Lifestyle in Rotterdam

The lifestyle in Rotterdam is varied and exciting, and there always seems to be something new to explore. Whether you’re in the mood to indulge in a shopping spree, dine on fine cuisine, dance the night away or all of the above, here are a few tips on making the most out of what Rotterdam has to offer.

Shopping in Rotterdam

There are plenty of opportunities to shop up a storm in Rotterdam. Two main open-air shopping streets characterise the city’s shopping scene: Lijnbaan and Hoogstraat. These are connected by a sunken passage known colloquially as the koopgoot (literally ‘shopping gutter’). It’s more than just a passageway, though, and you can indulge in even more shopping here as you cross from one street to the other.

Van Oldenbarneveltstraat offers exclusive boutiques and speciality shops with a refined, intimate atmosphere. On Nieuwe Binnenweg, you’ll find a stretch of independent shops, vintage shops, and cosy cafés, perfect for uncovering distinctive items. Meanwhile, the Zwaanshalskwartier in northern Rotterdam is a hub for creative entrepreneurs, featuring artisanal products, fashion boutiques, and concept shops.

The popular Markthal is a must-visit destination, not only for its striking horseshoe-shaped design but also for its wide range of cultural influences. With nearly 100 food stalls offering international cuisines, from Mediterranean tapas to Asian delicacies and Dutch classics, the Markthal encapsulates Rotterdam’s multicultural essence. Be sure to look up and admire the massive mural, Hoorn des Overvloeds (Horn of Plenty), a vibrant symbol of the city’s blend of art and culture.

Seasonal markets also bring additional charm to Rotterdam’s shopping scene. The Sunday Market on Binnenrotte, running from April to September, is a highlight featuring artisan crafts and fresh produce. Similarly, the Swan Market showcases local designers and food vendors in a lively setting, adding variety to your shopping adventures.

Eating out in Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s culinary scene is growing, and there are several Michelin-starred restaurants in the city. International fare is a favourite, and you’ll find a rapidly expanding range of Thai, Spanish, Chinese, Indian, Italian, and French restaurants to choose from. Fusion cuisine, blending diverse culinary traditions, is also gaining popularity.

Beyond the lively Witte de Withstraat, various other areas offer exceptional dining experiences. West-Kruiskade, often called Rotterdam’s Chinatown, is a go-to spot for Asian cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dishes. 

Head to the historic Delfshaven for Middle Eastern delights, where you’ll find authentic Turkish and Moroccan eateries. Kop van Zuid, a sleek modern district, boasts upscale international dining, including Italian and French options.

One standout destination is the Fenix Food Factory, a food hall housed in a converted warehouse in Katendrecht. With its industrial-chic ambience and stunning views of the Maas River, it offers a truly unique setting. Here, you can meet local artisans, including bakers, cheesemakers, and brewers, and sample handcrafted products. The factory also serves as a community hub, hosting workshops, live music, and cultural events.

Nightlife in Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s nightlife is as dynamic as the city itself, offering a mix of lively venues and cultural experiences. Witte de Withstraat remains the heartbeat of the city’s nightlife, with its eclectic blend of bars, clubs, and art spaces.

Music lovers are spoilt for choice in Rotterdam. The city’s electronic dance music (EDM) scene remains iconic, with events like Rotterdam Rave celebrating the genre’s evolution. Live music venues across the city cater to every taste, from jazz to hip-hop, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Sports and outdoor activities in Rotterdam

Come rain or sunshine, you’ll see Rotterdam residents out on their bicycles. Countless outdoor activities are on offer in the city, from riverside strolls to simply enjoying the green spaces in one of the many parks dotted around various neighbourhoods.

Spring and summer bring warmer weather, perfect for cycling, boating, and open-air festivals. Parks like Kralingse Bos become hotspots for picnics and water sports, while the city’s waterfront buzzes with activity.

Rotterdam is also a cycling paradise, thanks to its commitment to sustainable mobility. The city invests in innovative infrastructure, including smart cycling lanes and bike-friendly urban planning, setting a global example. Events and initiatives encourage residents and visitors alike to embrace cycling, making it the perfect way to explore the city while reducing your carbon footprint.

See and do in Rotterdam

Thanks to Rotterdam’s rich history and lively culture, you’ll have plenty of things to see and do in your new city. Here are some of the must-see tourist attractions in the city.

Cube houses

A famous instance of creative Rotterdam architecture, the cube houses are experimental living spaces designed by Piet Blom in the 1970s. Constructed on top of a pedestrian bridge, each house has diagonal walls, giving it the appearance of a cube shape. One cube is used as a ‘show cube’, allowing you to tour the interior of a cube house.

Erasmusbrug

The iconic Erasmusbrug can’t be missed in Rotterdam. Erasmusbrug connects the northern and southern areas and suburbs of the city and is said to be the second-largest bridge in the Netherlands.

Euromast

This 606ft (185m) tower is the tallest building in the Netherlands and offers stunning panoramic views of Rotterdam. The tower has a coffee shop and a revolving restaurant, and you can even enjoy a traditional high tea. Adventurous visitors might enjoy abseiling or ziplining from the top of the tower.

Kralingse Plas

Arguably one of the city’s best-hidden gems, Kralingse Plas is a lake popularly used for water-related sports, from rowing and sailing to fishing. In warm summer weather, Kralingse Lake is a local favourite for picnics and simply hanging out.

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Centrally located at the Museumpark and only a short walk from the Natural History Museum, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen offers art enthusiasts the chance to take in its remarkable collection, which includes famous pieces by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Monet, and Dalí. Group visits and guided tours can be arranged.

Meeting people and making friends in Rotterdam

Connecting with others in Rotterdam is easy, thanks to the city’s vibrant community and numerous platforms designed to help you feel at home. Organisations like NewBees focus on fostering community. 

Joining expat-friendly groups is another fantastic way to expand your network. The Rotterdam Expat Centre offers essential services and advice, while organisations like the International Women’s Networking Group host regular social and professional events, ensuring you’ll feel right at home in no time.

Useful links

• NewBees
• Rotterdam Expat Centre
• International Women’s Networking Group
• Meetup Rotterdam