34 unmissable things to do in Rotterdam in 2026

As the Dutch centre of modern architecture and big city vibes, there are lots of things to do in Rotterdam. 

This vibrant city is home to Europe’s largest port, the only skyline in the Netherlands, and a melting pot of cultures. 

With a knack for innovation and some of the most unique architecture in the country, here are 35 things to do in Rotterdam that will guarantee an unforgettable trip.

^{This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.}

1. Stuff yourself at the food stalls and restaurants of Markthal

The Markthal features restaurants and food stalls with all kinds of cuisine, from sushi and tapas to frietjes and kapsalons — a real testament to Rotterdam’s multiculturalism. 

This food hall is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, with the building acting as a modern take on a marketplace, merging Rotterdam’s famous architecture with traditional markets.

---

2. Visit the beloved Blijdorp Zoo

Blijdorp, officially known as the Rotterdam Zoo, is one of the most fun things to do in Rotterdam. Here, you’ll find botanical gardens, an aquarium, and all kinds of enclosures for over 180 species.

Don’t miss out on the animal feedings. You can see heaps of different types, including polar bears, sharks, and penguins. Wat leuk! (How nice!)

READ MORE | Dierentuinen: 10 best zoos in the Netherlands

---

3. Ascend the Euromast Tower for the Rotterdam skyline

The Euromast is an observation tower that stretches above much of Rotterdam’s skyline, offering some stunning views of the city below. 

You can buy tickets to check out the 96-metre-high observation deck and book a table at the restaurant after you’ve soaked up all the views. 

Feeling extra bold? Why not go rappelling off the side of the building? 🫣

---

4. Check out the art at Depot Boijmans van Beuningen

If you love art and modern architecture, the Boijmans van Beuningen Depot is the perfect place to visit in Rotterdam. 

The Depot houses over 150,000 art items and is the only publicly accessible art depot in the world.

The reflective panel on the building’s exterior gives it an extra oomph: a cool, modern look for a cool, modern city.

---

5. Explore Rotterdam’s Oude Haven (Old Harbour)

The Oude Haven (Old Harbour) is one of the oldest ports in Rotterdam. And believe us, this is no ugly industrial port.

Here, you can enjoy cafés, bars, and restaurants, take a stroll along the water, and admire the boats docked in the harbour. Perfect for date night, no?

---

6. Football fans can head to Feyenoord Stadium

Affectionately nicknamed De Kuip (The Tub), a visit to the Feyenoord stadium is one of the coolest things to do in Rotterdam, and a must for any football fan. 

READ MORE | Why does the Netherlands love orange? The full explainer

Visitors can tour the whole stadium and check out the museum of one of the biggest Dutch teams.

And if you’re lucky, you may even catch Feyenoord playing in their home stadium!

---

7. Visit one of Rotterdam’s best coffeeshops

Hunter’s Coffeeshop Rotterdam is the go-to spot for adult visitors looking for a fun cannabis experience.

Located in the former Sensi Seeds building, Hunter’s has a relaxed atmosphere, high-quality products, and expert service. Whether you want to relax 😉 after a day exploring the city or are simply seeking superior weed, Hunter’s will deliver.

---

8. Eat your way through Rotterdam’s foodie hotspots

If you love city walks and identify as a foodie, (obviously) going on a food tour is the best way to discover Rotterdam!

Picture it: Walking around the city at your own pace, sampling Rotterdam’s specialities, and learning about its most iconic landmarks. Sounds like a fun time, right?

As far as self-guided walking tours go, we can recommend the Rotterdam BiteMe Food Tour.

Featuring six culinary stops and many more cultural ones, this tour guides you along an itinerary designed to let you taste Rotterdam one frietje at a time.

---

9. Sleep in a floating home at Wikkelboat

A water mattress is one thing, but imagine drifting to sleep while your entire house floats on water.

Thanks to Wikkelboat, you can make your inner mermaid/merman come to life by living in a home floating on Rotterdam’s waters.

READ MORE | 9 unique places to spend the night in the Netherlands

There are also private jacuzzis, televisions, and massages onboard. Expect a lot of pampering and relaxation.

---

10. Have a picnic at “Het Park”

Het Park is one of Rotterdam’s most picturesque spots, with loads of picnic space and greenery to enjoy.  

Get your biggest blanket, pack all your favourite snacks, and find a comfy spot to share a bite with your friends and family!

---

11. Enjoy the abstract architecture of Cube Houses

It’s not a real visit if you don’t appreciate the modern, abstract, obscure, funny-looking architecture in Rotterdam!

The Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) are one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Dutch architect Piet Blom designed these residential houses in the shape of a cube — and then turned them on a 45-degree angle!

Ever wondered what it would be like to live there? You can buy a ticket to check out the interior of one of the Cube Houses and get a feel for yourself! 

---

12. Soak in nature at Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum

With plenty of trees, shrubs, and flowers, Trompenburg Gardens and Arboretum is the perfect place escape from the bustling city outside.

Located just outside the city centre, this 20-acre botanical garden has lots of unique flora, from cacti to varieties of oak and rhododendrons. A must-visit if you have a green thumb! 

13. Discover a small city at Miniworld Rotterdam

Enchanting for both children and adults alike, at Miniworld Rotterdam, you can take a look at some of the most famous landscapes and areas in Rotterdam on a tiny scale.

Discover Dutch suburban life, the coastal and polder landscapes, and even get a simulation of day and night time with a change in the lighting. 

---

14. Enjoy a gorgeous sunset from your room at Nhow

Stay in a room at the iconic hotel, Nhow, and watch glorious sunsets while Rotterdam streetlife passes by. 

You’ll get unique views of the Erasmus Bridge and Zalmhaven Tower — more than enough for a memorable stay in the city.

It’s an enchanting space full of creative excesses and lovely gimmicks. We loved it!

---

15. Marvel at exhibitions in the Nederlands Fotomuseum

The Nederlands Fotomuseum showcases several permanent and temporary exhibits to preserve Dutch heritage and traditions through photography.

The museum hosts several activities and workshops throughout the year by artists and photographers. 

---

16. Take a stroll through Kralingse Plas and Bos

If you’re looking for a city break, Kralingse Plas and Bos (lake and forest) is the perfect place to go.

Located in the suburbs of Rotterdam, this pocket of nature is lovely for taking walks in the day and soaking up the natural surroundings. 

READ NEXT | Hikes and walks in Rotterdam: 12 places for the perfect nature escape

You can also get sporty and go for a run or cycle around the forest. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, there are heaps of water sports on the lake including fishing, rowing, and sailing.

---

17. Admire the Sint Laurenskerk

Sint Laurenskerk (Saint Lawrence Church) is one of the only structures remaining from medieval Rotterdam after World War II. 

This Protestant church sits right in the centre of Rotterdam, next to the Markthal and the Cube Houses. 

You can climb the tower and view Rotterdam from a gorgeous vantage point or admire the church’s interior, including the largest organ in the Netherlands!

---

18. Watch some movies at KINO Theatre

Just wanted to remind you, she’s still there ⛄️☀️ #kinorotterdam #rotterdam #cinema pic.twitter.com/wVYGdqQD3m

— KINO Rotterdam (@KINORdam) February 12, 2021

If you’re a sucker for gezellig vibes, KINO Theatre is perfect for you. 

Located right in the city centre, KINO Theatre screens a lot of indie films and has all the snacks you could dream of.

You can watch a movie for a fraction of the price compared to other movie theatres and support local Rotterdam businesses. What’s not to love?

---

19. Explore Rotterdam’s Museumpark

Just like Amsterdam’s Museumplein, Rotterdam has its very own Museumpark!

If you’re ever in the mood to check out some art exhibitions and installations, a walk through the park will certainly give you some inspiration. 

READ MORE | 20 best and free things to do in Rotterdam in 2025

Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, Kunsthal Rotterdam, the Chabot Museum, Het Nieuwe Instituut, and the Natural History Museum Rotterdam are all within walking distance of the park. 

---

20. Drink up at the National Jenever Museum in Schiedam

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alex Kallimanis (@travelguide_alex)

Did you know the Dutch have their own version of gin, called jenever? They like it so much, they even have a museum dedicated just to the liquor!

Suitable for groups of friends or a day with your S/O, you can learn about Jenever’s history, how it’s made, and even try some authentic Jenever yourself at the National Jenever Museum. Lekker!

READ NEXT | Day trip to Schiedam: things to see and do in the gin capital of the world

---

21. Watch a classical concert at De Doelen

De Doelen Concert Hall is the home turf of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra and is one of the best spots to watch a concert in the country. 

De Doelen primarily hosts concerts for classical music, but you can still watch all kinds of musical groups, acts, and performances. 

---

22. Walk along the famous Erasmusbrug and the Willemsbrug

The Erasmusbrug and Willemsbrug (Erasmus Bridge and William’s Bridge) might be the most iconic structures that make up Rotterdam’s skyline. 

The Erasmusbrug is famous for its unique shape, nicknamed “the Swan” for its light colour and neck-like appearance.

The Willemsbrug is an older, red bridge, further down the Maas river, connecting the northern part of Rotterdam to the Feyenoord neighbourhood.

Visitors can enjoy strolling along the river and walking across the bridges in the daytime and at night!

---

23. Check out the art installations at De Kunsthal Rotterdam

De Kunsthal is a unique cultural institution in Rotterdam, hosting over 20 different exhibitions per year, from fashion and photography to contemporary art and design. 

The Kunsthall offers access to several art installations, activities, workshops, and events, so get your tickets ASAP!

---

24. Boogie at the North Sea Jazz Festival

North Sea Jazz Festival to Rotterdam is what Coachella is to California. For three days in July, visitors come from all over the Netherlands (and the world) to watch concerts by all kinds of artists and performers. 

Despite the name, North Sea Jazz showcases genres of music apart from jazz music acts (although their jazz performers are absolutely killer). The North Sea Jazz Festival is usually held at Rotterdam Ahoy, Rotterdam Zuid’s event hall. 

Past acts include Toto (yes, the guys who sang Africa), Herbie Hancock, Alicia Keys, and Jamiroquai.

---

25. Enjoy some pancakes and river views on the Pannenkoekenboot

Eating pancakes and boating down Maas River is one of the essential things to do in Rotterdam. And you can do both on the Pannenkoekenboot!

This boat is not actually made of pancakes, but you’ll still enjoy sailing along the river while munching on some delicious Dutch pannenkoeken in the inner part of this floating restaurant. 

It’s a memorable activity for families, friends, and anyone looking for an authentic pannekoek. 

---

26. Shop till you drop at the Koopgoot

Translating to “The Shopping Gutter,” the Koopgoot is anything but a gutter. If you’re looking for a new pair of jeans or want to buy someone a souvenir for your visit, shopping at the Koopgoot is a must-do in Rotterdam. 

The sunken shopping area connects the big shopping streets (Lijnbaan and Hoogstraat) to the Beurs metro station, so you’re sure to find everything you’re looking for at this spot. 

---

27. Get a history lesson at Museum Rotterdam

Due to a solemn World War II experience (Nazi Germany bombed the whole city), Rotterdam is a city with one of the most interesting histories in the country. 

If you’re interested in learning about its past, you should consider this museum in your Rotterdam itinerary.  

Visitors can look at an exhibit and immerse themselves in a multimedia experience about Rotterdam during the Second World War.

---

28. Board the SS Rotterdam for a tour

The SS Rotterdam is a former ocean liner and cruise ship docked in Rotterdam as a hotel and restaurant. 

The ship used to be part of Holland America Line, carrying passengers back and forth from Rotterdam to New York or “Old Amsterdam,” back in the day.  

Nowadays, if you’re looking for a fancy hotel to stay in or get a good bite to eat at a unique place, the SS Rotterdam is your place to go. 

You can also book a guided tour and explore the interior of the ship’s steamer.

---

29. Visit the part that survived WW2: Delfshaven

If you want to see some traditional Dutch architecture in Rotterdam, Delfshaven could be the place for you.

This peculiar neighbourhood in Rotterdam is one of the only spots that survived the bombings during World War II and maintains some of the traditional facades of Dutch homes. 

Delfshaven is perfect for any low-key activity like walking your dog, having a drink on a terrasje (terrace), or simply wandering around the city. 

---

30. Gaze at Rotterdam’s street art

Street art of #Rotterdam 🇳🇱💕 #Traverse18 #streetartist #RotterdamMakeItHappen #LoveRotterdam pic.twitter.com/YNmUtTQ2uS

— Life is a Festival! (@lifeisafestival) May 27, 2018

Plenty of artists like to use the facades of Rotterdam’s buildings for their large murals — and we have to say, they only add to Rotterdam’s character!

There are some designated art routes you can pick and walk along yourself, or perhaps you’re curious to spot some murals just as you pass through the city. 

You can download an app that shows you the different routes and is constantly updated. 

---

31. Take a boat tour down the river Maas

Your trip to Rotterdam would be incomplete without a boat tour on your list of things to do. After all, it is a port city. 😉

Take a tour of all the major spots on Rotterdam’s river and relax as the boat whisks you around, completely stress-free.

Different boating companies have different routes and pick-up/drop-off points, and add-on experiences, so you can certainly find a tour that suits your interests. 

You can do a boat tour and borrel, or get a tour of the Euromast after cruising on the river. Some boat trips visit the popular harbours around the city, while others show you the highlights of Rotterdam’s skyline.

---

32. Catch a show at the Luxor Theatre

The Luxor Theatre has two auditoriums, one in the city centre and one in the city’s southern part, affectionately referred to as the ‘old’ and ‘new’ theatre.

Visitors can enjoy various cultural performances, from operas and musicals to cabaret and plays. 🎥

---

33. Get a glimpse of naval history at the Maritime Museum

Economically speaking, Rotterdam wouldn’t be where it is today without its historic harbours and invaluable port.

Rotterdam and the sea are inseparable, and you can learn all about the city’s naval and maritime history at the Maritime Museum. 

The museum has many exhibits and displays to explore, detailing all the interesting, historical stories about the sea.

34. Order a pint somewhere on Witte de Withstraat

What was once a place for cars is now a place for people.

Before the pandemic, Rotterdam’s Witte de Withstraat was a car-choked thoroughfare.

Today, cars are banned, and terraces have taken the place of on-street parking spaces; part of a program that converted 1,000+ citywide. pic.twitter.com/agx7fidBkE

— Melissa & Chris Bruntlett (@modacitylife) February 5, 2022

There is nothing more Dutch than finding a terrasje (terrace), ordering a beer, ordering borrel snacks, and hanging out with your friends. 

Witte de Withstraat in the centre of Rotterdam is one of the cosiest streets in the whole city, where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to suit your mood. 

READ NEXT | Where to live in Rotterdam: the ultimate guide to Rotterdam’s neighbourhoods

---

Whether you’re in the city for a day, a week, or a year, you’ll find a load of fun and exciting things to do in Rotterdam. Now, go forth and get that travel itinerary ready! 

What’s your favourite activity in Rotterdam? Tell us in the comments below!