Just stepped off your P&O Ferries sailing from Hull to Rotterdam? Welcome to one of Europe’s coolest and most creative cities! With its bold architecture, buzzing food scene, and laid-back vibe, Rotterdam is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
Whether you’re into art, shopping, sightseeing or just soaking up a new city’s energy, Rotterdam has something to offer every traveller – and it’s all just a short trip from the ferry terminal.
Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Rotterdam:
🏙️ Day 1: Dive Into the City’s Unique Vibe
🚶 Morning: Explore the Architectural Icons
Start your day at the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) – Rotterdam’s most famous landmark. These tilted, bright yellow cubes are a must-see, and you can even tour the Show Cube Museum inside.
Then head over to the Markthal, a stunning horseshoe-shaped market hall where you can admire the enormous ceiling mural and sample local bites.
☕ Coffee Break:
Pop into Hopper Coffee or Man Met Bril for artisan brews and pastries – perfect for people-watching and planning your next move.
🖼️ Afternoon: Art & Culture
Visit the Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot, the world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility with rooftop views and reflective architecture. Or explore Kunsthal, a vibrant museum with ever-changing exhibitions.
🍔 Evening: Dinner With a View
Try Fenix Food Factory in the up-and-coming Katendrecht district for street food vibes, or book a table at Euromast, a tower-top restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
🚲 Day 2: Eat, Shop & Cruise
🍳 Morning: Brunch by the Water
Start your Sunday slow with brunch at Baker & Moore or Lilith Coffee, known for creative breakfasts and stylish interiors.
🛍️ Late Morning: Time to Shop
Hit the Witte de Withstraat, a lively street packed with independent boutiques, vintage stores, and art galleries. Don’t miss GROOS, a concept store full of Rotterdam-made fashion and design.
🛥️ Afternoon: See the City From the Water
Hop aboard a Spido boat tour to see Rotterdam’s impressive port – the largest in Europe. It’s a unique way to appreciate the city’s modern skyline and maritime history.
🌆 Optional Add-On: The Hague or Kinderdijk
Got extra time? Rotterdam is well connected. Take a short train ride to The Hague for beaches and royal palaces, or cycle out to Kinderdijk to see UNESCO-protected windmills.
🍟 What to Eat: Dutch Delights You Can’t Miss
✅ Bitterballen – crispy meat-filled snacks, best with mustard and beer
✅ Kapsalon – Rotterdam’s famous loaded fries (meat, cheese, and salad)
✅ Poffertjes – mini fluffy pancakes dusted with sugar
✅ Haring – raw herring with onions, for the brave and the local
✅ Stroopwafel – caramel-filled waffle treat, perfect with coffee
🚗 Getting Around
Rotterdam is compact and walkable, but you can also:
- Rent a bike from Donkey Republic or OV-fiets
- Use trams and metros with an OV-chipkaart
- Or just cruise by water taxi – it’s fast and fun!
🌟 Final Tip: Start Your Weekend the Easy Way
Travel stress-free with P&O Ferries and arrive overnight, well-rested and ready to explore. Enjoy onboard dining, entertainment, and en suite cabins – all before waking up in the Netherlands.