Rotterdam Tourist Attractions, Landmarks, Monuments and Sightseeing

(Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands)

Filled with all kinds of modern landmarks built following the Second World War, Rotterdam is an interesting city, with plenty to offer in the way of tourist attractions. One of Europe's oldest and most historic zoological gardens, Rotterdam Zoo is amongst the most popular of the city's tourist attractions and also goes by the name of Blijdorp Zoo, dating back more than 150 years.

Also on offer for tourists visiting Rotterdam are regular boat trips around the harbour, a rather splendid windmill within the Delfshaven, botanical attractions at the Arboretum Trompenburg, and panoramic views at the very top of the Euromast. There are even a handful of sandy beaches, just a short journey from the very heart of the city, so don't forget to pack your swimming costume.

Euromast

Address: Parkhaven 20, Rotterdam, Netherlands, NL
Tel: +31 010 436 4811
The Rotterdam skyline is dominated by the tall and modern landmark that is the Euromast. This tall tower stretches for some 185 metres / 607 feet and has been a prominent site ever since construction was completed in 1960. Amongst the main attractions at the Euromast are a space-ride simulator, which transports visitors to the very top, where the views from its Panorama Restaurant are excellent. The Euromast is easy to find and lies directly south-west of the Museum Park (Museumpark), within Heuvel Park.
Open hours: daily, July and August - 10:00 to 22:30; April to June, September - 10:00 to 19:00; October to March - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Delfshaven (Shipyard 'De Delft')

Address: Schiehaven 15, Rotterdam, Netherlands, NL
Tel: +31 010 276 0115
A historical district once the actual seaport for the city of Delft, the Delfshaven is home to an authentic reconstruction of an 18th-century windmill, which presides over the Voorhaven and is a much photographed landmark in this part of Rotterdam. Delfshaven is known for being the place where in 1620 the Pilgrims left Holland bound for the long journey to America, onboard the somewhat leaky and now famous boat named the Speedwell, before transferring to the Mayflower.
Open hours: Tuesday to Friday - 10:00 to 16:00, Saturday and Sunday - 11:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children between four and 12 years old, children four years old and under are free

Rotterdam Zoo (Blijdorp Zoo / Diergaarde Blijdorp)

Address: Blijdorplaan 8, Rotterdam, Netherlands, NL
Tel: +31 010 443 1495
Rotterdam Zoo is one of the main family attractions in the city and is filled with exotic animals and colourful creatures of all descriptions, including many African favourites, such as giraffes and elephants. The Oceanarium is particularly popular and boasts a lengthy underwater shark tunnel, where you can always view some giant turtles and large marine fish. Children always enjoy the penguins and feeding demonstrations.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:900
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Beaches

Situated in between both the city's Willems Bridge and also the Erasmus Bridge is an artificial sandy beach, which was created just a few years ago and has already become a leading attraction with both tourists and locals. Boompjeskade Beach enjoys a scenic situation along the banks of the Nieuwe Maas, while other similar beach attractions in the Rotterdam area include the sandy stretch at Hoek van Holland, along with further beaches around the Zeeland coastline, such as either Oostvoorne or alternatively Renesse.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Harbour Tours

Address: Leuvehoofd, Rotterdam, Netherlands, NL
Tel: +31 010 275 9988
Daily harbour tours are a true highlight for many visiting tourists and offer a great way to sightsee a number of prominent water attractions. Harbour tours in Rotterdam are operated by Spido and depart throughout the year from Leuvehoofd Pier, close to both the Leuvehaven and Erasmusbrug metro stations. During the summer season, longer cruises are available.
Open hours: daily, June to September - 09:30 to 17:30; October - 11:00 to 15:30; November to March - 11:00 to 14:00
Admission: charge, concessions

Arboretum Trompenburg

Address: Honigerdijk 86, Rotterdam, Netherlands, NL
Tel: +31 010 233 0166
The Arboretum Trompenburg is the perfect respite to life in the busy centre of Rotterdam and this pretty park covers around 17 acres / 7 hectares. Founded in the early part of the 19th century, the Arboretum Trompenburg contains a wealth of specimen trees and shrubs, along with many seasonal attractions and springtime bulbs, all of which can be seen as you stroll along the pathways.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 09:00 to 17:00, Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, children 12 years old and under are free