I recently arrived in Rotterdam aboard Cunard Queen Mary 2 (QM2) and, having enjoyed Rotterdam many times on various ships, I can confidently say this city never disappoints. Whether you’re a first timer or a returning visitor, there’s always something exciting to discover. Here are my top six recommendations for things to do when arriving by cruise ship.
1. Admire the Iconic Cube Houses
Rotterdam’s Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) are an architectural masterpiece and a 30 minute walk (or longer if you take a leisurely walk admiring the city) from the cruise terminal. These quirky, tilted cube shaped homes are a photographer’s dream. You can even step inside the Show Cube to see how life works in this unique design.
2. Explore the Markthal
The Markthal is a must-visit for food lovers. This massive indoor market is home to stalls offering everything from freshly made stroopwafels to Dutch cheeses. The breathtaking ceiling mural, a colourful masterpiece that spans the entire interior, is stunning. This is located very near to Cube Houses.
3. Take a Water Taxi Adventure
A ride on a water taxi is an exciting way to see Rotterdam from the water. These speedy boats will whisk you across the Maas River, offering incredible views of the city’s skyline. Use them to reach hotspots like the historic SS Rotterdam, Delfshaven or the trendy Hotel New York.
4. Climb the Euromast
The Euromast, Rotterdam’s tallest tower, offers unbeatable views of the city. Take the elevator to the observation deck, or, if you’re feeling daring, try abseiling down the side of the tower for an unforgettable experience.
5. Discover Historic Delfshaven
For a step back in time, visit Delfshaven, one of the few areas of Rotterdam that survived WWII bombings. Wander along the canals, explore traditional Dutch buildings, and visit the Pilgrim Fathers Church, a historic landmark tied to the Pilgrims’ journey to America. It’s a 10 minute taxi ride or hour leisurely walk from the cruise terminal.
6. Visit Miniworld Rotterdam
Miniworld Rotterdam feels like one of the city’s best-kept secrets and is absolutely worth a visit. Tucked away indoors, this magical little world shows off a perfectly scaled-down version of Rotterdam, complete with moving trains chugging along tiny tracks, cute miniature villages, and lively harbours. The details are amazing, and every 24 minutes the scene shifts from day to night, adding a whole new experience. Make sure to press all the interactive buttons, some will light things up, others trigger music or set something in motion. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but smile and appreciate the creativity behind it all.
