Discover the Best Things to Do in Rotterdam: A Tourist’s Adventure

When I visited Rotterdam, I was immediately struck by its modern vibe, impressive skyline, and rich history. This vibrant city in the Netherlands offers so much to explore, and whether you’re into architecture, food, or culture, there’s something for everyone. Let me take you through some of the fantastic things I did in Rotterdam that made my trip unforgettable.

1. **Marveling at the Modern Architecture**

Rotterdam is famous for its futuristic buildings, and I couldn’t wait to check them out. One of the first places I visited was the **Erasmus Bridge**—you can’t miss it. Locals call it “The Swan” because of its elegant shape, and it connects the northern and southern parts of the city. Walking across it, I felt like I was in the heart of the city’s innovation, with stunning views of the skyline and river.

Next, I made my way to the iconic **Cube Houses** (Kubuswoningen). Seeing them in pictures didn’t prepare me for how fascinating they are in person. These tilted, cube-shaped homes seem to defy gravity! I even went inside the **Show Cube Museum** to get a peek at how people live in these unique spaces. It was such a cool, out-of-the-box (literally!) experience.

2. **Exploring the Markthal**

I’m a huge food lover, so visiting the **Markthal** was high on my list. The minute I stepped inside, I was wowed by the size and design of this place. The huge arch-shaped building is stunning, and the giant mural on the ceiling, “The Horn of Plenty,” made the entire market feel like an art gallery.

I wandered through the stalls, sampling Dutch delicacies like **stroopwafels** and fresh herring. There were also plenty of international options, which made it a perfect spot to enjoy lunch. The lively atmosphere combined with amazing food made this one of my favorite stops in Rotterdam.

3. **Taking a Harbor Tour**

Since Rotterdam is home to one of the largest harbors in the world, I knew I had to see it from the water. I joined a **harbor tour**, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip. As the boat glided down the Maas River, I got incredible views of the modern skyline, with landmarks like the **Euromast** and the **Erasmus Bridge** in full view.

The scale of the shipping industry was mind-blowing. The tour took us past massive container terminals and historic ships, and the guide shared fascinating stories about Rotterdam’s history as a global trading hub. It was both informative and beautiful, especially seeing the city from such a different perspective.

4. **Climbing the Euromast Tower**

I love great views, so I couldn’t resist heading to the top of the **Euromast Tower**. At 185 meters high, it offers unbeatable 360-degree views of Rotterdam. On a clear day, you can even see The Hague and the North Sea in the distance.

One of the coolest things I learned is that you can actually **abseil** down the side of the tower if you’re feeling adventurous (maybe next time for me!). Instead, I opted to relax at the tower’s restaurant, enjoying a coffee while soaking up the panoramic views—it was the perfect way to take a break while still sightseeing.

5. **Discovering Rotterdam’s Museums**

Rotterdam has some fantastic museums, and I was excited to check out a few. First up was the **Kunsthal**, which is known for its modern art exhibitions. I loved how diverse the displays were, with everything from contemporary installations to historical works.

I also spent some time at the **Maritime Museum**, where I learned about Rotterdam’s maritime history. The outdoor harbor area was a treat—you can walk around and explore historic ships up close, which really brought the city’s seafaring heritage to life.

6. **Wandering Through Delfshaven**

While most of Rotterdam feels sleek and modern, **Delfshaven** gave me a taste of the city’s past. This charming, historical district escaped the bombings of World War II and is full of old-world charm. As I walked along the canals and admired the 17th-century buildings, I felt like I’d stepped back in time.

Delfshaven is also famous as the departure point of the **Pilgrims** who sailed to America on the Mayflower, so there’s a lot of history packed into this quaint area. I ended my visit with a coffee at one of the cozy cafes along the waterfront, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

7. **Relaxing in Rotterdam’s Parks**

After all the city exploration, I needed some downtime, so I headed to **Het Park**, a beautiful green space near the Euromast. It was the perfect spot to take a breather, with its well-kept lawns, peaceful ponds, and winding paths. I found a quiet bench where I could sit and just enjoy the views of the Euromast towering above me.

Later, I explored **Kralingse Bos**, a larger park with a lake that’s great for walking or cycling. I spent some time by the lake, where people were paddleboarding and sailing. It’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, especially if you love being outdoors.

8. **Experiencing Rotterdam’s Nightlife and Food Scene**

Rotterdam really comes alive at night, and **Witte de Withstraat** is where it’s all happening. This street is packed with bars, restaurants, and clubs, and it’s the perfect place to grab a drink or enjoy a late dinner. I had an amazing meal at one of the trendy restaurants, sampling some creative fusion dishes that really showcased the city’s diverse food scene.

Rotterdam also has some **Michelin-starred restaurants**, so if you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of options. Whether it’s casual street food or gourmet cuisine, Rotterdam is a city that will satisfy any foodie’s cravings.

Conclusion

Rotterdam blew me away with its mix of modern architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether I was admiring the cutting-edge design of the Cube Houses, relaxing in one of its beautiful parks, or enjoying the lively atmosphere at the Markthal, every moment was unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, I can’t recommend Rotterdam enough—it’s a city that truly has something for everyone!