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Rotterdam Revealed: A 4-Day Budget Adventure

Experience the charm of Rotterdam without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Rotterdam is the perfect destination for those seeking an affordable European adventure. Explore the stunning architecture and modern landmarks such as the Markthal or Erasmus Bridge, and visit the iconic Cube Houses for a truly unique experience. Save money by using public transportation or renting a bike, and enjoy affordable meals at local markets and food stalls.

Travel plan

• Check in at the Hotel Bazar, a quirky hotel with a Mediterranean feel and affordable prices.
• Visit the Cube Houses, the most iconic architectural feature of Rotterdam. Take a guided tour to learn about their history and see the inside of one of the houses.
• Check out the Markthal, a huge indoor market with colorful murals on the ceiling. Taste some local delicacies like herring or Dutch cheese.
• Walk around the Witte de Withstraat, a street full of trendy shops and art galleries. Have a coffee at Hopper, a cozy café with a retro vibe.
• Take a sunset walk along the river Maas. Enjoy the views of the city skyline and the Erasmus Bridge, one of Rotterdam's postcard landmarks.

• Start your day at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, a museum with a diverse collection of art and design from different periods. Don't miss the surreal works of René Magritte and Salvador Dalí.
• Have lunch at BIRD, a cultural hotspot with a café, restaurant, bar and live music venue all in one. Try some fusion cuisine like Korean tacos or Jerk chicken.
• Walk to the Kunsthal, a modern building with temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, photography and design. Check the program beforehand to see what's on.
• Head to Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, a grand church in the heart of the city. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of Rotterdam.
• End the night with a drink at the Witte Aap, a famous bar with a funky decor and a hipster crowd. It claims to be the first cocktail bar in Rotterdam.

• Rent a bike at UrbanGuides Rotterdam and explore the city's green side. Follow the cycle route to the Van Nelle Fabriek, a UNESCO world heritage site that used to be a coffee, tea and tobacco factory. It's now a creative hub for designers and entrepreneurs.
• Take a picnic to the Kralingse Plas, a lake with a forested park around it. Relax by the water and watch the ducks and swans.
• Visit the Dakpark, a rooftop park on top of a residential building. It has a community garden, a playground and a café with a terrace.
• Have dinner at the Fenix Food Factory, a food hall with local products like Rotterdamse sausage and artisanal beer. Eat at the communal tables for a social experience.
• Catch a movie at the LantarenVenster, a cinema with arthouse films and live music events. It's located in the Kop van Zuid, an up-and-coming area with skyscrapers and modern architecture.

• Start your day at the Laurenskwartier, a historic district with narrow alleys and small courtyards. Have breakfast at Lilith, a cozy café with homemade cakes and sandwiches.
• Visit the Trompenburg Gardens and Arboretum, a botanical garden with a huge collection of trees, plants and flowers. It's a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.
• Check out the Oude Haven, a charming harbor with old sailing ships and waterfront terraces. Take a water taxi to the Hotel New York, a former cruise ship terminal turned hotel and restaurant.
• Walk to the Witte Huis, a yellow Art Nouveau building that used to be the tallest residential tower in Europe. It has a café with a terrace on the top floor.
• End your trip with a drink at the Ballroom, a quirky bar with retro decor and a playful atmosphere. Try their signature cocktail, the Ballroom Bubbles.