The city of Rotterdam, Netherlands is known for its vibrant culture, modern architecture, and bustling port. Located in the province of South Holland, Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands, with a population of over 633,000 people. It is also the largest port in Europe and the world’s busiest cargo port. With its modern and unique architecture, world-class museums, and plethora of attractions, Rotterdam is a great destination for travelers of all kinds. Here are the top 20 places to see in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
1. Erasmus Bridge:
The Erasmus Bridge is a 800-meter-long cable-stayed bridge that connects the north and south of Rotterdam. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. The bridge is lit up at night and is a popular spot for photographers.
2. Rotterdam Zoo:
The Rotterdam Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, tigers, and more. The zoo also features a variety of attractions, such as an aquarium, a petting zoo, and a playground.
3. Euromast:
Euromast is an observation tower located in the center of Rotterdam. At 185 meters high, it is the tallest building in the city and offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding area. The tower also features a restaurant and a bar.
4. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen:
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is one of the oldest and most renowned museums in the Netherlands. The museum features a variety of artwork from the Middle Ages to the present day, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.
5. Markthal:
The Markthal is a large indoor market located in the center of Rotterdam. The market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, local specialties, and other goods. The market also has several restaurants and cafes.
6. Delfshaven:
Delfshaven is a historic neighborhood located in the south of Rotterdam. The neighborhood is home to a variety of old buildings, churches, and monuments. It is also home to the Delfshaven Windmill, which is one of the few remaining windmills in Rotterdam.
7. Rotterdam Centraal Station:
Rotterdam Centraal Station is the main railway station in Rotterdam. The station was built in the early 1900s and is one of the grandest railway stations in the Netherlands. The station also features a shopping center and a variety of restaurants.
8. Kijk-Kubus:
Kijk-Kubus is a unique house located in the center of Rotterdam. The house was designed by architect Piet Blom and is made up of four cubes stacked on top of each other. The house is now a museum and offers visitors a unique view of the city.
9. De Kuip:
De Kuip is a football stadium located in the south of Rotterdam. The stadium is home to the local football team, Feyenoord, and is one of the largest stadiums in the Netherlands. The stadium also features a variety of restaurants and shops.
10. Erasmus House:
Erasmus House is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the Dutch philosopher and theologian, Desiderius Erasmus. The museum is located in the center of Rotterdam and features a variety of artifacts and artworks related to Erasmus.
11. Maritime Museum:
The Maritime Museum is one of the most popular museums in Rotterdam. The museum is dedicated to the history of the city’s port and features a variety of exhibits related to the maritime industry. The museum also has a replica of the first Dutch East India Company ship.
12. Diergaarde Blijdorp:
Diergaarde Blijdorp is one of the largest zoos in the Netherlands. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, elephants, and tigers. The zoo also features a variety of attractions, such as an aquarium and a petting zoo.
13. Kunsthal Rotterdam:
Kunsthal Rotterdam is a modern art museum located in the center of Rotterdam. The museum is home to a variety of temporary and permanent exhibitions, featuring works by both local and international artists.
14. The Cube Houses:
The Cube Houses are a unique set of houses designed by architect Piet Blom. The houses are made up of cubes stacked on top of each other and offer a unique view of the city. The houses are now a museum and offer visitors a unique experience.
15. Binnenrotte:
Binnenrotte is a large square located in the center of Rotterdam. The square is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The square is also home to the city’s main market, the Rotterdam Market.
16. Euromast Park:
Euromast Park is a large park located near the Euromast observation tower. The park features a variety of attractions, such as a playground, a mini golf course, and a skate park. The park is a great spot for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
17. Rotterdamse Schouwburg:
Rotterdamse Schouwburg is a theater located in the center of Rotterdam. The theater is home to a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. The theater also features a variety of restaurants and cafes.
18. SS Rotterdam:
SS Rotterdam is a former ocean liner that is now a hotel and museum. The ship is located in the harbor of Rotterdam and offers visitors a unique experience of the city. The ship also features a variety of restaurants and bars.
19. Boompjes:
Boompjes is a popular promenade located in the center of Rotterdam. The promenade is lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops and is a great spot for a relaxing stroll. The promenade also offers beautiful views of the harbor.
20. Witte de Withstraat:
Witte de Withstraat is a popular street located in the center of Rotterdam. The street is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars and is a great spot for a night out. The street is also home to the city’s main art museum, the Witte de With Center for Contemporary Art.