Rotterdam-5-day-itinerary

August 31, 2024

5-Day Rotterdam Itinerary: A Mix of Modernity & History

This itinerary balances Rotterdam’s modern architecture with its rich maritime history and vibrant culture.

Things to Know:

Language: Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Currency: Euro (€)
Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather.

Transportation:

Rotterdam has an excellent public transportation system. Purchase a multi-day “Rotterdam Welcome Card” for unlimited travel on trams, buses, and metro, plus discounts at attractions.
Walking is also a great way to explore the city center.
Consider renting a bike – it’s a popular and efficient way to get around.

Where to Stay:

Hotel New York: Historic hotel with stunning views of the Erasmus Bridge.
Mainport Design Hotel: Stylish, modern hotel in the heart of the city.
citizenM Rotterdam: Budget-friendly option with innovative design and a central location.

Morning: Start your day at the iconic Erasmus Bridge. Walk or bike across for stunning city views.
Afternoon: Explore the Cube Houses, unique residential buildings designed by Piet Blom. Visit the Kunsthal Rotterdam for contemporary art exhibitions.
Evening: Dine at De Jong in the trendy Witte de Withstraat area, known for its delicious seafood and waterfront setting.

Morning: Visit the Maritime Museum Rotterdam, delving into the city’s rich seafaring history. Climb aboard historic ships and explore interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Wander through the Museumpark, home to several museums including the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum with its impressive art collection.
Evening: Enjoy a canal cruise for a unique perspective on Rotterdam’s architecture and canals. Dine at Fenix Food Factory, a vibrant food market with diverse culinary options.

Morning: Explore the bustling Markthal, a covered market hall with fresh produce, gourmet shops, and restaurants.
Afternoon: Relax in the tranquil ** Kralingse Bos**, a sprawling park perfect for picnics, cycling, or boating.
Evening: Experience Rotterdam’s nightlife at the Witte de Withstraat, known for its bars, cafes, and live music venues. Have dinner at Bazar for delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

Morning: Visit the Euromast, a towering observation tower offering panoramic views of Rotterdam and beyond.
Afternoon: Explore the Laurenskerk, a historic church dating back to the 15th century. Afterwards, visit the Dutch Architecture Institute for exhibitions on innovative design.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant FG, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its creative and contemporary cuisine.

Morning: Visit the Delfshaven, a historic harbour district with charming canals and traditional houses.
Afternoon: Indulge in some last-minute shopping at the Lijnbaan, Rotterdam’s pedestrian shopping street.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Restaurant De Tuin, savoring delicious dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Tips:

Purchase the “Rotterdam Welcome Card” for discounts on attractions and transportation.
Download a map app like Citymapper for navigating public transport efficiently.
Book restaurant reservations in advance, especially for popular spots.
Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Embrace the city’s bike culture – it’s a fun and convenient way to get around.

Enjoy your adventure in Rotterdam!