Futuristic architecture, inspired local initiatives such as inner-city canal surfing, a proliferation of art, and a surge of drinking, dining and nightlife venues make Rotterdam one of Europe's most exhilarating cities right now. The Netherlands' second-largest metropolis has a diverse, multiethnic community, an absorbing maritime tradition centred on Europe's busiest port, and a wealth of top-class museums.
Rotterdam is a veritable open-air gallery of modern, postmodern and contemporary construction. It's a remarkable feat for a city largely razed to the ground by WWII bombers. Rebuilding has continued unabated ever since with ingenuity and vision.
Split by the vast Nieuwe Maas shipping channel, Rotterdam is crossed by a series of tunnels and bridges, notably the dramatic Erasmusbrug – the swooping white cable-stayed bridge dubbed de Zwaan (the Swan). On the north side of the water, the city centre is easily strolled.
Local Information
Rotterdam is a young, dynamic global city, continuously renewing itself at a rapid rate. Sparkling skyscrapers, an impressive port, trendy restaurants and food markets, renowned museums and awesome festivals are the direct result of the can-do mentality of the Rotterdammers. Add to that the many extraordinary attractions and city tours – by bike, bus, boat or on foot – and you understand why Rotterdam was voted one of the best places to travel in 2016. Below is a selection of information that should hopefully make your trip to Rotterdam that little bit more special!
Useful Apps/Sites
Rotterdam Tourist Info App - The Rotterdam Tourism Board offers the free Rotterdam City Guide App for your mobile phone. This mobile app highlights the very best that Rotterdam has to offer, from attractions and museums to hotels, restaurants and shops. It includes an offline city map and a dynamic events calendar to discover what you can see & do. Download the app at home for offline use while you're in Rotterdam.
9292 - A journey planner for planning public transport (WiFi needed)
Rotterdam Tourist Information - The official tourism board website for Rotterdam, with all types of information regarding what to do and the latest events on.
Rotterdam Routes - Is an audioguide both for walking and cycling in Rotterdam
Rewriters - Website that has routes of street art in Rotterdam.
Google Maps - makes navigating your world faster and easier. Find the best places in town and the information that you need to get there.
Google Translate - free service instantly translates words, phrases, and web pages between English and over 100 other languages.
Uber - Whether you’re headed to work, the airport, or out on the town, Uber connects you with a reliable ride in minutes. One tap and a car comes directly to you. Your driver knows exactly where to go. And payment is completely cashless.
Sightseeing in Rotterdam
Sail over the Maas River. Cycle through the port area. Shop to your heart's content. Visit the zoo. Take a tour of the city's architecture. Rotterdam offers a wealth of architecture, attractions, shops, museums and more. For some of the top activities to do in Rotterdam, there is a wealth of information on the following websites:
Restaurants in Rotterdam
Where can you find the tastiest burger in Rotterdam? Who serves the best coffee or the most exciting cocktails? And which restaurant should you patronise for a truly exceptional experience? Again there is a huge amount of information on these websites to help with your decision:
Money
In Rotterdam, the euro is the legal tender. Practically anywhere in the town, you can pay at every register with cash, PIN and chip-cards. Do you need cash money? ATMs and banks are always close by, particularly in the city centre. If you need to exchange other currency into euros, you can use e.g. the services of GWK Travelex at Conradstraat (next to Central Station) and at Rotterdam The Hague Airport.
Climate & Weather
The Netherlands has a temperate, maritime climate, generally involving mild winters and cool summers. The climate is mainly due to the coastal proximity of the Netherlands to the North Sea. In general, the coastal provinces – including Rotterdam – usually have milder autumn and winter months than the inland, eastern provinces. Spring and summer in the west is usually slightly cooler than the east and south of the country. The weather is a favourite topic of conversation in the Netherlands. Not in the least because it can vary greatly, influenced by weather fronts and wind conditions. There is no universal advice or prediction we can give, so check the current weather info and forecast online before and during your trip, for instance with the Buienradar.
Emergency Phone Numbers
You certainly hope it will never be necessary, but something might happen during your visit which requires medical attention. Keep the following numbers close at hand:
| 112 | The national emergency phone number. You can use this to receive urgent care from doctors, police and fire departments. You can reach them on any phone. |
| 0900 8844 | Police. This is the national phone number for non-urgent care and problems. For emergency care, dial 112. |
| 010 446 89 00 | Fire department |
