Rotterdam is a very good city for families. It is compact, flat and full of things that children like: boats, towers, animals, tiny cities and a ship you can sleep on. The attractions are well organised, the public transport is easy, and the city is less crowded than Amsterdam. Here is how to plan a trip with children.
Start with the water
Children tend to love the river. The Spido harbour cruise takes you past huge cranes, container ships and tugs, with audio commentary, and the Splashtour amphibious bus drives through the streets and then splashes into the water, which is a highlight for younger children. Water taxis are another small adventure, because the yellow boats skim between the Erasmus Bridge, the Wilhelminapier and Katendrecht. The Maritime Museum, next to the Leuvehaven, has interactive areas where children can steer and load, and ships moored outside.
Go up the Euromast
The tower is an easy way to give children a view of the whole city. The lift is quick, the platform has plenty to look at, and the rotating glass Euroscoop is a thrill for those who like heights, though it is less suitable for anyone nervous. Younger children may prefer the main platform at 100 metres, which still shows the harbour and the bridges. Combine it with a walk through the park or the Splashtour, which departs close by.
Meet the animals
Rotterdam Zoo, known as Blijdorp, is one of the best in the Netherlands, with large outdoor areas and the covered Oceanium, which houses sea life and is a lifesaver on a wet day. Allow at least half a day, and wear comfortable shoes. The zoo is a short ride from the centre by tram or bus, so it is easy to fit in without a car.
Think small
Miniworld Rotterdam is a perfect rainy-day stop, with model railways, tiny cities and a scaled-down port. Children enjoy hunting for hidden details, and the day-to-night lighting is a hit. It is quick, indoors and close to the station, so it works as a short break between bigger activities.
Climb aboard the ss Rotterdam
The former Holland America Line flagship is a hit with children who like exploring. You can tour the decks, the bridge and the engine room, and the ship also operates as a hotel, so a night aboard is a memorable treat for families, with themed and family rooms. Katendrecht, where it is moored, has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of places to eat.
Add a day trip
Kinderdijk is a good family day out. Children can run along the dyke paths, climb inside a museum mill and take the boat. The fast ferry from the Erasmus Bridge makes the journey part of the fun, though it runs only at weekends in autumn and winter. Delft is another easy trip, where children can see pottery being painted, and in spring Keukenhof is a colourful day out for families who do not mind queues.
A sample three-day plan
On day one, cruise the harbour, walk to the Markthal for lunch and finish with the Euromast at sunset. On day two, spend the morning at the zoo and the afternoon at the Maritime Museum or Miniworld. On day three, take the ferry to Kinderdijk or the train to Delft. Keep each day flexible, with a playground or park stop in the afternoon, because children need breaks as much as sights.
Practical tips
Public transport is free or discounted for younger children, so check the rules for your child’s age. Pushchairs are easy on most trams and in most attractions, but cobbled streets in the old areas can be bumpy. The Markthal and Katendrecht have lots of casual food, and most restaurants have a children’s menu. Pack a light waterproof, because showers are common, and plan indoor options for every day. If you are staying in the city, a family-friendly hotel such as the ss Rotterdam makes the trip feel like an adventure from the first night.
Eating with children
The Markthal is the easiest option, because everyone can choose their own food from the stalls, and the long opening hours help with early dinners. Katendrecht has relaxed places where children are welcome, and most cafes in the museums serve simple meals. If you are on the move, keep snacks and water in your bag, because the gaps between attractions can be long when you are waiting for a boat or a tram.
