Day Trips: Things to do in Rotterdam
With bold architecture, vibrant culture and an array of museums, Rotterdam is the second city of The Netherlands. It sometimes creeps into conversation as having the largest port in Europe and as the recent host of Eurovision.
Rotterdam was flattened in the second world war with only a few buildings surviving. However, architects saw the opportunity to showcase design with unusual buildings alongside a range of tourist hotspots. It wouldn’t be dutch if we didn't mention the waterfront too. Situated a bit further afield from Amsterdam, it takes around 45 minutes to travel to Rotterdam. In a few hours you could cover most of the area by foot, however, there are plenty of activities to take up more of your time.
Considering a day trip to Rotterdam? Let’s go through a few of our favourite spots!
Maas Riverfront
Start your day by heading towards the Maas Riverfront, in the direction of the spectacular Erasmus Bridge. This is the statement bridge of Rotterdam swooping 800 metres long, quite fitting to its nickname “swan”. The waterfront is home to superb waterfront dining and a range of boat trips to take in Rotterdams skyline.
Iconic Cube Houses
This definitely tops the list of the architectural delights of Rotterdam. I can’t say these would be everyone’s cup of tea to live in, however, Piet Bloom designed these bizarre and eccentric houses in 1970’s.
With 39 in total, all identical, sitting at 54.7 degrees they fit 3 floors with enough space for a single family. I don’t think a trip to Ikea would suit these houses though, with sloping walls and windows, this is definitely a job for custom built.
Intrigued? You’re in luck, for €3 you can enter one of the cubes at the Kijk-Kubus Museum House. Or you can stay at the Stayokay Hostel (Overblaak 85-87).
Rotterdam’s Markthal
Hungry in Rotterdam? Then, look no further, this is definitely the place for fellow foodies and it is one of the most unusual food halls.
Constructed in 2009, a 36,000 sq foot swooping mural covers the walls, with over 100 retailers - food stalls, restaurants and bars. The dome has an unusual outer layer of apartments - lodgers don’t have far to travel to get a bite to eat!
We jumped into one of the cafes on the outskirts of the market for a coffee and cake whilst our eyes wandered around the iconc market hall, definitely the highlight of our trip.
Euromast Tower
Rotterdam’s observation tower was built in 1960 to provide panoramic views of the city. It is the perfect way to see Rotterdam, and if you are up for it you can zip-line or abseil down. Also the restaurant definitely offers dinner with a view!
Although we didn’t fit it in, it takes around 30 minutes to walk from Rotterdam station so make sure to keep some time spare.
Lijnbaan Shopping Area
Looking for the shops in Rotterdam? Lijnbaan - Europe's first ever pedestrian shopping area, is the place for you. Created after the war this was seen as the place to be, an area of safely and relaxation, known as a “living room for the city”.
Now, we wouldn’t say it is the most upmarket shopping area, but it’s purposeful and has a range of shops if that is your thing!
Rotterdam’s Old harbour
Situated near the Williams Bridge, the old harbour isn’t as old as you would think. This is a rebuilt creation based on the little remains. Now filled with bars and restaurants, even a location for river hot tub boats if you fancy cruising in style.
St Lawrence Church
Located in the old town centre, St. Lawrence Church is one of Rotterdams buildings that survived the bombing raid - open to visitors for €2 , you can climb the tower to get a view of Rotterdam on Wednesdays and Saturdays in the summer months.
Evenings in Rotterdam
Have an evening in Rotterdam? Head to Oude Binnenweg. This is one of the only pre-war streets in Rotterdam. With a mixture of shops, restaurants and bars it can become very busy, especially later in the day.
We think that will fill your day up nicely! If you are feeling a bit lost there are always museums - the Maritime Museum or Fenix Food Factory are said to be well worth the visit.
