Parqiet parkcafé by Iris van den Broek

Wander off like a do-rist

Rotterdam is never boring. Follow in the footsteps of Rotterdam’s locals, to experience the city as it really is. Check out their favourites but mostly, follow your own path.

Do Rotterdam like a local

For local delicacies, visit the Rotterdamse Oogstmarkt, a delicious and sustainable farmers’ market on Noordplein. Look for yourself in the 1664 mirrors of Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, the very first public art depot in the world. Take a watertaxi to Marconistraat: the port industry can still be felt here, alongside the new Makers District M4H, which houses a lot of creatives (Studio Roosegaarde, Atelier Van Lieshout). Rent a bike to explore the area, take a look at the Floating Farm where futuristic farming takes place. Then visit the nearby Weelde, a creative free state where you can stop for a drink and a snack. The most beautiful park is Het Park at the Euromast, where lush greenery and iconic architecture meet right next to the city centre. When visiting Het Park, don’t forget to stop by the hidden historic gardens of Schoonoord. More local tips? Check www.dorotterdam.com.

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Must sees in Rotterdam

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Architecture

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Harbour, beach & nature

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Art & Culture

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Cycling

The best routes and tours and places to rent a bike

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Drinks & Dining

Lunchrooms, coffee lounges, cocktail bars, restaurants, markets and food events

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Nightlife

Glamorous cocktail bars, classic pubs, hip and happening dance clubs

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Sleep Tight

From trendy hostels to luxurious boutique hotels

Do it like Eveline

Eveline Schram (32) studied cultural sciences but, after getting a bachelor’s degree at the Willem de Kooning Academy, became a graphic designer. She is starting to feel more and more like an artist. She decorates cities such as Rotterdam and Amsterdam with her outdoor art and delights the world with her illustrations and designs. A style between abstract and figurative. ‘It never feels like work.’

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Do it like Paul

Paul van Dorst (34) worked in aviation for a long time but switched directions in March 2020 because he wanted to contribute to a better world. Hardly the best time to open his own Crossfit gym, Crossfit Gold Pact, but how was he to know that Corona would materialise? He survived.

Read all about it!

Do it like Brenda

Brenda Kamphuis (51) is an architectural historian by origin, as well as being the founder of De Rotterdam Tours, so neither the new nor the old architectural icons of the city hold any secrets for her.

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Do it like Siobhan

Siobhan Burger (33), co-owner of Arttenders, a company that connects social design with urban development and art.

Read all about it!

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