Rotterdam

Rotterdam, the Netherlands, is a city of striking modern architecture and innovative urban design. Largely rebuilt after being destroyed during World War II, Rotterdam is a city that looks to the future while embracing its maritime past. It is a major European port and a vibrant cultural hub, known for its creative art scene, unique buildings, and a thriving food culture. For a cruiser, Rotterdam is an excellent port to explore on foot, with its main attractions and public transportation all within easy reach of the cruise terminal.

⛵ Port Introduction

Your cruise ship will dock directly at the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, which is located on the Wilhelmina Pier. This is an enormous advantage, as you can walk right off the ship and onto the city streets, a rare occurrence for a port of this size. The terminal is just a short walk from many of the city's highlights, and a metro stop is right on the pier. The terminal is a large, permanent building that is part of the city's social and industrial heritage.

⚓ Terminal Information

The Cruise Terminal Rotterdam is a historic building that was used as a departure and arrival point for Holland America Line for many years. The building is known for its characteristic "shell roofs" and large windows that offer a wonderful view of the city. You'll simply walk from the ship, along the pier, and into the terminal building.

🚻 Terminal Facilities

The terminal has a number of amenities for your comfort. You'll find a tourist information desk with friendly staff, restrooms, and a cafe/restaurant. The terminal also has free Wi-Fi. Tour pickups, taxis, and the metro station are all located just a few minutes' walk from the terminal building.

🗣️ Language

The local language is Dutch, but virtually everyone you encounter in Rotterdam, especially in the tourist and service industries, speaks excellent English. You will have no trouble navigating, communicating, or exploring the city.

A few useful phrases:

·       Hallo (HAH-low) - Hello

·       Dank je wel (dahnk yuh VEL) - Thank you

·       Alstublieft (AHL-stoo-bleeft) - Please

·       Excuseer mij (eks-KOO-seer mey) - Excuse me

·       Spreek je Engels? (SPREYK yuh EHNG-els) - Do you speak English?

💰 Money

The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, and contactless payment methods are very common. It's a good idea to have some cash for smaller purchases, especially at local markets or for small shops. ATMs are easy to find throughout the city.

🚗 Transportation

Rotterdam's public transportation system is excellent and easy to use.

·       Walking: The best way to experience Rotterdam's unique architecture is on foot. The city center is a flat and easy walk from the cruise terminal.

·       Metro: The nearest metro station, Wilhelminaplein, is just a 4-minute walk from the cruise terminal. It is a fast and efficient way to get to all parts of the city.

·       Trams: The tram system is also a great way to get around the city, and many tram lines connect at Rotterdam Centraal Station.

·       Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal. The rates are regulated, and you can expect a fare to the city center to be around €15-€19. You can also use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt.

·       Bikes: Rotterdam is a very bike-friendly city. You can rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels.

♿ Accessibility

Rotterdam has an accessibility rating of 7 out of 10. The cruise terminal is fully accessible with elevators and accessible restrooms. The city itself, with its modern design, is generally very accessible. The metro and many of the trams have lifts or ramps for wheelchairs.

🚶‍♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port

The best way to get to the city from the cruise port is to walk or take the metro. The walk to the city center takes about 30 minutes, and it is a great way to see the city's unique architecture. The metro is a faster option, as it will get you to the city center in about 10 minutes.

🚽 Toilet

Public toilets are available in the city center, often at shopping centers and train stations. You may have to pay a small fee to use them.

💊 Drugstore

·       Apotheek Wilhelminaplein: Hillekop 72, 3072 JS Rotterdam, Netherlands. This is a very short walk from the cruise terminal.

·       Wester Apotheek: 2e Carnissestraat 4, 3082 VH Rotterdam, Netherlands.

✨ Authentic Experience

1.       Visit the Markthal and Cube Houses: For a taste of Rotterdam's innovative spirit, walk to the Markthal, a stunning architectural marvel that combines a food market with apartments. The ceiling is a work of art, and you can get a meal at one of the many food stalls. Right next to it, you can see the famous Cube Houses, a unique architectural experiment.

2.       Dine on Local Dutch Street Food at the Market: For a truly local experience, find a stall at the Markthal or the nearby outdoor market (on Tuesdays and Saturdays) and try some Dutch street food. You can get stroopwafels (waffles with caramel syrup), patatje oorlog (fries with a special sauce), or kibbeling (battered and fried pieces of cod).

3.       Explore the Delfshaven District: For a glimpse of historic Rotterdam, take a tram or walk to the Delfshaven district. This is one of the few areas of the city that survived the bombings of World War II. It's a charming neighborhood of historic buildings and canals, and it's a great place to wander, see the old brewery, and experience a different side of the city.