The best things to do in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a city in the Netherlands that is often overshadowed by Amsterdam, but it has a lot to offer visitors in terms of culture, history, and entertainment. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in Rotterdam. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top things to do in the city.
Visit the Erasmus Bridge
One of the most iconic landmarks in Rotterdam is the Erasmus Bridge, also known as the “The Swan.” This cable-stayed bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas river and offers beautiful views of the city. The bridge is also a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
Explore the Rotterdam Museum
The Rotterdam Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city. The museum features exhibits on the history of Rotterdam from the Middle Ages to the present day, as well as temporary exhibitions on various subjects.
Visit the Markthal
The Markthal is a unique indoor market in Rotterdam that features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, meat, fish, and more. The market also has a number of restaurants and cafes where you can sample local cuisine. The Markthal has a beautiful arching ceiling with a mural painted on it, making it a popular spot for photos.
Take a Boat Tour
Rotterdam is known as the “gateway to Europe” because of its port, which is one of the busiest in the world. A boat tour is a great way to see the port and learn about its history and operations. Some boat tour operators also offer tours that take you past some of the city’s landmarks and provide commentary on the architecture.
Visit the Rotterdam Zoo
The Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, is one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands. The zoo has a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and monkeys, as well as a large aquarium. The zoo also features several playgrounds and a petting zoo, making it a great destination for families.
Explore the Street Art in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is home to a thriving street art scene, with murals and graffiti popping up all over the city. Some of the most popular areas to see street art are the Witte de Withstraat and the Blaak area. Guided street art tours are also available, which can give you a deeper understanding of the art and the artists behind it.
Visit the Maritime Museum Rotterdam
The Maritime Museum Rotterdam is dedicated to the history and culture of the port city. The museum features a wide variety of exhibits on the maritime history of Rotterdam, including ship models, navigational instruments, and paintings. The museum is also home to the Harbor Experience, an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to learn about the inner workings of a port.
Take a Walk in the Kralingse Bos
The Kralingse Bos is a large park in Rotterdam that offers visitors the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features a lake, playgrounds, and a variety of walking trails. It is also home to the KralingsePlas, a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. In the summer, the park also hosts a number of events and festivals.
See the Cube Houses
The Cube Houses are a unique architectural feature of Rotterdam. These triangular shaped houses were designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom in the 1970s and are located in the city center. Visitors can take a tour of one of the houses to see the interior and learn about the design and history of the houses.
Visit the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra
The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra is a world-renowned orchestra that performs at the De Doelen concert hall. The concert hall is also home to a variety of other performances, including plays, dance, and comedy shows. Visitors can purchase tickets to a concert or take a tour of the concert hall to learn about its history and architecture.
See the Spido Harbor Tour
If you want to experience the port of Rotterdam in a more unique way, then the Spido Harbor Tour is a must-do. The tour takes you on a boat ride through the port, passing by cargo ships, cranes, and other harbor activity. The tour also includes a visit to the Europoort, the largest and busiest part of the port.
Visit the Rotterdam Library
The Rotterdam Library is an architectural masterpiece that is worth a visit for its design alone. The library has a unique spiral shape and features a variety of reading materials, including books, magazines, and newspapers. The library also offers a variety of events and activities, including author readings and lectures.
Rotterdam is a city that offers something for everyone, from art and architecture to history and culture. Whether you’re interested in street art, visiting museums, or just taking a walk in the park, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant Dutch city.
