Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting in 2024? A Complete guide!

Are you planning your 2024 vacation and wondering if Rotterdam should be on your bucket list? Definitely, yes! Rotterdam, a modern yet historical city in the Netherlands, offers a little bit of everything you love about traveling. From historic buildings, museums, and world-class architecture to lively nightlife and fantastic food and shopping scenes, this Dutch port town has it all, making it worth visiting in 2024. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from getting to Rotterdam to navigating the city, some of the most compelling reasons to visit it, and much more. So, without any further ado, let’s get started!

About Rotterdam

futuristic architecture and the Euromast of Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, is located on both sides of the Nieuwe Maas River, which is part of the Rhine. It’s known as the world’s largest port and home to Europoort, a massive facility that handles a significant amount of freight to and from the continent.

During WWII, German Luftwaffe attacks nearly destroyed central Rotterdam in 1940. However, the city has recovered with modern residential areas, tall buildings, and shopping streets. It is now one of Europe’s most modern and architecturally attractive destinations.

Despite its contemporary appearance, Rotterdam has medieval roots, dating back to the 13th century. The city’s name originates from a dam built to separate Nieuwe Maas from the Rotte River. Rotterdam has a rich cultural history, and Erasmus, the famous humanist, was born here in 1467.

Rotterdam is approximately 50 miles south of Amsterdam and close to The Hague, Delft, Dordrecht, and Gouda. Even a short visit reveals that Rotterdam has a distinct look and vibe compared to these neighboring cities. Rotterdam offers visitors lively entertainment, architecture, museums, maritime attractions, and much more. It’s a must-see on your trip to the Netherlands.

How to Get to Rotterdam?

Closest Airport: The Hague Airport is the closest to Rotterdam and is only a 20-25 minute drive from the city center. Alternatively, you can also fly to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, which offers more flight options.

Amsterdam to Rotterdam

The trip from Amsterdam to Rotterdam takes about 45 minutes to an hour, with some fast trains claiming to get you there in less than 30 minutes. Buses and trains, both of which are reasonably priced, are ideal modes of transportation.

By Bus: A round trip by bus costs £10-15 and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
By train: A round-trip ticket costs around £30 and can take 40 minutes. While buses are less expensive, trains provide faster service; however, you must consider the schedule before deciding on your mode of transportation.

Pro Tip: When traveling from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, use an OV-Chipcard at the station. It’s cost-effective and can be topped up as needed, similar to a London Oyster card. It’s cheaper than purchasing two one-way tickets and saves time.

How to Get around Rotterdam?

Rotterdam is a large city, but getting around is quite easy.

Public Transportation: The city has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro. You can buy a Rotterdam Welcome Card for a two- or three-day pass that allows you to use public transportation effortlessly.
Walking: If you’re staying in the city center, walking is a great option because Rotterdam is very pedestrian-friendly. Most of the places are easily accessible on foot. You must take public transportation or rent a bike for destinations on the outskirts.
Biking: Cycling is a popular and efficient mode of transportation in the Netherlands. Rotterdam is no exception, with plenty of bike lanes and a bustling bike population. You can rent a bike in Rotterdam for just €10, with a deposit typically refunded upon return. Cycling allows you to explore Rotterdam easily and provides an excellent option for venturing a bit farther from the city center.

When is the Best time to Visit Rotterdam?

The best time to visit Rotterdam depends on personal preferences. Some people prefer the cooler months of autumn and winter, while others prefer the heat of summer.

May is the best month to visit Rotterdam. You can enjoy excellent weather without the peak travel season crowds during this month. Temperatures in the summer, particularly in July, can reach 26°C (78°F). On the other hand, colder months, such as January, have average minimum temperatures of around 2°C (36°F). July also has the longest days from sunrise to sunset, perfect for those who want to soak up the sun. If you want to avoid rain, avoid visiting Rotterdam in February and instead go in April when the weather is more likely to be dry.

Reasons Why You Should Visit Rotterdam

Rotterdam, known for being Europe’s largest port, has a rich maritime history. However, the city isn’t stuck in the past. With striking architectural landmarks, design studios, art-filled streets, and trendy bars and restaurants, Rotterdam is a worth-visiting destination in the Netherlands. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to add this picture-perfect city to your itinerary.

Architecture

Rotterdam starkly contrasts old-world European aesthetics with an ever-evolving skyline and its sleek glass-clad buildings. Rotterdam underwent a rapid transformation after being heavily bombed in WWII. The city has developed many modern structures and established itself as a pioneering architectural hub. As you stroll through Rotterdam, you’ll come across various architectural styles, from post-WWII to modern. Notable highlights are:

Overblaak Development: Designed by architect Piet Blom in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Overblaak Development is a pioneering example of modern architecture in Rotterdam. These structures, made up of toppled and tilted yellow-and-gray cubes, uniquely represent a forest. Each cube, designed to resemble a tree, forms an innovative residential complex. Notably, one resident has converted their apartment into the Kijk-Kubus Museum House.
De Rotterdam: Named after a historic Holland America Line ship, De Rotterdam was completed in 2013, making it the largest building in the Netherlands. This impressive structure houses restaurants, offices, hotels, and residences within its three stacked towers. This ‘vertical city’ changes shape and identity when viewed from different parts of the city.
Centraal Station: In March 2014, the impressive overhaul of Centraal Station addressed the increase in passenger numbers. The north entrance has a modest, transparent glass front, whereas the south entrance has an eye-catching slanted roof with the station sign and original clock.
Erasmus Bridge: The Erasmus Bridge, known as The Swan, was constructed in 1996 by architect Ben van Berkel. The bridge spans 800 meters across the Maas River and has become an iconic city symbol.
Van Nelle Factory: Built between 1925 and 1931 as a tobacco, coffee, and tea plant, the Van Nelle Factory is an iconic example of 20th-century industrial architecture and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

Arts and Culture

From cutting-edge galleries to the historic Museum van Boijmans Beuningen, the city’s art collection extends beyond museum walls. It’s an enjoyable joy to see outdoor sculptures, installations, galleries, and street art while walking or biking around Rotterdam.

Museum Boijmans van Beuningen: The Museum Boijmans van Beuningen is a premier European art gallery. Its permanent collection includes European and Dutch paintings from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. The collection also includes masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Mondrian, Monet, and Magritte. The museum also has a dedicated Dal exhibition room in the Surrealism wing, which houses one of the largest collections of Dal’s works outside of Spain and France.
Nederlands Fotomuseum: The Nederlands Fotomuseum, housed in a restored warehouse along the riverfront, hosts large special exhibitions featuring international photography stars and emerging talents.
Witte de With: The Centre for Contemporary Art, located on Rotterdam’s chicest street, Witte de With, has been a global art institution since 1990. This venue, known for its ever-changing exhibitions, highlights modern art, contributing to the city’s artistic reputation.
GROOS: GROOS, derived from the Dutch word for pride, offers a curated selection of pieces by Rotterdam-based designers. Their collection includes everything from fashionable clothing, handcrafted jewelry, geometric-print cushions, wooden furniture, artwork, and delicate ceramics.
Schieblock Office: The ZUS architectural firm transformed the Schieblock office building after it had been vacant for years. It is now designed as an ‘urban laboratory,’ housing more than 50 small businesses, such as furniture designers, Fabrique Urbaine, and architectural studios.

WindMills

The Netherlands is famous for its incredible windmills, and you can find 19 of the most beautiful in the quaint village of Kinderdijk, just a bike ride from Rotterdam. These windmills were handcrafted in the 17th century to manage water flow and prevent flooding. Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural and historical significance, offers an unforgettable experience. Seeing these massive and ancient structures is truly impressive and magical.

Food Scene

Market Hall: The remarkable Markthal is the Netherlands’ first indoor market, with over 100 stalls offering fresh produce, restaurants, and cooking classes. This architectural marvel, designed by MVRDV, includes a 40-meter-tall arc filled with residential apartments, creating a unique space that blankets the market square.
Vegan Junk Food Bar: Vegan Junk Food Bar in Rotterdam is a vibrant and innovative culinary destination that challenges the traditional concept of vegan cuisine. Far from the stereotypical health-focused vegan fare, this establishment specializes in indulgent and flavorful vegan junk food. The menu is a colorful array of plant-based twists on classic comfort foods, featuring items such as meat-free burgers, loaded fries, and vegan bitterballen, a Dutch snack. The atmosphere is urban and hip, with graffiti art and a lively, informal vibe.
FG: This two-Michelin-starred restaurant is ideal for special occasions and is managed by Francois Geurds, a former sous chef at Heston Blumenthal’s renowned Fat Duck in Britain. In addition, Francois opened the FG Food Labs restaurant in the Hofbogen area in 2014, which included a science lab dedicated to molecular gastronomy experiments. The restaurant caters to vegan travelers.
Bazar: Bazar, a Rotterdam institution, is a lively spot that hums with activity both day and night, attracting trendy locals. Its vibrant atmosphere mirrors the authenticity of a bustling souk adorned with colorful hanging lanterns. The extensive menu offers a variety of Middle Eastern and North African delights perfectly complemented by sweet mint tea. Ask for the vegan options.
Fenix Food Factory: Make sure to stop by the Fenix Food Factory. It serves as Rotterdam’s equivalent to London’s Borough Market and is located on the grounds of a former warehouse.

For more inspiration, check out my vegan guide in which you can find the best vegan restaurants in Rotterdam!

Nightlife

Rotterdam has a diverse nightlife scene due to its abundance of fantastic hangout spots and watering holes. If you’re looking for good food, drinks, and dancing, explore the bars and clubs that line Witte de Withstraat.

De Witte Aap: Located on Witte de Withstraat, De Witte Aap (The White Monkey) is a cozy corner bar with dark wooden accents. This spot is a favorite among cool and creative locals, from morning coffee lovers to late-night revelers.
BAR: In the Schieblock, discover BAR, a recent addition to Rotterdam’s vibrant nightlife. BAR has quickly become a cool hotspot in the city’s nightlife scene as a pop-up drinking spot.
Café LaBru: Café LaBru attracts a trendy crowd, particularly hipsters, who are eager to explore an extensive selection of high-quality gins paired with a menu of complementary tonics. The friendly bartenders are ready to help you find your ideal combination.
Rotown: You can enjoy delicious meals on the rear-covered terrace, sip drinks in the welcoming front bar, or catch a live performance in the adjacent band room at the popular Rotown. It’s a versatile hotspot for a memorable Rotterdam night out.
Bird: Explore events at Bird, a club located beneath railway arches in the city’s northern outskirts, for live music ranging from jazz to hip-hop.

Festivals and Events

Annual Cinema Festival: If you’re in Rotterdam between late January and early February, don’t miss the International Film Festival in Rotterdam. This yearly event, which takes place in various cinemas across the city, showcases the work of new and experimental filmmakers.
North Sea Jazz Festival: Attend the world-renowned North Sea Jazz Festival, which is held each year in mid-July. This prestigious jazz event, capturing international media attention, features some of the world’s most famous jazz musicians as well as local talent. Over a thousand musicians perform on multiple stages over three days, creating a vibrant celebration of jazz.

Other famous festivals include the BoothStock Festival, held in June, and the CuliNESSE music festival, held annually in August.

Looking for more reasons to visit Rotterdam? There is a lot to do in the city. Traveling is an excellent way to discover, escape, embark on adventures, learn, and immerse yourself in a new culture. Rotterdam offers all of this and more, making it worth visiting in 2024.

→ Also read: 17 Best Thrift Stores and Vintage Shops in Rotterdam

Day Trips from Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the ideal city for those looking for a convenient base to explore the surrounding area at an affordable cost than Amsterdam. Here are some fantastic day trips from Rotterdam that are worth considering!

Delft: One of the best day trips from Rotterdam is to Delft, famous for its iconic blue Delftware pottery. Highlights include the Vermeer Centre, churches, and a breathtaking view from Nieuwe Kerk. If you’re short on time, you can combine a visit to Delft and Leiden into a one-day trip.
The Hague: Located 20 minutes from Rotterdam, The Hague offers more than just politics. The Mauritshuis, the Madurodam theme park, and vegan and vegetarian restaurants are among the attractions.
Dordrecht: Dordrecht is an easy and less touristy day trip from Rotterdam. Its history dates back to the 13th century. You can explore the city’s museums and visit the leaning Dordrecht Minster.
Amsterdam: Amsterdam is easily accessible as a day trip, with secret museums, canals, and delicious cuisine. Explore the Jordaan district, known for its beauty and historic churches.
Leiden: Leiden, the charming university city, is one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. Its charm extends beyond its numerous canals, tree-lined paths, and canal houses. Leiden is so beautiful that it was used as a stand-in for Amsterdam in “The Miniaturist.” It takes just over 30 minutes by train from Rotterdam!

Tips and Tours: How to Make Most of Your Visit to Rotterdam

Half-Day Walking Tour and Harbor Cruise: On this private tour, you’ll see the best of Rotterdam by land and sea. This private tour takes you through the Cube Houses, Old Harbour, and Museumpark, giving you a glimpse of some of the city’s most popular attractions. After a stroll through the city streets, relax on a harbor cruise to get a new perspective on Rotterdam’s beauty.
Architecture Walking Tour: Explore Rotterdam’s iconic buildings on the Private Rotterdam Architecture Walking Tour. During this three-hour guided tour, you’ll see incredible structures like the Cube Houses, the Rotterdam Market Hall (Markthal), and the Rotterdam Central Station.
Boat Tour: Take a boat tour or a river cruise to see Rotterdam from the water. Glide through the ports and harbors. You can also take the old Dutch waterways from Rotterdam to Amsterdam for a scenic adventure.

Is Rotterdam Expensive to Visit?

Rotterdam is generally more affordable than Amsterdam, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Direct trains from Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport take approximately 27 minutes, or more than 40 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station, making it an inexpensive day trip from the capital. Once in Rotterdam, you can explore many of the city’s highlights on foot or using the extensive transit system. Furthermore, many of the city’s attractions are free and easily accessible by walking or biking.

Overall, Rotterdam provides a cheaper experience that allows visitors to enjoy the city without breaking the bank.

→ Also read: Hotspots Rotterdam: 15 Unique Places for the Conscious Traveler

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

As the Netherlands’ second-largest city, Rotterdam offers a range of accommodation options. Whether you choose a hostel, hotel, or apartment rental, you will find plenty of choices to make your stay comfortable.

If you’re traveling alone, Hostel Ani & Haakien is a clean and welcoming option. It has a fantastic common room ideal for socializing.
Sparks Hostel, located near Rotterdam Central Station, provides modern rooms with pod-like beds for a comfortable stay.
Stayokay Rotterdam Cube Hostel is the best hostel in Rotterdam. It offers accommodations in tilted cubes at the Overblaak development, across the street from the Markthal. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and beverages at the on-site bar. The hostel also provides packed lunches for day trips.
Best Airbnb: A Well-Designed Room in the City Center: Stay in this cozy private room within an architecturally acclaimed complex with a bathroom, toilet, and access to a rooftop patio. Situated in the vibrant heart of Rotterdam, it’s perfect for exploring the city. Enjoy a homely atmosphere with amenities like a TV, Netflix, tea, and coffee.
Stay on a wikkelboat at Wijnhaven: staying at a “wikkelboat” is a unique and fun experience. Wikkelboats are tiny houseboats that are sustainably constructed at the banks of the canals near the center of Rotterdam.

FAQs

Is Rotterdam Safe to Visit in 2024?

Rotterdam is a safe city for tourists in 2024. The well-lit and populated public areas, strong police presence, low crime rates, and reliable public transportation system make this Dutch city safe for locals and visitors. Enjoy your visit, stay aware of your surroundings, and explore this vibrant Dutch city with confidence.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Rotterdam?

If you’re short on time, one day in Rotterdam is sufficient to get a quick overview of the city’s main attractions, such as Cube Houses, the Erasmus Bridge, and Markthal. If you truly want to experience the city and explore areas outside the city center, staying three days in Rotterdam is recommended.

Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting in 2024?

Yes! Rotterdam is definitely worth a visit. With its impressive modern skyline, historic buildings, art galleries, and lively nightlife, Rotterdam is different from any other city in the Netherlands. This makes it a unique travel spot that you shouldn’t miss, especially since many of its attractions are free.

Is it Better to Stay in Amsterdam or Rotterdam?

It is up to you to decide between Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Rotterdam is the less expensive option, and it is ideal for those who appreciate bold modern architecture and an authentic Dutch experience. If you’re drawn to beautiful canals, Amsterdam is the better option. Furthermore, Rotterdam is an excellent starting point for exploring neighboring countries such as Germany and Belgium.

To Conclude: Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting in 2024?

So, is Rotterdam worth visiting in 2024? Undoubtedly yes! I hope this guide has helped you plan your next vacation to this dynamic Dutch city. Whether you’re drawn to its modern architecture, art scenes, or historic windmills, Rotterdam has something for every traveler.

Have you been to Rotterdam? Share your favorite experiences and discoveries in the comments below. Your insights might spark someone else’s adventure. Happy Travels!

Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!

ENJOY!

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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November 24, 2023

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Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and yourself!

On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more!