40x Free to do in Rotterdam

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Welcome to Rotterdam, the city that is bursting with life and adventure, and you don't even have to pay for it! Whether you're a local or a newcomer, there are plenty of free things to do and see. From cool art to relaxing parks and lively markets, Rotterdam has something for everyone. So grab your calendar and discover this list of free highlights. Go on an adventure without it costing you a cent!

Whether you stroll through the streets of Rotterdam or walk along the beautiful Maas, there is always something to do without breaking the bank. Admire the impressive street art that adorns the city or enjoy a picnic in the park while watching the locals go by. And don't forget to explore the vibrant markets, where you can browse fresh produce and local delicacies, all without spending a cent.

If you like history, there are also plenty of free attractions to explore, such as historic churches and monuments that reflect Rotterdam's rich culture. And for nature lovers, the city's green oases, such as the beautiful Kralingse Bos, offer a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. So what are you waiting for? Dive into this list of free gems and discover Rotterdam in a budget-friendly way!

Discover the colorful markets of Rotterdam

Market Afrikaanderplein Rotterdam (Photo: Philip Mallis)

Rotterdam, the city of hard work and good life, with one of the world's largest ports. Everything comes in here, from fresh fruit and vegetables to gadgets and clothing. In the past, these items were traded on the local markets of Rotterdam and further towed along the Maas. Now those markets are still there, six days a week (except Mondays). Even though a lot now comes from other places, you will still find plenty of imported products.

A handy tip for thrifty Rotterdammers: you can often find the best deals on food at the market. Especially at the end of the day, the sellers show off their fresh goods. You have to be smart and have a bit of luck to get the best bargains.

The largest market in Rotterdam is on the Binnenrotte, near Rotterdam Blaak station. Here you will find more than 250 stalls with all kinds of things: fruit, fish, cheese, flowers, vintage items, souvenirs, furniture and more. Every Tuesday and Saturday it is very busy here, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In the summer there is also a Sunday market, slightly smaller but just as fun.

The second largest market is on the Afrikaanderplein. More than 200 stalls are here on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. You can find everything here, from clothing to fruit and vegetables.

In addition to the regular markets, there are also other markets in Rotterdam, such as lifestyle markets. The Swan Market for example. It is held a few times a year in various places in Rotterdam and other cities in the Netherlands, such as Delft and Utrecht. Here you will find everything: clothing, vintage, accessories, art, jewelry, food, music. Check the agenda for the next Swan Markets and experience these vibrant events!

Explore the atmospheric Christmas markets of Rotterdam

Norwegian Church Rotterdam (Photo: F.Eveleens)

If you are visiting Rotterdam in November or December and are looking for fun activities, the Christmas markets are a great idea. Rotterdam has many Christmas markets, more than you might think, but not all of them are free. Below you will find a list of free Christmas markets in Rotterdam.

Norwegian Christmas Market: This Christmas market in Rotterdam is great for buying special Norwegian products, such as sweaters, crafts, food, jewelry and much more. Admission is free, but with your purchases you support the maintenance of the largest wooden building in the Netherlands.
Address: Westzeedijk 300 Rotterdam

Danish Christmas Market: Another Christmas market in Rotterdam where you won't find traditional Dutch gifts. But you can visit this Christmas market for free and see all the tasty Danish delicacies, buy typical Danish gifts and much more. The proceeds go to the Danish sailor's church in Rotterdam.
Address: Coolhaven 1 Rotterdam

Discover the green side of Rotterdam

Het Park Rotterdam (Photo: Jan Geerling)

Rotterdam is known as a green city. In addition to the famous Kralingse Bos and the Zuiderpark, there are dozens of large and small parks spread across the city. All these parks are free to enter!

1. Kralingse Bos: The largest city park in Rotterdam, with an area of approximately 250 hectares.
2. Zuiderpark: So vast that you can no longer even hear the city: the Zuiderpark is the largest park in the Netherlands.
3. Vroesenpark: Located in North Rotterdam, the Vroesenpark is a real city park, right opposite Diergaarde Blijdorp.
4. Het Park (near the Euromast): Better known as the park near the Euromast, Het Park was designed by Zochers.

Tip! Who doesn't love barbecuing in the park? Enjoy a barbecue in the sun, but don't forget to keep it tidy and take each other into account.

Free festivals that make the city vibrant

Summer Carnival Rotterdam (Photo: Peter van der Sluijs)

In Rotterdam they clearly know how to party! More than 100 festivals are organized in our city every year. What better way to feel the vibe of Rotterdam than to enjoy the free festivals the city has to offer? That's just the ultimate experience. In 2010, Rotterdam was even named the best festival city of the year, and for good reason.

The best free festivals in Rotterdam

1. Rotterdam Unlimited
2. Metropolis Festival
3. Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival
4. Eendracht Festival
5. Summer Carnival: One of the best things to visit in Rotterdam in summer
6. Trek Food Festival

Discover Historic Delfshaven

Historic Delfshaven Rotterdam (Photo: Michielverbeek)

Delfshaven is the only old part of Rotterdam that survived the Second World War. Instead of ultra-modern buildings, you will discover the beautiful, old architecture of Rotterdam that dates back to the Middle Ages. Visit the windmill "De Distilleerketel". The Distilleerketel is one of the largest mills in the Netherlands. The mill offers a beautiful view over the old Delfshaven and modern Rotterdam.

Or discover the Oude or Pilgrimvaderskerk, or Pilgrim Father Church, in the heart of Delfshaven, which is famous and has a rich history because of the Pilgrim Fathers who attended their last church service here before leaving for the United States.

Admire the famous architecture of Rotterdam

Hotel New York Rotterdam (Photo: W. Bulach)

Rotterdam is known for its interesting architecture. A architecture tour through the city is definitely recommended . Below you will find some of the most special buildings that you can admire for free in Rotterdam.

1. White House: Europe's first skyscraper, built in 1897.
2. Hotel New York: Former headquarters of the Holland America Line.
3. The Rotterdam: A building on the Kop van Zuid designed by Rem Koolhaas.
4. Erasmus Bridge: Rotterdam's most iconic and famous architectural masterpiece.
5. Cube houses: 38 cube houses in Rotterdam.

Explore The Island of Brienenoord

Island of Brienenoord Rotterdam (Photo: GraphyArchy)

The Island of Brienenoord is truly a hidden gem in Rotterdam. It is full of surprises, with forests, lawns, water features and pools. In 2020 and 2021 they renovated the island considerably.

Now there is more space for the plants and animals that belong here. The island is part of the Rondje Stadionpark, a great route of five kilometers in South Rotterdam. Since October 2021, three Scottish highlanders have been helping us with daily management by nibbling weeds, grass and saplings. Nice to see, but keep a little distance. They tend to keep to themselves.

On the Island of Brienenoord you can:

1. Nice wallels on different types of paths, from paved to shell paths, boot paths and decking paths. Or just stroll through the greenery.
2. Skating and cycling on the designated paths. Not on the hiking trails, the hikers don't like that very much.
3. Picnic on one of the picnic sets, benches or simply on your own rug. Wonderful with nice weather!
4. Playing around in the Blije Bij. That's real fun for young and old.
5. Every month you can help with the clearing of litter together with the Buitenplaats Brienenoord. This is how they keep the island nice and clean. Afterwards you can enjoy a snack and a drink on the terrace, or inside if it rains.
6. Fun activities are also regularly organized by 'n Bries and ARK Natuurontwikkeling. Really worth it to see what there is to do!

Watching boats on the Maas

Cruise ship Wilhelminakade Rotterdam (Photo: Smiley.tourist)

Enjoy the spectacle of passing ships in Rotterdam. In Rotterdam there is always something to see on the water! From inland vessels to enormous container giants and shiny cruise ships - you'll see everything passing by here. And believe me, there are plenty of places where you can watch and capture this spectacle.

1. Stroll along the Wilhelminakade: During the cruise season, impressive cruise ships regularly moor here. A ship's horn announces their arrival from afar. Rotterdammers and tourists like to come here to see them sail in.
2. Battle of Maasmond: Here, at the entrance to the port of Rotterdam, dozens of seagoing vessels pass every day. You are really in the front row here to see them pass by. And if you get hungry, Smickel-Inn, also known as the 'Balcony of Europe', is just around the corner for a tasty snack.
3. Rozenburg Headland: Take the road to this peninsula for a unique view over the Nieuwe Waterweg and the Calandkanaal. Along the way you will even encounter Scottish highlanders in the Caland Park. An experience in itself!
4. Hoek van Holland: From the Noorderpier you have a beautiful view of the Maasmond and the activity on the Maasvlakte. Here you can see how ships enter the port smoothly and safely with the help of the Hoek van Holland Traffic Center. A spectacular sight!

Dive into the Museum Harbor of Rotterdam

Museumhaven Rotterdam (Photo: Marco de Swart)

In Rotterdam you will find the largest museum harbor in the Netherlands and most of this harbor can be visited for free. At Leuvehaven 50 you can discover the roots of the port of Rotterdam, right next to the Maritime Museum. Here you can see the history of the port of Rotterdam, all the way from its very beginnings to the 1970s. And what's even more fun is that you can enter many of the moored ships and discover what they look like inside. p>

Culinary enjoyment in the Markthal

Markthal Rotterdam (Photo: Elekes Andor)

You cannot come to Rotterdam without visiting the Markthal. This is really one of those places you must see when you are here. The Markthal is an indoor market hall with more than 100 stalls where you can buy fresh vegetables, snacks or all kinds of other delicacies.

If you're a bit short on cash, that's totally fine. You don't necessarily have to spend money here. But if you do want to spend a little money, the Markthal is the perfect place to do so. And even if you just look around, you will be amazed by the beautiful architecture and the impressive ceiling.

Travel through time in Rotterdam Discovery

Rotterdam Discovery (Photo: Donald Trung Quoc Don)

A great free museum to visit in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Discovery, located in one of the oldest existing buildings in the city. Rotterdam Discovery is a truly unique experience, because it takes you through the past, present and future of Rotterdam. You can also discover some of the new buildings currently being built or designed. The entrance to Rotterdam Discovery is located at the Rotterdam Tourist Information on the Coolsingel.

Fridayevening Art evening

Every Friday evening between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM, V2_, WORM, MAMA and Kunstinstituut Melly open their doors for the lively Art Evening on the bustling Witte De Withstraat in Rotterdam. It is the opportunity to experience contemporary art right in the heart of the art district.

Kunstblock, a collaboration between these four art institutes, provides these vibrant evenings packed with various exhibitions, live performances and more. Every week is different!

Get inspired! Art Evening offers the perfect opportunity to experience art, learn new things and discover the creativity of our city. Come along and discover it for yourself – everyone is welcome!

Enjoy peace and nature in the Botanical Garden Afrikaanderbuurt

Botanical Garden Afrikaanderwijk (Photo: Lieke Fortuin)

Rotterdam has several botanical gardens that you can visit, but unfortunately most of them are not free. Yet there is 1 free option. The Botanical Garden Afrikaanderwijk is a gem that you can visit free of charge.

This garden was first established in 1923 and underwent a complete renovation in the 1980s. It is a monument in itself, divided into different plant families. Here you can enjoy approximately 850 different plant species and admire what nature has to offer.

Step inside a windmill

Windmolen de Lelie Rotterdam (Photo: F.Eveleens)

There are several windmills to visit in the Rotterdam area, but our two favorites are located at the beautiful Kralingse Plas. At Plaszoom 324 you will find the windmill De Ster, which dates from 1866 and was built on the foundation of another mill that burned down in 1865. In this mill, spices are still ground and snuff is produced as in the past.

At Plaszoom 356 you will discover the De Lelie windmill, which dates back to about 1770. The mill was originally called De Ezel and was moved to its current location in 1840. Just like De Ster, this mill also grinds spices and produces snuff.

Guided tours of snuff production and spice grinding are also offered. The De Ster and De Lelie windmills are usually open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Admission is free, but a contribution for the maintenance of the mills is highly appreciated.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Rotterdam

Fireworks Erasmus Bridge Rotterdam (Photo: Frans Berkelaar)

Celebrating New Year's Eve in Rotterdam is really one of the best things to do when you visit the city. As the second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam bustles with New Year's festivities. But what you really shouldn't miss is the national fireworks. These fireworks are set off from a pontoon in front of the Erasmus Bridge, and are even broadcast on TV. Of course, attending the fireworks is free.

Discover Heijplaat and Pernis villages in the middle of the Rotterdam port

Vestaplein Heijplaat Rotterdam (Photo: Wikifrits)

There are several villages in the middle of the port of Rotterdam, including Pernis and Heijplaat. These villages are now part of Rotterdam. These villages can be visited by public transport (such as the water bus), by bicycle and in many other ways. But the water bus is the fastest way (and you can also take your bike). Why it is worth visiting any of these villages is because of the contrast. It is very interesting to see how people live between the industrial parts of the port, while on the other side of the river you can see parts of Rotterdam.

The village of Pernis is one of the villages of Rotterdam and has approximately 4785 inhabitants. Pernis was first mentioned around the 13th century and has been part of Rotterdam since 1934. Fortunately, Pernis has managed to retain its village atmosphere. In Pernis you should definitely see the church at Ring 1, which dates from the second half of the 15th century. You cannot enter the church, but it is an interesting contrast to see the village of Pernis and its old church, in the middle of the port of Rotterdam.

Heijplaat has 1,395 inhabitants. This village was built for the workers of the shipyard industry who started building and maintaining ships in the area. The Heijplaat area was quite remote, making employees difficult to find. That is why one of the shipping companies built the idyllic village of Heijplaat, including churches, schools and shops. And the port continued to grow around the village.

Explore Hillegersberg, the oldest part of Rotterdam

City Hall Hillegersberg Rotterdam (Photo: van Rende)

Discover the oldest part of Rotterdam: Hillegersberg. Formerly a separate village, now part of the city. If you visit this part of Rotterdam, you will still see the old part around the famous Hillegonda Church. The hill on which Hillegersberg is located has a rich history, with remains of a castle from the thirteenth century. Destroyed during ancient conflicts, the ruin survives as a hidden treasure in the cemetery of the Hillegonda Church. Important people from Rotterdam are also buried here.

Experience the beauty of the Schoonoord Historical Garden

Historical Garden Schoonoord (Photo: Bic)

Discover the Historic Garden Schoonoord, located next to the Euromast Park. Despite its central location, it is a green oasis where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This garden is designated as a protected national monument due to its unique location, historical elements and special plants. Enjoy a rich collection of flora and fauna, surrounded by benches, bridges, a lush pond and old trees. A beautiful hidden gem in Rotterdam that is definitely worth a visit!

Street Art journey through colorful murals

Street Art Rotterdam Jeangu Macrooy (Photo: Sietske)

Rotterdam is a city where you always encounter something special on the street. Buildings are brightened up with colorful murals and sculptures adorn the middle of the sidewalk. Street art can be found everywhere here.

You don't even have to buy an entrance ticket for art in Rotterdam. Take, for example, the Luchtsingel, an impressive wooden pedestrian bridge of 390 meters long, which connects the Rotterdam Central District with Rotterdam North.

Visit a treasure trove for bookworms

Reading Room Rotterdam West (Photo: Google Maps)

For all bookworms in Rotterdam, Reading Hall Rotterdam West is the place to be. Here you can read, write and even take or leave books without the hassle of memberships or fines. Every week, around 1,000 new books are delivered and 700 find a new home. With a collection of more than 20,000 books, in different languages, there is something for everyone!

The reading room is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Come to Rijnhoutplein 3 in Rotterdam and dive into a literary adventure without it costing you a cent!

View one of Rotterdam's most unique works of art, the Floating Forest

Bobbing Forest Rotterdam (Photo: GraphyArchy)

Rotterdam is not your average Dutch city, and this work of art reminds us of that. The 'Dobberend Bos', or floating forest, was one of the most interesting art installations in Rotterdam. However, it was not an everyday forest that you could walk through. The Floating Forest consisted of 20 elm trees that floated on old buoys from the North Sea.

For five years, this special work of art could be found in Rotterdam's Rijnhaven, near the New Luxor Theater. But in January 2021 it moved to Almere by inland vessel, as part of the Floriade Expo 2022.

Discover the city behind the skyline in Museum Rotterdam

Museum Rotterdam Rodezand (Photo: Sandra Fauconnier)

In the past you couldVisit Museum Rotterdam, where more than 110,000 historical objects could be admired. You could even go there for free every first Saturday of the month. In the museum you discovered the story of the enchanting city of Rotterdam through time. Several exhibitions revealed the city's history, including a permanent exhibition that told Rotterdam's story through a collection of objects dating back centuries and continuing to the present.

However, in June 2021, the Rotterdam Council for Art and Culture (RRKC) ruled that the museum should be closed. Despite the rich collection and free admission on certain days, the museum suffered from a shortage of visitors, a lack of vision and unsuitable housing.

Learn everything about the sea and shipping Rotterdam in the library of the Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum Rotterdam (Photo: Steven Lek)

Although the museum itself is not free, you can visit the library of the Maritime Museum free of charge. This library houses the oldest and most complete collection of maritime books in the Netherlands and has existed since 1857. The library of the Maritime Museum in Rotterdam is always freely accessible, but is only open on Fridays.

Discover Rotterdam with a free guide. Explore the city like a local.

Rotterdam Guide (Photo: Get Your Guide)

This free tour< /a> takes you through Rotterdam's most important and iconic locations, complete with a well-trained guide who provides you with inside information! Explore highlights such as the Cube Houses, the Market Hall, the Town Hall and Central Station, while also discovering lesser-known parts of the city.

During the walking tour (based on tips) you will explore iconic sights such as the Cube Houses, the Erasmus Bridge and the Markthal, as well as the picturesque City Hall, the Buttplug Gnome and other buildings on the historic Coolsingel.

Route and main attractions:

1. Central Station: A modern and interestingly designed train station.
2. Lijnbaan: A shopping area with a fascinating history.
3. Town Hall: One of the few pre-war buildings, with a surprising and special interior.
4. Coolsingel: The main street of Rotterdam.
5. Santa Claus: A statue with a humorous twist!
6. Witte de With: A walk through the (voted) 6th coolest street in the world.
7. Erasmus Bridge: The 137 meter long 'swan' bridge, which connects north and south over the Maas.
8. Flag Parade: A walk along the Maas with a view of the skyline and the flag parade.
9. The White House: With fascinating stories, not to be confused with the White House in the US!
10. Old Port: Enjoy the cozy terraces with a view of the Cube Houses.
11. Cube Houses: The striking cube-shaped houses that form a unique cityscape.
12. Market Hall: Immerse yourself in world cuisine and taste the various culinary delights!

Find the fifteenth-century city wall of Rotterdam

City wall Blaak Rotterdam Station (Photo: Jan Geerling)

At Rotterdam Blaak Station you can discover a remnant of Rotterdam's city wall. Despite the destruction during the Second World War, a small part of the city wall has been preserved, approximately two meters long. This section of wall was discovered during the construction of a railway tunnel. Now it floats above the railway line, providing an interesting sight as you walk beneath it. In addition to the wall remains, there are also two display cases with medieval objects that were excavated during construction.

Travel through time with the Time Staircase in the Market Hall

Timetrap Markthal Rotterdam (Photo: Google Maps)

Travel through time in Rotterdam in this free museum called 'De Tijdstairs' (or: the time steps). It is a permanent exhibition about archaeological artefacts found at the location of the Markthal before it was built. Together these objects tell the story of Rotterdam: from the beginning of Rotterdam to the present day.

This museum was created along the escalators of the Markthal parking garage. Every time you descend a new level, you go further back into the history of Rotterdam. The Rotterdam museum is completely free to visit and is open 7 days a week.

Find the cultural treasures on the streets at the Street Art Museum

Rotterdam Street Art Museum (Photo: unknown)

In the past, the 'West-Kruiskade' and the '1e Middellandstraat' were known as the roughest streets in Rotterdam because of drugs and other hassle. Even though that's all gone now, these streets are still exciting!

In 2017 we started with the aim of bringing more street art to the 'West-Kruiskade' and the '1e Middellandstraat'. Since then, the street has slowly transformed into the Rotterdam Street Art Museum. The location and history of this area made this project a top idea.

Thanks to the good reviews from Lonely Planet, tourists from all over the world now come to the street because of the 170 different nationalities and cultures of the residents, the bright colors in the shops and the delicious food from the countless eateries. This multicultural area is really Rotterdam, which makes this famous shopping street very special!

Enjoy nature on the largest roof park in Europe

Dakpark Rotterda (Photo: Frans Schouwenburg)

Discover Dakpark in Rotterdam, a green paradise high above the city! With a length of approximately 1,200 meters, this is the largest roof park in Europe. From a height of nine meters you have a great view of the district and the ports. The park offers space for all kinds of activities, from sports and games to relaxation. In summer you can cool off at the water steps and there are barbecue areas and playing fields. You will also find several gardens, a Community Garden with animals and vegetable gardens, and there is always something to do. Everyone can help with the green maintenance and management of the Community Garden. Dakpark connects living, shopping, learning, relaxing and enjoying in a fun and sustainable way!

Cycle along the river that gave Rotterdam its name

De Rotte Rotterdam (Photo: Michielverbeek)

Go cycling along the river that gave Rotterdam its name: the Rotte. This city takes its name from this river because the residents of a small town nearby built a dam in the river. And so Rotte(r)-dam was born. What's interesting is that this river still exists, while many other rivers that cities are named after have been completely dammed or even drained.

The river De Rotte starts in Rotterdam at the Linker Rottekade. From there you could at least cycle until you come across a windmill called De Vier Winden. From there you can decide whether you want to continue cycling along this beautiful cycle route in Rotterdam along the river De Rotte. If you wish, you could stop at the Rottemeren (this is another beautiful lake near Rotterdam) and then return to Rotterdam. Near the Rottemeren you will also find the Eendragtspolder, where an area has been created for rowing, recreation, nature conservation and water storage.

Climb the Hoge Bergse Bos lookout tower and enjoy the skyline of Rotterdam

Lookout tower Hoge Bergse Bos (Photo: unknown)

Hoge Bergse Bos lookout tower is highly recommended for those who enjoy breathtaking views. From this 22-meter high tower, which is always open and free to visit, you can enjoy not only the skyline of Rotterdam, but also other cities such as The Hague, Zoetermeer and Delft, not to mention the beautiful Rottemeren. In clear weather you can even see the sun setting into the sea! It is truly pure enjoyment at the top of the Hoge Bergse Bos, in the middle of the busy Randstad. And best of all? It is only half an hour by bike from Rotterdam Central Station!

Take a selfie with the famous Gnome Buttplug

Kabouter Buttplug Rotterdam (Photo: Fred Romero)

Ah, the Gnome Buttplug, a real icon here in Rotterdam. This six-meter-high statue is unmissable on Eendrachtsplein and has already made many tourists look up in surprise and take a photo.

But did you know that this gnome is actually called Santa Claus? The statue is the work of the American artist Paul McCarthy and has been here since 2008. Before that, our own Santa Claus stood at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen.

It took a while before Rotterdam embraced the mischievous boy. The Christmas tree in his hand looks suspiciously like a butt plug, which the municipality initially did not think was appropriate. But McCarthy himself said in an interview: "Yes, it could be a tree, and maybe that's what it is. But it could also be an anal plug – and then it's an abstract object, art. It could be anything. "

Walk the fire border route and discover the traces of the Second World War

Brandgrens Rotterdam (Photo: unknown)

An evening walk through Rotterdam is truly an experience, especially if you follow the illuminated paths of the fire border. Those LED lamps may not seem very special, but they actually tell a profound story about the history of Rotterdam.

When you walk, you see two different colors: green and red. The red lights mark the edge of the city where everything was in ruins after the bombing of May 14, 1940. It was a truly terrible day, with German bombers destroying the city, leaving thousands homeless and killing hundreds of people. The subsequent fires spread rapidly due to the dry wind and broken water pipes. In tribute to that tragic day, the borders of the destroyed city are now marked with red lights.

But the story continues. The green lights, found on the North Island, tell a different story. Here you'll see areas damaged by 'friendly fire' - Dutch troops who defended the city by attacking German forces across the river. These lamps lack the silhouette of a German bomber, a contrast to the red lamps.

Download the map of the Fire Border

Art walk past statues of famous artists such as Picasso

Rotterdam Picasso Sculpture Route (Photo: Thea van den Heuvel)

You can follow a free sculpture route along the Westersingel in Rotterdam. This route takes you past 17 works of art by famous sculptors, including Rodin, Mastroianni, Visser and even Picasso. It is a truly unique experience to admire all these beautiful sculptures for free.

Relaxing on the beach of Rotterdam

Strand Heijplaat Rotterdam (Photo: Sherpa)

Everyone knows Rotterdam as a port city, but did you know that it also has beaches? Although sunbathing and swimming are not immediately obvious in Rotterdam, the city has no fewer than three beaches.

1. Hoek van Holland: Hoek van Holland, also known as Rotterdam Beach, offers a beautiful beach with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. With an extensive beach and beautiful dune area, it is the ideal place for sunbathing and walking. Even with strong winds, the beach weather is perfect for a refreshing walk. The lively beach promenade, with its cozy beach pavilions, attracts countless visitors to Hoek van Holland. Along the Koningin Emmaboulevard you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Nieuwe Waterweg, while the restaurants on the boulevard serve delicious fresh fish dishes.
2. Nesselande: Along the Sicily Boulevard in Nesselande you will feel like you are in a chic Southern European seaside resort with the palm trees and the wide beach, but surprisingly enough you are actually in Rotterdam. The beach offers a welcome alternative to the crowded summer seaside resorts, with modern high-rise buildings instead of dunes. Along the boulevard you will not only find eateries and ice cream parlorss, but also facilities such as supermarkets and drugstores. Handy if you have forgotten your sunscreen.
3. Quarantine beach on Heijplaat: This beach, located in the middle of the harbour, is perhaps less known but definitely worth a visit. You can go there by water taxi (jetty 96)! The beach has been around since 1934 and used to serve as a quarantine area for sailors with contagious diseases before they were allowed to enter Rotterdam.

Brave the iconic Erasmus Bridge

Erasmus Bridge Rotterdam (Photo: Michielverbeek)

The Erasmus Bridge, better known as 'De Zwaan' because of its elegance, is the bridge of bridges that gives Rotterdam's famous skyline its characteristic appearance. Since its opening in 1996, this bridge has become a true classic, despite the fact that it wobbled a bit in the beginning. Nowadays, however, that is forgotten and forgiven. For many, both Rotterdam residents and visitors from outside, the Erasmus Bridge has become the ultimate symbol of the city.

There is a vibrant life around the bridge with numerous hotels and restaurants nearby. During your visit to Rotterdam you will undoubtedly encounter this iconic bridge. But the question is: how are you going to brave this bridge? Do you take a relaxing walk across the bridge, train your leg muscles by cycling over it, or do you opt for a cool ride under the bridge with the Water Taxi? The choice is yours!

Enjoy local and international seasonings in the Foodhallen

Feni Loodsen Rotterdam (Photo: Joris)

If you come to explore Rotterdam and want to taste the local flavors, the food halls here are highly recommended. In these vibrant places you will not only find delicious food, but also a cozy atmosphere to enjoy. Rotterdam has four top locations that you should definitely visit

1. Fenix Food Factory: In the Fenixloods 1 on Katendrecht, the Fenix Food Factory shines as a gem of fresh and artisanal delicacies. Here you will find a fine selection of local products every day, made with care by Rotterdam entrepreneurs such as Kaapse Brouwers, Booij Kaasmakers and Jordy's Bakery. It is not only a place to do your shopping, but also to discover the flavors of the city and enjoy its production processes. With regular events and activities, there is always something to do in this cozy hotspot.
2. Foodhallen Kop van Zuid: The Foodhallen on the Kop van Zuid are the place to be for a nice drink or a tasty snack. Here you will find a wide range of food, served from different stands, and musical and cultural events are regularly organized to complete the evening. The atmosphere is lively and dynamic, making it easy to meet new people and enjoy a chat. The food halls are located in the historic Meesteren warehouse and offer space for 10-15 different stands with dishes from various cuisines. With a beautiful view of the Rotterdam skyline and a summer terrace, this is the hotspot to enjoy good food, good music and good company.
3. Bergweg Station: Bergweg Station is Rotterdam's new food court, located in the old station on Bergweg, under the former Hofplein line. Here you will find a collection of 12 food and drink entrepreneurs who all have something unique and special to offer, putting Rotterdam on the culinary map. Until June 3, 2006, trains regularly departed here towards The Hague Central Station. The station was restored as part of the Hofbogen project, which revived the abandoned railway line through Rotterdam.
4. Market Hall: The Markthal in Rotterdam is like a foodie's paradise, a true melting pot of flavors and aromas. It is not only a place to do your shopping, but also a culinary voyage of discovery. With more than 100 food stands, ranging from local delicacies to international specialties, there is something for everyone. The impressive artwork on the ceiling, called the 'Horn of Plenty', makes the experience even more unique. From fresh fruit and vegetables to exotic herbs, cheeses, meats and delicious street food dishes - the Markthal offers a tasty experience you won't soon forget.

Step back in time and find Rotterdam's only remaining city gate

Stadspoort Delftse Poort Rotterdam (Photo: unknown)

In Rotterdam you can discover a piece of history by looking for the only city gate the city still has. Despite Rotterdam's modern appearance, an orange steel construction on the Haagseveer still reminds of the city's past. This is the last remaining city gate in Rotterdam. Although the city once had ten city gates, only this one survived until the start of the Second World War. The artifacts you can find here offer a glimpse of the past and remind us of Rotterdam's rich history.

Experience the World Port Days in Rotterdam

World Port Days Rotterdam (Photo: Robert de Veen)

World Port Days is a great event that takes place every year in the first weekend of September, in the middle of the port of Rotterdam. It is a unique opportunity to discover what is happening in the largest port in Europe. From fascinating demonstrations to exciting tours, and from spectacular boat races to breathtaking helicopter shows, there is something for everyone! And as icing on the cake, you can often visit the Maritime Museum for free during the World Port Days.

Discover the only freely accessible courtyard in Rotterdam

Inner Garden City Hall Rotterdam (Photo: Roel Wijnants)

The only courtyard in Rotterdam that you can visit is behind the city hall. The historic town hall is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in the city. The small garden at the town hall is an oasis of peace, with beautiful sculptures and rose gardens. Although the gardens can be visited all year round, they are only open when the town hall is open, i.e. during the week. It is a great mystery why the courtyard of the Rotterdam City Hall is not visited more often by tourists and other walkers in the bustling center of Rotterdam. Not that we necessarily want more crowds there, but everyone actually deserves the chance to catch a glimpse of the hidden treasures at the back entrance of the city hall at Coolsingel no. 40.

Visit the Parisian Center Pompidou in Rotterdam

Central Library Rotterdam (Photo: Richard Broekhuijzen)

In Rotterdam you can visit another fantastic library: the Central Library. This beautiful library is located in the Laurenskwartier, right in the center of Rotterdam. The modern building in which it is located is often compared to the Center Pompidou in Paris. That makes this library a must-visit, especially if you visit Rotterdam for its architecture and cool buildings. With an area of 24,000 square meters, this library is one of the largest in the Netherlands.

Tip: Go to the top floor of the library for a beautiful and free view of the famous Markthal in Rotterdam.

You will find the library at Hoogstraat 110 in Rotterdam.