The Perfect 3 Day Rotterdam Itinerary For First-Timers

Why Rotterdam Is the Perfect Sustainable City Break

Don’t skip Rotterdam if you’re looking for a green, creative and eco-friendly city break. This port city has transformed itself into a beacon of sustainability, from its innovative floating farms to its energy-efficient architecture. I loved the city's approach to tourism – the focus is on local connection and conscious choices which make it easy to choose sustainable options for your city break, without feeling like you're missing out. Sustainability is second-nature to the city, rather than an afterthought and I loved how natural it felt to make ethical choices at every turn.

You can easily explore the city using the Rotterdam City Card, which gives you unlimited public transport and discounts on museums, tours, and attractions — a must for budget-friendly and eco-minded travellers. Beyond its futuristic skyline, you’ll find neighbourhoods brimming with independent shops, vintage boutiques, and creative markets. Visit Zwaanshalskwartier, one of my favourite areas, for local design, secondhand fashion, and coffee shops that champion sustainability.

Planning a Rotterdam City Break

Rotterdam is a city that’s constantly reinventing itself. Once a traditional Dutch port town, it was almost entirely destroyed during World War II — but instead of rebuilding what was lost, Rotterdam chose to start fresh. The result? A bold, modern city defined by innovation, sustainability, and creativity. From its striking skyline of glass-and-steel architecture to its street art-covered walls and buzzing food halls, Rotterdam is a celebration of new beginnings.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Amsterdam?

While Amsterdam charms with its canals and postcard-perfect houses, Rotterdam feels refreshingly different — more experimental, edgy, and down-to-earth. It’s a place where locals embrace change, where creativity spills into every corner, and where sustainability isn’t just a trend, but a way of life. Think fewer tourist crowds, more urban grit, and a thriving local culture that’s proud of its originality.

It’s a city with soul. You’ll find artists reclaiming old warehouses, cafés powered by solar energy, floating farms in the harbour, and locals cycling to vintage markets with tote bags full of organic produce. There’s a laid-back charm here, mixed with a pulse of creativity that makes Rotterdam feel both effortlessly cool and deeply connected to its people and planet.

One thing to consider if you're wondering whether to visit Rotterdam or Amsterdam – I loved both cities but exploring Amsterdam felt like a fast-paced tourist experience, while Rotterdam felt calmer and I felt like I had a far more of an authentic, local experience. If you have more time and can visit both, I recommend starting with Amsterdam and then finishing with a peaceful escape to Rotterdam – it only takes 30-45 mins by train and there's over 100 trains daily!

Best time of year to visit Rotterdam

The best thing about planning a city break is that you can tailor your trip depending on the time of year you want to travel. I visited Rotterdam in October – unfortunately in the middle of a storm – but the weather was still perfect for exploring. The best times of year for a city break to Rotterdam would be April to June or September to October – these shoulder season times are just outside the busiest periods which are peak summer and closer to Christmas. There's so many amazing things to do in Rotterdam that are suitable for all year round (just pack an umbrella or a waterproof jacket and you'll be fine!)

Travelling to Rotterdam – How to Get to Rotterdam from London

One of the best things about Rotterdam is how easy it is to reach sustainably from the UK. Whether you prefer a scenic ferry crossing or a speedy train journey, there’s an option for every travel style — and budget. Here’s how to get there, plus what to expect from each route:

By Ferry – Rail & Sail with Stena Line

If you love the idea of slow travel, the Stena Line Rail & Sail option is a dreamy way to go. You’ll take a train from London Liverpool Street to Harwich International, then board the ferry to the Hook of Holland, followed by a short train ride into Rotterdam city centre. This was my first time taking a ferry over to Europe and it was such a unique (and relaxing) way to start the trip!

The crossing takes around 7 hours – or overnight, if you fancy a cabin (which I recommend because they're super cosy and you can get some rest before you arrive!) and you get to wake up to a North Sea sunrise. 

If you're aiming for a sustainable trip, Stena Line is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. The ferry line has reported an 11% reduction in carbon emissions and aims to reduce total CO₂ emissions from its vessels by 30% by 2030.

It’s a brilliant low-carbon alternative to flying, and the overnight sailing can even save you a night of accommodation. Plus, there’s something incredibly peaceful about arriving in the Netherlands by sea — it feels like an adventure before your city break has even begun.

• Rail and Sail Day fares start from £64 for a single
• Rail and Sail Overnight fares start from £113 + environmental fee (for an inside cabin)
• Check out other options for Stena Line's Harwich to Hook of Holland route

By Train – The Eurostar

The Eurostar is an eco-friendly and speedier option for getting to Rotterdam if you're short on time. Trains run directly from London St Pancras International to Rotterdam Centraal, taking around 3 hours and 15 minutes — city centre to city centre, no airport hassle required.

Tickets start from around £39 one way if you book early, but prices typically sit between £57–£90 depending on dates and times. You’ll clear passport control before boarding, so it’s best to arrive about an hour early.

The Eurostar emits up to 90% less CO₂ than flying, making it another great sustainable choice for this journey. You can even bring two bags and a small case without extra charges — perfect if you’re planning a bit of vintage shopping or market hopping in Rotterdam!

Getting Around Rotterdam and Travel Tips

Rotterdam is made for sustainable exploration. Once you’re here, it’s easy to get around without ever needing a car.

• Rotterdam City Card: Unlimited access to trams, buses, and metro lines plus discounts on attractions — a no-brainer for a weekend visit.
• Biking: Rent a bike (or grab a shared one through Donkey Republic) and cycle like a local. The bike lanes here are a dream.
• Water Taxi: Don’t miss the Watertaxi Rotterdam — it’s part transport, part sightseeing adventure! You can zip across the harbour while getting incredible skyline views.
• Walking: Most neighbourhoods are easily walkable, especially central Rotterdam, Delfshaven, and the market areas.

Solo Travel in Rotterdam – Tips & Advice

Rotterdam is one of the best cities in Europe for solo travellers. It’s safe, easy to navigate, and full of friendly locals who are proud of their city. The creative energy here makes it easy to connect — whether you’re chatting with an artist in a café or joining a tour to meet other travellers.

Although I was travelling with a friend for this trip, I could tell I would feel very comfortable walking around the city and exploring solo. Having travelled solo in Amsterdam, I think Rotterdam would make a far better first solo trip in the Netherlands because it is far quieter and calmer. 

Solo Travel Tips for Rotterdam:

• Stay central at The Usual for easy access to cafés, bars, and galleries.
• Join local tours like the Street Art Tour or Vegan Food Tour — they’re small, personal, and great for meeting like-minded travellers.
• Visit during a weekend to enjoy Kunstavond Fridays or local markets — they’re perfect for slow, social exploring.
• Don’t be afraid to wander — Rotterdam is safe and full of surprises around every corner.

Where to Stay in Rotterdam – The Best Sustainable City Hotel

If you’re searching for the perfect blend of design, sustainability, and community, The Usual stands out as one of the best hotels in Rotterdam. This contemporary, eco-conscious stay sits right in the heart of the city — close to shops, cafés, and public transport — making it the ideal base for exploring Rotterdam on foot or by tram.

More than just a stylish place to sleep, The Usual is built around the principles of regenerative hospitality. That means it doesn’t just aim to reduce its environmental impact — it actively creates a positive one. The hotel runs entirely on 100% renewable energy, features green rooftops with wild herbs, and supports local social and environmental initiatives. Through its “Room to Make Change” programme, a portion of every stay goes directly to community projects and clean water donations. One thing I loved was how inclusive the hotel felt, right down to the inclusive cocktail they served at the bar with 50% of profits donated to Netherlands COC, a non-profit which is the oldest still operating LGBTI organisation in the world.

Inside, the atmosphere feels both modern and welcoming, with cosy, chic and practical rooms designed for the modern traveller. Think minimalist design softened by warm textures, recycled materials, and locally crafted furniture. The ground floor is designed as a social hub — a place where travellers and locals come together over good coffee, fresh breakfasts, or evening drinks. It's also a great place to spend a day working, if you're a digital nomad. Breakfast is included in your stay, and the menu focuses on locally sourced, plant-forward produce that reflects the city’s growing reputation for sustainable dining. 

Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple on a city break, or visiting with friends, The Usual offers a meaningful way to stay in Rotterdam — stylish, community-driven, and genuinely sustainable.

The Perfect 3-Day Rotterdam Itinerary for First-Timers

Forget the cliché city breaks — Rotterdam is redefining what an urban escape can look like. This creative, eco-conscious Dutch city is buzzing with bold architecture, world-class food, local artisans, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a curious foodie, or a weekend explorer, this 3-day Rotterdam itinerary will show you the city’s most inspiring, sustainable, and design-led experiences.

This itinerary includes the city’s highlights — from floating farms and vegan food tours to vintage districts and vibrant art scenes — all accessible with the Rotterdam City Card, which gives you unlimited public transport and discounts on museums and attractions. Inside Rotterdam, Vegan Food Tour, Floating Farm and Kunstinstituut Melly are all offering great deals through the Rotterdam City Card, so if you'd like to follow this itinerary for your first trip, I recommend getting the card to save money. Don't forget to read my blog about the most unique things to do in Rotterdam.

Day 1: Art, Creative Neighbourhoods & Conscious Dining

• Arrive at Rotterdam Central Station and pick up your City Card
• Check into your sustainable hotel, The Usual
• Enjoy a plant-based lunch at BACKYARD
• Visit the powerful FENIX Museum of Migration
• Wander through Katendrecht and Kop van Zuid
• Dine at the Green Michelin-starred Restaurant Rotonde

Your Rotterdam adventure begins the moment you step out of the train station — whether you've arrived by overnight ferry or Eurostar – Rotterdam Central Station will welcome you to the city. After grabbing your Rotterdam City Card(a must for getting around easily and saving on attractions), it’s a short tram ride or walk to The Usual, your home base for the next few nights.

Once you’ve dropped your bags, head out for lunch at BACKYARD. It’s a bright, leafy spot in the city centre that feels like an urban greenhouse — the kind of café where locals come to work together and catch up with friends, and the air smells like roasted coffee. Everything here is plant-based and packed with flavour – do not leave without trying the teriyaki cauliflower wings which are without doubt the best I've ever had! I ordered their kimchi burger with a fresh ginger lemonade and instantly understood why locals rave about it. If you have time, there's a couple of amazing vintage shops along this street – plus lots more dotted around the city. Check out my vintage shopping in Rotterdam guide for tips on the best ones to visit.

Spend the afternoon at FENIX, one of Rotterdam’s most thought-provoking museums, and one that should be the first stop on any itinerary for Rotterdam. I was in tears within minutes of walking into the first room of the exhibition, this extremely moving and powerful portrayal of migration is housed in a former harbour warehouse on Katendrecht. It tells the story of human migration through art, film, and interactive installations. At a time when immigration remains a divisive topic globally, it feels all the more important that places like this that tell the true story of migration exist, and never more so than in a city that homes over 170 nationalities. The “Tornado” staircase — a twisting double spiral that leads to panoramic city views — is breathtaking both visually and emotionally. There are only two museums in the world that have affected me to this level, and Fenix is one that I believe everyone should experience.

If you're hungry or need time to decompress after your visit, I recommend stopping at Fenix Food Factory for a drink or a bite to eat – or pick up a sweet treat at Granucci Gelato (a beloved favourite with locals.) Afterward, wander around Katendrecht and Kop van Zuid, two districts that perfectly capture Rotterdam’s rebirth — old docklands transformed into creative spaces, independent cafés, and riverside views. 

Round off your first day with dinner at Restaurant Rotonde, a place that embodies everything sustainable dining should be: inspiring, imaginative, and full of creativity! Their Green Michelin Star is well earned — the menu changes constantly based on what’s local and in season. I loved that locally grown vegetables were the star of the show and the open kitchen where you can see the food prepared. Expect unexpected combinations (like blueberry, basil and onion – it doesn't sound like it should work, but but trust me it does!) paired with natural wines. Every dish tells a story of sustainability.

Day 2: Sustainability, Street Art & Local Breweries

• Breakfast at The Usual
• Cruise across the Maas River on a Watertaxi
• Visit the world’s first Floating Farm
• Enjoy a brewery tour at Stadshaven Brouwerij
• Discover Rotterdam’s street art and DakAkker rooftop farm
• Dinner at Restaurant Bazar
• Experience the city’s art scene for FREE at Kunstavond

Enjoy a slow and peaceful morning, then after a relaxed breakfast at The Usual (their coconut yoghurt with granola and Shakshuka are excellent), hop aboard one of the city’s Watertaxis. These black-and-yellow boats zip across the Maas River — part public transport, part adventure (make sure you hold on tight!) You’ll catch views of the Erasmus Bridge and skyline that will have you snapping photos non-stop. One of the locals I met actually said this was her favourite thing to do in Rotterdam – it's a great way to see the city's unique skyline!

Your destination: the Floating Farm, the world’s first of its kind. Yes, an actual working dairy farm floating on the water. The circular farming concept is fascinating — the cows live on a multi-level barge, their feed comes from leftover food waste, and their milk is sold locally, reducing transport emissions. They even recycle the cows' manure and urine to be reused in their water supply, and to create plant pots! They even have a vertical farming system which is fascinating and something I remember reading about in a sci-fi novel as a child – how incredible that we live in a time where this is reality. It’s part education, part innovation — and it makes you rethink what “urban agriculture” really means. You can pre-book a private tour with a presentation, tour & tasting session for up to 10 people for €100, or if you would like to just visit free of charge, you can walk around the farm on your own and stop by the Floating Farm shop.

Just a short walk away in the Merwe-Vierhavens (M4H) area is Stadshaven Brouwerij, a sustainable brewery that perfectly captures Rotterdam’s creative industrial vibe. Housed in a former fruit warehouse, it’s the second-largest independent craft brewery in the Netherlands, and the team are serious about eco-friendly brewing – they brew Rotterdam's most sustainable beers. Pop in from 3pm – and enjoy a local beer (I tried the Devil's Fruit which was delicious!) before joining a brewery tour and learning about the brewing process.

Back in the city, join a Street Art Tour with Inside Rotterdam. I can’t recommend this enough — it’s a walking tour that goes way beyond pretty murals. Rotterdam's street art is some of the best I've seen globally and there's some interesting social and political stories behind the art that really complement your previous visit to the Fenix. One of my favourite murals is located near the Fenix, "Brightness through the clouds of cancer" by Judith, de Leeuw (JDL) – it's a truly stunning piece of art. Inside Rotterdam offer a range of tours beyond Street Art, including the Rotterdam Rooftop Tour which includes a stop at DakAkker, Europe’s largest rooftop farm. Standing among the bee hives and vegetable beds, with the skyline in the background, you can really feel Rotterdam’s commitment to rethinking urban spaces. They also offer food tours, architecture tours, harbour tours, highlights tours, “Wilde Westen” bike tours, and self-guided routes.

If you’re visiting on a Friday, make sure to check out Kunstavond. Every first Friday of the month, galleries like Kunstinstituut Melly open late with free exhibitions and performances. It’s a brilliant way to experience Rotterdam’s creative pulse after dark, and I was lucky enough to see a live mixed media performance during my visit as well as exploring an exhibition about the history of the museum.

Day 3: Local Markets, Hidden gems & Vegan Flavours

• Start your day at Rotterdamse Oogstmarkt (Harvest Market)
• Explore the creative shops of Zwaanshalskwartier
• Join a Vegan Food Tour around the city
• End your trip with dinner at Old Scuola

Your final day is all about authentic local experience and how better to start your day than with a coffee at Rotterdam Oogstmarkt? It's a Saturday farmers’ "harvest" market where you’ll find the city’s most passionate small producers. The market was founded by the local legend Gerda Zijlstra who saw the need for fresh, local produce to be available within the city and fulfilled this community desire by hosting regular food festivals which eventually became so popular that the market now returns every Saturday. Grab a coffee and wander between stands piled high with organic vegetables, homemade cheeses, artisanal pastries and even a fabulous range of Indian pickles and spices. It’s a slice of slow living right in the city.

From there, stroll into Zwaanshalskwartier, a hidden gem neighbourhood that feels like a creative village within Rotterdam. Independent boutiques, art galleries, vintage stores, concept shops, and cosy cafés line the streets. I could’ve spent hours browsing old vinyl, handmade ceramics, and preloved fashion. It’s the perfect area for solo travellers — safe, walkable, and full of friendly shop owners happy to chat. From here, you can also stroll along the river and don't forget to pop into coffee shops and bakeries such as Jordy's Bakery (which interestingly, also supplies the pastries for The Usual Hotel!)

In the afternoon, join the Vegan Food Tour, one of the best ways to experience Rotterdam’s thriving plant-based scene. You’ll visit a mix of innovative cafés, bakeries, and restaurants — from vegan sushi at Nori, to raw cakes at Sue, and the city’s best vegan pita doner at Backstage. It’s more than just a tasting tour, learn how family-run restaurants and local entrepreneurs have combined creativity with their eco-conscious approach to create a very diverse vegan scene.

As the daylight fades, finish your trip with dinner at Old Scuola, a restaurant that takes pizza seriously. Their dough is fluffy, slow-fermented, and cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven – I recommend the Pizza Funghi and get the extra burrata. Pair it with a glass of natural wine, their divine tiramisu (trust me, I'm a tiramisu connoisseur!) and raise a toast to three unforgettable days in Rotterdam.