The Splashtour is the most playful way to see Rotterdam, and the moment the bus rolls down the ramp and into the river is guaranteed to get a cheer. The tour starts at the Parkhaven, right next to the Euromast, and spends the first part on land, driving through the city centre past some of its landmark buildings while the guide explains how Rotterdam was rebuilt after 1940. Then the bus heads for the water’s edge and splashes into the Maas, continuing as a boat with close-up views of the river, the bridges and the skyline from water level. Commentary is live, in English and Dutch, and the guides tend to keep it light and funny. It is a hit with families, but plenty of adults book it for the novelty alone. This page links to the Tiqets Splashtour ticket.
How to visit: the tour departs from Parkhaven 9, a few steps from the Euromast, reached by tram to the Euromast stop or by a pleasant walk along the river from the Erasmus Bridge. Check in at least ten minutes before your booked departure. The Tiqets ticket is a smartphone ticket for a set departure and is non-refundable, so book when your plans are fixed. Departures are less frequent in winter, and the operator may change times in bad weather, so check the available slots when booking.
What to expect: the tour lasts about sixty minutes. The bus is enclosed, with windows on both sides, and the splash into the river is gentle rather than wet, although you will see a wave from the windows. Seats on either side work well; the river side is better on the water. The guide talks throughout, so it is a good introduction to the city’s history and architecture as well as a ride.
Making the most of it: combine the Splashtour with the Euromast, either before or after, since they share the Parkhaven. Tiqets also sells combination tickets for the two, which can save a little. Families can continue to the zoo, while couples can walk on through Het Park to the riverside cafés of the Scheepvaartkwartier.
What to expect
The experience
A sixty-minute guided tour on an amphibious bus, first through the streets and then afloat on the Maas, with live commentary.
Best time
Late morning or early afternoon, combined with the Euromast next door.
How long
About an hour, plus ten minutes for check-in.
Tips
Arrive ten minutes early, sit on the river side for the water section, and look at the Euromast combination tickets on Tiqets.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and first-timers who want a fun, easy introduction to the city by road and river.
- Families
- The splash into the river is the highlight of many children’s trip, and the tour is short enough for young kids.
- Couples
- It is lighthearted fun; follow it with a walk through Het Park and drinks in the Scheepvaartkwartier.
- Pair with
- The Euromast at the same Parkhaven stop and Rotterdam Zoo for a full family day.
- Time needed
- About an hour and a quarter.
Good questions
Where does the Splashtour leave from?+
It leaves from Parkhaven 9, right beside the Euromast. Tram stops and the riverside walk from the Erasmus Bridge both get you there easily.
How long is the Splashtour?+
The tour lasts about sixty minutes, part on land and part on the water. Check in at least ten minutes before departure.
Is the Splashtour in English?+
Yes, the commentary is live and given in English and Dutch. Guides usually keep it light and funny.
Do you get wet on the Splashtour?+
No, the bus is enclosed and the splash into the river is gentle. You will see the wave through the windows rather than feel it.
Can I cancel the Splashtour on Tiqets?+
No, the Tiqets Splashtour ticket is non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled. Book once your plans are certain.
