Seeing The Dutch City Rotterdam in One Day

Demolished by world powers during WWII, Rotterdam rose from the ashes, becoming a wedding cake of the past, present, and future. This peaceful haven is overflowing with modern engineering, vibrant activities, golden age canals, incredible art, and a plethora of dining and nightlife options. During my stay in Rotterdam, I had the pleasure of meeting people of all backgrounds and exploring the harmonious history, Europe’s busiest port, grand boulevards, and persuasive studios. The locals embrace innovation and see their city as a modern metropolis, not just a Golden Age relic.

The city of Rotterdam has always been a hotbed of innovation and cutting-edge design, a passionate embrace of the contemporary that is shaped by both the New and Old Maas Rivers, as well as its position as Europe’s largest port. Rotterdam is also a leader in sustainable and captivating architecture, with iconic landmarks like the De Rotterdam tower designed by Rem Koolhaas, the Kop Van Zuid docklands, Centraal Station, the Erasmus Bridge and the awe-inspiring Markthal, all perfectly embodying the Dutch spirit. 

Exploring the city of Rotterdam is a real treat for water-lovers – you can take a designer bridge stroll, cruise in a water-taxi between riverbanks, or get lost in the city’s stunning canals. And don’t forget to stop in one of the ubiquitous cafes, which double as both work and study spaces. If you’re lucky enough to have a day in Rotterdam, here’s some ideas of how best to spend it – get ready to make your mark!

Rotterdam Arts & Culture

As I explored the streets of Rotterdam, I was pleasantly surprised by the combination of modern displays and the most seasoned historical centres. From the iconic Museum Van Boijmans Beuningen, featuring masterpieces by some of the most renowned artists such as Dalí, Monet, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Mondrian and Magritte, to the spectacular outdoor statues and art installations, the city has an extraordinary collection of art that will satisfy even the most demanding art enthusiasts. Who knew that outside of France and Spain, one could find such surreal precedents?

Architectural Marvels

Dive into the captivating contrast between the old-fashioned and ever-evolving skyline of Rotterdam, a city that rose from the ashes of WWII and now dazzles with its trailblazing wonders. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Van Nelle, a 19th-century industrial architecture that was once a coffee, tea and tobacco factory. Then, head to the Overblaak Development to behold its remarkable yellow-and-grey cube houses constructed to resemble a tree. Don’t forget to admire the striking glass-clad structures of De Rotterdam, whose form changes depending on where in the city you stand. What a lovely surprise to explore centuries-old iconic landmarks and see such modern innovation!

Dining and Nightlife Scene

The nightlife in Rotterdam is as vibrant, unique and diverse as its people, buildings, culture and traditions. Whether you’re looking for a chic bar, a thumping dance club or a gastronomic experience, Rotterdam has it all. For a night out like no other, check out these must-visit spots: Zanzibar beach club, Paddy Murphy’s Irish Pub, White Monkey, BAR (the ultra-trendy pop-up drinking spot!), Toffler, Hopper coffee, Café LaBru, Nine Bar Espresso, Rotown, Bazar, Market Hall, De Jong, FG Food Labs, and Zeezout. With so much to pick from, there’s something to suit every occasion in Rotterdam.

Rotterdam: One Day Itinerary

Discover the delights of Rotterdam, one of Europe’s most revolutionary cities! Arrive in style at the 19th-century Centraal Station and head straight to the Tourist Information Booth for maps, city passes and more. Grab yourself the Rotterdam Welcome Card for unbeatable discounts on museums, attractions, eateries and bars, plus an unlimited travel pass for EUR 12 ($15) for 24 hours. To make sure you make the most of your day, I’ve put together a list of some of the best things to do in Rotterdam in one day. Come explore the city with me and see why Rotterdam is one of Europe’s coolest cities!

Delfshaven

Rotterdam endured an unfortunate obliteration during WWII, leading to the demise of its historic downtown. Delfshaven, originally a part of Delft located six miles away, eventually became part of Rotterdam – and it’s one of the few places in the city that survived the 1940 bombing, giving you a peek into what Rotterdam looked like pre-war. Talk about a blast from the past! The last sermon before the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America was held at Oude Kirk, which you can still visit today on Fridays and Saturdays.

Kijk-Kubus or Cube Homes

Designed by the visionary Dutch architect Piet Blom, Kijk-Kubus, or Cube Homes, also known as Tree Houses, were created to bring the feeling of a forest indoors. These unique cubes boast a striking crown of awning-like shapes that stretch from concrete poles resembling a tree stem. The entire complex is an eye-catching geometric wonder, thanks to its bright yellow panels.

To truly experience what it’s like to live in one of these fascinating structures, try visiting one from the inside. Blom’s intention was to allow people to appreciate the unique experience of living in a Cube House – and you can do just that for only EUR 3 per day between 11 AM and 5 PM. You can even spend the night in the hostel-style Cube House to see its quirky walls up close and personal.

Euromast Observation Tower

Experience the thrill of victory and the awe-inspiring views from the top of the 19th-century Euromast Observation Tower on Parkhaven 20 street. Soaring to a height of 606 ft, this observation deck grants visitors a panoramic 360-degree bird’s eye perspective of Rotterdam and its surrounding area. On the day I visited, the weather couldn’t have been better – the skies were crystal clear, allowing me to take in the sight of the city, the port, the park beneath Euromast, the distant Erasmusbrug with its stunning architecture, and the miniature SS Rotterdam look-alike.

To top off the experience, the restaurant at the top provides the perfect way to satiate hunger pangs, with a choice of coffee-pastry, lunch, high tea and dinner. As far as the eye can see, the thousands of twinkling city lights stretching out beneath you create the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening. Toast to the dynamic hues of the setting sun with a glass of your favorite wine and enjoy a scrumptious three-course dinner for just €37.50 per person.

At Euromast, the sky’s the limit; open from 9:30 AM – 10 PM in the summer and 10 AM thereafter in the winter. And with your Rotterdam Welcome Card, you can get a 25% discount on the entry fee of €9.75 per person! Why not take your evening to the next level and stay the night in one of the two suites at the top?

SS Rotterdam

The SS Rotterdam, the largest seafaring steamer to ever be built in the Netherlands, is a sight to behold! This majestic vessel voyaged around the world in 1959, and eventually made its permanent docking in Katendrecht. Now you can experience the history of this beautiful steamer first-hand, as it has been lovingly refurbished, preserving its original interiors and artwork. The SS Rotterdam is now home to a unique hotel, where guests can stay in rooms on board a historic ship. Plus, the restaurants and public areas are open to the public, so even if you’re not a guest, you can still enjoy the wonders of the SS Rotterdam!

Erasmusbrug and Luchtsingel Bridge

The Erasmus or Erasmusbrug is a one-kilometer feat of engineering, connecting the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam with a striking suspension bridge and a towering pylon, held aloft by forty cables – which is why it’s fondly nicknamed ‘The Swan’. As if that weren’t enough, the Luchtsingel is a 0.4 km footbridge, the world’s first crowdfunded public infrastructure – and it’s your chance to make a lasting impression, with names engraved onto wooden boards along the bridge for just EUR 25! Rotterdam is home to some truly astonishing architecture, and these bridges are the perfect place to capture the best of it – so take your camera and prepare to be wowed!

Fenix Food Factory

Are you looking for a culinary adventure in Rotterdam? Then the Fenix Food Factory in Fenixloods is the place for you! This quay in Katendrecht is home to an impressive selection of artisanal food and drink. Enjoy freshly baked artisan bread, indulgent lavender stroopwafel, freshly brewed coffee, and delicious brewed beer – just make sure to come on any day except Mondays, when the Factory is closed!

De Markthal, Rotterdam

Head down to De Markthal – the vibrant horseshoe-shaped market in Rotterdam that has replaced its original open-air bazaar! Discover traditional Dutch cuisine, luxurious apartments, and a free underground exhibition of archaeological items – all in one place. What more could you ask for? And don’t worry about the commute – Rotterdam has an excellent public transport system. Get the RET travel pass from Centraal Station – it only costs EUR 8 and allows you to travel by bus, tram and metro. Don’t forget to check-in and check out every time you travel. For an extra EUR 1, you can even explore the city by waterbus or water taxi. What are you waiting for? Come explore De Markthal and have a blast!

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