There are plenty of interesting attractions in Rotterdam. The second city of the Netherlands has a turbulent history. Instead of giving up, the people of Rotterdam worked hard to rebuild their city and give it a completely new character. This makes the city unique, and you can see this reflected in the diverse attractions in Rotterdam.
From the Central Station, you can walk along the Coolsingel past the city hall, and before you know it, you’ll encounter one attraction after another.
This article gives you a glimpse of what there is to see in this city, for example during our Rotterdam bike tour along the highlights.
We could have made an enormous list but have chosen:
Our top 10 attractions in Rotterdam
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- Euromast
- Port of Rotterdam
- Erasmus Bridge
- Markthal
- Hotel New York
- Cubic Houses
- St. Lawrence Church
- White House
- De Kuip
- SS Rotterdam
Euromast in Rotterdam more than an observation tower
On the edge of Het Park, aptly named for a park, stands the proud Euromast. Built in 1960 as the Eurotower, it was quickly renamed Euromast to give it a more international flair.
The tower offers stunning views over the city and is ideal for a nice meal. There are also suites 100 meters high where you can spend the night in reasonable luxury.
For the adventurous, it’s possible to abseil. Click here for more information about the Euromast.
The Port of Rotterdam
The city enjoys international allure thanks to its enormous port. Close to the city center, you have the Old Port, but the modern, imposing port is also worth a visit. In recent years, it has been surpassed in size by some Asian cities, but it remains the largest port in Europe.
The Port of Rotterdam
During the Baja Bikes Rotterdam Port tour, you’ll get a good sense of just how large this port really is.
Did you know, for example, that 120,000 inland vessels distribute all the goods that arrive throughout Europe each year?
Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge is an excellent example of the modern architecture for which Manhattan on the Maas is known.
This 800-meter-long bridge connects the Kop van Zuid with the city center and has been an integral part of the city’s image since 1996.
The Swan, as the bridge is also called, opens up so that shipping traffic is not hindered by the structure. It was designed by Ben van Berkel, who made a name for himself in architecture with this project.
The Erasmus Bridge is best viewed from the Wilhelminapier.
Markthal
Another beautiful example of modern architecture, the Markthal. The first covered marketplace in the Netherlands was opened in 2014 by Queen Maxima. This impressive building houses not only many shops and eateries but also 228 apartments.
Seven days a week, you can do your shopping here, dine out, and meet your friends in this magnificent horseshoe. During our city walk in Rotterdam, you’ll naturally pass by this eccentric building.
Hotel New York
This hotel is located in the old building of the Holland America Line. For over a century, this building has stood on the banks of the Nieuwe Maas. For about 70 years, it was the departure point for Dutch people seeking their fortune in the New World.
With the rise of air travel, it became increasingly quiet on the Holland America Line. After several years of vacancy and occupation by squatters, the building was transformed into a hotel in 1993. Amidst all the new construction, this building still looks as it did in the past, complete with its tower.
Hotel New York is also known for the restaurant located within the building. Here you can enjoy a delicious lunch and dinner, just like in many other restaurants in Rotterdam.
Cubic Houses
It’s no secret that this city is at the forefront of architecture. Since the early 1980s, a number of striking Cubic Houses have stood near Blaak, close to the Old Port. These buildings, designed by Piet Blom, stand out due to their unusual shape. The upper floors, as you might guess, are cube-shaped. One of these houses is actually a museum, allowing you to see what it looks like inside.
St. Lawrence Church
The church dates back to the 15th century and is the only medieval building still standing in the city center. World War II left significant marks on the center of Rotterdam. That’s why the city is full of modern buildings, but this old church is definitely worth a visit.
The tower is 65 meters high, and the church is a so-called cruciform basilica. The bronze doors are certainly worth a closer look, and the copper fence is a real attraction. Inside the church, there are also some interesting objects, such as a baptismal font and a group of sculptures. St. Lawrence Church is truly a unique building in this city.
White House
The White House is also one of the older attractions in Rotterdam. This stately building was constructed around the turn of the 20th century. It was then the tallest building in Rotterdam and served as an office building. The location was somewhat unfortunately chosen, as at least 1,000 piles were driven into the ground to support the structure. 120 years later, the White House still stands and, after St. Lawrence Church, is one of the older attractions in Rotterdam.
De Kuip
You don’t have to be a fan of Feyenoord, or even of football, to appreciate the beauty of De Kuip. In the Feijenoord district, this stadium has stood as a football temple on the Maas for over 80 years.
Besides phenomenal football matches, De Kuip has also been the setting for a large number of spectacular concerts. The biggest artists on earth have filled this stadium with thousands of fans. Think of Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Prince, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Pink Floyd, U2, Michael Jackson, David Bowie, Tina Turner, Madonna, George Michael, Bruce Springsteen, and Guns N’ Roses.
SS Rotterdam (steamship)
This enormous steamship is docked at the Derde Katendrechtse Hoofd in the Maashaven. In the 1950s, it was used for the Holland America Line, and today it serves as a unique hotel. With a delightful restaurant and even space for meetings, the ship is an excellent spot for individuals and businesses alike.
Even those who only see the exterior will be impressed by this stately vessel. However, we recommend at least enjoying a drink on the ship’s terrace.
These are our 10 favorite Rotterdam attractions. But the city has much more to offer, with other interesting places to visit during your city trip. Enjoy a drink on Witte de Withstraat, or watch the monkeys at Diergaarde Blijdorp; there are so many fun things to do in this port city. Don’t forget Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and check here for more information about museums in Rotterdam.
Buy your tickets online: all Rotterdam attractions
Rotterdam is a beautiful city with much to see and do. It’s no surprise that more and more people are visiting for a weekend getaway or a day out. To make the most of your visit to Rotterdam, it’s wise to purchase your tickets for attractions and activities online in advance.
- Convenience: No more standing in line. Buy your tickets at any time of the day.
- Plan your day: Know what you want to see and do in Rotterdam.
- Availability: Ensure you get a ticket by booking online.
- Price: Save money by purchasing in advance. Many attractions offer discounts!
In short, by buying your tickets online, you make things easier for yourself, save money, and can make the most of your visit to Rotterdam.
Depending on the time of year, there are plenty of events in Rotterdam. There are also plenty of restaurants. Read on if you want to go out in Rotterdam.
In short, you’ll have a great time in this lively city.