Things to do

âš“ Welcome to Rotterdam!

A city unlike anywhere else in the Netherlands. Known for its bold architecture, open spaces, creative energy and forward looking spirit, Rotterdam offers a unique mix of culture, history and innovation.

To help you make the most of your visit, we have bundled a selection of local highlights, hidden gems and popular hotspots, with options for every budget. Whether you are staying for one evening or a few extra days, this guide will help you experience the city like a local!

Questions? Reach us at info@ipscongres.eu.

📜 A little history 

On 14 May 1940, Rotterdam’s city centre was almost completely destroyed during the Second World War bombing. The city was rebuilt at remarkable speed, embracing modern architecture, innovative urban planning and a new identity. This is why Rotterdam feels so different from other Dutch cities: bold, spacious and always looking towards the future.

🗣  A few words of Rotterdam slang

  • Geen woorden maar daden: No words, just action. A phrase that captures Rotterdam’s practical, down-to-earth mentality.
  • Roffa: the affectionate nickname for Rotterdam, often used by locals.
  • 010: the area code, proudly used as a symbol of Rotterdam identity.
  • Niet lullen maar poetsen: Stop talking, start doing. A typical Rotterdam expression that reflects the city’s hands on attitude.

 

     Witte de with nightlife street

 

Good places to eat in Rotterdam

Rotterdam has a vibrant food scene, offering everything from specialty coffee and brunch spots to traditional Dutch cuisine, international restaurants, and fine dining experiences. Here are some recommendations close to the conference venue.

🍳Breakfast 

Rotterdam has a vibrant coffee and brunch culture, with plenty of cosy cafés offering everything from specialty coffee and freshly baked pastries to pancakes and healthy breakfast options. Here are some great breakfast spots near the city centre.

Parqiet offers a unique setting surrounded by greenery in the heart of the city (Museum Park). It is an ideal place to enjoy breakfast, coffee, or a light morning bite. | www.parqiet.nl | From congress venue: 10 min walk

Lilith for stacked pancakes, fresh bowls and specialty coffee,  very close to the main hotel area.  lilithrotterdam.com | From congress venue: 10 min walk

Dune is a popular specialty coffee bar known for its high-quality coffee, fresh pastries, and breakfast options. A favourite among locals and visitors alike. | From congress venue: 9 min walk

Heilige boontjes is a welcoming coffee bar with a social mission, serving excellent coffee and breakfast dishes while supporting people with barriers to employment. | www.heiligeboontjes.com | From congress venue: 5 min walk

🥗 Lunch

Endless variety for lunch: from Italian classics to the iconic Hotel New York on the waterfront.

Hotel New York is an iconic former headquarters of the Holland America Line, stunning Maas views. Worth it for the atmosphere alone. | hotelnewyork.nl  |  From congress venue: 15 min by tram | 10 min by taxi

Dudok is a Rotterdam classic, housed in a beautiful historic building. Dudok offers sandwiches, salads, soups, and light lunch dishes. Don’t miss their famous apple pie, a local favourite. | dudok.nl | From congress venue: 11 min by tram | 9 min by taxi

Ter Marsch & Co is known for its award-winning burgers. It’s a popular choice for a casual and satisfying lunch in the heart of the city on Rotterdam’s lively Witte de Withstraat. | termarschco.nl | From congress venue: 5 min walk

Bertmans is a Healthy and trendy, lots of vegetarian and vegan options, right in the city centre. | bertmans.nl  |  From congress venue: 13 min walk

🍽️ Dinner

Rotterdam has a great dining scene at every price point, international cuisines and panoramic skyline restaurants.

 

Casual €

Supermercado is perfect for a casual evening. Mexican street food and legendary frozen margaritas. | supermercadorotterdam.nl  |  From congress venue: 7 min walk

Bazar is one of Rotterdam’s most iconic restaurants, serving Middle Eastern and North African-inspired cuisine in a vibrant and colourful setting. | hotelbazar.nl  |  From congress venue: 5 min walk

Mangiare is an honest, informal and great value restaurant with Italian trattoria. | mangiarerotterdam.com | From congress venue: 8 min walk

De Ballentent is located along the river Maas. Known for its famous Dutch meatballs and authentic local atmosphere, it offers visitors a true taste of the city. | deballentent.nl | From congress venue: 14 min by tram or 8 min by taxi

 

Mid-range €€

Bar Picar has a shared dining concept on the famous Witte de With nightlife street.

|  Bar Picar | From congress venue: 7 min walk

Gastrobar Hartig is a cosy neighbourhood restaurant and is known for its seasonal menu, quality ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere. | gastrobarhartig.nl  | From congress venue: 6 min walk

 

Fine dining €€€

Héroine is fine dining in an industrially chic building. Advance reservation recommended. | restaurantheroine.nl  |  From congress venue: 13 min by tram or 10 min by taxi

Joelia is located in the Hilton Rotterdam. Joelia combines a modern atmosphere with refined cuisine. A convenient option for visitors staying in the city centre. Advance reservation recommended. | joelia.eu | From congress venue: 8 min by tram 

 

Rotterdam food fact: The kapsalon, fries topped with shawarma, melted cheese, salad and garlic sauce, was invented in Rotterdam in 2003. A local hairdresser asked his favourite kebab shop to create the ultimate late-night snack. It has since become a worldwide fast-food favourite. For an authentic experience, try one on at Jaffa on Witte de Withstraat after a night out.

 

 

🧭 Explore Rotterdam!

Witte de Withstraat 

Rotterdams’s cultural hotspot, filled with art galleries, independent shops, cafés, and lively bars. Perfect for an afternoon stroll or evening out, just a short walk from the conference venue.

Markthal 

One of Rotterdam’s most iconic landmarks, featuring international food stalls and spectacular ceiling artwork. Ideal for lunch, a quick snack or simply taking in the atmosphere. 

Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) 

These unique tilted houses have become a symbol of Rotterdam’s innovative architecture. Visit the museum house to see what it is like to live inside one.  

Erasmus Bridge

Known locally as “The Swan”, this iconic bridge connects the city centre with the southern part of Rotterdam. Walk across it or enjoy the view from the water for some of the city’s best skyline panoramas.  

Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen 

The world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility. Explore thousands of artworks and enjoy stunning views from the rooftop terrace.

Euromast 

Enjoy panoramic views over Rotterdam and its harbour from the city’s most famous observation tower. The surrounding park is perfect for a relaxing walk.

Delfshaven

One of the few historic areas that survived the Second World War. Wander through picturesque streets, canals and harbour-side cafés for a glimpse of old Rotterdam.

Spido & Harbor Tours

Experience one of the world's largest ports from the water. A harbour cruise offers a unique perspective on Rotterdam's maritime character.

Water Taxi Rotterdam

A fast fun and uniquely Rotterdam way to travel. Hop on a water taxi to reach destinations such as Hotel New York, Katendrecht or Kop van Zuid while enjoying views of the skyline. 

REMASTERED

Step inside an immersive digital art experience where the masterpieces of Dutch painters such as Van Gogh, Vermeer and Bosch come to life through projections, music and interactive technology. Located beneath the Erasmus Bridge, REMASTERED offers a unique and modern way to experience Dutch art.