Must-sees in Rotterdam: The Ultimate Bucket List for 2026
Rotterdam never stops evolving, and 2026 will be no exception. From beloved annual events like Rotterdam Art Week and Rotterdam Architecture Month to the long-awaited opening of the National Museum of Photography (Nederlands Fotomuseum) in Pakhuis Santos. Discover the highlights of 2026.
Looking back at 2025
2025 was a year of innovation and recognition for Rotterdam. With the opening of Fenix and Portlantis, the city gained two major attractions offering fresh perspectives on the port, culture, and migration. Restaurant Celest in De Zalmhaven, the world’s first coffee hotel in Crooswijk, and the renovated Park Pavilion in het Park also opened their doors. And once again, Rotterdam was named Best Festival City in the World, for the third time, a recognition that highlights how festivals in this city bring people together and create shared experiences.
Portlantis
Portlantis is the new port experience centre located on Maasvlakte 2. The building was designed by MVRDV, the renowned Rotterdam-based architecture firm behind landmarks like the Markthal and Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen.
Celest
Celest opened in De Zalmhaven as a destination for drinks and dining with a view. The concept draws inspiration from The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall (1835), a fantastical story by writer Edgar Allan Poe.
Fenix
Fenix is a new cultural landmark inspired by migration stories from around the world. It is housed in a historic harbour warehouse from 1923 with a striking modern addition — the Tornado, designed by MAD Architects.
Man Met Bril Coffee Hotel
In Crooswijk, the world’s very first coffee hotel opened its doors. The hotel has become a meeting place for coffee lovers, travellers and professionals who share a passion for craftsmanship and connection.
The National Museum of Photography moves to Pakhuis Santos
On February 7, 2026, the Nederlands Fotomuseum, the National Museum of Photography will open its new home in the iconic Pakhuis Santos on Katendrecht. This historic warehouse from 1903 has been recently renovated and transformed into a contemporary museum with exhibition spaces, a bookshop, educational areas and a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the skyline. With this move, photography will take centre stage in the heart of Rotterdam South.
Photo of Pakhuis Santos by Studio Hans Wilschut
Tramhuis, kiosk for city walks
For decades, the Tramhuis on Eendrachtsplein was the go-to late-night stop for hungry night owls. In early 2026, the small historic building will get a new life as a starting point for city walks and a great cup of coffee. Visitors can begin themed walking routes such as 'Building the city' by architect Winy Maas, or 'City of Food and Cultures' by food journalist Jonneke de Zeeuw (Mooncake). Both routes are already available as podwalks in the Tramhuis app, letting you hear stories exactly where they took place.
Photo by Municipality of Rotterdam (Stadsarchief): the original RET Tramhuis at Kruisplein
Museum Rotterdam in the Steigerkerk
Museum Rotterdam will find a new home in the Steigerkerk, a striking post-war reconstruction monument near the city’s historic origins — pending approval by the City Council. Museum Rotterdam ’40–’45 NOW will also move there, uniting the stories of the city and the war in one meaningful location. These plans make 2026 a key year in bringing the new city museum closer to reality.
Photo of the Steigerkerk by Lotte Stekelenburg
Rotterdam Art Week
During Rotterdam Art Week, the city comes alive with art and design. Across more than 50 locations, you’ll discover fairs, exhibitions, open studios, tours and artist talks. The week connects dozens of initiatives, institutions and artists – from established names to emerging talent – throughout the city.
One of the highlights is Art Rotterdam, the art fair that has long been at the heart of the week. From 2026 onwards, the renowned photography fair Unseen will also be part of the event. Together, they present an inspiring programme at Rotterdam Ahoy, where photography and visual art come together.
Post Rotterdam & Kimpton Hotel
The former Post Office on the Coolsingel is being transformed into Post Rotterdam. In 2026, a five-star Kimpton hotel, along with luxury apartments, shops, and restaurants, is expected to open in this beautifully restored national monument. The redevelopment blends historic grandeur with international allure in the heart of the city.
Hofbogenpark, the longest rooftop park in the Netherlands
The Hofbogenpark is taking shape on the former 1.9-kilometre-long railway viaduct of the Hofbogen in Rotterdam North and is set to become the longest rooftop park in the Netherlands. The park is being developed in phases and will be completed in 2027. It will connect several neighbourhoods in Rotterdam North, adding greenery, cooling, and space for people to meet. Between the historic arches, a unique route full of nature, art, and small initiatives will emerge. The new city park will become a place for locals and visitors to walk, relax, and explore.
Impression of Hofbogenpark near Insulindestraat
New Baroeg Music Venue
Rotterdam is experiencing a new wave of nightlife and music. Clubs and venues are popping up in former warehouses and hidden basements, where electronic music, live performances, and creative energy fill the night. In Rotterdam South, the legendary Baroeg will open a new, sustainable venue on Spinozaweg, offering more space, improved acoustics, and modern facilities for artists. Alongside spots like Export, a new underground club in the Keilepand, Rotterdam will once again dance into the early hours in 2026.
Impression of the new Baroeg by Diederendirrix
Festivals full of energy
Every year, Rotterdam bursts with festivals that give the city its colour, rhythm, and creative energy. During Museumnacht010, museums and galleries stay open late into the night. The NN Marathon Rotterdam draws runners and supporters from around the world. In June and July, the Rotterdam Architecture Month and the North Sea Jazz Festival each celebrate imagination in their own way. And in summer, the streets come alive with dance, music, and vibrant costumes during Zomercarnaval, a festival that brings the city together, Rotterdam style. Check the Rotterdam Festivals agenda for all events and festivals in 2026.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Rotterdam
These are the top 10 places to visit in Rotterdam with striking architecture and cultural highlights like the Depot, Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) and Markthal.
