Things to Do in Rotterdam

Erasmusbrug, also known as the Erasmus Bridge, is one of Rotterdam's most iconic landmarks and a symbol of the city's modernity and innovation. Spanning the Nieuwe Maas River, this stunning bridge connects the northern and southern parts of the city, making it a vital transportation link and an architectural masterpiece.

Completed in 1996, Erasmusbrug was designed by the renowned architect Ben van Berkel. The bridge's sleek, asymmetrical design and distinctive 139-meter-high pylon, often referred to as "The Swan" due to its graceful shape, have made it a visual icon in Rotterdam's skyline. The bridge's white cable-stayed structure, with its elegant lines and futuristic appeal, embodies Rotterdam's forward-thinking spirit and dedication to cutting-edge design.

Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp, is a prominent zoological garden in the Netherlands. It features diverse animal exhibits, including elephants, giraffes, and tigers, along with botanical gardens. Visitors can explore habitats representing different continents and enjoy educational programs and conservation initiatives.

Kunsthal Rotterdam is a vibrant cultural institution and one of the most exciting art venues in the Netherlands. Situated in the heart of Rotterdam's Museumpark, the Kunsthal is renowned for its innovative architecture and diverse exhibitions, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Rem Koolhaas, the Kunsthal opened its doors in 1992. The building's unique design is a masterpiece in itself, featuring a combination of concrete, steel, and glass that creates a striking and modern aesthetic. The Kunsthal's architecture is characterized by its flexibility and versatility, with a series of interconnected exhibition spaces that allow for a dynamic and fluid presentation of art. This flexibility enables the Kunsthal to host a wide range of exhibitions, from classic to contemporary art, photography, fashion, and design.

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, nestled in the heart of Rotterdam, is one of the most prestigious and oldest art museums in the Netherlands. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1849, the museum has become a vital cultural landmark, showcasing an extensive and diverse collection that spans centuries of art history.

The museum's collection is a testament to the generosity and vision of two prominent collectors: Frans Jacob Otto Boijmans and Daniel George van Beuningen. Their contributions have helped shape a collection that includes masterpieces from the medieval period to contemporary art. Visitors to Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen can explore a wide range of artistic movements and styles, including Renaissance, Impressionism, Surrealism, and Modernism. The museum's holdings include works by world-renowned artists such as Hieronymus Bosch, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Vincent van Gogh, Salvador Dalí, and René Magritte.

The Kijk-Kubus Museum-House in Rotterdam is a unique architectural gem that offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into one of the city's most iconic and innovative residential designs—the Cube Houses. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom and completed in 1984, these distinctive structures are a striking example of modern architecture and a symbol of Rotterdam's forward-thinking urban landscape.

The Cube Houses, known locally as "Kubuswoningen," are a series of tilted, cube-shaped homes perched on hexagonal pylons. Their unconventional design is both visually arresting and functionally ingenious, showcasing Blom's vision of "living as an urban roof." The architect's concept was to create a forest-like structure, with each cube representing an abstract tree, and the entire complex forming an urban forest. This imaginative design not only provides a unique living experience but also maximizes space in a densely populated urban area.

Arboretum Trompenburg is a botanical paradise nestled in the bustling city of Rotterdam. Established in 1820 by Johan Dirk Landwehr, this lush, green sanctuary offers a serene escape from the urban environment, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in nature's beauty. Spanning approximately 20 acres, the arboretum is home to an extensive collection of trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and plant enthusiasts alike.

One of the highlights of Arboretum Trompenburg is its impressive diversity of plant species. The garden boasts over 4,000 different plant species, including rare and exotic varieties. Visitors can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring themed sections, such as the stunning rhododendron collection, the tranquil water garden, and the vibrant succulent garden. Each area is carefully curated to showcase the unique characteristics and beauty of the plants, providing an educational and visually enriching experience.

Feyenoord Stadium, also known as De Kuip, is more than just a football stadium; it is an iconic symbol of Rotterdam's rich sports culture and a beacon of passion for football fans worldwide. Opened in 1937, this legendary venue has witnessed countless historic moments in Dutch football and remains the proud home of Feyenoord Rotterdam, one of the Netherlands' most storied football clubs.

The name "De Kuip," which translates to "The Tub," reflects the stadium's distinctive oval shape. With a seating capacity of over 51,000, Feyenoord Stadium is one of the largest in the Netherlands, and its design ensures an intimate atmosphere, bringing fans close to the action on the pitch. This proximity, combined with the fervent support of the Feyenoord faithful, creates an electric atmosphere that makes attending a match here a truly unforgettable experience.

Feyenoord Stadium is renowned for its passionate and loyal fan base. On match days, the stadium comes alive with a sea of red and white, the colors of Feyenoord, as supporters sing, chant, and cheer for their team. The famous "Hand in Hand" anthem reverberates through the stands, uniting fans and players in a powerful display of camaraderie and pride. This sense of unity and passion is a hallmark of Feyenoord Stadium, making it a must-visit destination for football enthusiasts.

Market Hall Rotterdam, or Markthal, is one of the city's most iconic and vibrant landmarks. Opened in 2014, this striking horseshoe-shaped building seamlessly combines residential apartments, a bustling market, and a vast array of culinary delights under one roof. It has quickly become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists, offering an unparalleled experience that blends architecture, food, and culture.

The first thing that captures your attention upon approaching Market Hall is its stunning design. The building's unique curved structure, with a massive glass facade at each end, makes it a standout architectural marvel in Rotterdam. The exterior is not only visually impressive but also functional, as it houses over 200 apartments, with windows looking down into the market below. This ingenious integration of living space and commercial area sets Market Hall apart as a modern architectural icon.

St. Lawrence Church, also known as Grote Kerk or Laurenskerk, is a stunning Gothic landmark and a symbol of Rotterdam's rich history and resilience. This majestic church, built between 1449 and 1525, stands as the city's only remaining medieval structure, offering a fascinating glimpse into Rotterdam's past. Despite the destruction faced during World War II, St. Lawrence Church has been meticulously restored and continues to serve as a vital cultural and spiritual center.

The church's architecture is a testament to the grandeur of Gothic design. Its exterior is characterized by soaring towers, intricate stone carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows. The church's towering spire, once the tallest structure in Rotterdam, remains a prominent feature of the city's skyline. The main entrance, adorned with intricate sculptures, welcomes visitors into a space filled with history and artistry.

Standing tall as an iconic landmark in Rotterdam, the Euromast offers an unparalleled perspective of the city and its surroundings. This architectural marvel, inaugurated in 1960, symbolizes the innovative spirit of Rotterdam's urban landscape. At 185 meters tall, the Euromast boasts panoramic observation decks offering breathtaking views of the cityscape, Rotterdam's bustling port, and the expansive Maas River.

Witness one of Amsterdam’s most popular family attractions, and interactive exhibits as you visit the National Maritime Museum. Renowned as one of the world’s largest and most notable maritime collections, the museum traces the remarkable Dutch maritime history over the last 500 years. You can learn from a 60000+ collection of books, maps and magazines for an enriching experience.