Getting Around in Rotterdam

You will likely find getting around in Rotterdam using its public transport system efficient and affordable, while cycling is also popular. It isn’t really necessary to own a car, and you may find that it’s not worth the trouble (and extra expense), especially when there are so many good alternatives available.

Public transport in Rotterdam

Rotterdam has a well-integrated public transport system consisting of buses, trams and the metro. RET (Rotterdamse Elektrische Tram) operates and coordinates all public transport in the city.

You can access public transport in Rotterdam and throughout the Netherlands using the OV system. The OV-chipkaart is set to transition to the new OVpay system by the end of 2025, which will allow you to pay directly using contactless bank cards or mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Wallet. Until then, you can still use the current OV-chipkaart.

For tourists or short-term visitors, anonymous OV-chipkaarten can be purchased at stations and retail outlets, but with OVpay, you can simply use your contactless debit or credit card to travel, making it even more convenient.

Trams

There are nine tram lines operating permanently in the city, with additional lines that operate only during big events or festivals. New tram routes and schedules have been recently introduced to enhance connectivity, including faster connections on Lines 6 and 8 between Kleiweg and Rotterdam Central Station. Some existing lines will be shortened to improve reliability, requiring transfers at Rotterdam Central Station.

Trams are ideal for short-distance travel within neighbourhoods, although they can become crowded during peak hours.

Buses

Buses in Rotterdam are essential for reaching areas not served by the metro or tram. They connect residential neighbourhoods, industrial zones, and peripheral regions, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the city.

The bus network spans about 270 miles (430km), making it a reliable option for exploring neighbourhoods or accessing outlying areas. Passengers should check the RET website or app for the latest schedules and service changes.

Ferries

You can hop on board the Aqualiner ferry service or the Waterbus for trips between Rotterdam and Dordrecht. Popular Waterbus routes include Line 20, connecting Erasmusbrug to Dordrecht, and Line 21, which offers a direct link to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These services are ideal for both commuting and sightseeing, offering scenic views of Rotterdam’s waterways.

Ferries are bike-friendly, and you can bring your bicycle on board at no extra cost. While ferries don’t match the frequency of trams or metros, they provide a unique way to travel, free from road congestion. Plans are underway to introduce fully electric waterbuses by 2030, enhancing sustainability and capacity.

Trains

Rotterdam Centraal is a major rail hub, offering excellent connectivity for both regional and international travel. Domestic routes connect you to cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht, while international services such as Thalys and Eurostar link Rotterdam to Antwerp, Brussels, and Paris.

Train travel is faster but often pricier than local transport options. Regular commuters can benefit from NS season tickets and discount plans, while those primarily travelling within Rotterdam might find metro and tram subscriptions more economical.

Useful links

• RET Official Website
• OVpay Official Portal

Taxis in Rotterdam

There are two options for taking a taxi in Rotterdam: by road or by water.

You can hail regular taxi cabs on the street throughout the city as long as the light on their roof is on, indicating availability. Otherwise, you can call a cab via phone or mobile application, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt also operate in the city.

Besides Rotterdam’s ferries, Watertaxis traverse the Maas River and are a fun and speedy way to get around. With 8 or 12 seats, these boats stop at around 50 points across Rotterdam. All newly registered taxis and Watertaxis must now be zero-emission, part of Rotterdam’s commitment to sustainability.

Taxi demand is highest during weekday commuting hours and in nightlife hotspots like Witte de Withstraat and Oude Haven.

• Rotterdamse Taxi Centrale (RTC)
• Rotterdam Taxi Service (RTS)
• Uber
• Bolt
• Watertaxi Rotterdam

Cycling in Rotterdam

The Dutch are known worldwide for their love of cycling. Living in Rotterdam, you’ll find that joining in is an easy and convenient way to get around and has the desirable side effect of getting some exercise and fresh air. Although Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands, it’s still relatively compact, and there are plenty of cycle paths that make it easy to get around on two wheels.

Several e-bike sharing schemes are operational in Rotterdam, allowing you to pick up and drop off bikes at the many docking stations around the city. Cycling enthusiasts might prefer to purchase their own bicycle, in which case you should be able to easily find a new or second-hand bicycle that suits you.

You can take bicycles on board the metro and ferries, although only certain types of compact bicycles can be taken on buses and trams.

Rotterdam’s ‘Fietskoers 2025’ initiative is making the city even more bike-friendly. Wide, safe cycle paths are being constructed, and additional bicycle parking facilities are being installed at key locations like Central Station.

Useful links

• Go Sharing
• Felyx

Driving in Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s excellent public transport system and well-developed cycling infrastructure make it easy to get around the city without a car. In fact, the government actively discourages driving, with measures such as high taxes and expensive parking in place to deter the use of private vehicles.

Rotterdam has introduced zero-emission zones, where only emission-free delivery vehicles are permitted. Parking fees have also risen significantly, with hourly rates among the highest in the Netherlands.

These measures aim to improve air quality and encourage the use of sustainable transport options. The city also offers incentives for businesses to transition to electric vehicles, aligning with national environmental goals.

If you do decide to drive, you’ll need to find out if your current driver’s licence is valid in the Netherlands or if you need to exchange it. When purchasing a vehicle, be sure to take the tax, fuel, and parking costs into account.

Read more about Driving and Driver's Licences in the Netherlands.

Useful links

• Rotterdam City Parking Information

Walking in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a pedestrian-friendly city, and getting around on foot is easy and convenient. Along with its many cycle paths, Rotterdam’s pavements are well maintained. The ‘Rotterdam Walks 2025’ initiative has further improved walkability with safer crossings, better sidewalks, and expanded pedestrian zones.

Certain neighbourhoods are particularly delightful for walking. Hillegersberg-Schiebroek offers green spaces and a tranquil atmosphere, while Kralingen-Crooswijk is perfect for park strolls and has a vibrant, student-friendly vibe. The city centre remains a bustling yet safe area, with well-lit streets and pedestrianised shopping zones like Lijnbaan.

Walking conditions in Rotterdam vary with the seasons. Spring and summer are ideal for leisurely strolls, while winter might require caution due to slippery pathways. Always check the weather and dress accordingly for a pleasant experience year-round.

Useful links

• Rotterdam Routes App