Rotterdam is easily the second largest city in the Netherlands, and a perfect location for a wide range of activities.
There's such a mix of wonderful museums, historic cobbled streets and stylish new areas that it's quite beautiful.
Today, I'd like to take you on a tour of this unique place!
Activities in Rotterdam: article summary
- Activities in Rotterdam: climb the Euromast tower
- Markthal gorge Rotterdam
- Activities in Rotterdam: explore the city's museums
- Find cubic houses
- Stroll around the old port and the naval museums
- See the windmills of Kinderdijk
- Activities in Rotterdam: find Grote or Sint-Laurenskerk
- Relax at the Trompenburg Arboretum
Activities in Rotterdam: climb the Euromast tower
For a breathtaking view of Rotterdam, head to the very top of the Euromast tower. Be sure to book these tickets before you arrive, as it can get very crowded at certain times of the year.
This really is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam if you're looking for views over the city.
At around 185 metres high, it is the tallest building in Rotterdam, and the only one of its kind in Europe. it's easily recognizable.
Once up there, you can scan the horizon while learning a little more about the city and its history.
Just make sure you cover up well, as it can get very cold at the summit.
If you're feeling really brave, you can even abseil down the tower or take a zip-line from the tower itself.
However, it might be best to skip lunch if you plan to do so!
Markthal gorge Rotterdam
Although a relatively new addition to Rotterdam, the Markthal is one of the best things to do if you love iconic buildings and good home-cooked food.
Once inside, you'll notice over 100 stalls, bars and numerous gourmet restaurants. This is one of the city's best lunch spots!
Markthal isn't just about the food - make sure you look around and take in the architecture.
It's truly impressive. The ceiling, for example, boasts the largest work of art in the Netherlands. called the "Horn of Plenty", that you just can't miss.
Activities in Rotterdam: explore the city's museums
Every European city has its share of fascinating museums, but Rotterdam's are truly incredible.
Head to the Museumpark, where you can choose between or visit the six museums, which include :
- Het Nieuwe Instituut
- Sonneveld House Museum
- Chabot Museum
- Natural History Museum
- Museum Bojimans van Beuningen
- Kunsthal
This is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam if you love museums, and it's a perfect place to do it. to spend a morning if the weather deteriorates.
Find cubic houses
Rotterdam's cube houses (Kijk-Kubus) are probably the country's most famous structures. Imagined and conceptualized by Piet Blom, they are totally unique and unlike anything you've ever seen before.
Tilted at a 45-degree angle, the cubes are cool, totally abstract spaces that you have to at least once in your life.
To see what it looks like from the inside, you can visit the "Kijk-Kubus" or Show Cube, a furnished house open to visitors.
Stroll around the old port and the naval museums
For a maritime adventure, head for the Oude Haven.
Filled with restored historic boats, magnificent footbridges and a host of restaurants, it's the best place to visit. to visit for some relaxation.
Then visit the Rotterdam Maritime Museum. It's the ideal place to learn more about the history of this region, the city's waterways and its connection with the sea.
You can also visit the Port Museum, which houses an open-air the 19th-century Buffel ship.
See the windmills of Kinderdijk
Windmills are synonymous with everything Dutch. Fortunately, about 20 km east of Rotterdam lies the small village of Kinderdijk.
With some magnificent canals, lined with 19 impressive windmills, it's a show you must see.
Activities in Rotterdam: find Grote or Sint-Laurenskerk
The Grote de Sint-Laurenskerk is considered one of the few surviving medieval buildings in Rotterdam, and is not to be missed.
Built between 1149 and 1525, the church is an incredible place to visit. With its bronze doors, beautiful interiors and stained-glass windows, it's a must-see. one of the best things to do in Rotterdam if you love history.
Relax at the Trompenburg Arboretum
This magnificent botanical garden is a green oasis in the middle of Rotterdam.
It's an ideal spot for a stroll, a delicious picnic or simply to relax. to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
You can join one of the guided walking tours to learn more about the garden if you like, but I totally think you should walk at your own pace.
Rotterdam is a city bursting with activity. During your visit, you'll discover many new things, such as you'll be happy to share with your friends when you get back from your trip.
What to do in Amsterdam in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Amsterdam guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Amsterdam guide!
Leave a Reply