Shopping, eating out and dancing on the Meent Rotterdam
November 24, 2024
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Rotterdam's parks are beloved and for good reason. Green oases, beautiful lakes, colorful flowers and a mix of old and new monuments characterize Rotterdam's parks. Rotterdam's city life is great, but every now and then it is very nice to unwind in one of the most beautiful parks. Want to go for a walk, catch up with friends or are you looking for the best hotspots near the parks of Rotterdam? In our opinion, these are the five most beautiful parks in Rotterdam!
1. The Kralingen Forest
Already several times the Kralingse Bos has been nominated 'Best Public Space of the Netherlands'. The Kralingse Bos is therefore one of the most beautiful parks of Rotterdam and also the largest and greenest recreational area of the city. A very nice park for a culinary outing and for sporting activities, such as running and water sports, but there is also plenty to do for children. Especially on summer days, the Kralingse Bos is popular with many Rotterdammers. It is a place where people like to come to chat and chill, to picnic, for a barbecue and even to swim. But above all, the park is great for enjoying this beautiful piece of greenery in Rotterdam. So the Kralingse Bos is definitely one of the best parks you can find in Rotterdam.
Along the Kralingse Plas you will find nice hotspots for a getaway. For example, Brasserie Woodz is a cozy place to enjoy a delicious meal in Kralingen. Another must is De Tuin, where you can sit cosily overlooking the lake. Want to get out on the water? Then you can rent a boat or take a lesson at Zeilschool De Lelie. The historic windmills on the lake add an extra special touch to the landscape. For an active day in the forest, visit Klimpark Fun Forest, where you can climb and clamber among the treetops.
2. The Park
You can find Het Park at the foot of the Euromast. This is the first official park of Rotterdam and therefore the name of this park is simply 'Het Park'. People from Rotterdam also call it the Euromast Park. The park is beautifully landscaped along the river Maas, next to the Scheepvaartkwartier and close to the city center. The park was designed by architect Zochers and his son. The character of this park is reflected in its many imposing trees and large expanses of grass. Did you know that you can find as many as 60 species of trees here? You can take a beautiful walk in the Park along the lawns and through the woods, as well as rest on the lookout hill and take a look at the Norwegian Seamen's Church.
This park is our favorite for a leisurely stroll or a picnic overlooking the Euromast. Want to soak up some culture? Then take a look at the Norwegian Seamen's Church. In the summer, you'll find many Rotterdammers enjoying a barbecue and music here. For a culinary experience, visit the Harbour Club, where you can enjoy refined dishes in green surroundings. Would you prefer something simpler? Try the well-known meatball from De Ballentent. For a unique high-altitude experience, dine at the Euromast, where you'll have a panoramic view of the city. Prefer a cozy café in the park? Then Dudok and Parqiet are great spots to stop by!
3. The Vroesen Park
The Vroesenpark is the park in the north of Rotterdam. Since 1929 you can find this beautifully landscaped city park, right across from Blijdorp Zoo. Famous among Rotterdam residents are the storks that nest around the zoo and the park. So don't be surprised if you see a stork searching for food in Vroesenpark. On sunny days, the park's lawns are full of city people. The place is cozy and beautiful. For a cozy drink in the park you can go to the Vroesen Pavilion, a fine place for a drink and a snack. Would you rather have an extensive breakfast? Then go to Breakfast in Rotterdam HQ, where you will find the most delicious dishes on the menu.
4. The Museum Park
This special park in Rotterdam is surrounded by six museums, hence the name The Museum Park. It is a modern park designed in part by architect Rem Koolhaas and Yves Brunier. The park can be divided into five areas. Behind Museum Boijmans van Beuningen you will find a rose garden and a monument in memory of Gerrit de Jongh, the city architect of Rotterdam. You will also find the Kunsthal and the Natural History Museum, a romantic garden and a raised event area on top of the underground parking garage.
Today, Museumpark is best known for the imposing Depot Boijmans van Beuningen. This is the first publicly accessible art depot in the world, where you get a unique insight into the museum's art collection. Besides the impressive art, the building itself is also an architectural masterpiece.
For a bite to eat or a drink, visit the bustling Witte de Withstraat, which is near the park and full of cozy restaurants and cafes. At Baker & Moore you can enjoy delicious sandwiches, while at the Kunsthal you can enjoy varied exhibitions. For a special experience, the Natural History Museum is a must-visit.
5. The Roof Park
Europe's largest public park óon a roof is in Rotterdam: The Dakpark. At a height of nine meters lies a park one kilometer long, the result of a collaboration between local residents and project developers. This makes it not only one of the most beautiful parks in Rotterdam, but also a very special park.
The Roof Park has a dual function: on the first floor you will find activity and on top a large park with water features, trees, flowers, shrubs and lawns. In spring and summer there are even sheep roaming around. You can get active here by participating in the maintenance of a vegetable garden or allotment.
The Dakpark is located near the hip Keile District, an emerging neighborhood with many creative entrepreneurs. A visit to Dakpark can therefore be combined with a walk through this interesting neighborhood. For a snack and drink you can go to Restaurant Dakpark, where you can eat delicious steaks, among other things. Keile Café offers a cozy festival atmosphere and is a great place to relax with a drink.
More great Rotterdam tips
Haven't you had enough of Rotterdam after all that park-hopping? There is also so much more to explore! Stroll through the market stalls in the Markthal, admire the modern architecture around the Kop van Zuid, or enjoy a sunny day at the river Maas. These are our best-read Rotterdam articles, you're sure to get another dose of tips and inspiration from them:
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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