Top 10 Places to Visit in Rotterdam

The Depot of Boijmans Van Beuningen is the first art depot in the world open to the public. Wander, on your own or with a guide, through 154,000 works of art, each with a story to tell. Watch as conservation and restoration experts carefully bring pieces back to life, right before your eyes. When you’re done exploring, head up to the rooftop terrace. Here, restaurant Renilde serves delicious dishes while you take in sweeping views of the city skyline.

Fenix rises from a historic warehouse, once the departure point for thousands, now reimagined as an art museum that gives voice to stories of migration. At its heart stands a gleaming tornado of twin spiral staircases, designed by MAD Architects, that twist upward like journeys converging. At the top, a rooftop platform offers panoramic views of the city and port. After your visit, head to nearby Deliplein, a lively square filled with cafés and restaurants that capture the authentic spirit of Rotterdam.

Historic Delfshaven is one of the few parts of Rotterdam that survived the 1940 bombing. Cobblestone streets, gabled canal houses, and the old harbor reflect stories of herring fishermen, gin distillers, and 17th-century explorers. Today, Delfshaven is home to quirky antique shops, waterside cafés, the Dutch Pinball Museum, and the iconic Pelgrimvaderskerk. In summer, explore the canals with an electric boat from iKapitein or hop on the Historic Tram Line 10 for a scenic ride through time.

A forest of tilted yellow cubes in the heart of the city, Rotterdam’s Cube Houses never fail to turn heads. Designed by architect Piet Blom in 1984, each house tilts playfully on a single corner, forming a bold architectural landmark. Step inside the Kijk-Kubus Museum House to see what it’s like to live in one and stop by Kuub Coffee for an espresso beneath the striking facades, or wander over to the lively Binnenrotte market on Tuesdays or Saturdays. 

The Gothic Laurenskerk is the only medieval building in central Rotterdam to withstand the bombing of 1940. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s resilience, impressive both inside and out. Attend one of the atmospheric organ concerts or make your way up the tower for sweeping city views. Need a break? Unwind in the nearby Grotekerkplein City Park, next to the bronze statue of Erasmus. 

Rotterdam is home to the world’s first covered market hall with residences built above it, the striking horseshoe-shaped Markthal. Designed by Dutch architects MVRDV, this landmark stuns inside and out, especially with the enormous ceiling artwork ‘Horn of Plenty’ by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam. Wander past fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls while gazing up at the rich color and detail. Visit on a Tuesday or Saturday to pair your trip with the lively outdoor market on the Binnenrotte. Fancy some action? Book a surfsession at the nearby RiF010.

In the leafy neighbourhood of Kralingen you will find Trompenburg Gardens and Arboretum, a surprisingly peaceful oasis filled with ancient trees, colourful flowerbeds and rare plants. Carefully designed paths lead you past ponds, greenhouses and winding trails. This botanical paradise even includes a modern food forest and offers a perfect escape from the city's energy.

Katendrecht is evolving into one of Rotterdam’s most creative districts with the welcome of the Nederlands Fotomuseum. Housed in the beautifully restored Pakhuis Santos warehouse, the museum will showcase iconic photography in bright, modern galleries. Aside from the exhibitions, visitors can enjoy panoramic skyline views from the rooftop terrace at the museum café, take part in a hands-on workshop or develop film in their functioning darkrooms. Just around the corner, you’ll also find Fenix and the quays of the ss Rotterdam.

Portlantis is the ultimate gateway to the Port of Rotterdam, an interactive experience center set in a striking MVRDV-designed building. Step inside and explore how the modern port operates, through immersive exhibitions, visuals, and digital storytelling. Join a harbor boat tour or go on a fossil expedition along the beach. In summer, you can reach Portlantis easily via the Hoeksveer ferry from Hoek van Holland. After your visit, unwind at the rooftop restaurant with sea views or take a walk along the vast Maasvlakte beach.

Welcome to RiF010, the world’s first urban surf pool, right in the heart of Rotterdam next to the Markthal. Artificial reefs generate perfect waves up to 1.5 meters high. Whether you're into surfing, stand-up paddling, or canoeing, the 125-meter-long pool offers challenge and fun for all skill levels. Powered entirely by green energy, RiF010 also features a relaxed surf house and bar where you can unwind after your session.