>
>
>
Rotterdam
Rotterdam Netherlands skyline

intro

Rotterdam is a city in the Dutch province of South The Netherlands, lying at the heart of a maze of rivers and artificial waterways that form the rivers Rijn (Rhine) and Maas (Meuse). Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and home to the largest port in the world. After being almost reconstructed following World War II devastating damage, the city has grown into a vibrant, bold city. Rotterdam offers a historic port and a modern city with trendy nightlife, shopping, and a hip, artistic vibe. Above all, Rotterdam is known for its architecture and constantly changing skyline. Despite its modernity, the city dates back to medieval times. Today, Rotterdam offers a lot to see and do. You can go on a shopping spree and enjoy excellent food, impressive cultural attractions, vibrant entertainment, many museums, and many other attractions.

Additional Information

View the impressive architecture, visit the different exhibits and museums, walk the old harbor, and party in one of the city's top-rated festivals, such as the North Sea Jazz Festival and the colorful Summer Carnival.

Rotterdam offers an exciting blend of innovation and tradition. This port city is filled with iconic landmarks like the Euromast Tower, Cube Houses, and the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. With attractions ranging from lively markets and maritime museums to urban parks and cycling routes, Rotterdam ensures a full and rewarding experience.

 

Reasons to Visit:

  • Discover architectural marvels and modern urban design.
  • Enjoy lively festivals and diverse culinary experiences.
  • Engage with Rotterdam’s art and music scene.
  • Explore the world-renowned Port of Rotterdam, the largest in Europe.

 

Things to Avoid:

  • Avoid traveling during peak festivals if you prefer quieter crowds.
  • Be mindful of cyclists; Rotterdam is a bike-friendly city with dedicated lanes.
  • Avoid last-minute bookings for accommodations during high season, as they can fill up quickly.

 

Accessibility Level: High

Address:

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Find Nearby Accommodations

Basic Info

address icon

COUNTRY & Region

Netherlands,
Europe
High
Currency icon

LOCAL CURRENCY​

Euro (EUR)
Safety Level icon
Price level icon
Medium
Duration icon

Recommended Duration

• 3-5 hours (Half a day)
• Full day
• Overnight
• 1-7 days

Electricity

electricity icon

Electricity

220-240V,
50Hz
Plug Socket icon

Plug Type

• Type C (Round pin)
• Type F (Two round pins with earth clips)
Plug types
Click To View Plug Types

Things To Do In Rotterdam

Total: 9

Activities To Do In Rotterdam

Best Time To Visit

The best months to visit Rotterdam are from April to October, offering mild weather, lively events, and comfortable sightseeing conditions.

  • Spring (April to May): This is a beautiful time to visit as tulips bloom across the Netherlands, and the weather is mild and pleasant. Ideal for outdoor tours, exploring parks, and enjoying festivals like King's Day at the end of April.
  • Summer (June to August): Rotterdam comes alive with warm temperatures, numerous festivals, and longer daylight hours. The North Sea Jazz Festival and Rotterdam Summer Carnival are major draws, but this is also the busiest time, with higher prices and larger crowds.
  • Autumn (September to October): Cooler temperatures and thinner crowds make early autumn a comfortable and relaxing time to explore. This period is also great for enjoying Rotterdam’s museums, cultural events, and markets without the peak season bustle.
  • Winter (December to February): Winter in Rotterdam is quieter, with chilly weather perfect for cozy indoor attractions like the Kunsthal and the Markthal. Rotterdam's Winter Festival lights up the city with festive events and holiday decorations, making it an enchanting time to visit.

Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.

Safety Level icon

SAFETY Level

Relatively safe. Rotterdam is a dynamic city that’s generally secure but has pockets of increased petty crime. Stay alert in crowded transit zones and nightlife areas, and avoid leaving valuables exposed.

The rating is based on multi-year peace, crime, and security indices. Before you go, always verify current conditions through official government travel advisories.

Spoken Languages

The official language is Dutch, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, and many locals have a good understanding of German and French.

Learn The Language

  • Hello – Hallo
  • Thank you – Dank je wel
  • How much? – Hoeveel kost het?
  • Please – Alsjeblieft
  • Yes/No – Ja/Nee
  • Where is…? – Waar is…?
  • Good morning – Goedemorgen
  • Goodbye – Tot ziens
  • Do you speak English? – Spreekt u Engels?

Deals, Money-Saving & Best Value Tips

  • Purchase a Rotterdam Welcome Card for discounted entry to attractions and unlimited public transport.
  • Book in advance for popular tours and ferry rides to secure the best rates.
  • Visit the Markthal for affordable and diverse food options without compromising on quality.
Medium

Price levels are estimates based on multi‑year averages. Actual prices can change with season, exchange rates, and special events. Always confirm current rates and deals before booking.

Check out our traveling coupons and make your trip more affordable

What To Pack

Pack for variable weather, especially in spring and autumn. Include layers, a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a universal power adapter. During winter, bring a warm coat, scarf, and gloves to stay comfortable when exploring outdoors.

Related Events

Rotterdam Summer Carnival (Zomercarnaval)
Rotterdam Summer Carnival - Zomercarnaval)
Categories: Music | Festivals | Community Events | Nightlife | Food and Drink | Family and Kids | Historical and Cultural
Date & Time: Typically held in late July each year.
Address: City Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Location: Key areas include Hofplein, where the Battle of the Drums and live performances take place, and stretches over approximately five kilometers of Rotterdam’s city center for the street parade and vendor markets.
Rotterdam Summer Carnival, or Zomercarnaval, is the Netherlands’ largest Caribbean-style street party, transforming Rotterdam into a vibrant celebration of color, music, and dance. Held over two days as part of Rotterdam Unlimited, the event features over 2,500 dancers, 25 carnival groups, and 30 elaborate floats, captivating nearly a million visitors annually. Inspired by South American carnivals, the Summer Carnival brings Latin rhythms, dynamic brass bands, and extravagant parades to Rotterdam’s city center. Key highlights include the exhilarating Battle of the Drums, the bustling Mercado street market, and the spectacular Summer Carnival Street Parade, offering an unforgettable fusion of culture and festivity.
We couldn't find specific tips for Rotterdam

GetReady

Plan your trip seamlessly with our trusted partners and expert guidance. Follow these steps to book everything you need or connect with a local tour guide for personalized support

Step 1: Find the Perfect Accommodation

Explore a wide range of hotels, boutique stays, and vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxury options to cozy family stays, find the best place for your trip.

Step 2: Book Your Flights

Secure the best flight deals for your destination. With our trusted partners, booking flights is quick and hassle-free.

Step 3: Let a Tour Guide Help

Not sure where to start? A professional local tour guide can create a customized itinerary or assist you in planning your trip. Make your journey seamless and stress-free.

Step 4: Rent a Car

Travel at your own pace by renting a car. Whether you’re exploring cities or embarking on a road trip, find reliable and convenient car rental options.

Step 5: Get Travel Insurance

Protect yourself and your loved ones with comprehensive travel insurance. Our partners offer plans to cover every aspect of your journey.

Step 6: Need a Visa?

Check visa requirements for your destination and apply quickly with trusted services. Simplify the process and ensure you’re ready to travel without delays.

FAQs

Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture, vibrant port, and cultural attractions, including the Cube Houses, Erasmus Bridge, and numerous museums.
Yes, many parts of Rotterdam, especially the city center, are highly walkable, with excellent public transportation options.
The Rotterdam Welcome Card offers unlimited public transport access and is a cost-effective way to explore the city.
Must-sees include the Euromast, Markthal, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and a walk along the waterfront at Kop van Zuid.
Yes, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, making it easy for English-speaking travelers to navigate the city.

Help Us Improve

If you visited
Rotterdam
click here to share your tips and stories.

This will help us improve our guides for the entire travelers community.

Related Articles

Check out our related articles and blog posts to learn even more about the destination.
No related articles found

Don’t Travel Alone

Share with your friends and family

Join travel lovers and get exclusive travel tips, coupons and more!

Register

Now!