Do-like-a-local

Curious about characteristically local attractions and pastimes in Rotterdam? Check out these fun tips and immerse yourself in the authentic life of the city!

 

Proud of the city

The main characteristic of the Rotterdammer is residential pride. The city skyline is particularly guaranteed to make his heart beat faster. When a local returns to Rotterdam and sees the Van Brienenoordbrug and the Nationale Nederlanden towers looming up in the distance, it truly feels like coming home.

Rotterdam goes green

As soon as the sun peeps out from behind the clouds, many local Rotterdammers can be found at the Kralingse Plas lake. What makes this green and glorious bit of Rotterdam so special is that you can gaze at the gorgeous skyline and still be surrounded by nature. Check out the spectrum of water sports offered on the lake, go running, cycling or skating, or just enjoy a pleasant picnic. Don’t forget the special barbecue zone, where the locals like to arrange their own summertime parties. If you prefer a more elegant experience, try a visit to De Tuin van de Vier Windstreken. This popular waterfront area is guaranteed to be filled with locals.

Delicious cuisine

Many Rotterdam locals can be found at lunchtime in Dudok, a lively meeting point in the heart of Rotterdam. Hotel New York is another bustling hotspot of local fun, especially on Sunday; the sun terrace is particularly popular in good weather. Grandcafé Engels also boasts a spacious roof terrace with a lovely view of the city. Rotterdammers love to savour a sumptuous breakfast at Bazar, especially due to the characteristic ‘crepes of a thousand and one holes’.

Rotterdam pubs

Feeling thirsty by now? There’s always something happening on the Nieuwe Binnenweg. This street is where the locals love to drink, whether it’s Stalles or Rotown at the beginning, Belgian beer café Boudewijn and Le Vagabond halfway down, or the Westerpaviljoen and Café Arie a bit farther along. Jazz aficionados should keep strolling down the street to Dizzy, which also serves very tasty food. Of course Rotterdam has many more fun pubs for you to sample, but here’s a few more tips: Café Pol on the Meent, De Witte Aap in the Witte de Withstraat and the Tiki Bar in the Hartmanstraat.