Travel around Rotterdam with Bobby
Day 1A Modern Marvels and A Touch of History
The moment I arrived in Rotterdam, I could feel the energy of this city. I checked into The James Hotel, a sleek and stylish boutique spot right in the city center. It was the perfect base for my adventures, with easy access to public transportation, though I quickly realized that Rotterdam is incredibly walkable.
My first stop had to be the Cube Houses. I’ve seen pictures of these quirky, tilted buildings before, but standing right in the middle of them was a different experience altogether. These futuristic homes are a testament to Rotterdam’s innovative spirit, and I even got to tour one to see what living in such a space would feel like (spoiler: it’s even stranger inside!).
From there, I took a short walk to the Markthal, Rotterdam’s massive food market, and oh, the aromas! Inside, I couldn’t resist sampling Dutch stroopwafels and fresh seafood. The architecture of the building itself is breathtaking, with its vast arch covered in colorful artwork.
In the afternoon, I strolled down to the Erasmus Bridge, also known as “The Swan” because of its elegant, curved design. I crossed the bridge on foot, taking in the stunning views of the skyline and the Maas River below. On the other side, I explored the trendy Kop van Zuid district, with its ultra-modern buildings and waterfront cafes.
Dinner was at Restaurant de Matroos en Het Meisje, a cozy place where I tried their tasting menu featuring a mix of Dutch and international flavors. Fresh, inventive, and paired with local wine—it was a meal to remember.
Day one in Rotterdam is all about soaking in the city’s innovative spirit. Make sure to walk as much as possible because every corner reveals another architectural gem.
Day 2 Art, Culture, and a River Cruise
I started the day with a visit to the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum. The sheer variety of artwork was impressive, from the Dutch Masters to Salvador Dalí’s surrealist pieces. It was a treat for anyone who loves art and culture.
Next, I decided to explore the city from the water. Rotterdam is known for its harbor, and the Spido Harbor Tour was the perfect way to see its enormous port in action. The scale of the ships and containers was mind-blowing, and it really puts the city’s industrial importance into perspective.
For lunch, I headed to Bazar, a vibrant and colorful Middle Eastern restaurant on Witte de Withstraat, where I indulged in a delicious mezze platter. The street itself is a hub of creativity, full of art galleries, boutique shops, and cool cafes.
In the afternoon, I visited the Maritime Museum to learn more about Rotterdam’s deep connection to the sea. From historical ships to interactive exhibits, it was an educational and enjoyable experience. I capped off the day with a visit to Wunderbar, a quirky bar on Witte de Withstraat known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent craft beers.
Lunch at Bazar on Witte de Withstraat was a flavor-packed experience. The Middle Eastern mezze platter was filled with a variety of vibrant, spiced dishes, and the lively atmosphere added to the experience. It’s a great place to recharge before heading off for more exploration.
Food
After a busy day, coming back to The James Hotel was a treat. The staff was friendly, and the stylish design of the hotel gave it a unique charm. The beds were comfortable, and the hotel’s quiet ambiance allowed for a peaceful night’s sleep.
Accomodation
The Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum was a cultural highlight, with its vast art collection spanning centuries. The harbor tour gave me a real sense of the scale and importance of Rotterdam’s port. Both the museum and the harbor cruise are essential for understanding the city’s blend of art and industry.
Activity
The harbor tour is an absolute must. It gives you a real sense of Rotterdam’s size and significance, and it’s a great way to relax while taking in the views.
Day 3Parks, Panoramas, and Local Eats
After two busy days, I started my morning with a relaxing stroll in Het Park. It’s a peaceful green space near the Euromast, and after some quiet time in nature, I decided to go up the Euromast for panoramic views of Rotterdam. From 185 meters up, you can see the entire city and even beyond to the North Sea.
Lunch was at Fenix Food Factory, a trendy food hall located in a converted warehouse. The local cheeses, charcuterie, and craft beer I sampled were the perfect fuel for the day’s exploration.
In the afternoon, I made my way to the Kunsthal, one of the city’s most unique art venues. The exhibitions change regularly, and I was lucky enough to catch a provocative show featuring both local and international artists.
Before calling it a day, I took a walk through the Delfshaven district. It’s one of the few parts of Rotterdam that survived the bombings of World War II, and its historic charm is a stark contrast to the city’s modern skyline.
Lunch at Fenix Food Factory was a great introduction to Rotterdam's artisan food scene. I sampled a variety of local cheeses, charcuterie, and craft beer, all of which were fresh and full of flavor. The industrial vibe of the converted warehouse made the experience even more unique.
Food
The James Hotel continued to impress with its excellent location and attention to detail. The modern amenities and spacious rooms made my stay comfortable and relaxing. I especially appreciated the hotel’s proximity to public transportation and major attractions.
Accomodation
The view from the top of the Euromast was breathtaking. It offered a 360-degree panoramic view of Rotterdam, showcasing both the modern skyline and the more traditional parts of the city. The peaceful stroll in Het Park afterward was a nice change of pace, providing a relaxing break from the urban energy.
Activity
The view from the Euromast is unbeatable, and Fenix Food Factory is a must-visit for any food lover. Delfshaven is a great way to end the day on a peaceful note, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Day 4A A Taste of Rotterdam’s Surroundings
For my last day, I wanted to explore a bit beyond the city center. I hopped on a train to the nearby town of Kinderdijk, famous for its traditional Dutch windmills. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and walking or cycling along the canals with those iconic windmills in the background is an experience you won’t forget.
After returning to the city, I had lunch at Cafe de Witte Aap, a laid-back spot known for its great selection of beers and casual vibe. It’s located in the heart of the cultural district, so it was the perfect place to relax and people-watch.
I spent the afternoon visiting the Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp), one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in the Netherlands. It’s a great spot for families, and the different zones allow you to explore the world’s wildlife in naturalistic settings.
To wrap up my trip, I treated myself to dinner at Parkheuvel, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a fine dining experience with incredible views of the Maas River. The food was exquisite, with every course more creative and delicious than the last.
My final meal at Parkheuvel, a Michelin-starred restaurant, was the culinary highlight of the trip. Every dish was an exquisite mix of flavors and textures, beautifully presented. The riverside views only added to the luxurious dining experience.
Food
Although my last night at The James Hotel was as comfortable as the previous ones, I was already feeling nostalgic about leaving. The hotel’s stylish design, comfortable rooms, and impeccable service made it the perfect base for exploring Rotterdam.
Accomodation
Visiting the windmills at Kinderdijk was a magical experience. The scenic walk along the canals with these iconic Dutch windmills in the background was like stepping back in time. Returning to Rotterdam for a visit to the zoo and then capping off the night with dinner at Parkheuvel was the perfect way to end the trip.
Activity
If you have a little extra time, Kinderdijk is a beautiful day trip from Rotterdam. And for a grand finale, there’s no better place to end your journey than with a memorable meal at Parkheuvel.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Rotterdam was a pleasant surprise on so many levels. It’s a city that seamlessly blends modern innovation with historical depth, offering a unique experience for travelers. From its incredible architecture and cultural hotspots to its friendly locals and efficient public transportation, Rotterdam checks all the boxes for a memorable trip. Here’s how I’d rate my overall experience across key categories:
Dinner at Restaurant de Matroos en Het Meisje was a delightful introduction to Rotterdam's food scene. Their tasting menu combined local and international flavors, with each dish artfully prepared and paired with local wine. The atmosphere was cozy, making it a perfect spot to wind down after a day of exploring.
Food
The James Hotel was an excellent choice for my stay. The location is unbeatable—right in the city center with easy access to major sights. The rooms were modern, comfortable, and quiet, perfect for relaxing after a long day.
Accomodation
Exploring the Cube Houses and Erasmus Bridge was an iconic start to the trip. The futuristic design of the Cube Houses was fascinating, and the walk across the Erasmus Bridge provided stunning views of the city. Both spots are a must-see for anyone visiting Rotterdam.
Activity