As you move towards the North in Europe, you find out that people who have the least amount of sun make the best use of it. As a perfect example, Rotterdammers have the timeless terrace of the Wester Paviljoen. A real "grand cafe", it is one of those old-timers where people can stay the whole day having coffee and reading an the press table (a great Dutch thing, if you ask me). But besides the comfortable interior and the menu with all kinds of snacks and Dutch comfort foods, you can also sit outside.
This is one of those perennial terraces where time literally stops. Where the whole city feels welcome and becomes part of a lovely Hopper-like image that makes you forget that you actually had to be somewhere else. I love to pass by and see all kinds of people: families, groups of friends, couples and loners lean their head back a bit, just enough to get those precious rays of light, and then come back to reality, where beer, coffee and bitterballen are always available.
Go here if you need to just stop and enjoy.
Find your way with 168 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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...
by
From crepes with Comte cheese and truffles, Croque Monsieur, and delicious pastries to even a doggie croissant for your faithful four-pawed friend.
by
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.
by
"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...
by
"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!
by
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!
by
"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!
by
"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!
by
"Historic Delfshaven" is an area in Rotterdam filled with history and stories. It is one of the few places that survived the 1940 bombing...
by
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!
by
De Distilleerketel windmill in Rotterdam is considered one of the Netherlands' largest windmills. It makes for an absolutely photogenic scene!
by
Het Park in Rotterdam is a part of nature around the famous landmark Euromast. There are old buildings to visit, art & beautiful birds, too.
by
168 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 168 Insider Tips