Rotterdam-4-day-itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Rotterdam

Day 1: Explore the City Centre and Waterfront

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Markthal, a large indoor market filled with fresh produce, restaurants, and shops. Try some local delicacies or grab a coffee to go.
  • 10:00 AM: Take a short walk to the nearby Lombard Street, one of Rotterdam’s most famous shopping streets.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Guts & Glory, a popular food truck turned restaurant serving creative burgers and sandwiches. Try their signature burger, the “Glory Burger”!
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Nederlands Fotomuseum (Dutch Photography Museum), which showcases an impressive collection of Dutch and international photography.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Head to the Waterfront, where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset and take a stroll along the river. Stop by the SS Rotterdam ship, now converted into a hotel and restaurant.
  • 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Bistro 52, which serves delicious French-inspired cuisine.

Day 2: Discover Rotterdam’s History and Culture

Morning

  • 9:30 AM: Visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, one of the Netherlands’ oldest and most important art museums. Explore its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at De Witte Bal, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Dutch cuisine.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Kralingse Bos (Royal Forest), a beautiful park with several walking trails, ponds, and a playground. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore.
  • 4:00 PM: Head back to the city centre and visit the Rotterdam City Archives, which offers a unique insight into the city’s history.

Evening

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Vermeer, which serves modern Dutch cuisine using local ingredients.
  • 9:30 PM: Explore the lively nightlife of Rotterdam, with many bars and clubs to choose from.

Day 3: Day Trip to Delft and The Hague

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Take a train or bus to Delft (approximately 1 hour journey). Visit the famous Nieuwe Kerk, where you can see the grave of the Dutch prince William of Orange.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the charming streets and alleys of Delft, known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque canals.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM: Take a train or bus to The Hague (approximately 45 minutes journey). Visit the Binnenhof, the seat of Dutch parliament.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the Mauritshuis museum, which features an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings.

Evening

  • 6:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Guts & Glory’s sister restaurant, Guts & Glory 2.0, in The Hague.
  • 8:00 PM: Return to Rotterdam by train or bus.

Day 4: More Rotterdam Adventures

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the SS Rotterdam ship, now converted into a hotel and restaurant. Take a tour of the ship and enjoy its luxurious interior.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby Euromast, a iconic observation tower with great views over the city.

Afternoon

  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Bakery Brigit in the trendy Witte de Withstraat area. Try their delicious sandwiches and pastries.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Nederlands Architectuur Instituut, a museum showcasing Dutch architecture.

Evening

  • 7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at Restaurant 4 Fijn in the city centre, serving creative cuisine using local ingredients.
  • 9:00 PM: End your day with a visit to the lively nightlife of Rotterdam.

Places to Stay:

Rotterdam has many great hotels and hostels to choose from. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel New York: A stylish hotel located in the heart of the city centre.
  • SS Rotterdam Hotel: A unique hotel located on the iconic SS Rotterdam ship.
  • Hostel Rotown: A popular hostel with dorms and private rooms, located near the city centre.

Transportation:

Rotterdam has a well-connected public transportation system. You can use buses or trams to get around the city. There are also many bike rental options available.

  • Buses: The main bus station is located on the city’s main square (Markt).
  • Trams: The main tram stop is located near the Markthal.
  • Renting a Bike: Many bike rental shops offer affordable rates for short-term rentals.

Tips and Essentials:

  • Weather: Rotterdam has a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F) throughout the year. Bring light layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
  • Language: Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, but many people in Rotterdam speak English fluently.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the local currency.
  • Tipping Culture: Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated for good service.

Other Things to Know:

Rotterdam has a lively cultural scene with many museums and art galleries. Some popular attractions include:

  • Maritime Museum Rotterdam: A museum showcasing the city’s maritime history.
  • Kunsthal Rotterdam: A contemporary art gallery featuring works from local and international artists.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Rotterdam! Enjoy exploring this vibrant and fascinating city.