Rotterdam
Popular Rotterdam Hotels
Rotterdam Travel Guide
Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands, located in the province of South Holland. Known for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene, Rotterdam is a significant economic hub, primarily due to its status as home to Europe’s largest port.
Things To Know Before Going To Rotterdam
- Rotterdam has an international airport, but you can also fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and take a 30-minute train ride to Rotterdam Central Station.
- The best time to visit Rotterdam is from April to September
- Summer (July-August) is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation.
- Rotterdam has an extensive public transportation system of buses, trams, and a metro.
- Cycling is prevalent in Rotterdam.
- Enjoy traditional Dutch dishes like herring, stroopwafels, and bitterballen.
- Explore the harbor area.
- Rotterdam has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Where Is Rotterdam?
Rotterdam is located in the southwestern part of the Netherlands, specifically in the province of South Holland.
Where To Stay In Rotterdam?
Here is a table for the best areas to stay in Rotterdam:
District | Best For | Best Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| City Center | Shopping, entertainment, culture | Markthal, Cube Houses, Erasmus Bridge |
| Cool District | Trendy vibes, cafes, nightlife | Bar Restaurant Sijf, Baker&Moore, street art |
| Delfshaven | History, tranquility | Historic harbor, Pilgrim Fathers' Church |
| Rotterdam Noord | Authentic experience, greenery | Vroesenpark, traditional architecture |
| Kop van Zuid | Luxury, modern architecture | Hotel New York, Maritime Museum |
| Kralingen-Crooswijk | Upscale, romantic | Kralingse Plas lake, parks |
Best Hotels In Rotterdam
Rotterdam Hotels offers a blend of luxury and convenience, providing exceptional services and amenities for your trip to be more comfortable. Even though luxury hotels in Rotterdam may make you break the bank, they will be worth every penny, thanks to their services. However, there are always mid-range and budget hotels in Rotterdam to enhance your days and make your city tour seamless. Tailored for everyone, finding what kind of accommodation you want won’t be as complicated as you think. Now, here are some of the best hotels in Rotterdam we recommend and why:
| Hotel | District | Affordability | Why To Stay There? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Light | Rotterdam West | Budget | Affordable hotel with cozy rooms, a communal kitchen, and a friendly atmosphere. |
| CitizenM Rotterdam | City Center | Mid-range | Stylish, compact rooms with modern amenities and a vibrant communal area. |
| Mainport Hotel | Feijenoord | Luxury | It is a five-star hotel with a spa, riverside terrace, and stunning views of the harbor. |
| nhow Rotterdam | Kop van Zuid | Mid-range | Unique design by architect Rem Koolhaas, with modern amenities and a rooftop bar. |
| Hotel New York | Kop van Zuid | Mid-range | It is a historic building with stylish rooms and a riverside location, great for exploring. |
| Rotterdam Marriott | City Center | Luxury | Soundproof rooms, two restaurants, and a central location near attractions. |
| Suite Hotel Pincoffs | Delfshaven | Mid-range | Charming hotel with a historic exterior and modern interiors, close to the harbor. |
| Bilderberg Parkhotel | City Center | Luxury | It is an elegant hotel with spacious rooms, a restaurant, and proximity to cultural sites. |
Best Rotterdam Attractions
- Euromast: An observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and harbor, with an elevator to the top and a restaurant with stunning vistas.
- Erasmus Bridge: A striking architectural landmark connecting the northern and southern parts of the city, known for its unique design.
- Markthal: A modern food market housed in a stunning arch-shaped building featuring a variety of food stalls, restaurants, and shops.
- Delfshaven: A historic district that survived WWII bombings, showcasing charming streets, canals, and traditional architecture.
- Maritime Museum: Highlights Rotterdam's maritime history with exhibits on shipping, navigation, and the port's significance.
- Kralingse Plas: A beautiful recreational area with a lake ideal for water sports, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
- Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen: A unique art storage facility and museum that allows visitors to view artworks not typically on display.
- Witte de Withstraat: A lively street filled with trendy bars, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques, perfect for nightlife and cultural experiences.
- Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp): A well-regarded zoo with diverse animal exhibits and a focus on conservation efforts.
- Fenix Food Factory: A food hall featuring local vendors, craft breweries, and a vibrant atmosphere for food lovers.
- Cube Houses: Innovative tilted cube-shaped houses designed by architect Piet Blom offering a unique architectural experience.
- Hotel New York: A historic building turned hotel with stylish rooms and a riverside location, great for exploring the city's past.
- Kinderdijk: A village famous for its 19 well-preserved windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just outside Rotterdam.
- Kop van Zuid: A modern, upscale district with stunning architecture, luxury hotels, and the impressive Erasmus Bridge.
Is Rotterdam Safe For Tourists?
Rotterdam is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with a relatively low crime rate and an overall safety index that reflects a secure environment for visitors. The most frequent issues tourists face include pickpocketing, particularly in crowded areas such as markets and public transportation.
Is Rotterdam Expensive To Visit?
Rotterdam is generally considered a moderately priced city for tourists, with costs that are comparable to other major European cities. The average daily cost for visiting Rotterdam is $70-$330 per day. The average daily costs cover expenses like accommodation, food, local transportation, and activities.
Currency Of Rotterdam, the Netherlands
The currency used in Rotterdam, as well as throughout the Netherlands, is the Euro (EUR).
Language Spoken In Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, the primary language spoken is Dutch, which is the official language of the Netherlands. Rotterdam is notable for its high level of English proficiency. Many locals speak English very well, making it accessible for English-speaking tourists to communicate without knowing Dutch.
How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Rotterdam?
With 3-4 days, you can dig deeper into Rotterdam’s architecture, museums, and neighborhoods. This allows you to see the top sights at a more relaxed pace and add some unique experiences.
Best Time To Visit Rotterdam
Here is a table for each season in Rotterdam:
| Temperature (°C/°F) | Activities | Rates (Accommodation, Food, etc.) | Crowd Level | Clothing Recommendations | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | 8-15°C / 46-59°F | Visit parks, outdoor markets, and museums | Moderate; hotels from €80-€150 | Moderate | Light layers, a light jacket |
| Summer | 15-25°C / 59-77°F | Festivals, outdoor dining, cycling, and boating | Higher; hotels from €100-€200 | High | Light clothing, sun protection |
| Autumn | 7-17°C / 45-63°F | Explore cultural events, art exhibitions, and parks | Moderate; hotels from €80-€150 | Moderate | Layers, a warm jacket |
| Winter | 0-7°C / 32-45°F | Visit museums, indoor attractions, and Christmas markets | Lower; hotels from €70-€120 | Low | Warm clothing, gloves, hat |
What To Pack For the Rotterdam Trip?
When you pack for a trip to Rotterdam, it’s essential to consider the weather and activities you plan to engage in. Here’s a packing list to ensure you’re well-prepared.
- T-shirt and long-sleeve shirts
- Sweaters or cardigans
- A warm jacket of fleece
- Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Waterproof boots or shoes
- Light gloves or mittens
- A hat or beanie for colder days
- A good quality umbrella
- Power bank for charging devices on the go
- Basic first aid kit
- Any personal medications
What To Eat In Rotterdam?
Rotterdam boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering a mix of traditional Dutch dishes and international cuisines. Here are some of the best foods and dining spots to explore in the city:
- Stamppot: A traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with various vegetables, often served with sausage.
- Nieuwe Haring: Fresh raw herring, typically enjoyed with onions and pickles, often eaten by hand or with soft bread.
- Patatje Oorlog: A popular street food consisting of fries topped with a mix of mayonnaise, peanut sauce, and onions.
- Bitterballen: Deep-fried meatballs are commonly served as a snack in bars and restaurants.
- Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.
Nightlife In Rotterdam
Rotterdam offers a dynamic nightlife scene, blending trendy bars, lively clubs, and unique venues. Here are some of the best spots to explore:
Bars and Pubs
- De Witte Aap: A beloved local bar known for its vibrant atmosphere, extensive drink menu, and late-night hours, staying open until 4 AM on weekends. It's a great place to mingle with locals and enjoy craft beers and cocktails.
- BIRD: A bustling establishment featuring live music, international cuisine, and a lively bar scene. It’s known for its diverse music genres and is a popular spot for dancing and socializing.
- Coconuts: This bar offers a fun, tropical vibe and is open late, serving a variety of cocktails and drinks. It's a popular choice for those looking to party into the early hours.
- Wunderbar: A quirky bar with a DIY aesthetic, it hosts live performances and offers a mix of drinks, including unique soft drinks for non-drinkers. It's known for its relaxed vibe and artistic atmosphere.
- Nightclubs
- SuperDisco: Located in a trendy area, this club is known for its lively atmosphere and is a must-visit for those who love to dance the night away to disco and electronic music.
- Maassilo: A former grain silo turned nightclub, it offers a unique venue for clubbing with various events and performances throughout the week.
- Rooftop Bars
- The Suicide Club: A stylish rooftop bar offering stunning views of the Rotterdam skyline, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere with live DJ sets.
- Nhow Bar: Located on the seventh floor of the Nhow Rotterdam Hotel, this bar provides a trendy setting with panoramic views, cocktails, and snacks.