Rotterdam Tourist Information
The city
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands, known for its modern architecture, many cultural hotspots and international mindset. The city is easy to explore using public transport, known as the RET. Daytickets can be bought at every underground metro station. The metro–network is extensive and will take you to all the hotspots. Subway stations Beurs is considered to be the city center, leading you to the main shopping streets. There are also buses and overground trams. To feel like a real Dutchie, renting a bike is also possible. However, it is not advisable to bike in Rotterdam if you have limited to no experience. Finally, Rotterdam is filled with rental scooters such as Check and Felyx, which you can rent with an app and your diver’s license. Wearing a helmet on a scooter has recently become mandatory. The inner city center can also be covered easily on foot.
Image by Guido Pijper
Water taxi (Image by Iris van den Broek)
On the water
Discover Rotterdam by boat
The Maas-river runs through a large party of the city, dividing it in its Northern and Southern part. Much of the city can be appreciated from the water. Consider booking a touristic Speedo boat cruise. A cheaper, practical alternative are the water taxis which can be booked online.
Culture and Architecture
Rotterdam has many museums worth visiting. The depot Boijmans van Beuningen is one of the newest additions to the Rotterdam skyline and is the world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility. Closeby, you will find de Kunsthal, the Wereldmuseum and the Natural History Museum. On Kop van Zuid, just on the other side of the Erasmus Bridge, you will find the Dutch photo museum.
The destruction of Rotterdam’s inner city in 1940 resulted in the patchwork of architectural styles that you encounter today. You will discover many unique works of architecture as you walk through the city. Don’t to forget to visit de Euromast, the famous Erasmus Bridge and the surrounding architecture on de Kop van Zuid. Some older, remaining buildings can be found around Oude Haven, as well as the famous Kubuswoningen.
Cuisine
Although Dutch cuisine is often not considered worthwhile, Rotterdam brings together many different world cuisines at great locations. You can find some suggestions here.
