds of the Museum Park and visit the Boijmans van Beuningen Museum, home to a diverse collection of art from medieval to contemporary
  • Get your culture fix at the Nederlands Fotomuseum or the Kunsthal, a unique exhibition space with rotating shows
  • Enjoy a late lunch at the iconic Cafe Dudok, known for its tasty apple pie
Day 3

Discovering Rotterdam's Secret Spaces

  • Start with brunch at the trendy Kopi Soesoe, a cafe and social space run by young entrepreneurs
  • Take a bike ride or walk through the leafy neighborhoods of Kralingen and Hillegersberg, dotted with hidden parks and lakes
  • See a different side of the city at the Kunstblock, a network of alternative art venues and vintage shops
  • Head to the Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art, a hub for innovative exhibitions and events
  • Enjoy dinner at the hip BIRD, a live music venue serving up fusion cuisine and craft cocktails
Day 4

Escape to the Nature

  • Take a day trip to the Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site with 19 preserved windmills
  • Rent a boat and explore the scenic canals of the countryside
  • Visit the Biesbosch National Park, a vast wetland area that is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers
  • Sample some local beer and snacks at the Kaapse Brouwers brewery and taproom, housed in a former power plant
  • End your journey with a farewell meal at the sleek FG Food Labs or the cozy Restaurant De Matroos en het Meisje.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Rotterdam

Rotterdam, the city where bikes outnumber people and buildings are taller than the Dutch national football team. Get ready to experience a flat-out good time in the city that's known for its architecture, festivals, and cheese (what else could one want?).

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Rotterdam: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

Rotterdam, Netherlands offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with an array of exciting activities. Explore Rotterdam's iconic Erasmus Bridge, visit the interactive Maritime Museum for an immersive experience, and take a leisurely bike ride through the city's spacious parks and vibrant neighborhoods. Enjoy a delightful combination of modern architecture, cultural diversity, and a kid-friendly atmosphere that ensures an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Experience Rotterdam's Modern Marvels on a Budget

Experience the vibrant city of Rotterdam on a limited budget, where you can admire the stunning modern architecture, vibrant art scene, and bustling port. Take advantage of budget-friendly accommodation options such as hostels or Airbnb, and explore the city by bike, which is cheaper than public transit. Don't miss out on free attractions such as the Erasmus Bridge, Markthal, and the Boijmans van Beuningen Museum.

The Rotterdam Adventure: 5 Days of Fun and Exploration

Rotterdam, Netherlands is a vibrant and family-friendly destination offering a wide range of activities for all ages. Take a visit to the popular Rotterdam Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals, or explore the interactive exhibits at the Maritime Museum for a fun and educational experience. Don't miss taking a boat tour on the city's famous waterways to admire the stunning architecture and modern skyline of this bustling port city.

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.