Veerhaven Rotterdam
Place of beauty, silence and history
Once in a while the city life overwhelms me. At those moments I tend to visit the Veerhaven, a place of beauty and silence just a short-distance walk from the Erasmusbrug. The Veerhaven is situated in the Scheepskwartier, a historic neighbourhood barely touched by the war and hence full of old and beautiful buildings. They began digging the Veerhaven in 1852 and completed it in 1854. Since then it is a spot for primarily sailing and other types of historical ships (like schooners and barks).
This history is still honoured today by the many restored (sailing)ships that moor the harbour. Ship-owners put in a lot of effort to maintain the ships in their perfect condition so you can enjoy them on a sunny afternoon. In the nineties the harbour was fully restored and brought back to its former glory. If you want to visit Rotterdam by boat the Veerhaven is a great place to moor for a couple of days.
Sit on a bench surrounded by silence and have a look at the magnificent ships, buy an ice-cream in the nearby ice-cream parlour or feast your eyes on the Maas, the lifeblood of the city. The Veerhaven has a lot to offer and is therefore one of my favourite spots in this wonderful city.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Rotterdam guide.
Cool place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Rotterdam
30ml Rotterdam Centrum – Roasting me beans delish
"30ml Rotterdam Centrum" is a little oasis on busy Nieuwe Binnenweg. Their coffees are caffeinated elixirs and their desserts & breakfast burritos perfect.
By
Silvia
Graham
Susan Bijl – Only real Rotterdam accessory
It's not just a bag; it's a local emblem, a commitment to sustainability, and a touch of Dutch design that echoes the city's vibrant spirit.
By
Floor
Sonneveld
Altstadt Kantine – Uncomplicated coffee with a view
Why do I keep coming back? It's simple: it feels like a second living room, where our dog Andes is as welcome as we are.
By
Floor
Sonneveld
Sajoer Cafe – Fresh juice and healthy breakfast
"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
Irina
Bulat
Hinoki – Authentic Japanese noodle soup
"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
Irina
Bulat
Boguette – Vietnamese deliciousness
"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
Davy
Baas
Capri – The town's ice cream
"Capri" in Rotterdam is where locals go for their first summer ice cream. Popular with adults & children alike, their chocolate reminds me of my childhood.
By
Cinthya
Uribe
Kleine Kapitein – Books and toys for the kid in you
"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
Cinthya
Uribe
Heilige Boontjes – Second-chance coffee
"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
Silvia
Graham
Boudewijn – Beer... all over your snacks
"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
Cinthya
Uribe
De Buffel – Affordable Pizzas in West
Great pizza's in a nice atmosphere (also outside) next to the scenic Heemraadsingel!
By