Without a doubt, one of Rotterdam’s gems is the Leuvehoofd park. Here, Piet Oudolf's mastery in garden design truly shines. Every moment spent gazing at the Erasmus Bridge from this spot is stunning. The clever placement of benches invites you to sit back and savour the unique atmosphere of what I (firmly) believe is the only 'real' city in the Netherlands. This is why Rotterdam is fondly called 'Manhattan aan de Maas'.
As you look out over the Erasmus Bridge and the Maas River from Leuvehoofd, the grandeur is palpable. The charming gardens, brimming with ornamental grasses and blooming perennials, provide a delightful contrast to the severe architecture of the towering concrete high-rises nearby. Adding to the historical significance of the place is the Boeg monument, which towers over the park, dedicated to the Dutch merchant navy victims of 1939-1945.
There’s an undeniable charm to this area. It's where the careful planning of a renowned garden designer meets the spontaneous rhythms of urban life. Whether it's the way the light dances on the bridge's cables or the serene environment amidst the city’s hustle. This spot, more than any other, captures the essence of Rotterdam in my opinion!
Find your way with 146 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
From crepes with Comte cheese and truffles, Croque Monsieur, and delicious pastries to even a doggie croissant for your faithful four-pawed friend.
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I personally love the tiramisu, rocky road, lavender lemon, and the very berry. The double choco cookie regularly finds its way to my bag as well...
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Freddy does things to chicken in an OG southern US way that is rarely done well. They have crunchy and juicy chicken, but even more, they have pazazz.
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"AAP Noot Brood" in Rotterdam West is a neighborhood bakery with the tastiest sourdough bread around! Get some breakfast, coffee or a sandwich for lunch...
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"Teds Café" in the Schiekade building is perfect if you want to have brunch, breakfast or lunch with a view of the Rotterdam skyline in a green terrace!
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Bun, once a Blijdorp pop-up, is now a Rotterdam West staple. Fresh buns, cool vibes, and standout options like the Vegan Extravaganza. Worth the wait!
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"Kula" Cafe is a one-of-a-kind place overlooking the beautiful, calm waters of Coolhaven, in Rotterdam. Get a delicious drink and then join a yoga class!
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"Brienenoord Island", right on the Maas in Rotterdam, is so beautiful! It has walking paths, but it's mostly a natural paradise, despite being artificial!
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"Historic Delfshaven" is an area in Rotterdam filled with history and stories. It is one of the few places that survived the 1940 bombing...
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The story of "Dak Park" in Rotterdam is inspiring: some people wanted this land to be developed, and others for a park to be built here. So they did both!
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De Distilleerketel windmill in Rotterdam is considered one of the Netherlands' largest windmills. It makes for an absolutely photogenic scene!
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Het Park in Rotterdam is a part of nature around the famous landmark Euromast. There are old buildings to visit, art & beautiful birds, too.
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146 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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