Rotterdam, just an hour from Amsterdam by train, 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, our hometown, won't disappoint.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the best of what Rotterdam has to offer, ensuring your visit is both enjoyable and stress free!
Things to do in Rotterdam
Here are some must-see sights to enjoy your visit to Rotterdam:
- Markthal: Explore the variety of stalls offering everything from fresh produce to international delicacies.
- Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen): Check out these unique architectural highlights and see how people live in these space-efficient homes.
- Oude Haven: Wander around Rotterdam's oldest harbor, which is still lively with restaurants and historical boats. Did you know that you can also find the first skyscraper of Europe here? ‘Het Witte Huis’.
- Euromast: For panoramic city views, head to this well-known lookout tower. There’s also a park nearby for a relaxing walk.
- Historic Delfshaven: Visit this old part of Rotterdam for a taste of history and some charming streets.
- Shopping Streets: If shopping is on your agenda, streets like Pannenkoekstraat, Meent, Lijnbaan, and Nieuwe Binnenweg are great places to explore.
- Spido Harbor Tour: 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.
- Kralingse Bos: 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.
- Witte de Withstraat: Finish your day with a casual drink at one of the bars on this busy street.
These recommendations should help you get a well-rounded experience of what Rotterdam has to offer.
Where to Eat in Rotterdam
Exploring the city can make you hungry, so we listed our tips where you can eat gluten- and lactose-free in Rotterdam!
1. Healthful
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! Healthful is located in the cozy Oude Haven and has a menu with many tasty treats. From an acai bowl to sandwiches, where you can choose gluten-free bread. If you eat here, the pancakes are a must!
2. Baker & Moore
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! You can choose a gluten-free sandwich and they have vegan and gluten-free sauces.
3. The Brunch Club
The Brunch Club is located near the Noordplein and the Rotte. 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!
4. Bertmans
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.
5. O'Pazzo
Eating pizza with a gluten intolerance, it's possible at O'Pazzo! A cozy Italian restaurant where they are happy to take your intolerances into account. 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!
6. The IJssalon
Do you want a refreshing icecream? Go to The IJssalon! You will find these on the Meent, in the Markthal and on the West-Kruiskade. 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!
Beyond the Guide: Discover More on Our Website
With these tips you can get the most out of your visit to Rotterdam. We hope we made you enthusiastic about visiting our beautiful city!
Want to learn more? Visit our website www.palmtreesandallergies.com where we give you tips for travelling with allergies around the world without worrying.
