Summer in Rotterdam
Summer in Rotterdam offers plenty to see and do. It's the perfect time to grab a seat on a sunny terrace, visit one of the city’s parks, or head to the nearest beach. Feeling like getting on the water? Swim in the Rijnhaven, try urban surfing at RiF010, or rent a boat from iKapitein in Delfshaven. There’s no shortage of fun for families either. Think lions and giraffes at the zoo, a thrilling watertaxi ride, or a tree-top adventure in Fun Forest. However you like to spend your summer, you’ll find it in 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.
Zomercarnaval Rotterdam
25 & 26 July 2026 | A vibrant celebration of music and dance
Experience one of the Netherlands’ biggest summer events at Zomercarnaval Rotterdam (Summer Carnival Rotterdam). Expect dazzling costumes, vibrant music and a spectacular street parade through the city. The street parade takes place on Saturday 25 July 2026, starting at 12 noon from Blaak and finishing at approximately 7 pm.
Wednesday Night Skate
23, 30 July & 6, 13, 20, 27 August 2026 | Discover Rotterdam on roller skates
Join hundreds of skaters as you roll past some of Rotterdam’s most iconic sights during Wednesday Night Skate. A fun and active summer evening for all ages.
Pleinbioscoop
11–28 August 2026 | Open-air cinema beneath the Rotterdam skyline
Enjoy a unique open-air cinema experience at Pleinbioscoop. With Rotterdam’s skyline as your backdrop, settle in for great films at one of the city’s most atmospheric outdoor venues.
ZOOmeravonden in Diergaarde Blijdorp
A special evening among the animals
During ZOOmeravonden, Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo) stays open later than usual. Wander through the zoo as the evening sets in and enjoy special activities, live music and a relaxed summer atmosphere.
Rotterdam with kids
Looking for a fun city trip or a day out with kids? In Rotterdam, there is so much to do and discover. Enjoy activities on or by the water, explore museums, or climb and play in one of the parks or indoor play paradises: Rotterdam has it all. Check out our top 10 tips.
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.
Nederlands Fotomuseum
Where photography, food and culture come together
The exhibition Good Food at Nederlands Fotomuseum explores how food shapes our everyday lives, culture and society. Looking for more art and culture? Discover 10 must-visit museums in Rotterdam you won’t want to miss.
Parks & Terraces in Rotterdam
Summer in Rotterdam is all about enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re up for a sunny walk, a relaxed picnic, or a laid-back barbecue with friends, the city’s parks are the place to be. Explore hidden green escapes like Trompenburg Gardens & Arboretum or the Eiland van Brienenoord, or unwind in local favourites such as het Park, Kralingse Bos or Vroesenpark. Rather lounge on a terrace with a cold drink and great food? Rotterdam is full of sunny spots where you can kick back and soak up the summer vibe.
Bar Dek by BlueCity
Summer drinks along the Maas
Bar Dek is one of Rotterdam’s most popular summer terraces. Enjoy a drink by the water while soaking up the creative, sustainable atmosphere of BlueCity.
Parqiet
Hidden oasis in Het Park
Parqiet is a green oasis at the foot of the Euromast, right in the heart of the city. Perfect for a great coffee, a sunny lunch or a relaxed drink after a walk through Het Park. Settle in on the sunny terrace or unwind in one of the deckchairs under the trees in the shade.
In and around the water
Rotterdam is a city shaped by water. The port and the river form a dynamic extension of the land. The fastest (and most scenic) way to get around? Hop on a watertaxi for a thrilling ride with unbeatable views of the skyline and harbour. For a more relaxed experience, take a tour with Spido and explore the city from the water. Feeling adventurous? Splashtours takes you on a unique city tour that ends with a splash straight into the river. But that’s just the start. Rotterdam is home to the world’s first floating office, a floating farm (yes, with real cows), and urban surf spot RiF010. And if that’s not wild enough, you can even spend the night on the water in one of the Wikkelboats. Come and discover Rotterdam from its most exciting side, the water!
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.
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.
