The ultimate Rotterdam bucket list for 2025

Rotterdam is always moving forward—and 2025 is no exception. This year, the city is buzzing with new cultural landmarks, bold architectural projects, immersive experiences, and even a place to take a dip right in the heart of the city. Whether you're planning a visit or rediscovering your hometown, here are some must-see's and must-do's for your ultimate Rotterdam bucket list in 2025.

Opening its doors on 16 May 2025, Fenix will bring powerful migration stories to life through contemporary art, immersive exhibits, and personal narratives. Located in a former harbor warehouse in Katendrecht, this new museum explores themes of movement, belonging, and identity. One of the architectural highlights? The Tornado, a swirling rooftop staircase by MAD architects, offering stunning views over the city and harbor.

Photographic impression of the new FENIX museum with the amazing Swirl on the rooftop.

Opened on 22 March 2025, Portlantis is Rotterdam’s brand-new port experience center, set out on Maasvlakte 2. Designed by architectural legends MVRDV, this futuristic building invites visitors into the fascinating world of the Port of Rotterdam—Europe’s largest. Explore interactive exhibitions, take a 4D virtual tour of the port and city, learn about global trade and sustainability, and enjoy panoramic views from the on-site restaurant terrace. It’s educational, innovative, and just a short trip from the city.

Back by popular demand after a successful debut last summer, swimming at Rijnhaven returns in 2025! The floating swimming zone offers a refreshing and fun way to cool down right in the middle of Rotterdam’s high-rise waterfront. Whether you're doing laps, lounging on the deck, or just jumping in with friends, this urban swimming spot is a summer must-do. It’s city living, Rotterdam-style—vibrant, surprising, and always by the water.

Man taking a picture of people enjoying a swim from the floating pontoon at Rijnhaven, Rotterdam

At the top of the towering Zalmhaventoren, Celest has taken Rotterdam’s dining scene to new heights—literally. Located on the 57th and 58th floors, this upscale restaurant and cocktail bar offers 360° views over the city and beyond. Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall, the celestial concept transports guests on a poetic journey to the moon through luxurious interiors, storytelling, and refined cuisine. One for the dreamers (and foodies).

Photo of Rotterdam by night, as one would see, dining at Celest.

Discover RiF010, where innovation meets recreation! Ride the waves of change in Rotterdam at this unique urban surf spot. In the middle of the city center, it’s the perfect splash of adventure for curious visitors and congress delegates alike. Experience the unexpected, right in the heart of Europe’s most dynamic port city.

Photo of a person surfing at Rif010, Rotterdam's spectacular innercity surf pool. Lots of people looking on.

This autumn, the National Museum of Photography is moving to the historic Pakhuis Santos in Katendrecht. The beautifully restored, eight-story warehouse from 1903 will become a vibrant hub for photography, creativity, and culture. Expect expansive exhibitions, a library and photo bookstore, education spaces, a community zone, a café, a darkroom for photographers—and a rooftop restaurant with one of the best views in town. Picture-perfect.

Historic red-brick building facade in Rotterdam with decorative stone window frames, preserved as a standalone front and topped by a modern glass-and-steel rooftop extension.

From 29 May to 9 June, slide down a giant slide from the roof of the Maritime Museum. Or take the zip line for a whole new perspective on the museum, the museum harbor and its surroundings. The exhibition on the roof of the Maritime Museum brings to life a possible future for the city, where buildings, water and greenery come together in new ways. The Rotterdam Rooftop Roetsj is part of the 10th edition of the Rotterdam Rooftop Days and a warm-up for Rotterdam Architecture Month in June.