Autumn in Rotterdam
In autumn, Rotterdam shows a different side of the city. Walk through Kralingse Bos or Het Park as the trees turn warm autumn colours. Rainy day? Visit Kunsthal Rotterdam, Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen or one of the city’s other museums. There is plenty for families too, from a day at Rotterdam Zoo to a cruise on the River Maas.
New exhibitions this autumn
From global surrealism and pop art to colourful pointillism and contemporary art about language, four new exhibitions open in Rotterdam this autumn. Combine your museum visit with a city trip and discover more art and culture in the city.
Live the Surreal | Wereldmuseum Rotterdam
From 18 September 2026Discover Surrealism as a global way of thinking that brings dreams, imagination and resistance together. The exhibition combines art from different cultures with contemporary work by Rotterdam-based artists.Marisol | Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen
From 9 October 2026Meet Venezuelan American Pop Art icon Marisol through her colourful and humorous wooden sculptures. More than 80 international loans reveal her sharp perspective on women, social norms and the climate.Signac. Symphony of Colours | Kunsthal
From 24 October 2026Explore Paul Signac’s colourful harbour scenes, landscapes and portraits and discover the effect of Pointillism. The exhibition also features Le port de Rotterdam from 1907.Slavs and Tatars: Mouthfool | Fenix
From 19 November 2026Language travels with people, changes along the way and shapes who we are. Slavs and Tatars bring language to life through humour, wordplay and striking installations.
Autumn highlights
Wereldhavendagen (World Port Days)
4 to 6 September 2026 | Go behind the scenes of the port
Step aboard remarkable ships, explore the quays and watch shows on the water. Excursions and activities introduce you to the people, companies and innovations behind the Port of Rotterdam. Discover more about the port.
ALL CAPS
6 to 13 September 2026 | Watch street art come to life in Lombardijen
During ALL CAPS, international and Rotterdam-based artists create eleven new murals in Lombardijen. Watch them at work, join free workshops and street art tours, and visit SUPER SUNDAY on 13 September for live painting, music and activities.
Illumination Week at Kinderdijk
7 to 12 September 2026 | See the windmills in a new light
During Illumination Week, the windmills at UNESCO World Heritage Kinderdijk are illuminated every evening. Enjoy the spectacle during a walk or from the water on a boat tour or kayak trip. Discover the top 10 attractions.
CeesvdwalBIG ART at the Codrico Factory
11 to 13 September 2026 | Large-scale art among the silos
For the first time, BIG ART is coming to Rotterdam. Discover more than 100 large-scale paintings, sculptures, photographs, light artworks and installations inside the raw industrial setting of the Codrico Factory in Katendrecht. Combine your visit with one of Rotterdam’s other museums.
Groot Rotterdams Atelier Weekend
19 and 20 September 2026 | Meet artists in their studios
Around 700 artists and makers open their studios at 90 locations across Rotterdam. See art up close, meet the people behind the work and visit places that are usually closed to the public. Discover more art and design.
Sebastian van DammeRotterdam Pride
17 to 27 September 2026 | Celebrate freedom, diversity and connection
During Rotterdam Pride, the city comes alive with art, culture, community, activism and celebration. Explore the programme across Rotterdam and join the free Pride Festival at Willemsplein on Saturday 26 September. Discover Rotterdam’s bars, clubs and nightlife.
CAMERA JAPAN Festival
23 to 27 September 2026 | Japanese film and culture in Rotterdam
CAMERA JAPAN brings Japanese films, anime, exhibitions, performances, workshops and food to Rotterdam. Visit LantarenVenster and head to Fenix on 26 and 27 September for the Japanese Market and a special programme. More about CAMERA JAPAN.
More autumn tips for your visit to Rotterdam
Discover the city with tips for nature, culture, nightlife and activities with children. There is plenty of inspiration to fill several autumn days in Rotterdam.
10 Parks in Rotterdam to walk, picnic and recharge
Rotterdam is known for its architecture, harbours and art. But nature lovers will also feel at home here. Looking for a place to walk, cycle, picnic or have a barbecue? From Museumpark to Kralingse Bos and Zuiderpark, these ten parks in Rotterdam offer space to relax, unwind and recharge.Day out with the kids
Looking for a fun city trip or a day out with kids? In Rotterdam, there is so much to do and discover. Enjoy activities on or by the water, explore museums, or climb and play in one of the parks or indoor play paradises: Rotterdam has it all. Check out our top 10 tips.Pubs & Bars in Rotterdam
Rotterdam’s nightlife has long been shaped by music, culture and good drinks. From classic cocktail bars and hidden speakeasies to wine bars and traditional Dutch pubs, the city offers a wide range of places to spend an evening. This guide highlights the best spots for a drink in Rotterdam.
There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.
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