Rotterdam-4-day-itinerary
Rotterdam 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the City Centre
- Morning: Start at the iconic Erasmusbrug, a giant white suspension bridge that offers stunning views of the city. Take a short walk to the nearby Maritime Museum, which showcases Rotterdam’s rich maritime history.
- Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Fenix Food Factory, a trendy food hall with various vendors serving everything from sandwiches to Vietnamese street food.
- Afternoon: Visit the Markthal, a unique marketplace with over 100 stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the stunning ceiling artwork!
- Evening: Head to the Witte de Withstraat, a lively street filled with bars, restaurants, and cafes. Try Bokaal, a popular spot for craft beer and burgers.
Day 2: Architecture and Culture
- Morning: Visit the Kubuswoningen (Cube Houses), a unique architectural wonder designed by Piet Blom. Take a guided tour to learn more about this innovative design.
- Lunch: Enjoy a meal at De Bijenkorf, a beautifully restored old warehouse turned restaurant, offering seasonal dishes and great views of the harbour.
- Afternoon: Explore the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Evening: Catch a performance or concert at the De Doelen concert hall, known for its excellent acoustics.
Day 3: Waterfront and Nature
- Morning: Take a harbour tour with Spido, offering insights into Rotterdam’s maritime history and architecture.
- Lunch: Head to Hotel New York, located in a beautiful old building, and enjoy lunch at their restaurant with great views of the river.
- Afternoon: Visit the Kralingse Bos, a peaceful forest just outside the city centre, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Zuid, a popular spot for seafood lovers.
Day 4: Street Art and Shopping
- Morning: Explore the vibrant Street Art scene in the ** Afrikaanderwijk** neighbourhood, featuring colourful murals and graffiti.
- Lunch: Grab some food at Lommerrijk, a cozy cafe serving sandwiches, salads, and more.
- Afternoon: Visit the Beurstraverse, a bustling shopping street with everything from high-end fashion to unique boutiques.
- Evening: End your trip with a drink at SS Rotterdam, a historic ship turned hotel and bar, offering stunning views of the city.
Where to Stay
- Hotel New York: A beautifully restored old building with comfortable rooms and great harbour views.
- SS Rotterdam: Sleep on a historic ship turned hotel, offering unique rooms and stunning views of the city.
- Airbnb options: Choose from various apartments and houses in the city centre or trendy neighbourhoods like Afrikaanderwijk.
Transportation
- Trains: Rotterdam is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport ( approx. 30 minutes) or other Dutch cities.
- Metro: The city has a convenient metro system, with lines A, B, and C connecting major attractions.
- Bus: Bus lines connect the city centre to outlying neighbourhoods and surrounding cities.
- Walking and cycling: Rotterdam is very pedestrian-friendly, and cycling is a great way to explore the city.
Things to Know
- Language: Dutch, but most Rotterdammers speak English fluently.
- Currency: Euro
- Weather: Rotterdam’s climate is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C (37°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer.
- Safety: Rotterdam is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Tips
- Buy an OV-chipkaart for convenient travel on public transport.
- Rent a bike to explore the city like a local.
- Download the 9292 app for easy route planning and public transport information.
- Visit the Rotterdam Tourist Information office for maps, guides, and insider tips.
Other Things of Interest
- Rotterdam Zoo: A popular attraction with over 7,000 animals from around the world.
- Ahoy: A unique event space hosting concerts, festivals, and markets throughout the year.
- Witte de Withkwartier: A charming neighbourhood filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
Enjoy your trip to Rotterdam!