Start your tour at Centraal Station, Rotterdam’s sleek, modern railway hub with its striking angular roof, a symbol of the city’s post-war reinvention. Admire the bustling plaza and the nearby Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, the city’s only surviving medieval structure. From here, stroll south along Westersingel, a tree-lined canal street with a relaxed vibe, capturing Rotterdam’s blend of innovation and charm.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Dudok (Meent 88), a historic brasserie in a modernist building, famous for its apple pie and Art Deco interiors. Enjoy a quick lunch of a broodje kroket (Dutch croquette sandwich) or a light salad, affordable, no reservations needed, but arrive early to avoid the local lunch crowd.
Continue south towards Witte de Withstraat, Rotterdam’s bohemian cultural hub, lined with galleries, boutiques, and street art. Pop into the Kunsthal Rotterdam (Westzeedijk 341) for a quick 20-minute visit to one of its contemporary art exhibits (entry fee applies), offering a taste of the city’s creative edge.
Head east across the Erasmus Bridge (“De Zwaan”), Rotterdam’s iconic swan-shaped bridge over the Maas River. Pause for a moment to take in the stunning skyline views, with skyscrapers reflecting the city’s modernist ethos. On the south side, explore Kop van Zuid, a revitalised docklands area, and visit the Nederlands Fotomuseum (Wilhelminakade 332) for a brief look at Dutch photography (20 minutes, small fee).
Loop back north across the bridge and head to Markthal (Dominee Jan Scharpstraat 298), a futuristic horseshoe-shaped market hall with a vibrant ceiling mural. Stop at one of its food stalls, like De Matroos en het Meisje, for a quick snack of bitterballen or a stroopwafel with coffee, no bookings needed, but arrive promptly to navigate the busy market.
Continue north to Oude Haven (Old Harbour), a picturesque marina with historic ships and lively terraces. Pop into Café De Oude Haven (Haringvliet 100), a cosy, no-reservations spot for a glass of Dutch jenever or a light bite like a herring sandwich, evoking Rotterdam’s maritime heritage. The view of bobbing boats adds a charming touch.
End your tour at Museumpark, a green oasis surrounded by cultural gems like the Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot (Museumpark 18), a mirrored bowl-shaped building. While the main museum is under renovation, the depot’s exterior is a striking photo stop. For a final treat, visit Pierre (Pannekoekstraat 112), a beloved patisserie, for a hot chocolate or a slice of Dutch appeltaart, soaking up Rotterdam’s modern yet welcoming vibe at a nearby café like Hopper (Schiedamse Vest 144).This 3-4 km route captures Rotterdam’s bold architecture, maritime roots, and culinary scene, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the paved and cobbled paths, and bring a light jacket for Rotterdam’s often breezy waterfront weather
