15 things to do in Rotterdam

Looking for things to do in Rotterdam? Rotterdam is often overshadowed by other cities like Amsterdam, but there is so much this modern and diverse city can offer: amazing architecture, history, street art, excellent food and drink (beer!) and most importantly, warm and welcoming atmosphere!

1. The Cube Houses

The Cube Houses! Let’s kick off this Rotterdam list with the Cube Houses! Built in 1984, the total area of each apartment is apparently around 100 square metres but about a quarter of the space is unusable due to its structure… One of the houses operates as a museum, but I decided to use my €3 for a cup of coffee instead. It is also possible to stay in one as some of the larger cubes are converted into a hostel by Stayokay hostel chains.

2. Rotterdam Centraal Station

No introduction needed. Undoubtedly impressive architecture. Beautiful, sleek, modern with a touch of historic elements. I really like the clock and letters (‘CENTRAAL STATION’) that are carried over from 1957 which work just perfectly with the current super modern station building.

3. The Markthal

The Markthal was constructed in 2009 and serves also as an office/residential building. The ceiling of the arch is covered with a colourful artwork and really impressive. It is an amazing piece of architecture with a fun and community feel to it. At the market section many shops offer tasters. We sampled so many different things from cheeses to muffins to Indian snacks.

4. The Witte Huis

One of the few buildings to survive WWII in central Rotterdam. Built in 1898 and with its 43 meters considered the first European Skyscraper. Easily accessible to/from the south end of the cube house complex.

5. Witte de Whithstraat

One of the main streets in Rotterdam. Vibrant, fun and quirky with varieties of restaurants, bars, shops and of course street art!

6. Pauluskerk (St. Paul Church)

Completed in 2013. The unique architecture goes wonderfully well with the adjoining building – the colourful ‘De Calypso’. The Pauluskerk seems to be very innovative and proactive about dealing with various social issues in the communities. I find their person-centred approach to supporting people with addictions really interesting.

7. Santa Claus

Created by American sculptor Paul McCarthy in 2001, the city of Rotterdam commissioned this jolly Santa of art piece. However, people in Rotterdam must have such naughty minds, this poor Santa was misunderstood (can’t you see it’s a pine tree in his hand? Honestly!), rejected and moved 4 times. I personally really like this piece of public art, it’s so unpretentious and friendly. Long live the Butt Plug Gnome!

8. Delfshaven

One of the few places in Rotterdam that was largely unharmed during the WWII bombings. Pretty and historic neighbourhood where you can still see some buildings from pre war times. There is Pilgrim Fathers Church. Next to the church is a city brewery called ‘De Pelgrim’, where one finds friendly service and good local beers.

9. Bobbing Forest

Bobbing Forest is an art project, but also carries strong messages about climate change and sustainability. The forest currently consists of 20 former sea buoys.

10. Hotel New York

Situated in the former head office of the Holland America Line. A historic and beautiful building. It was fascinating to think that thousands of emigrants began their journey there, to cross the Atlantic in search of a new life in America.

11. Fenix Food Factory

Former factory turned into a food market which promotes local produce and entrepreneurs. It is not as big as the Markthal, but feels a bit more local and cozy. I do not know the exact rules, but people were sitting together with all sorts of food and drinks from different shops from the market – and having an absolutely good time. We had beers and French fries with truffle mayo, super tasty and yes – we had an absolutely good time too. Try not to just walk in, take photos and leave; to really soak up the atmosphere, get something to drink or eat, sit down, relax, even have a conversation with other fellow customers sitting next to you.

12. Beer and French fries

Haven’t I already mentioned beer and French fries? But they deserve their own individual entry surely. I noticed that in Rotterdam, pubs tend to have a selection of beers that really vary in price. They usually starts from around €3 for a glass, but could easily go up to €7-9. Of course we stuck to the bottom range, but all beers we had during this trip had interesting layers of flavour which confirms their high level of beer craftsmanship! Do not miss out the French fries also and they really know how to make the creamiest, the fluffiest mayo.

13. The Luchtsingel

This very yellow bridge is more than just your instagram stop. It is the world’s first crowd funded public infrastructure. I also like its idea; to regain connection with and reach towards the neglected and detached part of the city.

14. Bus/tram around in the evening

We all know that Rotterdam is the architecture capital of Europe. What I didn’t know was that the city doesn’t hold back when it comes to showing off their stunning structures even after dark. Many buildings, bridges, even construction sites light up beautifully in the evening. It’s a small city and easy to go around aimlessly on public transport just to sit back and enjoy the night views. Just make sure you don’t miss the Erasmus bridge, it’s beautiful at night.

15. Be inspired

People have been super nice in Rotterdam. Everywhere we went, people were relaxed, friendly and truly kind. To me, Rotterdam is a proper doing city. The city just doesn’t talk about supporting their communities or sustainability, they really do it and it’s everywhere: the Luchtsingel, the Pauluskerk, various art projects around the city, and the people. I went to Rotterdam without any expectations, and came home feeling inspired and rejuvenated by the city’s strong ethos and so many good people.

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