Rotterdam 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local

Rotterdam , Netherlands

Rotterdam 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local

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About this experience

Join us on a 2-hour walk through Rotterdam and experience the contrast between its postmodern architecture and devastating history. Starting as a fishermen's village 800 years ago, the city quickly grew into the Netherlands' most important hub for transport and major cruise ships. On 14 May 1940, the city centre was bombed by the Nazis. Showing the town’s true resilience, Rotterdam was rebuilt from its ashes into one of Europe’s most impressive skylines. Our guides are expert storytellers and are from the city, ready to engage with great stories about the city's past and modern-day culture. Additionally, we will advise what places to visit, where to wine & dine and what tourist traps to avoid.

Available options

Roffa Orginal Tour

Markthal & More

Tip-Based Rotterdam Tour

Duration: 2 hours: Discover the city on this English-language tour, in which you tip the guide according to your experience!

What's included

Local Stories

A great storyteller as a guide

Cultural Insights

Local Tips

Architecture

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our tours starts & ends at the marvellous Market Hall, located close to station Blaak. Visit the hall before or after the tour for gourmet food and great souvenirs, before you head into the surrounding city centre.

Stop 2

The 15th century basilica is one of the few remains from before the WWII city bombing and remains an important landmark for the city's history, today it serves as a great place for events.

On our walk we will take you along some of the city's most awe-inspiring sites, such as the peculiar Cube Houses and the important port of Leuvehaven. Step away from the tired tourist track and into the streets of Rotterdam, discovering quirky street art, hidden gems and imposing skyscrapers.

Although Rotterdam lacks a true city centre, we will show you some of the streets where the best restaurants and cafes are located. Let us take you onto the main street to show you where the best wine bars, brown cafes & exotic eateries are located.

The Cube Houses are amongst the most peculiar buildings that can be found in the city. The houses offer a great photo opportunity and you can even visit one of the houses (admission €3) as the tour ends nearby.

What's not included

Tips, this is a tip based tour

Food and Drinks

Transportation (we walk everything)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

37 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

68 reviews

5★

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

No catching up with the group if you are late (please book a new time slot)

Meeting point

Meet us 10 minutes before the tour starts in front of the Markthal. You'll recognize us by the white umbrella with an orange logo.

Please don't message or call us if you are late, there is no catching up with the group after the start time and the guides can't be reached during the tour.

Important notes

Please don't message or call us if you are late, there is no catching up with the group after the start time and the guides can't be reached during the tour.

Meet us 10 minutes before time at the meeting point, your guide can be recognized by a white umbrella with an orange Walking Tour logo on it. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather; rain or snow, we always go!

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.