Rotterdam

Planning Your Rotterdam Trip: Key Information

Essential Netherlands Facts

• Country: Netherlands

Time Zone

• Timezone: GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Language

• Languages spoken: Dutch

Currency

• Currency: Euro (€)

Weather and Climate: When to Visit Rotterdam

• January-February: Cold and damp, averaging 0-5°C. Expect rain or snow.
• March-May: Spring arrives, temperatures increase to 10-18°C. More sunshine and blooming flowers.
• June-August: Warmest months, averaging 17-22°C. Occasional rain showers.
• September-October: Mild temperatures, ranging from 10-17°C. Autumn foliage.
• November-December: Cooler, around 3-8°C. Increased chance of rain and wind.

Discovering Rotterdam

City Overview: A Modern Architectural Marvel

Rotterdam, a port city in the Netherlands, showcases modern architecture and innovation. Rebuilt after World War II, Rotterdam features iconic structures like the Markthal, Cube Houses, and Erasmus Bridge. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and music venues. Its multicultural population influences a diverse culinary landscape. Rotterdam’s bike paths provide easy exploration of neighborhoods, each with its unique character. From Delfshaven to Witte de Withstraat, Rotterdam offers an evolving experience.

Best Time to Visit Rotterdam

• Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, fewer crowds. Occasional rain.
• Summer (June-August): Warm weather, outdoor events, vibrant atmosphere. Higher prices, more tourists.
• Autumn (September-October): Mild temperatures, fall foliage, fewer crowds. Increased chance of rain.
• Winter (November-March): Festive Christmas markets, lower prices. Cold and damp weather, shorter daylight hours.

Getting to Rotterdam and Visa Information

• Flights: Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) to European destinations. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is a larger hub (30 minutes by train).
• Trains: Rotterdam Centraal Station has direct connections to European cities.
• Visa details: Netherlands is in the Schengen Area. Requirements depend on nationality. Check the Dutch immigration website.
• Airport transfers: RET public transport (bus or metro) from Rotterdam The Hague Airport. Train from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Rotterdam Centraal Station. Taxis available.

Rotterdam’s Unique Character

Fun and Historical Fact

During World War II, Rotterdam Zoo was bombed. Gorilla Bokito escaped, causing a stir and becoming a symbol of resilience.

Famous Personalities

• Erasmus (Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus) – Renaissance humanist and theologian.
• Robin van Persie – Football player.

Top 10 Rotterdam Attractions: Must-See Sights

• Markthal
  • Description: A food market in a stunning architectural building with food stalls, restaurants, and apartments.
  • Address: Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Cube Houses
  • Description: Houses tilted at a 45-degree angle, creating a surreal environment.
  • Address: Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Erasmus Bridge
  • Description: A cable-stayed bridge spanning the New Meuse River.
  • Address: Erasmusbrug, 3011 BN Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Euromast
  • Description: A 185-meter-high observation tower with panoramic views.
  • Address: Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Delfshaven
  • Description: A historic harbor district with traditional Dutch architecture.
  • Address: Delfshaven, Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
  • Description: Art museum from the Middle Ages to the present day. (Currently closed for renovation.)
  • Address: Museumpark 18-20, 3015 CX Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp)
  • Description: A large zoo with a variety of animals.
  • Address: Blijdorflaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Kinderdijk Windmills
  • Description: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring windmills. (Day trip)
  • Address: Nederwaard 1, 2961 AS Kinderdijk, Netherlands
• Kunsthal Rotterdam
  • Description: A museum of modern and contemporary art.
  • Address: Westzeedijk 341, 3015 AA Rotterdam, Netherlands
• SS Rotterdam
  • Description: A former ocean liner turned into a hotel and museum.
  • Address: 3e Katendrechtse Hoofd 25, 3072 AM Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam’s Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

• Het Park
  • Description: A green park for picnics and relaxation.
  • Address: Baden Powelllaan, 3016 GJ Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Fenix Food Factory
  • Description: Artisanal food vendors in a repurposed warehouse.
  • Address: Veerlaan 19D, 3072 AN Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Oude Haven (Old Harbour)
  • Description: A historic harbour district with bars and restaurants.
  • Address: Oude Haven, Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Historisch Museum Rotterdam
  • Description: The museum focusing on the history of the city and its port.
  • Address: Korte Hoogstraat 31, 3011 GK Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam Festivals and Events: Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

• International Film Festival Rotterdam (January/February): Showcasing independent films.
• North Sea Jazz Festival (July): A jazz festival.
• Rotterdam Summer Carnival (July): A street parade celebrating Caribbean culture.
• World Port Days (September): A celebration of Rotterdam’s port.

Day Trips from Rotterdam: Explore the Region

• Delft (20 minutes by train): Known for Delftware pottery.
• The Hague (30 minutes by train): Political center of the Netherlands.
• Gouda (30 minutes by train): Famous for its cheese.
• Kinderdijk (40 minutes by car/bus): Windmills (UNESCO World Heritage site).

Photography in Rotterdam: Instagram-Worthy Locations

• Erasmus Bridge: Photos of the bridge against the skyline.
• Cube Houses: A photogenic architectural landmark.
• Markthal: The colorful interior of the food market.
• Het Park: City skyline reflected in the park’s ponds.
• Witte de Withstraat: Street art and atmosphere.

Accommodation and Transportation in Rotterdam

Recommended Stay

• 3-4 days to explore the main attractions.

Top Places to Stay in Rotterdam

Budget Hotels

• King Kong Hostel
  • Address: Hoogstraat 58, 3011 PX Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Stayokay Rotterdam Central
  • Address: Overblaak 85-87, 3011 MH Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Ani & Haakien Boutique Hotel
  • Address: Keerweer 13, 3012 KC Rotterdam, Netherlands

Mid-Range Hotels

• Hotel New York
  • Address: Koninginnenhoofd 1, 3072 AD Rotterdam, Netherlands
• The James Hotel Rotterdam
  • Address: Aert van Nesstraat 25, 3012 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
• citizenM Rotterdam
  • Address: Gelderse Plein 50, 3011 WZ Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Mainport Design Hotel
  • Address: Leuvehaven 77, 3011 ES Rotterdam, Netherlands

Luxury Hotels

• Hilton Rotterdam
  • Address: Weena 10, 3012 CM Rotterdam, Netherlands
• Hotel Emma
  • Address: Rochussenstraat 216, 3015 EW Rotterdam, Netherlands

Getting Around Rotterdam

• Public transport: RET (trams, buses, metro). Rotterdam Welcome Card for unlimited travel.
• Taxis: Available but expensive. Uber is an option.
• Bikes: Bike-friendly city with bike paths. Rent a bike.
• Walking tips: The city centre is walkable.

Preparing for Your Rotterdam Adventure

What to Pack for Rotterdam

• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Layers of clothing.
• Rain gear (umbrella or raincoat).
• Adapter for European outlets.

Useful Apps for Rotterdam

• RET Real Time: For public transport.
• Google Maps: For navigation.
• TripAdvisor: For restaurant reviews and attractions.

Local Tips, Safety, and Etiquette

• Do: Respect cyclists and pedestrians.
• Do: Learn basic Dutch phrases.
• Don’t: Assume everyone speaks English.
• Scams to avoid: Pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Respectful behavior: Be mindful of noise levels.

Rotterdam Food, Fun, and Finds

Top Rotterdam Restaurants

• FG Restaurant (Michelin-starred):
  • Description: Awarded restaurant with creative dishes, and a wine bar.
  • Address: Lloydstraat 204, 3024 EA Rotterdam
• Hotel New York Restaurant:
  • Description: Restaurant located in the iconic Hotel New York.
  • Address: Koninginnenhoofd 1, 3072 AD Rotterdam
• Markthal Food Stalls:
  • Description: A variety of food stalls offering cuisines from around the world.
  • Address: Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam

Must-Try Rotterdam Dishes

• Stroopwafels: Thin waffles with caramel filling.
• Bitterballen: Deep-fried meatballs with mustard.
• Hollandse Nieuwe (Raw Herring): Eaten with chopped onions.
• Kapsalon: Fries, shawarma, cheese, salad, and garlic sauce.

Rotterdam Nightlife and Entertainment

• Witte de Withstraat: Bars, pubs, and cafes.
• Jazzcafe Dizzy: Live jazz music venue.
  • Address: ‘s-Gravendijkwal 127, 3021 EK Rotterdam
• Annabel: A popular nightclub with various music genres.
  • Address: Schiestraat 20, 3013 AH Rotterdam
• De Witte Aap: A cafe with music and a great vibe.
  • Address: Witte de Withstraat 78, 3012 BS Rotterdam

Rotterdam Souvenirs and Markets

• Delftware: Blue and white pottery.
• Stroopwafels: A Dutch treat.
• Cheese: Gouda and other Dutch cheeses.
• Markthal: Local products and food souvenirs.
  • Address: Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298, 3011 GZ Rotterdam
• Swan Market: Local crafts, art, and food (check dates and locations).