Discover Rotterdam Like a Local: Insider Tips & Hidden Gems
Forget the generic travel guides and top-ten lists written for tourists.
To truly discover the heart and soul of Rotterdam, you need to see it through the eyes of the people who call it home.
We’ve asked Rotterdam locals from all walks of life artists, entrepreneurs, students, and dreamers, to share their personal, unfiltered top 10s.
These aren’t just places; they are the threads that make up their daily lives.
Discover the cozy coffee shops, hidden parks, underground art galleries, and late-night spots that define the real Rotterdam.
Ready to explore the city like you live here? Dive in.
Meet our Local Rotterdam Insiders
Lotte Prins
Street Artist
Illustrator & educator
Top 10's from the Insiders
Jeroen Ballot's Top 10
I’m Jeroen Ballot, a Rotterdam native with over four decades of hands-on experience spanning the hospitality industry as a restaurant owner and the event management sector.I also provide culinary consulting services, specializing in menu development and wine selection strategies. You’ll regularly find me conducting restaurant evaluations, offering action
The city’s main entrance. It’s an energetic, global location where Rotterdam’s heartbeat is evident. Its architecture is audacious, and the roof’s angle, pointing towards the city, serves as an inviting gesture.
Parkkade 1, 3016 GN Rotterdam
CHUNG is the brilliant counterpoint. It shows Jeroen has a sophisticated palate and an appreciation for daring creativity. This isn’t just Asian fusion; it’s a culinary experience. He chooses CHUNG for nights when he wants to be surprised, to taste bold flavors and impeccable presentation. It proves his taste is both grounded and adventurous.
Noordmolenwerf 171, 3011 DC Rotterdam
This choice is all about the view, mastered. De River Bar understands that the majestic Maas skyline is the main event. He goes here for that spectacular panorama, paired with reliable drinks and a sharp, modern setting. It’s the perfect spot to impress an out-of-towner or to enjoy a moment of pure civic pride. He appreciates a venue that doesn’t overcomplicate a winning formula.
Westerkade 8, 3016 CL Rotterdam
ZEEZOUT is his destination dining choice. It’s a place for a full, immersive experience—exceptional seafood, a crisp, maritime-inspired interior, and service that is both professional and warm. Jeroen goes here when the occasion calls for celebration without stuffiness. It’s luxury that feels attainable, which is a very Rotterdam sensibility.
Westerkade 11, 3016 CL Rotterdam
This spot reveals Jeroen’s social savvy. The Sociëteit is an institution, a members’ club that exudes a quiet, mid-century confidence. He values the exclusivity and the curated calm, the sense of being somewhere important yet relaxed. It’s his retreat for sophisticated conversations and a perfectly mixed drink in an environment of understated elegance.
Veerdam 1, 3016 DD Rotterdam
NERELLO is his wine bar. But it’s more than that; it’s a testament to his love for the Italian way of life. The focus on natural wines from Sicily, the simple, profound small plates—it feels transported from a Palermo side street. He goes here to unwind, to explore new bottles, and to soak in an atmosphere of genuine passion and warmth.
Oostzeedijk 344, 3063 CC Rotterdam
This is his living room. Café De Witte is the quintessential brown café, a timeless haven of conversation, chess, and Dutch gezelligheid. He has his spot at the bar here. It’s his reliable fallback, the place where everyone knows your name. It shows that for all his taste for the new, he deeply values tradition and community.
Witte de Withstraat 16, 3012 BP Rotterdam
Bar BERTA is his insider’s secret. Tucked away, intimate, and fiercely independent, it’s a spot for those in the know. He chooses BERTA for its rebellious spirit, its eclectic music, and its expertly crafted cocktails. It’s a place that feels like his own discovery, a hidden layer of the city that rewards curiosity.
Calandstraat 6B, 3016 CB Rotterdam
De Pijp is his classic eetcafe. It’s the embodiment of hearty, reliable, and convivial Dutch dining. He goes here for a flawless steak, a simple beer, and the comforting buzz of a packed local favourite. It’s unpretentious, it’s consistently excellent, and it represents the dependable backbone of the city’s food scene.
Gaffelstraat 90-A, 3014 RM Rotterdam
This final choice proves Jeroen is always at the source. Located in the Markthal, Market Bar Mare is his spot for ultra-fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere. He appreciates the direct connection to the market, the quality of the oysters, and the energy of being in the middle of it all. It’s a culinary hotspot that understands the assignment completely.
Westerstraat 79B, 3016 DG Rotterdam
Henk de Lauré's Top 10
Henk de Lauré runs Hendrikus, a designer vintage store with both physical and online locations.
I curate vintage and secondhand designer pieces from different eras based on what I personally love, their uniqueness, quality, and design. While I appreciate good labels, I believe beautiful is beautiful. That’s why you’ll find amazing unlabeled vintage pieces at great prices in my physical shop, while my online store focuses exclusively on secondhand designer items.
I started Hendrikus in 2015, working markets and pop-ups before getting the opportunity for a shop-in-shop with Blick Brillen. Since 2020, I’ve operated my own independent store right next to them.
This is where Henk’s style begins. Hendrikus isn’t a thrift store; it’s an archive. He comes here to hunt, to find that one impeccable piece with a history and a label that speaks of quality. It’s for the satisfaction of building a unique wardrobe that tells a story, piece by carefully curated piece. It’s anti-fast fashion, and he is all in.
Pannekoekstraat 33A, 3011 LC Rotterdam
Devastator confirms his commitment to the local scene. This is where he gets his contemporary fixes raw denim, limited runs, and tough, functional gear. He supports the creators, the local designers who pour their identity into their work. It’s a statement of intent, a uniform for those who understand subculture and substance.
Van Oldenbarneveltstraat 124A, 3012 GW Rotterdam
Verward is a mood. It’s his go-to for intentional conversation. Dark, intimate, and focused purely on the wine. No distractions. He trusts the natural, low-intervention selections and the expertise behind the bar. It’s a place to truly taste, to explore a bottle’s terroir, and to disconnect from the city’s noise. It’s wine as a philosophy, and he’s a disciple.
Zwaerdecroonstraat 5, 3021 WL Rotterdam
Juni offers a different energy. Lighter, brighter, but no less serious about its craft. This is where he goes for a daytime glass or a relaxed evening. It shows his range; he appreciates wine in all its contexts. Juni proves his taste isn’t about a single aesthetic, but about an unwavering standard for quality, whether the setting is moody or minimalist.
Van Vollenhovenstraat 34, 3016 BH Rotterdam
Henk doesn’t drink cocktails just anywhere. He goes where the ritual is respected. Jigger is for when he demands precision and artistry. It’s a masterclass in balance and technique. Soho by Jigger, its sibling, offers that same level of expertise in a different, perhaps more accessible, vibe. Both are chosen for their unwavering commitment to the craft of the cocktail.
Soho by Jigger: Hoogstraat 73A, 3011 PH Rotterdam
His coffee choice is telling. Neighbourhood is a stalwart of the city’s specialty scene. They roast their own. They know their stuff. For Henk, a daily coffee isn’t a transaction; it’s a non-negotiable standard of quality. He starts his day with a perfectly extracted shot from people who care as much about the bean as he does about everything else on this list.
Zaagmolenkade 15, 3035 KA Rotterdam
In a city full of pizza options, Speck is the choice of a purist. It’s not just dinner; it’s the perfect convergence of simplicity and skill. A blistered, leopard-spotted crust, high-quality ingredients, and a no-fuss attitude. He appreciates the focus required to master one thing perfectly. It’s casual excellence, which is his sweet spot.
1e Pijnackerstraat 134A, 3035 GX Rotterdam
Tosca is an institution for a reason, and Henk knows it. It represents a certain timeless class. The white tablecloths, the impeccable service, the classic Italian cuisine executed flawlessly. He comes here for occasions that demand reliability and a touch of old-world elegance. It’s a testament to his appreciation for establishments that have endured through consistent quality.
Schiedamse Vest 136, 3011 BG Rotterdam
Lucia is the other side of his culinary coin. If Tosca is classic, Lucia is modern, vibrant, and buzzing. It’s a place to see and be seen, but for the right reason: the energy is infectious and the food is brilliant. He goes here for a lively dinner that feels like an event, surrounded by a crowd that shares his appetite for the good life.
Zaagmolenkade 124, 3035 KD Rotterdam
These two perfectly capture his rhythm. La Vitta Bella is for a long, lazy Italian lunch that seamlessly transitions into wine. It’s about indulgence and leisure. Bar 13 is his choice for a modern, social bite shared plates, natural wines, and a relaxed, communal vibe. It’s where he ends up with friends, enjoying a curated selection of flavors without any pretense.
La Vitta Bella: Oostzeedijk Beneden 229, 3061 VV Rotterdam
Jan J. van Waning's Top 10
I’ve developed a sharp eye for Rotterdam’s tough, uncompromising spirit.
The places I choose tell real stories—about struggle, comeback, and our city’s philosophy that actions matter more than words. My selections reflect what I see in Rotterdam: a place that rebuilt itself and keeps moving forward without making a big show of it.
These locations capture the essence of our working-class roots and the ongoing transformation that defines who we are as a city.
This isn’t just a museum visit; it’s a statement. Jan chooses the Depot because it represents a brilliant, innovative solution, a mirror-clad treasure chest. He enjoys the behind the-scenes access to the entire collection, appreciating the art of preservation as much as the art itself. Dining at the restaurant is the quintessential capstone; it’s an elevated experience with a stunning view, reflecting his taste for the exceptional.
Museumpark 24, 3015 CX Rotterdam
This choice is pure class. He bypasses the standard ferry for the thrilling efficiency of a water taxi. It’s the most dramatic way to arrive at the Kop van Zuid, showcasing the city’s modern skyline. His specific mention of the HAL building confirms his eye for architecture; he admires the transformative reuse of a historic maritime structure into a vibrant cultural hub. It’s a nod to both history and progress.
Koninginnenhoofd 7, 3072 AD Rotterdam
Jan sees the city as a living architectural exhibition. The Cubic Houses are a world-famous spectacle of innovative design, and he clearly enjoys their radical concept. Pairing them with the Markthal shows his understanding of contrast; the solid, angular blocks against the vast, flowing interior of the market. He appreciates the boldness of placing such visionary housing right in the city’s heart.
Overblaak 3011, 3011 MH Rotterdam
For Jan, the Euromast is not just a lookout tower. It’s the definitive Rotterdam experience. He values the unparalleled 360-degree command of the cityscape he admires. Choosing the restaurant indicates he prefers to savor the view, pairing it with fine dining an event, not just a visit. The park provides the necessary contrast: a peaceful, green base for the soaring steel giant.
Parkhaven 20, 3016 GM Rotterdam
This is the choice of a true Rotterdammer. The Spido tour isn’t a quaint canal cruise; it’s an awe-inspiring journey into the brute-force engine of the global economy. Jan is fascinated by the scale and power of the port, the massive ships, and the intricate logistics. It’s a testament to his appreciation for the maritime might that built this city.
3016 DR Rotterdam
This reveals his quieter, more reflective side. The Whisper Boat offers a peaceful, almost silent glide through the city’s maritime history. It’s an intimate and unique perspective, away from the crowds. He enjoys the blend of open-air discovery and historical narrative, a thoughtful counterpoint to the Spido’s grand scale.
Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam
A day at Blijdorp Zoo shows Jan’s appreciation for world-class design beyond mere buildings. He recognizes the zoo’s status as a cultural institution, with its iconic historical structures and meticulously designed habitats. It’s a place of education, beauty, and conservation a full-day escape into curated natural worlds, reflecting a well-rounded curiosity.
Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JJ Rotterdam
This is a walk for a connoisseur. The sculpture route is an open-air museum, demonstrating his love for art integrated into public space. He enjoys the thoughtful stroll, the discovery of each piece, and the dialogue between the artworks and the city environment. It’s a free, always accessible cultural experience that requires a keen eye, which he clearly possesses.
Westersingel, 3014 GP Rotterdam
His restaurant selections are impeccable and tell a story of taste. This trio covers the spectrum of a perfect culinary week: the classic Dutch eetcafe warmth of De Pijp, the authentic and vibrant flavors of Hong Kong, and the reliable, comforting elegance of Italian cuisine at Trattoria. It shows a man who knows where to find quality, authenticity, and the right atmosphere for any occasion.
De Pijp: Gaffelstraat 90-A, 3014 RM Rotterdam
Hong Kong: Westersingel 15, 3014 GN Rotterdam
That’s not just a restaurant; it’s his reliable escape. Some places try too hard with fancy trends. Trattoria doesn’t need to. It understands something fundamental about good food and genuine comfort.
Schiedamse Vest 56, 3011 BG Rotterdam
Lotte Prins's Top 10
I’m Lotte Prins—a street artist, illustrator, and educator who sees Rotterdam through the lens of creativity and cultural richness.
My top 10 takes you beyond the obvious tourist spots. Sure, I’ll show you our world-class museums, but I’m equally excited about those hidden murals tucked away in unexpected corners and the public art pieces that most people walk past without noticing.
Rotterdam’s artistic landscape tells a story that goes much deeper than what you see on postcards. I want to share both the celebrated galleries and those secret creative gems that make this city truly special for anyone who appreciates art and culture.
Forget the crowded observation deck. Her spot is right here on the grass. It’s the perfect contradiction – the city’s most iconic structure looming above you while you’re doing something utterly simple. It’s where you go for lazy afternoon chats that turn into evening plans, with the best backdrop in town. No ticket required, just good company.
This is her daily reminder of why she lives here. That moment when the daylight fades and the city begins to glow. The lights from the Erasmus Bridge and the buildings reflect on the water, turning the skyline into a living painting. It never gets old. It’s the city showing off, and she’s here for it.
This choice proves her taste. She doesn’t follow the crowds to the standard tourist spots. She finds beauty where others don’t think to look. This open-air gallery in Afrikaanderwijk is vibrant, authentic, and tells the real stories of the city. It’s a bold, creative energy that feels more like Rotterdam than any museum could.
Lotte is clearly a thinker. She’s drawn to places with a soul. The FENIX isn’t just a museum; it’s an experience. It connects personal stories of movement and belonging to the very port that built this city. It’s a powerful, human story housed in a breathtaking warehouse, and it perfectly captures Rotterdam’s identity as a city of arrivals.
This is her go-to for a reason. It feels like stumbling upon a secret. Tucked away, unpretentious, with a vibe that’s both relaxed and buzzing. It’s the kind of place where you meet friends for one drink and end up staying for three. It’s a cornerstone of her social life – reliable, always good, and utterly without flash.
This spot tells you Lotte appreciates the new heart of Rotterdam. It’s in the middle of a transformed, creative district. The café is industrial yet warm, always buzzing with makers and entrepreneurs. It’s about feeling the city’s engine room at work, enjoying a great coffee or beer right in the middle of it all.
She doesn’t just want to go out; she wants an experience. MONO is for those nights. The sound system is legendary, the crowd is there for the music, and the energy is electric. It’s a dedicated vinyl bar that’s a level of authenticity and passion for the craft she clearly respects. It’s a place to lose yourself in the rhythm.
This is pure, unfiltered Rotterdam. Right on the water, with a no-nonsense attitude and a massive terrace. It’s where you go for a hearty meal, a cold beer, and to feel the gritty, port-city atmosphere. She comes here when she wants to escape the polish and tap into the city’s robust, working-class spirit.
Lotte knows how to maximize a summer evening. This place is an institution for a reason. The long communal tables, the endless flow of beer, the green oasis in the urban landscape. It’s the ultimate convivial spot. It’s where connections are made, laughs are loud, and you celebrate the simple joy of a sunny day.
This final choice reveals her eye for the unique. She’d rather skip the chain stores and find something with a story. Mystiek is a treasure trove of the unusual, the mystical, the one-of-a-kind. It’s a place that encourages curiosity and discovery. For her, finding a unique item here beats a generic purchase any day.