Top 10 Budget-Friendly

Rotterdam is a dream destination for architecture lovers. The city blends modern high-rises, post-war reconstruction design and raw harbour areas. You don’t need a guided tour to enjoy it all. Use the Tramhuis app to follow themed walking routes at your own pace, for a small fee. Try the Winy Maas route past landmarks like the Markthal and Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen for a unique perspective on the city.

From major festivals to pop-up markets, there’s always something going on in Rotterdam, often with free entry. Think of Zomercarnaval, World Port Days (Wereldhavendagen), or a buzzing Swan Market. The Rotterdamse Oogstmarkt (harvestmarket) on Noordplein is another local favourite. Outdoor film screenings, food festivals and salsa nights also pop up regularly. Check the city’s events calendar to see what's on during your stay.

Step into a different side of Rotterdam in Delfshaven, where narrow lanes, antique shops and old warehouses tell stories of the past. Don’t miss the traditional windmill De Distilleerketel. If the sails are turning, you may be able to peek inside. The Oude of Pelgrimvaderskerk church is occasionally open to visitors. Fancy something quirky? Visit the Dutch Pinball Museum for a nostalgic arcade experience.

Into art and culture? There are many moments when you can visit museums in Rotterdam for free. Museum Rotterdam is free every first Wednesday of the month, Nieuwe Instituut on Thursday evenings, and the Natural History Museum on the first Wednesday afternoon. Every first Friday of the month it's time for Kunstavond (“Art Evening”) in the Witte de Withstraat. Between 6 and 9 p.m., the participating galleries V2_, WORM, MaMA, and Kunstinstituut Melly open their doors for free. Many museums also offer free access for children and young people. Check each venue’s website for current details.

Rotterdam is full of murals, sculptures and public art. In areas like Oude Westen, Crooswijk and Feijenoord, you'll find vibrant street art. Much of the art  created during the All Caps Festival. You’ll also spot artworks from the city’s official BKOR collection all over town. Walking routes are available for free via the Rewriters website or as printed guides from Rotterdam Tourist Information at Rotterdam Central Station.

In the Leuvehaven, you’ll see how deeply Rotterdam is connected to the water. Stop by the Port Pavilion for free tips on maritime highlights and activities, including an interactive 11-metre model of the port. Right next door, the outdoor harbour of the Maritime Museum features historic ships and cranes that you can explore up close.

Looking to relax? Rotterdam is full of green spaces to relax and unwind. Head to the Kralingse Bos to walk, swim or just enjoy the fresh air. Tucked away inside is the peaceful Heemtuin, a hidden gem. Closer to the centre, The Park near the Euromast is perfect for a picnic, and right next to it lies the quiet and leafy Park Schoonoord. On the south side of the city, the vast Zuiderpark offers plenty of space for sports, play and outdoor events.

The Rotterdam City Card gives you at least 25% discount on museums, attractions, tours and restaurants. Think of places like the Kunsthal, Rotterdam Zoo (Diergaarde Blijdorp), the Euromast, or a harbour boat tour. With the public transport option, you can also travel unlimited by tram, metro and bus. Browse all current deals at our website.

From the quayside in Rotterdam South, thousands of people once boarded the steamship ss Rotterdam, heading across the ocean in search of a new life. This former flagship of the Holland-America Line is now permanently docked and partly open to visitors. Walk the outer decks and take in the views of the city’s skyline. Just nearby, visit the Fenix artmuseum and explore Deliplein, a lively square full of cafés, restaurants and Theater Walhalla.

There are plenty of ways to go for a swim in Rotterdam. In summer, Hoek van Holland beach is perfect for a refreshing dip and the metro takes you straight there. Closer to the centre, you can now swim in the Rijnhaven, a designated area of open harbour water set in a striking urban setting. When it’s not swimming weather, head to the historic Oostelijk Zwembad, a beautiful 1930s pool beloved by locals.