Top Activities to do in Rotterdam

Photo by Kian Lem on Unsplash

Rotterdam is an underrated Dutch city with a unique vibe. There's an amazing mix of old and new, with intriguing modern architecture popping up everywhere.

Rotterdam's architecture tells a story. The city was destroyed in WWII, so they had a blank slate to start over. The result? Some seriously innovative and daring buildings. It's a testament to their resilience and creativity.

The port is huge and you can actually get a feel for how important it is to the whole of Europe. And the food scene? Amazing! You can find everything from classic Dutch dishes to amazing international flavors. It's definitely a city that's always moving and changing, and it's got this really cool, multicultural feel.

Top Must-See Sights and Activities

Baker & Moore is a breakfast and lunch eatery located in the heart of Rotterdam.
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Baker & Moore is one of our favorite places in Rotterdam. They have an extensive menu indicating which dishes are gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian. You can also put together your own sandwich or salad. Super useful if you have an intolerance or allergy!

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This Rotterdam restaurant caters to all dietary needs, offering vegetarian options and dishes suitable for allergies. Their focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients and surprising flavor combinations, drawing inspiration from global cuisines. With a passion for healthy eating, they create delicious and nourishing meals for everyone.
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Whether you want to have breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, it's all possible at Bertmans! The menu indicates which dishes are gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian and they have something for everyone.

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The Euromast is an observation tower in Rotterdam, Netherlands, built between 1958 and 1960. Originally the tallest structure in the city, it now features a "crow's nest" observation platform and a restaurant. The tower's height was increased in 1970 with the addition of the Space Tower. While no longer the tallest building in the Netherlands, the Euromast remains a prominent landmark and member of the World Federation of Great Towers.
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For panoramic city views, head to this well-known lookout tower. There’s also a park nearby for a relaxing walk.

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Healthful is a restaurant in Rotterdam, Netherlands on a mission to offer 100% plant-based whole-food cuisine. With fresh ingredients and recipes made from scratch, Healthful believes that everyone deserves good health and good food.
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Are you looking for a place for breakfast or lunch where you can eat 100% plant-based? Then you've come to the right place!

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Visit this old part of Rotterdam for a taste of history and some charming streets.

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Discover Rotterdam's unique Kijk-Kubus Museum House, where you can experience the fascinating architecture of tilted cube houses. Built in 1984 by Piet Blom, these playful homes are a top attraction for architecture and art lovers. Solo travelers will appreciate its central location in the Stadsdriehoek neighborhood, and families will enjoy the fun, interactive experience. With a budget-friendly entrance fee, the Kijk-Kubus Museum is an accessible and memorable Rotterdam highlight.
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Check out these unique architectural highlights and see how people live in these space-efficient homes.

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Enjoy a break in nature at this large forest, perfect for a leisurely stroll or in the summer even for a swim in the lake.

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Explore the variety of stalls offering everything from fresh produce to international delicacies.

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Visit O'Pazzo in Rotterdam for their wide range of paninis, salads, barbites, fresh pastas, and wood-oven pizzas.
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Not only is it possible to order a gluten-free pizza base, but gluten-free pasta is also an option. The menu is huge, so plenty of choice!

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Wander around Rotterdam's oldest harbor, which is still lively with restaurants and historical boats.

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Did you know Rotterdam has one of the biggest ports of the world? Take a tour on the water to get a different perspective of the city’s bustling port.

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Serving all-day breakfast, lunch, and brunch, The Brunch Club is well known for their healthy, yet tasty menu in Rotterdam.
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A nice restaurant where you can have a delicious brunch (the name says it all). The menu indicates which dishes are gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian. They have very tasty buckwheat pancakes and the vegan burger (with gluten-free bun) is also recommended!

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This Rotterdam ice cream parlor is passionate about using top-quality ingredients. From sourcing the perfect vanilla to roasting their own hazelnuts, they focus on detail to create unique and flavorful ice cream. Their dedication to the craft shines through in every scoop, offering a taste experience that's evolved and delighted customers for decades.
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They have many flavors here and the ice cream is delicious. The plates with the flavors indicate which ice cream is vegan and they even have gluten-free cones!

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Rotterdam's White House Cafe offers more than just a delicious meal; it's a chance to dine in a piece of history. Housed within the Witte Huis (White House), this charming cafe boasts a delightful view of the Old Harbour. But the real star is the building itself - constructed in 1897, it held the prestigious title of Rotterdam's first skyscraper.
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Use rotterdam.info as your go-to resource to plan your trip to Rotterdam.
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Top Restaurants

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They have many flavors here and the ice cream is delicious. The plates with the flavors indicate which ice cream is vegan and they even have gluten-free cones!

Look it up
This is some text inside of a div block.
Recommended by
Palmtrees & Allergies

Not only is it possible to order a gluten-free pizza base, but gluten-free pasta is also an option. The menu is huge, so plenty of choice!

Look it up
This is some text inside of a div block.
Recommended by
Palmtrees & Allergies

Whether you want to have breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, it's all possible at Bertmans! The menu indicates which dishes are gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian and they have something for everyone.

Look it up
This is some text inside of a div block.
Recommended by
Palmtrees & Allergies

A nice restaurant where you can have a delicious brunch (the name says it all). The menu indicates which dishes are gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian. They have very tasty buckwheat pancakes and the vegan burger (with gluten-free bun) is also recommended!

Look it up
This is some text inside of a div block.
Recommended by
Palmtrees & Allergies

Baker & Moore is one of our favorite places in Rotterdam. They have an extensive menu indicating which dishes are gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian. You can also put together your own sandwich or salad. Super useful if you have an intolerance or allergy!

Look it up
This is some text inside of a div block.
Recommended by
Palmtrees & Allergies

Look it up
This is some text inside of a div block.
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Palmtrees & Allergies

Are you looking for a place for breakfast or lunch where you can eat 100% plant-based? Then you've come to the right place!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get around Puerto Viejo?

Bike Rentals: The most popular way to get around! Affordable and eco-friendly, renting a bike is perfect for exploring the town and nearby beaches at your own pace.

Check out Puerto Viejo Bike Rentals

Tuk Tuks: Mini taxis (like golf carts) adapted from India, perfect for quick, affordable rides around town. (avg ride is 3-4 mil colones ≈ $6-8 USD)

Car Rentals: Convenient options available in town for those wanting to explore at their own pace. Renting a car gives you the freedom to venture further afield to nearby attractions and scenic spots!

What is the timezone in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is in Central Standard Time (CST). No daylight savings!

How do I get to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica?

You have 2 choices: You can fly into SJO and take a shuttle or bus to Puerto Viejo, or you can take a domestic flight to the Limon Airport.

Where is Puerto Viejo?

Let’s get the destination straight—Puerto Viejo (for short) is a laid-back, tropical gem nestled in the Limón Province of Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast. Don’t mix it up—there’s another Puerto Viejo in Costa Rica, so make sure you’re heading to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca!

What are things to do in Puerto Viejo?

Puerto Viejo Town: A vibrant, walkable town full of charming shops, local markets, and delicious restaurants, all within easy strolling distance from the beach. You'll find everything from handmade crafts to Caribbean-inspired cuisine here!

Playa Negra: Known for its striking black sand, this beach is a unique spot to relax and take in the beautiful contrast of dark sands and blue waters.

Playa Cocles: The place to be for fun and social vibes! People gather here to play volleyball, hang out, and enjoy bonfires on Saturday nights. It’s also got great surf and a few restaurants nearby to grab a bite.

Playa Punta Uva: A stunning, more laid-back beach with crystal-clear water and a coral reef teeming with vibrant sea life. It’s the perfect spot for snorkeling and enjoying nature at its best.

Jaguar Rescue Center: A must-visit for animal lovers! This center rescues and rehabilitates local wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and birds, and offers tours to learn about conservation efforts. (Note: There are no jaguars actually there lol)

Cahuita National Park: Explore stunning hiking trails along the coast and enjoy snorkeling in protected coral reefs. You'll likely see sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds along the way.

Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge: A hidden gem for nature lovers. Hike through lush rainforests, discover remote beaches, and spot wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans.

Bribri Indigenous Farm Tours: Experience Costa Rica's indigenous Bribri culture by visiting local farms. Learn about traditional cacao production, organic farming, and native customs.

Waterfalls: Adventure into the jungle to discover secret waterfalls. The Bribri waterfalls are especially popular for a refreshing dip after a hike!

Is the Rosa Bussarna (Pink Caravan) a good option for solo travelers?

According to rosabussarna.com, "Most people go on the trip alone and come home with new friends."

Zayera Khan is a trusted writer who's taken several trips on the Rosa Bussarna as a solo traveler. You can read about her Denmark trip at: https://www.breakfastincluded.co/branded/adventures-on-the-pink-caravan-iceland-and-the-faroe-islands

Does the Rosa Bussarna (Pink Caravan) cater to dietary restrictions?

According to the official website, rosabussarna.com, many vegetarians, vegans, lactose intolerant, and gluten intolerant people have traveled successfully on the Rosa Bussarna (Pink Caravan).

You should contact them if you have any special needs: info@rosabussarna.com

How many people can fit on the Rosa Bussarna (Pink Caravan)?

According to the official website, rosabussarna.com, about 20-30 passengers can fit on the bus, depending on the model.

What are the sleeping arrangements on the Rosa Bussarna (Pink Caravan)?

Based on Zayera Khan's experience on the pink bus, mattresses are set up in the bus and on the roof of the bus each night. There were 2 teams on the bus. The team that sets up the roof and beds every day, and unpacks these when we travel by bus.

Every day, 3-4 people are responsible for erecting the roof truss and preparing the sleeping areas on the bus roof. Mattresses are laid out next to each other, and passengers can expect to sleep very close to each other.

According to rosabussarna.com, there are some nights where passengers will sleep inside of a simple hotel. It depends on the destination and the trip.

Do people live in Cube Houses (Kijk-Kubus) Rotterdam?

According to the official website, kubuswoning.nl, yes. Read more about the homes at kubuswoning.nl/woningen.html.

The larger cubes are occupied by the Stay-Okay Hostel.

Who is the architect of the Cube Houses (Kijk-Kubus)?

According to the official website, kubuswoning.nl, the architect is Piet Blom.

View his bio and other works at kubuswoning.nl/piet-blom.html.

When is the best time to visit Orosi, Costa Rica?

The dry season is from December to May. This is also the safest time to go rafting in the river!

Where is Orosi, Costa Rica?

Orosi is about 35km (22 mi) south of San Jose in the Cartago province. The closest airport is the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose (SJO).

What should I bring to Finca Queveri?
  • A water bottle
  • Waterproof shoes/boots
  • A poncho or jacket in case of rain
  • Cash for a taxi, both for the ride up and down

What's the best way to get to Finca Queveri?

Finca Queveri is up a steep mountain and requires a 4x4 to reach. If you're coming from outside the area, like from San Jose, and you're relying on Uber, have the Uber take you to the center and arrange a 4x4 taxi to get you the rest of the way.

Is Rotterdam a walkable city?

Rotterdam is definitely a walkable city. It's easy to get around on foot, and there are tons of places that are perfect for strolling. The Oude Haven is super charming and perfect for just wandering around. Plus, the shopping streets are designed for pedestrians, so you can easily window shop or do some serious shopping without feeling overwhelmed.

If you're looking for a bit of green space, Kralingse Bos is amazing for a leisurely walk. And don't forget Witte de Withstraat – it's a lively street with lots of bars, perfect for a casual stroll and a drink.

Learn more travel tips about Rotterdam with PalmTrees & Allergies!

What is special in Rotterdam?

Rotterdam is a unique and exciting destination with a lot to offer visitors. It boasts stunning modern architecture, including the iconic Cube Houses, and features trendy shopping districts with diverse options.

The city is also known for its diverse dining scene, with many restaurants catering to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and lactose-free options.

Unique experiences like scenic boat rides on the harbor and exploring the oldest harbor with its historical boats add to the city's charm. The vibrant Markthal, an indoor market, showcases the city's cultural diversity.

Finally, Rotterdam's convenient location, just an hour from Amsterdam by train, makes it easily accessible for day trips or short breaks.

Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting?

According to PalmTrees & Allergies, Rotterdam is an ideal destination for a day trip or a quick city break. Packed with stunning modern architecture, trendy shopping spots, and diverse dining options, this Dutch city offers something for everyone! If you’re into taking scenic boat rides or finding unique restaurants that cater to gluten-free and lactose-free diets, Rotterdam, their hometown, won't disappoint.