There are hardly any cities more intertwined with water than Rotterdam. Some even call the Maas the lifeblood of this city. So, a maritime museum is without a doubt a necessity to explain Rotterdam. From a young age I was taken to the Maritime Museum in Rotterdam. Till this day I visit the museum multiple times a year to have a grasp at the grandeur of the harbour.
They have a lot of interesting exhibitions. For example, an exhibition about how people live on the water on a houseboat. Or the marvellous highlights of the museum, sometimes centuries old. A new successful exhibition tells the story of an offshore. It is an experience where they've recreated work on platforms at sea. Ranging from arriving by helicopter to an elevator that shows life 3 kilometres under the water. It almost feels like you actually are at sea. The exhibitions really emphasize the size of the harbour, the river and the dependence of the city on it.
The museum even thought about the younglings. Under the leadership of professor Plons (professor Splash) children are playfully taught what is takes for a ship to go on a journey around the world. Twenty years ago I was one of those kids who played there on the machines. Today I envy them and curse the age restriction.
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Great pizza's in a nice atmosphere (also outside) next to the scenic Heemraadsingel!
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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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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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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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If, like me, coffee to you is life, then Harvest Café and Bakery will be your vibe. With beautiful views and a sleek design, it is a coffee lover's dream.
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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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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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"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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"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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146 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 146 Insider Tips from our local Spotters