From River to Metropolis: A Rotterdam City Self Guided Audio Tour

Rotterdam , Netherlands

From River to Metropolis: A Rotterdam City Self Guided Audio Tour

Active

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This self-guided walking tour explores Rotterdam’s remarkable transformation from a medieval port town to a bold architectural hub following the 1940 bombing.

Starting at Central Station and ending at Schouwburgplein, the route winds through canals, harbours, and city streets, uncovering hidden gems like the City Hall’s inner garden and fire border markers.

Highlights include the dazzling Art Depot, vibrant Market Hall, Cube Houses, medieval St Lawrence Church, lively Witte de Withstraat, and the historic White House—Europe’s first skyscraper.

Along the way, enjoy food stops, public art, and stories that reveal the city's resilience and creativity.

Whether you're new to Rotterdam or returning, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for this ever-evolving city.

Available options

From River to Metropolis: A Rotterdam City Self Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Designed by Winy Maas, pass by this unique and eye-catching building and see the exact spot where the first settlers arrived along the river Rotte in the 13th century.

Stroll across this historic square and learn how it went from a flooding river, to a railway, to the largest square in Rotterdam.

Pass by as you learn why this church was named after a tortured Saint, and took 75 years to complete. Admission fees are not included in this tour

Catch a glimpse as you pass the Desiderius Erasmus statue, the famous philosopher, theologian, and humanist, who is considered one of the greatest thinkers of the Renaissance

Stop 5 Pass by

Walk by this iconic building, which survived the 1940 bombing and find out why. Admission is not included in this tour

Walk by this cultural landmark and learn about it's history as a cinema, rebuilt by a German cinema company into what it is today. Admission is not included in this tour

Walk along what was, in 1953, the first car-free shopping promenade in the world.

End the tour in this 'Theater Square', also part of Rotterdam's post-war reconstruction plan, featuring the home of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, a theatre and a huge cinema and with restaurants all around. Admission is not included in this tour

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Meeting point

The tour starts at Stationsplein Rotterdam, Stationsplein, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a dynamic city known for its modern architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and innovative spirit. As Europe's largest port, it serves as a major hub for trade and travel, offering a unique blend of urban sophistication and maritime charm.

Top Attractions

Erasmusbrug

The Erasmusbrug, or Erasmus Bridge, is an iconic symbol of Rotterdam. This cable-stayed bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas and offers stunning views of the city's skyline.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to visit, but guided tours may be available for a fee.

Markthal

The Markthal is a stunning indoor market located in the heart of Rotterdam. The market features a wide variety of food stalls, offering everything from fresh produce to international cuisine.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, but prices vary depending on the food and shopping options.

Kunsthal

The Kunsthal is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Rotterdam. The museum features a wide range of exhibitions, from modern art to design and photography.

Museum 1-2 hours €12.50 for adults, discounts available for students and seniors.

Cube Houses

The Cube Houses are a unique architectural landmark in Rotterdam. These tilted, cube-shaped houses were designed by architect Piet Blom and offer a fascinating insight into the city's innovative spirit.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to visit the exterior, but the showroom has an admission fee of €3.

Diergaarde Blijdorp

Diergaarde Blijdorp, or Rotterdam Zoo, is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, from lions and tigers to penguins and elephants.

Zoo 2-3 hours €22.50 for adults, discounts available for children and seniors.

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stroopwafel

A thin, crispy waffle made with two layers of dough and a sweet syrup filling. It's a popular Dutch treat that can be found in many bakeries and markets.

Dessert Vegetarian, but may contain gluten and dairy.

Haring

Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles. It's a traditional Dutch dish that's often eaten as a street food or snack.

Main course Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Poffertjes

Miniature pancakes made with yeast, flour, and milk. They're typically served with powdered sugar and butter, and are a popular treat at fairs and markets.

Dessert Vegetarian, but may contain gluten and dairy.

Erwtensoep

A thick, hearty pea soup made with vegetables, smoked sausage, and sometimes pork. It's a traditional Dutch dish that's often eaten in the winter.

Main course Vegetarian options may be available, but traditional recipes contain meat.

Popular Activities

Biking Hiking Water sports Beach visits Spa and wellness Cafes and dining Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Rotterdam, with pleasant weather and numerous outdoor events and festivals. The city is lively and bustling with tourists.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, German, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Rotterdam is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use common sense and trust your instincts
• Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in less populated areas

Getting there

By air

Rotterdam The Hague Airport • 6 km (4 miles) from city center

By train

Rotterdam Centraal

By bus

Rotterdam Central Station, Rotterdam Alexander

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and user-friendly, with five lines connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: TaxiApp, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Kop van Zuid Oude Noorden Zuidplein Delfshaven

Day trips

Delft

15 km (9 miles) from Rotterdam • Half day to full day

Delft is a charming and historic city located just a short train ride from Rotterdam. It's known for its historic architecture, museums, and the famous Delft Blue pottery.

The Hague

25 km (15.5 miles) from Rotterdam • Full day

The Hague is a vibrant and historic city located just a short train ride from Rotterdam. It's known for its royal palaces, museums, and beautiful beaches.

Kinderdijk

30 km (18.6 miles) from Rotterdam • Half day to full day

Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site located just a short train and bus ride from Rotterdam. It's known for its historic windmills, which are a symbol of the Dutch landscape and heritage.

Festivals

Rotterdam Summer Carnival • July Rotterdam International Film Festival • January Rotterdam Marathon • April

Pro tips

Use the RET app for real-time updates on public transportation and to plan your routes.
Consider purchasing a Rotterdam Pass for discounted entry to attractions and unlimited public transportation.
Explore the city's vibrant street art and graffiti scene, with many murals and installations throughout the city.
Visit the Fenix Food Factory for a unique and trendy dining experience in a historic setting.
Take a boat tour of the Maas River and the city's port for a unique perspective on Rotterdam's maritime heritage.