Rotterdam-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Rotterdam’s Maritime Heritage

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day at the Kijk-Kubus, a unique cube-shaped house designed by architect Piet Blom. It’s a great example of Rotterdam’s innovative architecture.
  • 10:00 AM: Take a short walk to the nearby Maritime Museum (Maritiem Museum), which tells the story of Rotterdam’s maritime history. The museum is housed in a historic building that dates back to 1929.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at De Kreeftenkroeg, a cozy pub serving delicious seafood and traditional Dutch dishes.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the iconic Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusboulevard), which offers stunning views of the city and the harbor. You can walk across the bridge or take the elevator to the top for panoramic views.

Evening

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at De Verloren Zoon, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Dutch cuisine in an intimate setting.
  • 9:00 PM: End the day with a stroll along the Willemskade, a lively promenade lined with bars, restaurants, and shops.

Day 2: Rotterdam’s Cultural Hotspots

Morning

  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Kunsthal, a contemporary art museum that features rotating exhibitions. The building itself is a work of art, designed by Rem Koolhaas.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Fork in the Road, a trendy food hall with various vendors serving international cuisine.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Explore the Coolsingel, a vibrant shopping street lined with boutiques and independent shops. Be sure to check out the iconic Lijnbaan department store.
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the Markthal, a futuristic market hall featuring local produce, food stalls, and artisanal goods.

Evening

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Guts & Glory, a popular restaurant serving creative Dutch cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
  • 9:00 PM: Catch a show or concert at the De Doelen music venue, which hosts a wide range of performances.

Day 3: Discovering Rotterdam’s Hidden Gems

Morning

  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Ossip Zadkine Sculpture Garden, a beautiful park featuring modern sculptures by renowned artists.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Café de Kruis, a cozy café serving traditional Dutch cuisine in a charming setting.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Explore the Witte de Withstraat, a trendy neighborhood with independent shops, cafes, and street art.
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the St. Laurenskerk, a historic church that dates back to 1525 and offers stunning views of the city from its tower.

Evening

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Bistro Bisschop, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Dutch cuisine in an intimate setting.
  • 9:00 PM: End the day with a stroll along the Nieuwe Maas, a picturesque canal that offers beautiful views of the city.

Where to Stay

Rotterdam has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • The Lloyd Hotel & Restaurant: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of Rotterdam.
  • Hotel New York: A 4-star hotel with stylish rooms and a great location.
  • St Christopher’s Inn Rotterdam: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms.

Getting Around

Rotterdam has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. You can also walk or bike around the city using the designated bike paths.

  • Buy a RET card: A reusable public transport card that offers unlimited travel on buses, trams, and trains.
  • Use the RET app: Download the app to plan your route and buy tickets easily.

Tips and Essentials

  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but many Rotterdammers speak English fluently. You can also use translation apps or carry a phrasebook.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency.
  • Weather: Rotterdam’s climate is temperate with moderate temperatures and rainfall throughout the year.
  • Safety: Rotterdam is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular attractions can get crowded during peak season. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
  • Try local cuisine: Rotterdam has a unique food scene with many delicious Dutch dishes to try.
  • Explore beyond the main tourist areas: Discover the city’s hidden gems and neighborhoods, which offer a more authentic experience.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Rotterdam!