When walking the Van Vollenhovenstraat in the historic Scheepvaartskwartier, your attention will be grabbed by the smell of fresh bread and croissants. Follow your nose to Jan Bussing Boulangerie. This bakery is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. The bread is delicious and there are some great flavour combinations. For me, the fig and almond bread and the prune and hazelnut bread always end up in my bag. There are a variety of sandwich rolls to choose from -- be it the petit pain to spelt varieties and they are so delicious and really don’t need anything on them. The (cheese) croissants are out of this world! The baguette is a favourite in any season; no Rotterdam barbecue is complete without it. The smell of fresh coffee completes the senses. Fortunately, there are a few tables to have a great breakfast, coffee with a pastry or lunch in the bakery.
There are a variety of sandwiches, but my personal favourite is the roast beef. Now, it's not all about the bread; the pastries will leave you in a state of exhilaration. The raspberry, chocolate, caramel or lemon tartelette are all delicious tastes of France. The typical Dutch “cookie” the bokkepoot which is two pieces of almond meringue with the ends dipped in chocolate and sandwiched together with cream is the very best version you can get.
There are jams, cookies, quick breads, sweets & all things sugar and spice to take away. It would be a shame to leave without something...
Find your way with 159 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Sajoer Cafe" in Rotterdam is great for having a break from sight-seeing. I always go there on Saturdays after yoga for a chai latte & a mangolicious bowl.
by
"Hinoki" makes the most authentic noodle soup you could possibly find in Rotterdam. Looks unimpressive, but I won't allow you to miss it!
by
"Heilige Boontjes" in Rotterdam is a welcoming coffee shop that gives youngsters who've had problems with crime a second opportunity to get back on track.
by
"Boguette" is my prime spot to recuperate so I can continue exploring Rotterdam. This café/snack bar is known for its bubble tea and Vietnamese baguettes.
by
"Boudewijn" in Rotterdam is for people who really can't get enough of beer. What has really captured by heart at this Belgian beer cafe is the food...
by
"Kleine Kapitein" is a lovely children book & toy shop in central Rotterdam. Not only is it my dream childhood shop, it's unexpectedly good for souvenirs!
by
Rotterdamse Munt is a lush urban garden where locals grow herbs, share skills, and build community. All this right in the heart of Feijenoord.
by
Eetcafé Concordia is the go-to student bar for football nights, cheap drinks, and a buzzing international vibe. They even serve beer in 2L jars!
by
Run Rotterdam’s iconic 8.7 km loop across the Erasmus, Willems, and De Hef bridges and get to know the city. Epic skyline views and sunrise magic included.
by
Sabor Sabor serves authentic Mexican dishes made with heart, in a vibrant space run by chef Liz. Perfect for a sunny meal or festive group dinner.
by
159 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 159 Insider Tips