Northern Rotterdam Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Northern Rotterdam with this comprehensive travel guide filled with information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Northern Rotterdam

Northern Rotterdam is a lively and bustling part of the city of Rotterdam, which is situated in the western part of the Netherlands. It is one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in the city, with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you are interested in exploring its museums, iconic landmarks, or natural wonders, Northern Rotterdam has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to this vibrant neighborhood with ease. So, let’s dive in and explore Northern Rotterdam together!

List of Places to Visit in Northern Rotterdam

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Northern Rotterdam, sorted by category:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum Rotterdam - It is the largest museum in Rotterdam and houses a vast collection of artifacts related to the city’s history.
  • Rotterdam Central Station - It is a significant landmark in Northern Rotterdam that dates back over 50 years.
  • Blijdorp Zoo - A popular family-friendly attraction in Northern Rotterdam. Visitors can see a wide variety of animals here, including elephants, lions, and tigers.
  • Het Nieuwe Instituut - A museum dedicated to architecture, design, and digital culture.
  • Maritime Museum Rotterdam - One of the largest and most important maritime museums in the world.

Natural Attractions of Northern Rotterdam: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kralingse Bos - A beautiful park with a large lake in the center.
  • Bergse Plassen - A series of lakes that offer stunning views and a great place to relax.
  • Rotterdamse Schie Canal - A canal that runs through the neighborhood and provides a scenic route for bike rides or walks.
  • Dakpark - A rooftop park that offers panoramic views of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Rotterdam

Northern Rotterdam is a great place for cycling and hiking. Some of the best routes to take include:

  • The Boezemroute - A cycle route that takes you through parks and waterways of the neighborhood.
  • Vroesenpark to Kralingse Bos - A scenic bike ride that passes through several parks, including the Kralingse Bos.
  • Rotterdamse Schie - A cycle route that takes you along the canal of the same name.

Best Things to Do in Northern Rotterdam: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to enjoy during your visit to Northern Rotterdam:

  • Boat Tour of the Rotterdam Harbor - Take a boat tour of the Rotterdam harbor and learn about the city’s rich history.
  • Segway Tour of Northern Rotterdam - Explore the neighborhood on a Segway tour, where you will see all the major sights in the area.
  • Bike Tour of Northern Rotterdam - Discover Northern Rotterdam at a slow pace while enjoying a leisurely bike ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Rotterdam

Here is a week-long itinerary that covers all the major sights and activities in Northern Rotterdam:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Museum Rotterdam and the Maritime Museum Rotterdam
Day 2 Explore Het Nieuwe Instituut and take a boat tour of the Rotterdam Harbor
Day 3 Visit Blijdorp Zoo and take a stroll through Kralingse Bos
Day 4 Enjoy a bike ride on the Boezemroute and visit Rotterdam Central Station
Day 5 Take a Segway tour of Northern Rotterdam and visit Dakpark
Day 6 Visit Bergse Plassen and take a bike tour of Rotterdamse Schie
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs at local stores and visit local cafes to sample traditional Dutch food

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Rotterdam

Northern Rotterdam is renowned for its diverse food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kapsalon - A popular dish made with fries, meat, cheese, and salad.
  • Stroopwafels - A Dutch classic that consists of two thin waffles with a syrup filling.
  • Herring - A Dutch delicacy that is typically served raw with onions.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever - A traditional Dutch gin that is enjoyed by locals.
  • Genever Cocktails - A popular drink in the Netherlands that is typically made with jenever.

Where to Stay in Northern Rotterdam: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northern Rotterdam offers a range of accommodation options for travelers. Here are some of the top places to stay in the neighborhood:

  • King Kong Hostel - A trendy and affordable hostel in Northern Rotterdam.
  • Hilton Rotterdam - A luxurious hotel at the heart of the city.
  • Stayokay Rotterdam Hostel - A cozy hostel that is perfect for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Northern Rotterdam: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Whether you are looking for souvenirs or locally made products, Northern Rotterdam has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best things to buy in the neighborhood:

  • Stroopwafels - These waffles make a perfect souvenir for anyone with a sweet tooth.
  • Delftware - A traditional Dutch pottery that will look great in any home.
  • Cheese - The Netherlands is renowned for its delicious cheese, particularly Gouda.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Rotterdam

Northern Rotterdam is a diverse and multicultural neighborhood, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind during your visit:

  • Dutch people are known for their direct and straightforward communication style. Don’t be offended if people are more blunt than you are used to.
  • Biking is a popular mode of transportation in the Netherlands. When walking around, be sure to look both ways before crossing bike lanes.
  • Smoking in public is banned in the Netherlands. Be aware of designated smoking areas and avoid smoking where it is prohibited.

Best Time to Visit Northern Rotterdam

The best time to visit Northern Rotterdam is during the summer months between June and August when it is warm and sunny. However, be aware that this is also the peak tourist season, and the city can get crowded. Alternatively, you can visit during the offseason between March and May, or September and November when the weather is still good, and prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Rotterdam

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Northern Rotterdam:

Do:

  • Try to learn some basic Dutch phrases before arriving.
  • Enjoy a bike ride through the parks and waterways of the neighborhood.
  • Visit a local cafe and sample traditional Dutch food.

Don’t:

  • Ignore designated bike lanes or try to jaywalk in busy areas.
  • Be careless with your belongings or leave valuables in plain sight.
  • Smoke in public areas where it is prohibited.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Rotterdam

Northern Rotterdam is generally a safe neighborhood with a low crime rate. However, like any major city, you should be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep your valuables safe.

Health in Northern Rotterdam

The Netherlands has excellent healthcare facilities, and there are several hospitals in Rotterdam where you can receive medical treatment. Additionally, it is recommended that you purchase travel insurance before arriving in the Netherlands to ensure that you are fully covered in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Northern Rotterdam: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northern Rotterdam is well connected to other parts of the city and the country. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Northern Rotterdam

  • Rotterdam-The Hague Airport - This airport is located just 10 kilometers from Northern Rotterdam and offers several international and domestic flights.
  • Amsterdam Airport Schiphol - This is the largest airport in the Netherlands and is located about 50 kilometers from Northern Rotterdam. It offers a wide range of international flights.

Bus Stations Near Northern Rotterdam

  • Rotterdam Central Station - This is the main train station in Rotterdam and offers connections to other parts of the Netherlands and Europe.
  • Rotterdam Zuidplein Bus Station - This bus station offers connections to other parts of the city and the surrounding area.

Other Options

  • Cycling - Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in the Netherlands, and Northern Rotterdam is well equipped with bike lanes and rental options.
  • Public Transportation - Northern Rotterdam has an extensive public transportation network that includes trams, buses, and the metro.

How to Get Around in Northern Rotterdam

One of the best ways to explore Northern Rotterdam is on foot or by bike. There are plenty of bike rental options available, and the neighborhood has an extensive network of bike lanes, making it easy to get around. If you prefer public transportation, the city has an excellent network of trams, buses, and the metro.

Where to Go Next from Northern Rotterdam: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northern Rotterdam is situated in the heart of the Netherlands and offers easy access to other parts of the country. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Delft - This charming city is known for its historic center and porcelain, which is called Delftware.
  • The Hague - The Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and is renowned for its many museums, palaces, and scenic parks.
  • Gouda - This city is famous for its cheese and beautiful historic center.

Conclusion

Northern Rotterdam is a vibrant and diverse part of the city that offers plenty of attractions and activities for travelers. Whether you are interested in museums, natural wonders, or sampling the local cuisine, this travel guide has everything you need to plan a memorable trip to Northern Rotterdam. Plan your visit today and experience the magic of this unique and exciting neighborhood!