Museums and galleries
Start your city break in Rotterdam by soaking up the culture on offer at the city's numerous museums and galleries. The striking Kunsthal Rotterdam building hosts about 25 exhibitions every year, with shows ranging from traditional and contemporary art to photography and design exhibitions. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is the place to find masterpieces by artists including Bosch, Rembrandt and Van Gogh, while Nederlands Fotomuseum specialises in photographic art
The Erasmus Bridge is one of the city's major landmarks and serves to connect the northern and southern sections of Rotterdam. Known as The Swan, it offers exceptional views across the city. However, if you're really keen to get a bird's eye view of the cityscape, head up the Euromast observation tower. Find yourself being whisked 100m into the air by the tower's lift to enjoy 360° views over Rotterdam and the surrounding area.
Architectural wonders of Rotterdam
The Cube Houses and the works of OMA (Office for Metropolitan Architecture) highlight Rotterdam’s reputation as a hub of modern design, perfect for a short break. The Cube Houses, designed by Piet Blom, are an iconic landmark near the Oude Haven, with their unique tilted structure offering a glimpse into innovative urban living. Nearby, OMA, founded by Rem Koolhaas, has left its mark with bold projects like the De Rotterdam building, a vertical city on the Maas River. Together, these architectural marvels make Rotterdam a must-visit destination for design enthusiasts and those seeking a culturally rich city break.
Shop 'til you drop
Fabulous shopping opportunities are on offer right across the city. Businesses in the centre of Rotterdam open seven days a week and you'll find everything from small, independent boutiques through to major international labels. Make for Beursplein and the Beurstraverse to find a host of top brands and department stores.
The area around The Meent is becoming known as the place to go in Rotterdam to find trendy fashion outlets and concept stores. For a more bohemian vibe, the area around Nieuwemarkt and Pannekoekstraat is worth a visit, even during a short break.
Markthal: Rotterdam’s iconic market
Experience the bustling atmosphere of the Markthal, one of Rotterdam’s most iconic modern landmarks, perfect for a city break. This architectural marvel, with its distinctive horseshoe-shaped design, is home to over 100 market stalls offering fresh produce, local treats, and international flavors. The stunning mural adorning its vast arched ceiling, known as the "Horn of Plenty," adds a vibrant touch to the lively setting. Beneath the market lies an underground supermarket and parking facilities, ensuring convenience for visitors. Whether exploring for a few hours or a full day, the Markthal seamlessly blends food, culture, and design in the heart of the city.
Out and about
Find time to visit Oude Haven, the city's oldest harbour, where many locals come to relax in the area's many bars and restaurants next to the water. Visitors on a city break looking for a more energetic way to spend the evening are in luck, as Rotterdam has become famous for its vibrant nightlife scene.
Start things off with a few shots at the popular Bar Tender, before hitting the town in style. Catch a top band at Ahoy Rotterdam or head for one of the city's top clubs such as Annabel, TwentySix or Maassilo.
