Best 20 things to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Rotterdam, a city brimming with eccentricities and dynamic architectural masterpieces that will leave you swooning. As you embark on your Rotterdam adventure, prepare to be astounded by the Cube Houses, where gravity seems to have had one too many cocktails. Take a leisurely stroll across Erasmus Bridge and marvel at its striking resemblance to a swan on stilts. And of course, no visit to Rotterdam would be complete without a trip to the quirky Markthal, where even the fruits and veggies wear their fanciest hats. Get ready to have your senses tickled in this city of surprises!

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1. De Kuip (Feyenoord Stadium)

4.5 (16945)

Van Zandvlietplein 1, 3077 AA Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to De Kuip, the Feyenoord Stadium in Rotterdam! This legendary sporting arena is not just any old boring brick and mortar, oh no. It's a roaring cauldron of football excitement, where 51,117 fans gather to chant, cheer, and occasionally scream if their team is losing. With an atmosphere so electric, even the grass on the pitch gets goosebumps! Step inside De Kuip, and you'll find yourself in a city within a city for football fans. The seating here is carefully designed to ensure that everyone has a perfect view of the game, unless you're a tall person in front of a short person, then you're more likely to become a human sun hat. And don't worry about the intermittent Dutch weather ruining your experience, the stadium has a retractable roof like a giant Tupperware lid, protecting you from rain showers as if they were mere crumbs on leftovers. Not only is De Kuip steeped in football history, it's also a place for indulging in delicious snacks. From piping hot "bitterballen" (deep-fried balls of meaty heaven) to gooey cheese-filled "kaassoufflés" that will make your taste buds dance, the stadium offers an array of culinary delights guaranteed to expand your waistline faster than a Feyenoord counterattack. So, whether you're a die-hard football fan or just someone looking for a lively experience, De Kuip in Rotterdam promises a good time with football madness, unapologetic cheers, and the opportunity to witness the Dutch art of playing "kick the ball" reach its highest form. Just remember to bring your best singing voice and leave your fear of heights at home!

www.dekuip.nl

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2. Witte de Withstraat

Witte de Withstraat, 3012 Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Witte de Withstraat, the bustling street in Rotterdam where history meets hipness! As you stroll down this vibrant avenue, prepare yourself for a delightful amalgamation of arty hangouts, trendy boutiques, and enough culinary wonders to make your taste buds dance a conga line. Whether you're an art lover, a fashion enthusiast, or simply a hungry traveler, Witte de Withstraat has got you covered like a colorful art mural on a rainy day. Calling all culture vultures and art aficionados! Witte de Withstraat is your paradise. Hop from one contemporary art gallery to another, where thought-provoking exhibitions live harmoniously with obscure installations that make you scratch your head and say, "Hmm, interesting choice." Just don't be surprised if you find yourself starring blankly at a canvas, completely convinced that someone played a prank by displaying an entirely white painting... but don't worry, your confused expression is considered art in this neighborhood. Fashion-forward folks, brace yourselves! Witte de Withstraat is a wardrobe wonderland that will make your inner fashionista squeal with delight. Here, you'll find boutiques offering trendy threads that will make you look cooler than an ice cube in sunglasses. Feel free to strut your stuff in the latest fashion trends, but be warned - the street is so fashionable that even the pigeons here accessorize with tiny feathered hats, so make sure your outfit is on point! Foodies, brace your taste buds for an explosion of flavors and cuisines! Witte de Withstraat is a veritable feast of international eateries that will teleport your palate around the globe in a single bite. From delectable sushi to finger-licking tacos, and everything in between, this street is a gastronomic adventure waiting to happen. However, don't be too mesmerized by the array of delicious dishes, or you might accidentally order a dish so spicy it has its own fire extinguisher... proceed with caution! In conclusion, Witte de Withstraat is more than just a street; it's a vibrant whirlwind of contemporary art, fashion, and culinary delights. So grab your sense of humor, your love for the arts, and your empty stomach, and let this lively street take you on an unforgettable adventure – and don't forget to keep an eye out for those fashion-forward pigeons!

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3. Van Nelle Fabriek

4.4 (2518)

Van Nelleweg 1, 3044 BC Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to the Van Nelle Fabriek, where history and hipness collide like a clumsy ballet dancer trying to navigate a trendy dance floor. This architectural gem, located in Rotterdam, proudly showcases its industrial roots with towering smokestacks that seem to say, "Hey, we used to churn out coffee and tobacco here, but now we're all about good vibes and artisanal sandwiches." Step inside this quirky time capsule and you'll be greeted by light-filled spaces that make you question whether you're in a factory or an Instagram influencer's dream photo shoot.

www.vannellefabriekrotterdam.com

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4. Kralingse Plas

4.6 (333)

Kralingen Lake, 3062 Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Kralingse Plas, the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Rotterdam! This beautiful lake is like a secret oasis, where sun-seeking locals and eager ducks coexist in harmony. With its vibrant green surroundings and sparkling blue waters, it's the ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely picnic or challenge your friends to a not-so-serious paddleboat race. Don't be surprised if you find yourself wanting to dive right in – just remember, the local ducks are the true masters of synchronized swimming, so prepare to feel woefully inadequate!

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5. Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk

4.5 (2274)

Grotekerkplein 27, 3011 GC Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk in Rotterdam, where history and beauty come together to form a quirky yet mesmerizing experience. This towering church stands proudly like a giant Dutch tulip, except instead of petals, you'll find stunning stained glass windows that will make your eyes sparkle like tulip bulbs on a sunny day. As you enter, make sure to dodge the countless wooden beams that seem to have a secret agenda of playing human limbo, testing the flexibility of unsuspecting visitors.

laurenskerkrotterdam.nl

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6. Fenix Food Factory

4.4 (5209)

Nico Koomanskade 1025, 3072 LM Rotterdam, Netherlands

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Rotterdam, Fenix Food Factory proudly stands as a veritable mecca for food enthusiasts—where heavenly aromas and delectable treats titillate the senses. As if crafted by culinary wizards themselves, this foodie haven offers a feast for the eyes with its industrial-chic décor and a smorgasbord of gastronomic wonders to explore. Prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey, where you can sip on handcrafted beers, ravish in artisanal cheeses, and indulge in divine delicacies, as you revel in the lively atmosphere and delightful chaos that is the epitome of Rotterdam's food scene.

www.fenixfoodfactory.nl

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7. Markthal

Markthal, Verlengde Nieuwstraat, 3011 MD Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to the Markthal in Rotterdam, where the saying "don't play with your food" is thrown out the window as you enter this foodie's paradise! Brace yourself for a feast for your eyes and taste buds, as this horseshoe-shaped gem proudly displays an array of culinary delights that will make you want to hug every food stall like a long-lost friend. From fresh seafood that'll have Nemo blushing to cheeses that would make the mice from Tom and Jerry weep with joy, the Markthal is a food haven that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters while leaving you salivating for more.

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8. Erasmus Bridge

4.6 (12155)

Erasmusbrug, 3011 BN Rotterdam, Netherlands

If you're in Rotterdam and find yourself in desperate need of a bridge (which, let's face it, happens to the best of us), fear not! The Erasmus Bridge has arrived to save the day, and it kicks some serious architectural butt. With its elegant curve resembling a laid-back cat stretching out for a nap, this bridge adds a touch of sophistication to the otherwise chaotic river traffic below. So, whether you're searching for an A+ selfie spot or just want to show off your keen talent for bridge appreciation, make sure to check out the Erasmus Bridge - the coolest thing to happen to Rotterdam since the invention of cheese on a stick.

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9. Veerhaven

4.7 (44)

Veerhaven, 3016 Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Veerhaven, the charming little port nestled in the heart of Rotterdam. Here, you can witness a delightful tango between impressive vessels and rambunctious seagulls, whereas the latter seem to have taken up acrobatics as a serious career choice. As you strut along the waterfront, make sure to stop by the quirkily mismatched benches, where people-watching takes an unexpected turn into the realm of avant-garde fashion. So grab your camera and prepare to indulge in the mesmerizing chaos that is Veerhaven, where boats and birds coexist in perfect disarray.

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10. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

4.4 (3685)

Museumpark 18, 3015 CX Rotterdam, Netherlands

Hidden amidst the vibrant city of Rotterdam, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is like a quirky treasure chest waiting to be explored. Filled to the brim with a mishmash of artistic oddities and unexpected treasures, this museum will surely transport you to a world where Salvador Dali and Vincent van Gogh could have created a surrealist tag team. Marvel at the peculiar artworks, and don’t be fooled by that one peculiar sculpture in the corner—yes, it's just a broom and a shoe, but trust me, it's *revolutionary*.

www.boijmans.nl

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11. Foodhallen Rotterdam

4.1 (2197)

Wilhelminakade 58, 3072 AR Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Foodhallen Rotterdam, where the Netherlands' culinary prowess exists in a realm of delicious eccentricity. Prepare to indulge in a whirlwind of flavors as you navigate through this foodie paradise, reminiscent of a gastronomic version of Alice's Wonderland. With an array of delectable delights ranging from mouth-watering Gouda-filled bitterballen to sinful stroopwafel ice cream sandwiches, Foodhallen Rotterdam promises to leave your taste buds dancing, your stomach satisfied, and your diet temporarily abandoned.

foodhallen.nl

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12. Delfshaven

Delfshaven, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Delfshaven, the quirky sidekick of Rotterdam! This adorable neighborhood is like a mini version of the city, but with a delightful twist. As you stroll along the picturesque canals, you'll find a delightful mix of historic charm and hipster vibes, making it the perfect spot to grab a locally brewed beer and contemplate whether your beanie is ironic enough. Forget about GPS! Navigating Delfshaven is as easy as following the aroma of freshly baked stroopwafels. Don't be alarmed if you stumble upon excited locals trying to recreate the Battle of Trafalgar in a pond – they take historic reenactments pretty seriously here. But hey, it's not every day you witness old sea captains chasing rubber ducks instead of the Spanish Armada! Make sure to swing by the world's cutest windmill, known as "Instagrammable Me." This photogenic beauty has mastered the smoldering look, thanks to its perfectly tilted sails and dramatic backdrop of charming cobblestone streets. And after a day of exploring, don't worry about finding a place to sleep. Just follow the sound of tires screeching at the windmill – you're likely to find a trendy hostel nestled between a bike lane and a taco truck. Trust me, the room with the view of a towering cheese wheel is worth it!

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13. Euromast

4.4 (14514)

Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam, Netherlands

Are you ready to embark on a sky-high adventure in Rotterdam? Look no further than the Euromast, a towering structure that offers breathtaking views of the city while sending a gentle breeze through your hair. Daredevils can even take a thrilling ride in the rotating Euroscoop, where you'll spin and scream as if you're on a carnival ride - but with the added bonus of unparalleled city vistas. So, grab your camera and get ready to have your socks knocked off (figuratively speaking, of course) at the Euromast!

www.euromast.nl

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14. Kunsthal Rotterdam

4.4 (5933)

Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341, 3015 AA Rotterdam, Netherlands

Step into the whimsical wonderland of Kunsthal Rotterdam, where art is not just meant to be admired but to confuse the living daylights out of you. Explore the mind-boggling exhibitions that will make you question if you've stumbled into a parallel universe or just accidentally downed one too many espressos. Don't forget to pack your sense of humor, as you'll need it to decipher the abstract masterpieces scattered throughout this art labyrinth.

www.kunsthal.nl

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15. SS Rotterdam

4.5 (4397)

3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25, 3072 AM Rotterdam, Netherlands

SS Rotterdam, the floating diva of Rotterdam, is an exquisite blend of elegance and quirkiness. This mighty lady of the sea has retired from her glamorous life of sailing to offer you an unforgettable experience on land. With its captivating retro-chic design, the ship oozes charm, making you feel like you've stepped into a time-machine, except it serves delicious cocktails instead of weird futuristic snacks.

ssrotterdam.nl

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16. De Rotterdam

4.5 (1252)

Wilhelminakade 139, 3072 AP Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to De Rotterdam, where the city's architecture is as sleek and stylish as the locals strutting past in their designer clogs. This towering masterpiece resembles a Tetris game gone wild, with its stacked blocks fitting together like Dutch cheese slices on a herring sandwich. Take a moment to marvel at its audacity and wonder how they managed to create a building so enormous that even the daring pigeons have given up trying to fly over it.

www.derotterdam.nl

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17. Cube Houses

4.4 (14909)

Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Rotterdam, the city of architectural wonders! One of the must-see attractions here are the Cube Houses, a quirky reminder that architects were clearly thinking "outside the box" when designing these peculiar abodes. These tilted and stacked homes resemble a cluster of giant dice, so whether you're a fan of rolling the dice or just looking for a unique photo op, these Cube Houses are totally Instagram-worthy!

kubuswoning.nl

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18. Sonneveld House

4.5 (600)

Jongkindstraat 12, 3015 CG Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to the quirky and eccentric Sonneveld House in Rotterdam, where modernism meets a secret talent for time travel! Step into a world of sleek lines and total elegance as you explore this architectural gem. With its charming combination of bizarreness and timelessness, you'll find yourself wondering if you've stepped into a wacky museum or an alien spacecraft disguised as a house. Don't be fooled by its unassuming exterior – this is one place that will transport you to a whole new dimension of architectural marvels!

www.huissonneveld.nl

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19. Rotterdam Zoo

4.6 (31460)

Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Rotterdam Zoo, where the animal kingdom comes to rock and roll! This vibrant zoo is more than just a place to spot exotic creatures; it's like a wild party where elephants dance the tango and penguins breakdance like nobody's watching. Prepare to be amazed as you explore the zoo's lush habitats, where the inhabitants are as flamboyant as the city itself.

www.diergaardeblijdorp.nl

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20. Museum Rotterdam

4.3 (5416)

Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Museum Rotterdam in Rotterdam, where history comes alive with a twist of quirkiness! Marvel at the city's transformation over the centuries as you explore the museum's fascinating exhibits. Be prepared to meet quirky characters from Rotterdam's past, who might just pop out of the exhibits when you least expect it.

www.maritiemmuseum.nl

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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.

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