What is the Best Way to Spend One day in Rotterdam?

Rotterdam is an industrial port city in the Netherlands, located on the banks of the river Nieuwe Maas that flows into the North Sea. The city’s five hundred years of history have shaped Rotterdam into an intriguing and vibrant place with a diverse culture and plenty of attractions. From art museums to striking architecture, sports stadiums, modern parks, and more, there is so much to explore and experience in Rotterdam. So, if you’ve found yourself coming to this wonderful city, the big question is: what should you do when you visit for one day? Here, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your one day stay in Rotterdam.

Morning: Explore Rotterdam’s Modern Architecture

If you’re a fan of modern architecture you have come to the right place. Rotterdam is full of iconic modern buildings and structures – and a great way to start your one day tour is by exploring some of the city’s architectural masterpieces. You can begin your day at the Erasmus Bridge, which offers stunning views of the river Nieuwe Maas. From here, head on to the Cubic Houses – a unique set of buildings created by architect Piet Blom while inspired by the concept of “living as an urban roof’. Other must-see places include the “De Rotterdam’ complex, a building complex designed by Rem Koolhaas, and the Schouwburgplein, where you can find an interesting mix of architecture ranging from 1940s brick to more modern steel designs.

Afternoon: Get to Know Rotterdam’s Culture

Rotterdam is a city full of culture that is just waiting to be explored. Home to international festivals throughout the year, there’s always something to do and see in Rotterdam. Visit The White House, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, which houses several art galleries and an independent cinema. It’s also home to the World Port Centre of Science, where visitors can interact with hands-on exhibits and learn about science and industry. Spend some time at the cosy café-bar in the centre before heading over to Rotterdam Market Hall – a large public market where you can buy fruits, vegetables, meats and cheese, as well as browse artisanal crafts and clothes.

Evening: Revisit Rotterdam’s History

While Rotterdam has an array of modern attractions, it’s important to also explore its rich history. Visit the historical Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) for a peek into Dutch Golden Age masterpieces by renowned artists including Rembrandt van Rijn. Next, take a walk through Delfshaven, one of the oldest parts of Rotterdam, where visitors can explore centuries-old buildings such as East India House, as well as visit small museums like Maritime History Museum and Brewery Museum – all within walking distance from each other. Finally, end your day with a tranquil stroll around Kralingen Lake for breathtaking views of both Rotterdam’s historic sites as well as its modern marvels.

Night: Experience the Local Craft Beer Scene

To round off your day in Rotterdam, why not pursue your love of craft beer? Located in the city’s alleyways are dozens of craft beer bars that will tantalise your taste buds with locally brewed craft creations. You can start your tour at De Vrije Vogel – a craft beer bar where you can find unique local beers on tap. From there, move on to Gollem Beer Café or Kaapse Brouwers Bar —both are beloved among locals for their selection of craft beers. To learn more about how beer is made from start to finish – and taste some samples – consider booking a Rotterdam Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings from GetYourGuide. Whether you’re looking for a craft pale ale with hints of tropical fruits or a rich porter made with chocolate malt, you won’t be disappointed by the local concoctions Rotterdam has to offer!

As you can see, there are countless ways to spend one day in Rotterdam – it all depends on what type of experience you’re after. Our advice would be to pick two or three things from our guide and add them to your itinerary for a perfect one day stay in Rotterdam – from admiring the city’s modern architecture to revisiting its historic sites, experiencing local culture and tasting craft beers!

An Insider’s Guide to One Day in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a dynamic and vibrant city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. If you’ve got only one day to explore the city, you’re in for a treat. From historical landmarks to modern architecture, delicious food to cultural experiences, Rotterdam has something for everyone.

Explore Hidden Gems

Apart from the usual attractions like the Cube Houses and the Euromast Tower, Rotterdam has a wealth of hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. One such place is Delfshaven, a picturesque old town that oozes charm and character. Another hidden gem is the Witte de Withstraat, a bustling street that is lined with trendy shops, galleries, and cafes.

For art lovers, the Kunsthal Rotterdam is a must-visit. This museum showcases an eclectic mix of contemporary art, design, and photography that will leave you inspired.

Taste the Local Delicacies

Rotterdam has a rich food culture that is influenced by its seafaring history and multicultural society. A local delicacy that you must try is ‘Bitterballen,’ a deep-fried ball made with a mixture of beef or veal ragout and breadcrumbs. Pair it with a Dutch beer for the ultimate experience.

Another local specialty is ‘Stroopwafels,’ thin waffles with a syrup filling that are best enjoyed warm. If you’re looking for something sweet, try ‘Kapsalon,’ a dish that combines fries, kebab, salad, cheese, and garlic sauce.

Experience the Local Culture

Rotterdam is home to some of the most innovative architectural designs, including the Markthal, a massive horseshoe-shaped building that houses a food market and apartments. The city also has a thriving music scene and is home to the popular North Sea Jazz Festival. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during the festival, don’t miss it for the world.

For a glimpse into the city’s maritime history, visit the Maritime Museum, which houses a collection of historic vessels, exhibitions, and maritime artifacts.

Discover Fascinating Stories

Rotterdam has a fascinating history that is often overlooked by tourists. One such story is that of the Erasmus Bridge, which was named after the famous philosopher and Rotterdam native, Desiderius Erasmus. Another interesting fact is that during World War II, the city center was heavily bombed by the Germans and had to be rebuilt from scratch.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Blijdorp Zoo, which is home to over 10,000 animals and has a range of interactive exhibits. Another unique experience is to take a water taxi, which offers a different perspective of the city.

In conclusion, Rotterdam has a lot to offer, even if you only have one day to explore the city. With its hidden gems, delicious food, rich culture, and fascinating history, Rotterdam is a city that will leave you wanting more.