Rotterdam itself has much to offer but is also the perfect base from which to visit cities, nature, beaches and the attractions in the area. Get on your bike and/or take public transportation and you’ll find yourself there in no time: from the bustling Rotterdam Maasvlakte and the vast dunes of Hoek van Holland to the royal city and seat of the government, The Hague and the traditional Dutch windmills at Kinderdijk. On this page, you will discover what there is to do nearby Rotterdam.
You might not realise it, but Hoek van Holland is part of the municipality of Rotterdam. ‘Rotterdam Beach’ has been connected to the Rotterdam metro network since 2019. Handy for a quick visit to the beach from the city, but it is also a lovely seaside resort! Read how versatile ‘De Hoek’ is here.
Around Rotterdam are five cities that are worth a visit if you are visiting the city on the Maas River for a few days: The Hague, Delft, Schiedam, Gouda and Dordrecht can all be reached by train within half an hour. The metro also runs to The Hague and the picturesque Maassluis, and neighbouring Schiedam is fully connected to the Rotterdam public transport network and can even be reached by bicycle or on foot. If you plan to travel to multiple areas in Zuid-Holland on the same day, we suggest you buy the Tourist Day Ticket, this is also possible at Rotterdam Tourist Information.
Visit them!
If you want to spend a day exploring the area, you could stay in a hotel in Rotterdam; the extensive public transport network takes you everywhere. If you would prefer to stay in a quiet area, there are also lovely hotels on the outskirts of the city and just outside it.
Kinderdijk, a World Heritage site with 19 windmills dating from the 18th century, is close to Rotterdam. Going to Kinderdijk by Water Bus is quickest and takes just 30 minutes.
Rotterdam has the biggest port in Europe. The large, newer ports are far from the centre, which is why they are also mentioned on this page?. If you want to get there quickly, it is easiest to go by car. You can also go by boat on the Spido or by metro to Hoek van Holland where you can catch the Fast Ferry.
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