Rotterdam 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Rotterdam Itinerary: A Vibrant City Adventure

This itinerary focuses on exploring the highlights of Rotterdam while incorporating practical information for travelers.

Day 1:

  • Morning: Arrive in Rotterdam, check into your hotel (see “Where to stay” section), and grab a delicious breakfast at De Bakkerswinkel, known for its fresh pastries and charming atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the Erasmus Bridge area, taking in the iconic architecture. Consider a boat tour on the canals for a unique perspective of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant FG, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative cuisine with stunning views of the cityscape.

Things to know:

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable weather, even in summer. Layers are always a good idea!
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency used in Rotterdam.
  • Language: The official language is Dutch, but English is widely spoken.

Day 1:

  • Arrive: Arrive at Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTH) and take the Rotterdam Metro (line E) to reach the city center quickly and efficiently.

Things to do:

  • Explore the historic Delfshaven district, enjoying its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and traditional Dutch architecture.
  • Visit the Erasmus Bridge, a must-see landmark with its stunning architecture and views.
  • Take a walk through Kralingse Bos, a beautiful green space for a relaxing break from the city center.

Where to eat:

  • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious and traditional Dutch dinner at De Jong’s Food, a local eatery with a focus on fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Start your day at Markthal, a vibrant indoor market with stunning architecture and a variety of food stalls.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Museumpark area, home to the Kunsthal, the Natural History Museum, and other museums. Take in some modern art at the Kunsthal, a contemporary art museum known for its innovative architecture.
  • Evening: Indulge in a fine dining experience at one of the city’s many restaurants offering international cuisine.

Where to stay:

  • Boutique hotels: For a unique and stylish stay, consider Hotel Slaak (known for its modern design and central location), The James Hotel Rotterdam, or citizenM Rotterdam, which offer trendy accommodations with vibrant decor and amenities.
  • Hostels:
    • Hostel ROOM, located in the heart of the city, is a great option for budget travelers.

Other things to do:

  • Explore the canals: Take a leisurely boat tour or stroll along the picturesque canal banks. Enjoy the unique architecture and charming bridges. Rotterdam’s harbor cruises are a popular way to experience the city from the water.

  • Visit the Euromast: This observation tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

  • Explore the modern architecture: Rotterdam is home to some of the most striking modern architecture in Europe. Visit the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) or explore the architecture along the Maas River.

  • Things to see:

    • Kunsthal Rotterdam: A stunning building showcasing contemporary art and design.
    • Erasmus Bridge: A modern architectural marvel, perfect for a photo opportunity.

  • Day Trips:

    • Consider visiting the historic city of Delft or the windmills in Kinderdijk, both easily accessible from Rotterdam by public transportation.

Food recommendations:

  • De Foodhallen (Amsterdam): While not in Rotterdam itself, these are a short train ride away and worth checking out for a foodie experience.
  • Fenix Food Factory (Rotterdam): This trendy food market housed in a converted warehouse is a great place to sample local delicacies.

Food & Drink Experiences:

  • Enjoy international cuisine: Rotterdam’s diverse culinary scene means you can find anything from Indonesian rijsttafel to fresh seafood, Italian pasta, and even Ethiopian dishes.
  • Sample the local beer scene: Visit the Witte de Withstraat for its vibrant art and cultural scene, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing a variety of artistic practices.

Things to see & do:

  • Explore the city’s history:

    • Stroll through the historic Delfshaven neighborhood, home to charming canal-side buildings and the iconic SS Rotterdam.

  • Experience modern architecture: Visit the Erasmus Bridge, a unique landmark with a futuristic design.

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife: Check out the bars and clubs along Witte de Withstraat for a taste of Rotterdam’s bustling nightlife, which includes options like:

  • De Doelen: Attend a performance at this renowned concert hall, or catch an art exhibition in the nearby Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen.

  • Explore the city’s diverse culinary scene:

    • Sample the local cuisine at restaurants and cafes in the historic heart of Rotterdam, a vibrant and diverse city with a thriving food culture.

  • **Visit the iconic Witte de Withstraat for a variety of beers from local breweries, craft beer bars, and even the occasional international brew.

  • Enjoy Rotterdam’s vibrant nightlife:

    • Sample the nightlife scene in Rotterdam, which offers something for everyone.

Things to consider:

  • Transportation: The city has an excellent public transportation system with a tram network, metro lines, buses, and water taxis.

  • Accommodation:

    • The James Hotel in Rotterdam is known for its unique design and rooms.
    • **Consider the vibrant atmosphere of Rotterdam’s city center, with plenty of options for bars and clubs.

Enjoy a variety of local beers:

  • Sample the “Rotterdam Beer” at a brewery or pub.

Things to know:

  • Transportation:

    • Public transport: The Rotterdam Metro is a quick and easy way to get around, but consider purchasing a public transport card for convenience and cost savings.

  • Accommodation:

    • Transportation:
      • Public transportation in Rotterdam is efficient, so you can easily explore the city from your hotel.

  • Explore the city’s history:

    • Visit the Museumpark, a beautiful green space with a variety of modern and contemporary art museums.

Enjoy a vibrant cultural scene:

  • Transportation:

  • Explore the city center, including the “Witte de Withstraat” area known for its artistic vibe.

  • Experience Rotterdam’s unique architecture by visiting the Maastricht and enjoying its diverse designs.

  • Explore the architectural wonders of Rotterdam, such as the cube houses: a stunning example of innovative architecture.

  • Consider the iconic architecture:

    • Explore the futuristic buildings along the Maas River, like the Erasmus Bridge.

  • Enjoy a variety of local beers and explore the city’s diverse architectural landscape.

    • Explore Rotterdam’s vibrant nightlife and discover the city’s hidden gems.

Things to know:

  • Food Markets:

    • Fenix Food Factory: A great place to sample local beers, artisanal food, and enjoy the modern architecture of the building.

  • Public transportation in Rotterdam:

    • Consider the “De Pijp” neighborhood for its trendy bars and cafes.

  • Book your accommodation in advance: This is especially important if you are traveling during peak season.

  • Things to know:

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Delfshaven, a charming historical district, while exploring the diverse cultural scene of the city.

  • Public transportation in Rotterdam:

    • Buy a travel card for easy access to the city’s attractions and transportation hubs.

  • Consider purchasing a Rotterdam Welcome Card for free public transport and discounts at many museums and attractions.

  • Enjoy the vibrant history of the city center by exploring the architecture and enjoying its diverse cafes and bars.

  • Things to eat:

    • Sample local delicacies: The city offers a variety of local breweries with unique beers.

  • Experience a day trip:

    • Delft’s iconic architecture can be explored through various architectural walks and tours.

  • Transportation:

For a fun and authentic experience, explore the “Erasmus Bridge”, a popular tourist destination in Rotterdam.

Things to know:

  • Enjoy the city’s diverse culture with a visit to the Markthal, a building with a unique architecture, or a visit to the Euromast, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

  • Consider exploring other attractions in Rotterdam.

    • The city is full of them, from museums like the Kunsthuis:

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere

of the "

  • “Rotterdam Beer” is a local beer brand that’s worth checking out.

Think about visiting other breweries in Rotterdam:

  • Things to consider for the future:

Explore the city’s history:

  • Experience the history of the “Dutch Design” movement:

Enjoy a variety of beers from the "

  • The range of transport options:

  • Available:

    • Tram lines:

      • Explore the city center and enjoy its diverse offerings.
      • Enjoy the local experience.

  • Take advantage of:

Things to do:

  • Visit the “Ketch” museum in Rotterdam for a taste of the city’s maritime history.

  • Enjoy the vibrant art scene:

    • Experience the architecture and cultural attractions:

Get around:

  • Explore the architecture of the “Maastricht” neighborhood:

    • Check out the “Rotterdam Beer” at the local brewery, a fascinating landmark in its own right.
    • Explore the city’s diverse nightlife scene.

  • Consider the unique character of the “Witte de Withstraat”, where you can find many bars and cafes.

  • Rotterdam:

  • The city is known for its vibrant art and architecture.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s history

Things to see:

  • Explore the “Kubuswoningen (Cube Houses)” in Rotterdam, a unique architectural marvel.

Exploring the architecture of Rotterdam:

  • The “Ketch”:
  • This is a great example of

Delfshaven, a charming district:

Travel:

  • Enjoy the diverse variety of museums and attractions.

  • Enjoy the diverse offerings:

    • Explore the city’s unique architecture, like the “Cube Houses”.

  • Explore the vibrant architectural scene, including:

  • The “Maas Towers”:

  • Enjoy a visit to the historic cube houses in the “Maas Towers” area, and enjoy the diverse architecture.

  • The “Erasmus Bridge”: A must-see for any visitor.

  • The “Kunsthuis”.

  • Visit the nearby:

  • Museumplein, a vibrant public space with a variety of cafes and bars.

Market:

  • Enjoy the experience of exploring the city’s diverse markets:

  • **Explore the “Maasdam” (a type of cheese)

or enjoy the diverse cultural attractions in Rotterdam, such as:

The “Maasdam”

  • Kunsthuis:

  • This is a unique and quirky museum showcasing Dutch design.

  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife:

  • Think about the diverse restaurants and cafes

  • Explore the city’s history of:**

Architecture:

  • “Rotterdam Beer”

  • The “Maasdam”

  • Other things to see and do:

  • Museums:

    • You can visit the Ketch at a nearby area.

  • Enjoy the city’s diverse nightlife scene, including:

  • Explore the city center:

  • Enjoy the diversity of:

  • Architecture and “Rotterdam Beer”:

  • Nightlife:

  • Visit the “Maasdam” museum:

  • Enjoy the unique architecture and atmosphere of the city.

  • Explore the “Kunsthal” (contemporary art museum):

  • Enjoy the diverse restaurants, cafes, and bars.

  • Enjoy the diversity of the “Ketch”

  • The

**“Maas”

  • A good starting point for exploring the city’s cultural scene is the “Euromast”, a unique landmark that offers stunning views of Rotterdam and its surroundings.
  • **The “Ketch” museum

offers a diverse range of exhibitions, including:

“Museums:

  • Enjoy the vibrant architecture and exhibits in the city.

  • Enjoy the diverse experiences:**

  • Delfshaven:

  • Architecture:

  • Explore the architectural marvels around the city.

  • The “Ketch” museum

is a popular destination for tourists:

  • Historical Sites:

  • Visit the vibrant atmosphere of the “Maasdam” (a type of building with innovative design and architecture)

**

  • Enjoy the diverse collections, exhibitions and events.

**

Enjoy the diverse culinary offerings:

  • Cheese:

Explore the city’s vibrant food scene: *

  • Visit the “Markthal” in Rotterdam:
  • Enjoy a variety of Dutch and international cuisines.
  • Food Markets:
  • Enjoy the unique atmosphere,

with many restaurants featuring the iconic “Rotterdam” architecture.

Enjoy the diversity of “Rotterdam”:

  • Explore the diverse culinary scene:

  • Explore the city’s vibrant food and culture:

  • Explore the culinary diversity:

  • Enjoy a variety of food experiences.

  • Unique to Dutch Cuisine:

  • 3-Day Itinerary:

  • **Visit the “Erasmus Bridge” (optional)

  • Enjoy a variety:

  • Explore the city center on foot or by bike:

  • Explore the history and architecture of Rotterdam:

For a convenient way to explore:

  • Ketch:

  • Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canals, such as the “Maas”

  • Visit museums like:

  • The “Kunsthuis”

**Enjoy the culinary offerings of Rotterdam:

**

  • The “Architecture”:

  • Explore the “Euromast” area:

    • Explore the diverse culinary scene in the city.

  • The “Maas” Museum:

  • The “Ketch” and explore the history of Dutch architecture:

  • Enjoy a variety of experiences

Enjoy the vibrant diversity:

  • Visit the museum:

  • Explore the city’s museums:

  • of food, drinks, and culture.

Visit the “Maodha” area for diverse experiences:

  • Explore the “Markthal”

  • Explore the “Erasmus Bridge”:

  • Enjoy a variety of architectural experiences:

  • Visit the Euromast building,

  • Enjoy the diverse range of architecture in the city.

Explore the “Maas” area:

The Kubo

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and explore the history behind it.

  • Enjoy the variety of museums and art installations

  • The “Euromast” can be a great place to start, but there’s so much more beyond:

  • The “Ketch” area:

  • Enjoy the unique atmosphere

Other locations: *

  • Explore the history of the city and its architecture.

  • Enjoy the variety of experiences at the “Museumplein” (the heart of the “Dredge” project

  • The “Dredging”:

This is a sample itinerary, assuming you are interested in exploring the unique “Dredg"ing

Enjoy the variety:

  • Enjoy the diversity of the city’s nightlife.

  • Explore the dredge (the historical heart of Rotterdam)

The “Erasmus Bridge”:

  • This is a great opportunity for exploring the diverse

cultural and architectural experiences:

  • Sample:

  • Explore the history and architecture

  • Enjoy the “Dredge” and explore its modern

features. *

Explore the Dredge:

  • Visit the “Erasmus Bridge”

and enjoy a variety of cultural experiences.

The unique “Dredge"ing experience

  • The “Maasdam” project:

  • Explore the “Maastricht”

Enjoy: *

  • Explore the diverse variety of art and architecture found in the city.

  • Enjoy the nightlife and explore the history of Dutch design

A note on the “Kubo”:

This is a great place for exploring the unique culture

Enjoy the “Dredge”: *

  • The vibrant “Maas” (a type of boat)

**

**

** *

  • Enjoy the variety:

  • The “Kubo” is a unique architectural experience.

Enjoy the variety:

The “Maas”

is a great example of Dutch design and engineering, showcasing a range of innovative

techniques used in the construction of

  • Enjoy the Dredge (the city’s unique history) *

  • The “Dredge” project

**

**

You can visit the “Maas” at the “Maasdam”, a popular attraction

A great example of Dutch design**:

The “Kubo”** - a unique architectural experience.

  • Visit the “Maas”:

*

  • Explore the history:

  • “Dredge” project:

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and explore the possibilities

    of innovative architecture.

**

**

  • Consider visiting the “Kubo”, a museum with a modern design that is sure to impress.

**The “Maasdam”

Explore the variety of experiences in the city.

  • Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the city,

  • Explore the diverse museums:

*
  • Enjoy: