Eat at the Markthal (Market Hall)
Indulge in all your senses at Rotterdam's Markthal. This food hall was opened in 2014 and has almost 100 stalls selling fresh produce, gourmet delicacies, and international foods. Pick up some local cheese fromage, stroopwafels, herring, and bitterballen (breaded meatballs) while you’re here. If you’d rather have a sit-down meal, it also has 20 restaurants and shops. Make sure while you are there to look up! This stunning horseshoe-shaped building has the world’s largest artwork on the ceiling - it's the size of two football fields.
Be Charmed by Rotterdam’s Delfshaven District
Wander through the historic district of Delfshaven. This neighborhood miraculously survived the bombings of World War II. Admire the beautifully preserved 17th-century architecture, stroll along cobblestone streets lined with cozy cafes and artisan boutiques, and visit the Pilgrim Fathers' Church, where the Mayflower set sail for America in 1620. Go along with this maritime theme and book a ferry tour on the riverfront and see Rotterdam from a different perspective!
See Rotterdam’s Wild Side at the Zoo
Go on a wild adventure at Rotterdam Zoo! It is home to over 2,000 animals and has species from far-off places all around the globe. With immersive habitats like the Oceanium, you can observe marine life in a vast underwater tunnel. Or maybe you want to visit the Amazonica, a tropical paradise teeming with exotic plants and animals. Check the schedule ahead of time so you don't miss the daily animal feedings and educational presentations.
Get a Bird’s Eye View of Rotterdam at Euromast
Ascend to new heights at the Euromast, Rotterdam's iconic observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and into the countryside. Take the high-speed elevator to the top observation deck, where you can enjoy Rotterdam's skyline, the bustling port, and the scenic countryside. If you aren’t afraid of heights and are feeling particularly brave, then make a reservation to rappel down the side of the Euromast.
Spend Your Evenings on Witte de Withstraat
Witte de Withstraat, the “art axis of Rotterdam,” is in the Rotterdam Centrum district. It is the center of Rotterdam's vibrant nightlife scene, with trendy bars, cafes, and eclectic art galleries. Join locals and visitors alike as you hop from one venue to the next, sampling craft beers, cocktails, and delicious street food. Take this energetic atmosphere inside and visit one of the many nightclubs while you are there.
Sail the Seven Seas in Rotterdam
Step aboard the SS Rotterdam, once the flagship of the Holland-America Cruise Ship Line. Explore the cruise ship's luxurious interiors, including elegant lounges, ballrooms, and cabins through interactive exhibits and guided tours. You can even have dinner in one of the restaurants or book a room and spend the night aboard!
Take advantage of Rotterdam’s river access! Although the SS Rotterdam has been stationary for years and no longer sails, if you would like to take a ferry to the UK or other Dutch cities, it is possible on other ships and water taxis.