Rotterdam, a city in the Netherlands, has managed to rise from its ashes after being almost completely destroyed during World War II. Today, it enchants many tourists every year with its unique blend of modern and historic architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning natural surroundings.
In this article, we will guide you through the best way to explore Rotterdam in just three days. We’ll take you on a journey through its historic center, some of its world-class museums, and along the famous port. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the city; we’ll help you navigate it like a local.
Valuing the Purchase of a Card
Before we dive into our itinerary, let’s talk about something that can save you money on individual attractions or transportation costs: the Rotterdam City Card. Prices start at €13.50, and it offers discounts and free entry to many attractions. We highly recommend purchasing one before your trip.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
Distance traveled: 4.2 km
Visited places: Historic Center, Saint Lawrence Church, Cubic Houses, Markthal, White House, Maritime Museum, Erasmusburg and Kop van Zuid Quarter
If you’re visiting Rotterdam for the first time, let yourself be guided by booking a guided tour on foot with a local guide or taking a panoramic bus tour.
1 – Historic Center
Take a stroll along Karel Doormanstraat, then arrive at Schouwburgplein, one of the most peculiar squares in the city, where you’ll find unusual lamps that resemble the cranes of the port (Get directions).
Walk down Lijnbaan, famous shopping street, rich in local shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Time of visit: 1 hour
2 – Saint Lawrence Church
10 minutes on foot (Get directions)
Visit the Saint Lawrence Church, or Laurenskerk Rotterdam, a true symbol and piece of history of the city (Get directions).
This church was one of three buildings in the center that survived World War II’s bombing campaign. Although it suffered some damage, it was not destroyed.
Time of visit: 30 minutes
3 – Cubic Houses
5 minutes on foot (Get directions)
Just a few minutes from the church, cross the Blaak Market and pass by the Central Library of Rotterdam to reach Piet Blom’s Cubic Houses, also known as Kijk-Kubus. These iconic houses are a must-see, both for their unique architecture and Instagram-worthiness.
These cubical houses were designed by architect Piet Blom to recreate an image of a forest (the support pillar represents the tree trunk while the houses represent its leaves). Some of these houses have apartments, while one is a museum open to everyone. You can explore the interiors and see how they are organized, an experience not to be missed.
Time of visit: 1.5 hours
4 – Markthal
Just 3 minutes on foot (Get directions)
For lunch, head to the Markthal Rotterdam, the largest food market in Holland, just a few steps from the Cubic Houses. With its vast 95,000 square meters area, it’s one of the most popular attractions in the city.
Enjoy a stroll among the stalls, buy some local specialties and try traditional Dutch cuisine!
Time of visit: 2 hours
5 – Witte Huis (White House)
Just 5 minutes on foot (Get directions)
In the afternoon, make a stop at the Witte Huis, or White House, a true architectural jewel. Located just 5 minutes from the market, it’s another one of the buildings that survived World War II and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With an Art Nouveau style, it now houses a bar where you can take a break.
Time of visit: 30 minutes
6 – Maritime Museum
10 minutes on foot (Get directions)
After visiting the Witte Huis, walk along the canal for less than 10 minutes to reach the Maritime Museum of Rotterdam. One of the most visited museums in the city!
Explore its vast collection of nautical models and objects.
Time of visit: 2 hours
7 – Erasmusburg and Kop van Zuid Quarter
10 minutes on foot (Get directions)
After visiting the Maritime Museum, continue your stroll along the canal to reach the start of Erasmusburg, a famous bridge that has become one of Rotterdam’s symbols. It connects the historic center with the modern Kop van Zuid quarter.
The bridge presents two lanes, a bike path and even a pedestrian crossing. Take a leisurely walk across it to enjoy the city views.
Time of visit: 2 hours
8 – Witte de Withstraat
Wander through Witte de Withstraat: after visiting Erasmusburg, you’ll find yourself in the Kop van Zuid Quarter, which is one of the most lively areas in Rotterdam. Stop for dinner at Marsch & Co or enjoy the nightlife in the many bars and clubs that line this street.
Day 2: Exploring the Port and Museums
Distance traveled: 4.1 km
Visited places: Boat tour in the Rotterdam Port, Kunsthal or Natuurhistorisch Museum, Euromast Tower (pre-book in advance), Witte de Withstraat
1 – Rotterdam Port
Dedicate this morning to visiting the Rotterdam Port, one of the most famous and important ports in the world. Located on the eastern side of the city, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean (Get directions).
Of course, since it’s an important commercial area, it can’t be visited independently, but you can join a guided tour.
The best way to visit it is by taking part in a boat tour on the port! This experience lasts 2 hours and departs at 10:00 am. You need to arrive at the starting point between the Erasmus and Willems bridges, in the heart of the city.
Time of visit: 1.5 hours
2 – Kunsthal and Museum Park
15 minutes on foot (Get directions)
After returning to the canal, spend the first part of the afternoon visiting the Kunsthal, reaching the Museum Park where you’ll find several of Rotterdam’s most important museums.
The Kunsthal is one of them, a modern art museum that hosts permanent collections and temporary exhibitions. Don’t miss its unique architecture, designed by Rem Koolhaas.
Time of visit: 2 hours
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3 – Euromast Tower
10 minutes on foot (Get directions)
After visiting the Kunsthal, just 10 minutes walk away is the het Park, where you’ll find the iconic Euromast Tower (pre-book in advance). Built from 1958, it’s now 186 meters tall and is the highest accessible building in the country! Don’t miss its panoramic platform at 100 meters high, offering a 360-degree view of the city.
Time of visit: 1 hour
4 – Witte de Withstraat
Wander through Witte de Withstraat: after visiting Euromast, head to Witte de Withstraat, one of Rotterdam’s most lively streets. Stop for dinner at Marsch & Co or enjoy the nightlife in the many bars and clubs that line this street.
Day 3: Exploring Kinderdijk
Distance traveled: 31.3 km
Visited places: Kinderdijk excursion (pre-book in advance), Delfshaven, historic center
1 – Kinderdijk Excursion (pre-book in advance)
Dedicate the morning of your final day to visiting one of Rotterdam’s most beautiful and UNESCO-listed attractions: Kinderdijk. Located just 13 kilometers south of the city, you can take a ferry from Rotterdam – Erasmusbrug for an unforgettable boat ride.
The journey takes 34 minutes without stops (Get directions).
Kinderdijk is known for its charming windmills, 19 of which are located along the canals and date back to 1740. You’ll have plenty of time to explore!
Time of visit: 3 hours
2 – Delfshaven
35 minutes by ferry + 10 minutes in tram (Get directions)
In the afternoon, return to the historic center and head to Delfshaven, one of Rotterdam’s most fascinating neighborhoods. You can take the tram line 8 from Rotterdam – Oostkousdijk station.
Delfshaven has a romantic atmosphere, reminiscent of ancient times, which is perfect for a stroll along its canals. You’ll also find the Korenmolen de Distilleerketel windmill and a charming café called Café ‘t Pakhuys with a beautiful view of the canal.
Time of visit: 3 hours
3 – Historic Center
Experience nightlife in the historic center: after exploring Delfshaven, head back to the historic center for an evening out. You can find bars like NORA Rotterdam or BIRD, as well as numerous cocktail bars, such as Coconuts, Bar Tender Shooterbar, or Botanero.
Alternatively: Zoo of Rotterdam
If you’re traveling with children and don’t want to make too many trips, we recommend spending the whole day at the Rotterdam Zoo, also known as Diergaarde Blijdorp (open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; ticket skip-the-line €23.50 – Get directions).
This zoo is one of the oldest in the Netherlands and one of the most beautiful in Europe. It’s home to many species, including Asian animals like the deer with a beard, white swans that cry, and Lapponian alpacas, as well as European ones like wolves, cats, and giraffes.
You’ll have plenty of time to explore!Time of visit: 7 hoursNumerous alternatives: but this is not the only alternative. From Rotterdam you can also reach L’Aia or Delft. You can even organize a day trip to Amsterdam! There are many other options, so choose wisely!
Cost of a Weekend in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a moderately expensive city like all major cities in Holland. From Italy there are several direct flights (compare the prices).
If you’re staying in Rotterdam Centrum (the historic center), it’s also one of the most expensive neighborhoods, but you can save money by choosing Oude Westen and Blijdorp (see neighborhood map). You’ll be able to walk around easily and reach all attractions on foot.
Don’t miss the boat tour on a historic ship: it’s an unmissable experience in Rotterdam. Take a panoramic bus ride to get a feel for the city.
As for eating out, food costs are similar to those in Italy. To save money during lunch, stop by local markets.
Conclusion
Rotterdam is a unique blend of modern and historic architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning natural surroundings. With this 3-day guide, you’ll be able to explore its best attractions, from the historic center to the famous port and beyond. Don’t forget to try some traditional Dutch cuisine and enjoy the nightlife in one of Rotterdam’s most lively areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a weekend trip to Rotterdam cost?
A: The cost of a weekend trip to Rotterdam depends on your accommodation, transportation, food, and activities choices. However, we recommend budgeting at least €500 per person for a 3-day trip.
Q: What is the best way to get around Rotterdam?
A: The best way to get around Rotterdam is by using public transportation, such as buses or trams. You can buy a day ticket or a rechargeable card for convenient travel.
Q: Can I visit Kinderdijk with children?
A: Yes, Kinderdijk is perfect for families! Many of the windmills have interactive exhibits and play areas that kids will love.
Q: What should I eat in Rotterdam?
A: You can find plenty of delicious local specialties, such as Herring, Ossenworst (Dutch sausage), or Pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes). Don’t forget to try some traditional Dutch cheese!
Q: Is the city safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Rotterdam is a very safe city. As with any major city, take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Q: Can I explore Rotterdam’s nightlife without speaking Dutch?
A: Many Rotterdam residents speak English fluently, so you’ll have no problem navigating the nightlife scene. However, it’s always helpful to learn some basic phrases in Dutch!
Q: What should I pack for my trip to Rotterdam?
A: Pack layers for unpredictable weather and comfortable shoes for walking. Don’t forget your camera to capture all the stunning architecture!
Q: Can I visit other nearby cities on a day trip from Rotterdam?
A: Yes, there are many beautiful cities within easy reach of Rotterdam. Some popular options include Delft, Leiden, or Amsterdam.
