Summer in Rotterdam
In summer, Rotterdam is full of things to see and do. Relax on a sunny terrace, visit a city park or head to the beach. Prefer to be in or on the water? Take a dip in Rijnhaven, go surfing at RiF010 or hire a boat from iKapitein. There is plenty for families too, from spotting animals at Rotterdam Zoo to a ride on the Water Taxi or a climbing adventure at Fun Forest. Discover the best summer activities, events and things to do in and around Rotterdam.
How to make the most of your summer in Rotterdam
From festivals and open-air films to waterside terraces and seasonal events, this is your go-to guide for the best summer experiences in Rotterdam.
World Port Days
4–6 September 2026 | Discover Europe's largest port
Discover spectacular shows, live demonstrations on the water and harbour tours during World Port Days Rotterdam (Wereldhavendagen).
BIG 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.
Citytour Lijn 10
Discover Rotterdam on a historic tram
Step aboard the nostalgic Citytour Tram 10 for a unique journey through the city. Along the way, you’ll pass some of Rotterdam’s most iconic landmarks while listening to stories that bring the city’s past and present to life.
WaterShuttle to Kinderdijk
From skyline to windmills
Set sail from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk and explore its iconic UNESCO-listed windmill landscape. The WaterShuttle (Willemskade stop) takes around 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the river and Rotterdam’s skyline along the way.
Take the Hoeksveer ferry to Portlantis
From beach to port in one day
Combine a day by the sea in Hoek van Holland with a trip on the Hoeksveer ferry to Portlantis. Explore the impressive Port of Rotterdam and discover its future through interactive exhibits.
Parks & Terraces in Rotterdam
Enjoy summer outdoors in Rotterdam. Walk through Het Park, Kralingse Bos or Trompenburg, plan a picnic or relax with friends in the sun. Prefer a terrace? Find plenty of sunny spots across the city for drinks, good food and a laid-back summer atmosphere.
Rotterdam Beach
Just a 40-minute metro ride from the city centre, Hoek van Holland offers a refreshing escape to the coast. As part of Rotterdam, this seaside town has it all: wide beaches, rolling dunes, and views of the sea and harbour. Whether you're here to sunbathe, walk through the dunes, or enjoy a breezy beach stroll, it’s always a good day for the beach. There’s more to discover beyond nature, the area is rich in history, with monuments and sculptures that tell the story of the past. And don’t miss the Maeslantkering, one of the largest and most impressive storm surge barriers in the world.
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