Winter in Rotterdam
Winter is a great time to discover Rotterdam at a slower pace. Explore the city, visit a museum or gallery, and do your festive shopping in Rotterdam city centre. Warm up in a cosy café or enjoy a good dinner. Still have energy to spare? Head out for a party and dance into the early hours. From art and culture to winter activities and days out with the kids, there’s plenty to enjoy in the colder months.
Winter Highlights
From skating and light art to Christmas markets, exhibitions and New Year’s Eve, discover what’s on in Rotterdam this winter.
Schaatsbaan Rotterdam
21 November 2026 to 27 February 2027Lace up your skates and take a few laps on the covered ice rink. Or sign up for a curling clinic. The atmospheric lighting makes it a fun winter outing for all ages.
Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks
11 December 2026 to 3 January 2027Light art and activities add to the festive atmosphere in Rotterdam city centre. Combine your visit with some Christmas shopping, then enjoy a meal at one of the city’s restaurants.
Winter Wonderland Rotterdam
18 to 30 December 2026Step inside Rotterdam Ahoy and discover an enchanting winter world with winter-themed settings, attractions and entertainment for all ages.
New Year’s Eve in Rotterdam
31 December 2026Celebrate the last night of the year with dinner, a party or another event in the city. At midnight, the National Fireworks above the Erasmusbrug are the highlight.
What’s the weather like?
The average temperature in Rotterdam during the winter months is around 5°C. It’s often chilly, and it can be rainy or windy. The wind can make it feel colder by the water. Sometimes winter really sets in and it snows. Bring a warm coat, scarf and gloves. Comfortable shoes are ideal for exploring the city on foot.
8 Fine Dining Restaurants in Rotterdam
Rotterdam’s food scene is as impressive as its skyline. Discover restaurants where top chefs surprise you with creative menus and refined flavours. Book a table at one of these top restaurants and enjoy a special evening out in the city.
Exhibitions this winter
This winter, discover art from different cultures in Rotterdam. Live the Surreal at Wereldmuseum Rotterdam brings international art together with work by Rotterdam-based artists. At Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, see sculptures by Marisol, and at Kunsthal Rotterdam, discover colourful paintings by Signac, including a Rotterdam harbour scene. At Fenix, Slavs and Tatars explore how language connects people and cultures through humour and striking installations.
Rotterdam’s Ultimate Bucket List for 2027
Rotterdam keeps evolving, building and surprising. In 2027, there will be new places to discover, special openings, major events and developments to look forward to. Get inspired for your visit to Rotterdam.
Historic Delfshaven in winter
If you’re lucky enough to visit on a snowy day, Historic Delfshaven’s old harbour and historic buildings look especially atmospheric. Explore the area on foot, see the harbour from the water with iKapitein, visit the unique Dutch Pinball Museum or stop at Altstadt for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
More winter tips
As the days grow shorter and colder, Rotterdam shows its warm and lively side. Discover museums, cosy cafés and fine dining across the city. These guides will help make your winter in Rotterdam even more special.
Top Museums and Art Spaces in Rotterdam
From world-famous collections to contemporary art and maritime history, Rotterdam’s museums offer something for every visitor. Discover iconic museums, cultural highlights and must-see art spaces across the city with this top 10 guide.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.Hotels in Rotterdam: your guide to the best places to stay
Searching for Rotterdam hotels means choosing from one of Europe’s most varied urban hotel scenes. The city’s forward-looking architecture, maritime heritage and creative energy are reflected in where you stay. Decide between landmark luxury hotels, design-led boutiques, floating houses or family-friendly favourites. These are the places for a memorable stay in Rotterdam.Shopping in Rotterdam: from high streets to markets
Shopping in Rotterdam lets you experience the city up close. Move easily between major shopping streets, creative neighbourhoods and lively markets. Each area has its own mix of brands, independent shops and cafés, making it an easy and enjoyable way to explore the city. <div style="margin-top: 20px; margin-bottom: 16px;"> <p style="font-size: 14px; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 8px;"> Jump to: </p> <nav aria-label="On this page" style="display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; gap: 6px;"> <a href="#shopping-in-rotterdams-city-centre" style="color: #222222; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; padding: 4px 8px; border: 1px solid #aaa; border-radius: 3px;">City centre shopping</a> <a href="#sustainable-stores" style="color: #222222; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; padding: 4px 8px; border: 1px solid #aaa; border-radius: 3px;">Sustainable shops</a> <a href="#markets-to-visit" style="color: #222222; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; padding: 4px 8px; border: 1px solid #aaa; border-radius: 3px;">Markets</a> <a href="#where-to-go-vintage-shopping" style="color: #222222; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; padding: 4px 8px; border: 1px solid #aaa; border-radius: 3px;">Vintage shopping</a> <a href="#where-to-get-souvenirs-and-gifts" style="color: #222222; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; padding: 4px 8px; border: 1px solid #aaa; border-radius: 3px;">Souvenirs & gifts</a> <a href="#frequently-asked-questions" style="color: #222222; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; padding: 4px 8px; border: 1px solid #aaa; border-radius: 3px;">FAQs</a> <a href="#opening-hours-shops-rotterdam" style="color: #222222; text-decoration: none; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.4; padding: 4px 8px; border: 1px solid #aaa; border-radius: 3px;">Opening hours</a> </nav> </div>
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