Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, is a vibrant, modern metropolis known for its innovative architecture, bustling port, and rich cultural scene. Unlike many European cities, Rotterdam was extensively rebuilt after World War II, giving it a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary design.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or an architecture enthusiast, Rotterdam has something to offer everyone. In this guide, I’ll take you through the top must-see attractions in Rotterdam, providing detailed information on their locations, how to get there, discounts, ticket prices, personal experiences, recommendation ratings, and booking platforms.
1. The Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen)
The Cube Houses are one of Rotterdam’s most iconic architectural marvels. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, these striking, tilted cube-shaped houses are a must-see for any visitor.
Location
The Cube Houses are located at Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam, near the Blaak Station.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Take Metro lines A, B, or C to Blaak Station. The Cube Houses are just a short walk from the station.
– By Tram: Tram lines 21 and 24 also stop at Blaak Station.
– By Car: There are parking garages nearby, such as the Kiphof or Markthal parking garages.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
– Entry Fee: To visit the Show Cube Museum, there is an entry fee of approximately €3.00 for adults and €2.00 for children.
– Discounts: Students and seniors may be eligible for discounted tickets.
Personal Experience
Walking through the Cube Houses feels like stepping into a surreal, modern art installation. The interior of the Show Cube Museum is surprisingly spacious, with innovative use of space and light. The top floor offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area, including the nearby Market Hall and Blaak Station.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Booking Platforms
Tickets for the Show Cube Museum can be purchased directly at the entrance or online through the official website or other travel platforms like GetYourGuide.
2. Markthal (Market Hall)
The Markthal is a stunning architectural and culinary destination in Rotterdam. This horseshoe-shaped building houses a vast indoor market with food stalls, restaurants, and apartments.
Location
The Markthal is located at Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam, close to the Cube Houses.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Blaak Station (lines A, B, C).
– By Tram: Blaak Station (lines 21 and 24).
– By Car: Parking is available in the underground garage directly beneath the Markthal.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
Entry to the Markthal is free. However, the prices for food and goods vary by vendor.
Personal Experience
The Markthal is a feast for the senses. The vibrant, colorful ceiling artwork, titled “Horn of Plenty,” is mesmerizing. The variety of food stalls offers everything from traditional Dutch snacks to international delicacies. It’s a fantastic place to grab a bite and experience the local food culture.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Booking Platforms
No booking is required to enter the Markthal. If you wish to participate in a guided tour, tickets can be booked through platforms like Viator or the official Markthal website.
3. Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug)
The Erasmus Bridge, affectionately known as “The Swan,” is a symbol of Rotterdam. This stunning cable-stayed bridge connects the northern and southern parts of the city and offers spectacular views.
Location
The Erasmus Bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas River, connecting the neighborhoods of Kop van Zuid and the city center.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Wilhelminaplein Station (lines D and E) on the south side, or Leuvehaven Station (line D and E) on the north side.
– By Tram: Tram lines 20, 23, and 25 cross the bridge.
– By Car: There are parking garages in both neighborhoods near the bridge.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
Walking or cycling across the bridge is free. Boat tours that pass under the bridge may have varied prices.
Personal Experience
The Erasmus Bridge is not just a mode of transportation but a work of art. Walking across it, especially at sunset, provides breathtaking views of the Rotterdam skyline and the harbor. It’s a popular spot for photographers and tourists alike.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Booking Platforms
For those interested in boat tours that pass under the bridge, tickets can be booked through websites like Spido, GetYourGuide, and Viator.
4. Kunsthal Rotterdam
Kunsthal Rotterdam is a leading cultural institution that hosts a diverse range of temporary exhibitions in art, photography, design, and more.
Location
The Kunsthal is located at Westzeedijk 341, 3015 AA Rotterdam, in the Museumpark area.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Eendrachtsplein Station (line A, B, or C) is about a 10-minute walk.
– By Tram: Tram lines 7 and 20 stop near the Museumpark.
– By Car: Parking is available at the Museumpark car park.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
– Entry Fee: Approximately €14.00 for adults, €12.00 for seniors, and free for children under 18.
– Discounts: Students and Museumkaart holders receive discounted or free entry.
Personal Experience
Kunsthal Rotterdam always has something new and exciting to offer. The rotating exhibitions ensure there’s always something fresh to see, from contemporary art to historical retrospectives. The building itself, designed by Rem Koolhaas, is an architectural highlight.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Booking Platforms
Tickets can be purchased on the Kunsthal’s official website or at the entrance.
5. Maritime Museum Rotterdam
The Maritime Museum Rotterdam showcases the city’s rich maritime history with interactive exhibits and historical ships.
Location
The Maritime Museum is located at Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam, in the heart of the city.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Beurs Station (lines A, B, and C) or Leuvehaven Station (line D and E).
– By Tram: Tram lines 8, 20, 23, and 25 stop nearby.
– By Car: Parking is available at nearby garages such as the Erasmusbrug or Beurs-WTC.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
– Entry Fee: Approximately €14.00 for adults, €10.00 for children, and free for children under 4.
– Discounts: Family tickets and group discounts are available.
Personal Experience
The Maritime Museum is fascinating for all ages. The interactive exhibits, such as the Offshore Experience, provide hands-on learning about the maritime industry. The outdoor harbor area, with historical ships, is particularly enjoyable.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Booking Platforms
Tickets can be purchased online through the museum’s official website or at the entrance.
6. Euromast Tower
The Euromast Tower is the tallest building in Rotterdam, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond from its observation deck.
Location
The Euromast is located at Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam, near the Het Park.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Dijkzigt Station (line A, B, or C) is about a 15-minute walk.
– By Tram: Tram lines 8 and 20 stop nearby.
– By Car: Parking is available at the Euromast car park.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
– Entry Fee: Approximately €11.50 for adults, €7.50 for children, and free for children under 4.
– Discounts: Combination tickets with other attractions and family discounts are available.
Personal Experience
The Euromast Tower offers the best views in Rotterdam. The observation deck provides a 360-degree view, and the brasserie is a great place to enjoy a meal with a view. For the adventurous, there’s even an option to abseil down the tower.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Booking Platforms
Tickets can be purchased on the Euromast’s official website or at the entrance.
7. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is one of the oldest museums in the Netherlands, featuring a vast collection of art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. The museum is currently undergoing renovation, but its extensive collection can be viewed at Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, the world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility.
Location
Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen is located at Museumpark 18, 3015 CX Rotterdam, adjacent to the original museum building.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Eendrachtsplein Station (line A, B, or C) is a short walk away.
– By Tram: Tram lines 7 and 20 stop at the Museumpark.
– By Car: Parking is available at the Museumpark car park.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
– Entry Fee: Approximately €20.00 for adults, €10.00 for children aged 13-18, and free for children under 13.
– Discounts: Students and Museumkaart holders receive discounted or free entry.
Personal Experience
Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to explore the museum’s entire collection, including works not on regular display. The innovative design of the depot, with its mirrored exterior and rooftop forest, is itself a work of art. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the collection and the depot’s operations.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Booking Platforms
Tickets can be purchased online through the official website or at the entrance.
8. Fenix Food Factory
Fenix Food Factory is a bustling food hall located in the historic Fenix warehouse, offering a variety of local and artisanal foods. It’s a great place to sample Rotterdam’s culinary delights in a vibrant, social setting.
Location
The Fenix Food Factory is located at Veerlaan 19D, 3072 AN Rotterdam, in the Katendrecht district.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Rijnhaven Station (line D and E) is about a 10-minute walk.
– By Tram: Tram lines 20, 23, and 25 stop nearby.
– By Car: Parking is available in the surrounding area.
Discounts and Prices
Entry to the food hall is free. Prices for food and drinks vary by vendor.
Personal Experience
The atmosphere at Fenix Food Factory is lively and inviting. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy a meal or snack, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors by the water. The selection of foods, from fresh bread and cheese to craft beer and cider, highlights the best of local produce.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Booking Platforms
No booking is required to enter the Fenix Food Factory. For events and special tastings, tickets can be purchased on their official website or Eventbrite.
9. Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp)
Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, is one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Europe. It offers a diverse array of animal exhibits and botanical gardens, making it a perfect destination for families and animal lovers.
Location
The zoo is located at Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Blijdorp Station (line E) is about a 15-minute walk.
– By Tram: Tram line 25 stops nearby.
– By Car: Parking is available at the zoo’s car park.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
– Entry Fee: Approximately €25.00 for adults, €21.00 for children aged 3-12, and free for children under 3.
– Discounts: Annual passes and family tickets offer savings.
Personal Experience
Rotterdam Zoo is a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. The Oceanium, an extensive aquarium section, and the African Savannah exhibit are particularly impressive. The zoo’s beautifully landscaped gardens and well-designed enclosures make it a pleasure to explore.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 5/5
Booking Platforms
Tickets can be purchased online through the zoo’s official website or at the entrance.
10. SS Rotterdam
The SS Rotterdam is a retired ocean liner that has been transformed into a hotel and museum. Docked permanently in the Katendrecht district, it offers a unique glimpse into the history of luxury cruise travel.
Location
The SS Rotterdam is docked at 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25, 3072 AM Rotterdam.
How to Get There
– By Metro: Rijnhaven Station (line D and E) followed by a short walk or bus ride.
– By Bus: Bus line 77 stops at the SS Rotterdam.
– By Car: Parking is available on-site.
Discounts and Ticket Prices
– Entry Fee: Tours of the ship cost approximately €16.00 for adults and €9.50 for children.
– Discounts: Combination tickets for hotel guests and family discounts are available.
Personal Experience
Touring the SS Rotterdam is like stepping back in time to the golden age of ocean travel. The ship’s interiors are beautifully preserved, and guided tours provide fascinating insights into its history and operations. Staying in one of the hotel’s cabins is an experience in itself, offering unique accommodation with a nautical twist.
Recommendation Rating
Rating: 4.5/5
Booking Platforms
Tickets for tours and hotel bookings can be made on the SS Rotterdam’s official website or through major travel booking platforms.
Rotterdam is a city that continuously surprises and delights with its blend of modern architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. From the iconic Cube Houses and bustling Markthal to the serene Euromast Tower and historic SS Rotterdam, each attraction offers a unique perspective on what makes this city special.
