Boat tours Rotterdam: discover Rotterdam from the water
February 25, 2025
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Rotterdam is not only our city, it is also the place where modern architecture, hip hotspots and vibrant culture come together. From the impressive Erasmus Bridge to the unique Cube Houses, Rotterdam offers everything you are looking for for an enjoyable weekend in the Netherlands. The city is becoming increasingly popular among both foreign tourists and the Dutch. But the best spots? Those can of course only be tipped by locals! In this article we take you along the most iconic sights, the hippest hotspots, the best places to store, the nicest places to stay and we give you the best weekend tips for an unforgettable stay in this dynamic city. These are our insider tips for Rotterdam!
The most beautiful sights in Rotterdam
Looking for a weekend getaway in the Netherlands that offers more than shopping and great restaurants? Rotterdam is the city for you! This experimental and hip city is known for its impressive and progressive architecture. From the iconic cube houses to the imposing Erasmus Bridge, and from the world-famous Market Hall to the modern Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, you won't get bored. Curious about the best photogenic spots and hidden gems? Read our article with The most beautiful Instagram-worthy spots in Rotterdam. Collected by us locals, so insider tips guaranteed!
1. The Market Hall
The Market Hall is one of Rotterdam's most iconic landmarks. Inside this spectacular building you will find a covered market with all kinds of stores and catering establishments. It's a fun place to score some goodies, but it's also one of Rotterdam's architectural marvels. The colorful ceiling is a work of art in itself!
2. Central Station
When you travel to Rotterdam by train, you immediately arrive at one of the city's most beautiful architectural hotspots. Rotterdam Central Station was officially opened in 2014, after ten years of renovations, and has been an impressive calling card for the city ever since. This station is literally the gateway to the center of Rotterdam.
Within the station hall and around the station you will find countless eateries, hip coffee shops and fine places to work. Our favorite address here is Lebkov, a cozy place for a good coffee or lunch.
3. The bridges of Rotterdam (Erasmus Bridge, Willems Bridge and the Hef)
The Erasmus Bridge, also called the "Swan," is perhaps the most famous of Rotterdam's bridges, but the Willemsbrug and De Hef also have a rich history and are icons of the city. These bridges are not only functional but also beautiful to see!
4. The Cube Houses
The Cube Houses are certainly among Rotterdam's most famous architecture. These unique, angled houses (designed by Piet Blom) are a striking contrast to the rest of the city and offer a glimpse into progressive urban planning! The houses are literally cubes, but rotated 45 degrees. Most of the Cube Houses are occupied, but there are also model homes to view. You can also spend the night in a Cube House!
Next to the Cube Houses, Piet Blom had the Blaaktoren built adjacent to the central library. Because of its shape, the Blak Tower quickly became popularly known as "The Pencil Tower. Both are at least worth a visit.
5. The Euromast
Want to see Rotterdam from above? The Euromast offers panoramic views of the city and port. A visit to the Euromast gives you an impressive overview of Rotterdam's modern skyline.
6. The Court Arches
The Hofbogen is a former railroad viaduct that is now a creative hotspot. Between Hofplein and the old station you will find hip cafes, workspaces and boutiques in an industrial setting. A fun and hip place to admire the unique Rotterdam architecture.
7. Interesting museums in Rotterdam
In Rotterdam you can find several interesting museums. Our recommended ones? These are:
Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot: this iconic museum is of interest to art lovers and architecture enthusiasts. The art collection of the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum has been made accessible to the public here, but the exterior is also a picture!
World Museum: the World Museum takes you on a journey through the different cultures of the world, with exhibitions on history, art and traditions of different countries.
Remastered: looking for something unique? Remastered is all about digital art and the interaction between technology and creativity. It is an innovative way to experience art.
Maritime Museum: For a look into the rich maritime history of Rotterdam, the Maritime Museum is highly recommended. Here you will learn all about shipping, trade and the city's role as a port city.
Kunsthal: The Kunsthal is a museum known for its dynamic exhibitions, contemporary art and historical collections.
The best places to store in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the city for shop lovers! From designer stores to vintage finds, you'll find everything. The Meent and the Witte de Withstraat are two of the nicest shopping streets in Rotterdam, with a mix of boutiques, concept stores and hip cafes. Are you looking for unique items? Then you should definitely visit the nicest vintage stores in Rotterdam. And if you're still looking for fun accessories to dress up your home, take a look at The nicest boutique stores in Rotterdam.
Want to discover all about shopping in Rotterdam? Take a look at our shopping in Rotterdam page for the best shopping addresses and tips.
Original activities and to do's in Rotterdam
Rotterdam offers more than the standard city experiences. Looking for something unique? We have already undertaken many original activities in Rotterdam and collected the best insider tips for you. How about abseiling from the Euromast? Prefer something less heroic? Discover the hidden gem Garden Schoonoord, a quiet oasis in the middle of the city. Want to learn more about Rotterdam as a port city? Then A boat tour of Rotterdam definitely fun to do!
For a complete list of original activities in Rotterdam you can visit our to do's in Rotterdam page, where you will find many more surprises to make your weekend a special experience.
Unique tip for cozy night out in Rotterdam
Above we already wrote out some original activities you can do in Rotterdam, but there is one specific tip where you can really think out-of-the-box. At Rembrandt of Wine you step into a room where it's dark, the paint almost seems to give off light and after only five minutes you say out loud to your friends: this is so much fun. You get a canvas in front of you, a few bright colors on a plate and then it's up to you. You can mess around and it certainly doesn't have to be perfect. And while you watch your painting slowly light up, people pour. It's already in the name, but there are unlimited drinks (water, soda and wine) during this activity. Delicious!
So if we have to sum it up in a nutshell, Rembrandt of Wine is an original night out that we can especially recommend to do with girlfriends. It's guaranteed to be a lot of laughs!
Rotterdam's coziest neighborhoods
Rotterdam has many different neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character. Modern and old come together here and that is exactly what makes Rotterdam such a special and contemporary city. Discover here the nicest districts of Rotterdam:
The Old Port: this is one of the oldest ports in Rotterdam and is now a vibrant entertainment area with waterfront terraces. Visit the iconic White House and the Marine Museum and really just come here for the fun!
Historic Delfshaven: this neighborhood breathes the history of Rotterdam, with charming streets and authentic buildings. We share all Our tips for visiting Historic Delfshaven.
Kop van Zuid: the modern heart of Rotterdam, with the famous Erasmus Bridge and Wilhelminapier as icons. In this district you will find popular hotspots such as Hotel New York and the Foodhallen, as well as the chic Aqua Asia and the panoramic rooftop bar of nhow.
Katendrecht: this neighborhood has developed into a hip hot spot, where various cultures come together. Enjoy the cozy restaurants, bars and stores, and discover the hip atmosphere of this lively area. These are The nicest places on Katendrecht!
The Shipping Quarter: a historic harbor area with creative workplaces and some great places to eat and drink. This is where we can be found quite often on weekends! We share our favorite spots in our article with Funniest hotspots in the Shipping Quarter.
Rotterdam North: this emerging neighborhood offers a cozy atmosphere with the popular Saturday market Rotterdam Oogstmarkt and hip hotspots like Wolly on the Waterkant.
Keile District: a trendy, industrial neighborhood with a creative vibe. Here you will find workspaces, hip hotspots and the alternative vibe that reminds us of Berlin. Read our tips for the Keile District!
Special places to stay in Rotterdam
Are you going on a city trip to Rotterdam and looking for a nice place to stay? Get inspired by Our tips for accommodation in Rotterdam and the following lists:
Affordable accommodation in Rotterdam: sleep in a stylish boutique hotel in Rotterdam without breaking your budget? Check out our list of nice hotels in Rotterdam under €150 per night.
Affordable accommodation in Rotterdam: Looking for a budget-friendly option? We have the nicest hotels for less than €50 a night in Rotterdam collected, ideal for when you want to save on your stay to do even more fun things in the city.
The tastiest hotspots and culinary addresses in Rotterdam
If there's one thing we love about Rotterdam, it's the abundance of culinary hotspots that manage to surprise locals and visitors alike. We have listed the best and tastiest spots for you:
The best sushi in Rotterdam: are you a sushi lover? These are the sushi spots you can't miss in Rotterdam.
The best Italian restaurants in Rotterdam: for the tastiest pastas, pizzas and other Italian dishes in Rotterdam.
The best cocktail bars in Rotterdam: enjoy a delicious cocktail in one of Rotterdam's trendy bars.
Tapas in Rotterdam: fancy an evening tapas in Rotterdam? These are the places where you can taste the most delicious Spanish snacks.
The best fresh seafood restaurants in Rotterdam: you'll find insane places for lovers of fresh seafood in Rotterdam.
The best vegan restaurants in Rotterdam: from plant-based food to innovative vegan dishes, you'll find unwijs nice vegan restaurants in Rotterdam.
Fine dining in Rotterdam: these fine dining restaurants in Rotterdam offer a high-level culinary experience.
Cheap eating out under €10.00 per person in Rotterdam: Want great food without breaking your budget? We have The best options in Rotterdam for a tasty meal under €10.00.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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