Top 10 Attractions in Rotterdam

Diergaarde Blijdorp is one of Rotterdam’s top attractions, offering an up-close look at wildlife, from sharks and red pandas to giraffes and gorillas, in carefully designed habitats. More than just a historic zoo, it plays a key role in nature conservation and caring for endangered species. Explore eight themed zones, discover stories of sustainability, and admire architectural highlights like the 1930s Rivièrahal. The zoo’s spacious walkways, green surroundings, and interactive exhibits make it ideal for visitors of all ages. 

The Euromast is Rotterdam’s original high-rise landmark and still towers over the city at 185 metres. Your visit starts on the ground floor with “The Rise of Rotterdam”, an interactive journey through the city’s history. Ride the Euroscoop up to 180 metres for panoramic views that stretch far beyond the skyline, a must-see during your Rotterdam city trip. Afterwards, take a stroll through Park Schoonoord and enjoy a laid-back lunch at café Parqiet. 

Floating Farm shows how city and agriculture can come together. This floating stable in Rotterdam-West produces fresh dairy and runs on sustainable principles. Visit the farm, explore its circular systems, and stop by the shop to taste what urban food production looks like. It’s a glimpse into Rotterdam’s greener future.

Take a 75-minute cruise along the Nieuwe Maas with Spido and discover one of the world’s largest ports. It’s a classic way to experience Rotterdam from the water. Sail past massive container ships, historic shipyards, and landmarks like the Euromast and Hotel New York. 

Experience Europe’s largest port like never before at Portlantis. Dive into hands-on exhibits about shipping, sustainability, and sea level rise, all housed in an eye-catching building with a panoramic rooftop. In summer, take the Hoeksveer- ferry from Hoek van Holland to start your visit with sea breeze and skyline. Don’t miss the nearby beach walk for a refreshing end to your day.

A surf pool in the heart of the city, an absolute world’s first! RiF010 stretches 125 meters long and 25 meters wide, situated right in the Steigersgracht. An artificial reef creates waves for professional surfing. Towards the end of the wave pool, gentler waves form, ideal for beginners exploring the sport. RiF010 uses 100% sustainably sourced energy to power the wave installation and the beach house. After your session, grab a drink at the beach house and surf bar with terrace.

Splashtours is a one-of-a-kind way to experience Rotterdam—part city tour, part river cruise. Ride past highlights on land, then splash into the Nieuwe Maas to float along the skyline. With themed routes and flexible options, there’s a Splashtour to suit every kind of visitor. 

The ss Rotterdam is the largest ocean liner ever built in the Netherlands. It's now permanently moored in the Maashaven, near Katendrecht. Take a guided tour through the original decks and grand halls, then relax with cake in the Captain’s Lounge, or even stay overnight in the stylishly furnished hotel rooms on board.

Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum is a spacious botanical garden in Rotterdam. Spread over several hectares, it features walking paths through a wide range of plant life, including flowering borders, mature trees, and a desert greenhouse filled with cacti. A new food forest is also taking shape, adding a sustainable element to the garden. In summer, Trompenburg hosts events like outdoor dinners and tours. 

Kinderdijk is where history, engineering, and nature come together. Since 1997, its iconic windmills have been UNESCO-listed, showing the Netherlands’ age-old battle with water. Visitors can get close to the windmills, visit the visitor center for more background information, and even take a boat trip to explore the area from the water. Enjoy the scenic ride on Waterbus line 21 to get there. For another UNESCO gem centered around industrial architecture, visit the Van Nellefabriek in Rotterdam West.