Rotterdam in Autumn

Fun winter activities

You can enjoy year-round attractions in Rotterdam such as Blijdorp Zoo, the iconic Euromast and the ss Rotterdam. Beach weather or not, a winter walk on Hoek van Holland Beach or through the dunes is still a must. The metro takes you from the city centre to the beach in just half an hour, where welcoming beach pavilions provide warmth and atmosphere. Historic Delfshaven has cosy cafés, art and antique shops and the unique Dutch Pinball Museum. For an active day out in winter, visit Skating Rink Rotterdam (Schaatsbaan Rotterdam) or take the Waterbus to the Kinderdijk windmills.

Taste the flavours of Rotterdam

Rotterdam business owners are committed to a sustainable Rotterdam food culture. Enjoy delicious and responsible dishes at restaurants Cult=Us, restaurant Rotonde and Bar Stroom. Every Saturday, the Rotterdam Harvest Market at Noordplein has delicious local produce focusing on sustainability. This winter, discover even more culinary hotspots like the Foodhallen, the Fenix Food Factory, the Markthal and Stadshaven Brewery, which offers tours with tastings. For culinary exploration, join the organised bike tours by Bike & Bite or discover the city on foot with Inside Rotterdam. Restaurant and cocktail bar Celest, a new culinary highlight at the top of the Zalmhaven, will open its doors in late 2024.

Vibrant city of culture

Rotterdam, where more than 170 cultures converge, offers a diverse cultural experience. Visit impressive exhibitions such as ‘Matter of Place’ by Thomas J Price and ‘DIVA’ at the Kunsthal or ‘Made in China’ at the Wereldmuseum this winter. Want to discover more museums? Check here for a full list of museums and art institutions in Rotterdam.

Rotterdam is also a festival location in winter. Enjoy music festivals such as Left of the Dial or BIRDfest, the enchanting light show De Grote Schijn or the Dutch Sustainable Fashion Week. For film lovers, there are events such as Camera Japan, the Architecture Film Festival Rotterdam and the Wildlife Film Festival. In cinemas such as LantarenVenster, Kino, Cinerama and Pathé, you can watch the latest films all year round.

Indulgent shopping

Rotterdam has a variety of shopping areas, the largest of which is in the centre. Each has its own character to suit a diversity of desires and people. Plan your shopping adventure and discover unique second-hand gifts while supporting local entrepreneurs.

After your shopping adventure, discover one of these local and friendly restaurants, established by ambitious and passionate entrepreneurs. At night, there is much more to experience at Theater Rotterdam, pop podium Annabel, Bird and LantarenVenster, or Club Haug for an evening of laughter. Discover some more tips to guide you during your shopping adventure in Rotterdam.

Your winter trip to Rotterdam

Are you ready to discover Rotterdam this winter? Travel comfortably by train and get off at the iconic Rotterdam Central Station in the city centre. In the main station hall, you’ll find our Rotterdam Tourist Information, for more visitors info, a free City Map of Rotterdam or Hoek van Holland and local souvenirs.

Some good hotels to consider are the Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak, Motel One or The Usual Hotel Rotterdam for a central location. Or stay at a hotel at the Kop van Zuid, such as nhow Rotterdam, Room Mate Bruno or Hotel New York, sleep on a Wikkelboat or the permanently moored ss Rotterdam. You can find a handy overview of all accommodation here. Don’t forget to register for the Rotterdam City Card and make the most of your visit to Rotterdam with exclusive discounts.

More tips for your visit to Rotterdam

We regularly share tips for your bucket list on our Instagram channel. These wish lists consist of events, festivals and unique local tips that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Rotterdam. If you’d like to receive regular tips by email, download the free Rotterdam Travel Magazine in PDF and get our newsletter up to 4 times a year.