What to do in Rotterdam? The ultimate guide full of tips and outings!

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Sightseeing

If you're wondering what to do in Rotterdam, the city's iconic landmarks should definitely be on your list. Known for its forward-thinking architecture, unique skyline, and vibrant energy, Rotterdam is perfect for a city trip or day out.

Climb the Euromast for panoramic views of the city and harbor. Walk across the famous Erasmus Bridge, also called “The Swan,” and admire its futuristic design. Enjoy food, art, and architecture under one roof at the colorful Markthal. The world-famous Cube Houses are architectural masterpieces that you can even explore from the inside at the Kijk-Kubus museum.

Lovers of modern design shouldn’t miss the Vertical City De Rotterdam by Rem Koolhaas and the reflective Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen. Looking for a bit of history and nostalgia? Visit Hotel New York, the former headquarters of the Holland-America Line.

In the city center you’ll also find the Gothic Laurenskerk, the striking Central Station, and the charming Delfshaven – one of the few parts of the city that survived World War II. Just outside the center you’ll find the extensive port area, the impressive SS Rotterdam (a former cruise ship), and the modern skyscrapers of the Kop van Zuid.

Want to explore these highlights in a fun way and/or get discounts on entrance tickets? Check out the options below:

Boat Tours

Looking for what to do in Rotterdam? One of the most fun answers is: get on the water! The city lies along the river Maas and offers countless ways to explore Rotterdam from the water. The skyline, bridges and harbor truly come to life from a boat.

Take a classic harbor cruise with Spido to see the highlights in a short time. Prefer to set your own route? You can also rent a boat in Rotterdam for a relaxed trip with friends or family. Or go for a quick and flexible way to travel between hotspots with the Rotterdam Water Taxi — all prices and stops clearly listed.

Whether you choose a relaxing cruise, a high-speed RIB boat, a ride with the water taxi or a pancake boat — discovering Rotterdam by water is an experience you don't want to miss. Curious about all the options?

View all water activities in Rotterdam

Museums

Wondering what to do in Rotterdam on a rainy day, or looking to enrich your visit with some culture? Then a museum visit is a perfect choice. Rotterdam offers a wide range of museums covering art, history, photography and more — suitable for all ages.

Visit the impressive Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, the world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility. Dive into World War II history at Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NOW, or get inspired by world-class photography at the Nederlands Fotomuseum. The Wereldmuseum is also worth a visit, with collections that tell global stories through objects and exhibits.

This is just a small selection of Rotterdam’s cultural offerings. Want to explore more?

Check out the 20 best museums in Rotterdam

View all 47 museums in Rotterdam

Dining in Rotterdam

Looking for what to do in Rotterdam and getting hungry? You’re in the right place. From Michelin-starred restaurants to vibrant street food, Rotterdam is a culinary hotspot with options for every taste, style and budget. Whether you're craving sushi, tapas, vegan food or a romantic dinner with a view – you'll find it here.

To make your choice easier, we’ve compiled dozens of curated lists by cuisine and setting. Click your favorite category below and discover the best places to eat:

• 6 best rooftop restaurants
• 20 romantic restaurants with a view
• 20 best vegan restaurants
• 20 top breakfast spots
• 20 best burger restaurants
• 20 best sushi restaurants
• 40 top sushi spots
• 20 best tapas bars
• 20 best Italian restaurants
• 16 must-visit Italian restaurants
• 20 best Indian restaurants
• Top 13 Indian restaurants
• 20 best Chinese restaurants
• 21 Chinese restaurants in and around Chinatown
• Top 10 Japanese ramen spots
• Top 13 Greek restaurants
• Top 4 Moroccan restaurants
• 11 best Mexican restaurants
• 20 best Mexican restaurants
• 14 Indonesian restaurants
• Top 15 seafood restaurants
• 14 Bib Gourmand restaurants
• 20 Michelin-starred restaurants
• The 9 restaurants with Michelin stars
• 20 best high-end restaurants
• 20 all-you-can-eat restaurants
• 20 all-inclusive restaurants
• 15 restaurants in the Old Harbour
• 17 restaurants on Witte de Withstraat
• 120 restaurants in the city center

Shopping in Rotterdam

One of the most popular answers to the question what to do in Rotterdam is, of course: go shopping! Whether you love big brand stores, boutique shops or creative concept stores – Rotterdam is a true shopping paradise. The city offers a surprisingly varied mix of shopping areas both in and around the center.

Explore famous areas like the Lijnbaan and the iconic Koopgoot, or browse stylish boutiques on Pannekoekstraat and Van Oldenbarneveltstraat. Head to the lively Meent, the creative Hofbogen, or go to Zuidplein or Alexandrium Shopping Center for indoor shopping.

Other popular shopping streets include Karel Doormanstraat, Kruiskade, Oude Binnenweg and Nieuwe Binnenweg, where you’ll also find cozy cafés and specialty stores. Don’t miss Coolsingel, Botersloot, Binnenwegplein, Goudsesingel and Hoogstraat. In short: shopping in Rotterdam is never boring – there's always something new to discover.

Want to know exactly where to go? Check out our selection of the 22 best shopping streets in Rotterdam.

View the 22 best shopping streets in Rotterdam

Theater and Concerts

Not sure what to do in Rotterdam in the evening? Let yourself be surprised by a theater performance or live concert. The city has a vibrant cultural scene for all ages, with both grand stages and intimate venues. Whether you enjoy drama, cabaret, dance or live music – Rotterdam has something special happening every night.

Experience large-scale shows at Ahoy, or immerse yourself in a performance at the Nieuwe Luxor or the cozy Oude Luxor Theater. For younger audiences, there’s Jeugdtheater Hofplein, while TR Theater Rotterdam offers contemporary productions. Other great venues include LantarenVenster, Theater Walhalla, Prinses Theater, Theater Zuidplein and Theater Studio de Bakkerij.

Curious about what’s on this week? Explore the full schedule via the buttons below:

Free Things to Do in Rotterdam

Wondering what to do in Rotterdam without spending a cent? The city is full of surprising and free activities. From colorful street art and hidden courtyards to walking routes and urban gardens – Rotterdam offers plenty of free things to explore.

Admire giant murals during a self-guided street art tour, find peace in hidden courtyards like the one on Voorschoterlaan, or follow the sculpture route along the Westersingel, which features works by artists like Picasso. Don’t forget the Fire Boundary Route, which guides you through the city’s World War II history.

Want to discover more free highlights and experiences? We’ve listed 40 free things to do in Rotterdam for you:

View 40 Free Things to Do in Rotterdam

Things to Do in Rotterdam with Kids

Wondering what to do in Rotterdam with kids? No worries — the city is surprisingly family-friendly and packed with fun things to do for all ages. From interactive museums to big playgrounds and exciting attractions, Rotterdam guarantees a great day out for the whole family.

Visit Plaswijckpark for a day full of play areas, animals and water fun. Or head to Diergaarde Blijdorp, one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe. At the Maritime Museum, kids can get hands-on with model ships, cranes and water exhibits. Prefer something educational? The Natural History Museum Rotterdam and Museum Rotterdam '40-'45 NOW are both engaging and accessible for young visitors.

When the weather isn’t great, try indoor attractions like Kids Marina, Villa Zebra, Miniworld Rotterdam, or catch a child-friendly show at Jeugdtheater Hofplein or Theater Zuidplein. And don't underestimate the fun of a ride with the Water Taxi or a harbor tour with Spido!

Curious about what’s happening for kids this week in Rotterdam? Check out the full family-friendly agenda:

View All Kids Activities in Rotterdam

Discover the 20 Best Playgrounds in and around Rotterdam

What to Do in Rotterdam Today, Tomorrow or This Weekend?

Whether it’s your first time in Rotterdam or you’ve lived here for years, there’s always something new to experience. From street markets and festivals to exhibitions, theater shows and food events — the city is alive every single day. Wondering what to do in Rotterdam today, tomorrow or this weekend? There’s one place to check it all.

Uitagenda Rotterdam lists all current activities in the city, neatly organized by day and category. It’s the perfect way to quickly see what’s happening — whether you’re looking for a cultural event, a family-friendly outing, a market or just something spontaneous to enjoy.

Check out the full overview of everything happening in Rotterdam this week:

See What’s Happening in Rotterdam This Week