Top 10 Best Things to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands - Travel Guide 2025
Discover the innovative spirit and vibrant culture of Rotterdam, Netherlands, with this guide to its top attractions. From iconic modern architecture like the Erasmus Bridge and Cube Houses to the bustling Markthal and historic Delfshaven, Rotterdam offers a unique blend of old and new.
Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge, completed in 1996, is a striking symbol of Rotterdam, often referred to as the swan, and connects the northern and southern parts of the city.
Cube Houses
Rotterdam's Cube Houses, designed by Pete Blom and built in 1977, are innovative, tilted cube-shaped homes resembling trees, with the Kijk-Kubus museum allowing visitors to explore the interior of one of these unique structures.
Markthal
The Markthal is a multi-functional building with apartments, offices, and a vast market hall featuring a horseshoe-shaped design and a ceiling adorned with the 'Horn of Plenty' artwork, offering diverse food stands and representing Rotterdam's multicultural essence.
Euromast Tower
The Euromast Tower, completed in 1960, is the tallest structure in Rotterdam, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, with options for zip-lining or abseiling in the summer.
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, located in Rotterdam's Museum Park, is renowned for its vast art collection, including works by Seison Van Go and Dolly, but is temporarily closed for renovations.
Kijk-Kubus
The Kijk-Kubus is a museum that allows visitors to step inside one of Rotterdam's cube houses to explore its interior and learn about the design.
Delfshaven
Delfshaven is one of the few areas in Rotterdam that survived World War II and retains its historic charm, featuring 17th-century houses, cozy cafes, boutiques and restaurants along the New Meuse River.
North Sea Jazz Festival
The North Sea Jazz Festival, held every July, is one of the world's most respected jazz events, hosting over 15 stages of performances and attracting top musicians from around the globe.
Rotterdam Centraal Station
Rotterdam Centraal Station is one of the city's most striking architectural landmarks, known for its cutting-edge design and serving as an important transport hub.
SS Rotterdam
The SS Rotterdam, launched in 1959, was a luxurious transatlantic ocean liner now permanently docked at Moss Harbor, offering a glimpse into the past with its elegant Art Deco interior, restaurants, cafes, and a hotel.
Huis Sonneveld
Huis Sonneveld, designed by Lonard Vander Vute and completed in 1933, is a stunning example of Dutch functional architecture, with its interior remaining as it was in the 1930s.
Moss Harbor
The SS Rotterdam is now permanently docked at Moss Harbor.
AHOY Arena
The North Sea Jazz festival moved to Rotterdam's AHOY Arena in 2006.
Museum Park
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is located in Rotterdam's Museum Park.