Things to Do in Rotterdam in 1 Day: Kinderdijk & More

Last Updated on 24/04/2025

Things to do in Rotterdam in one day – Planning a day trip to Rotterdam? This guide covers how to visit Kinderdijk, Cube Houses, Markthal and other highlights with transport tips.

Contents

Is a day trip to Rotterdam worth it?

Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and a true symbol of modernity. Unlike the traditional Dutch image of windmills and canals, Rotterdam was almost completely destroyed during WWII. The post-war reconstruction gave rise to cutting-edge architecture and innovative urban planning, earning it the nickname “a paradise for architecture lovers”.

If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands and considering *day trips from Amsterdam*, Rotterdam is definitely worth including. With convenient transport and compact attractions, you’ll experience a completely different vibe compared to Amsterdam.

How to Get to Rotterdam

By train from Amsterdam Central Station
- The fastest journey takes about 40 minutes to reach Rotterdam Central Station.
From Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol)
- Direct train connections to Rotterdam are available
Day tours from Amsterdam
- Day Trip from Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague
- GoCity Amsterdam Includes the above tour
From other European cities
- From nearby cities like Brussels in Belgium, take the train
- Eurail Global Train Pass for 33 European Countries

Getting Around in Rotterdam

Most attractions in central Rotterdam are within walking distance. For public transport, you can use the metro, trams, or buses. Simply tap in and out with a contactless credit card.

RET One-Day Public Transport Ticket in Rotterdam
- This pass covers all metro, tram and bus services in the city for one day.

Map of Must-See Spots for a One-Day Trip in Rotterdam

Here is the route and map for my one-day itinerary in Rotterdam:

Rotterdam Central Station ➡️ Kinderdijk ➡️ Erasmus Bridge ➡️ Markthal ➡️ Cube Houses & Blaaktoren

The map is set to English by default. Simply click on the 'Enlarge Map' icon in the top right corner to switch to your preferred language!

1: Rotterdam Central Station

Start your trip at Rotterdam Centraal, the city’s main transport hub and a landmark in itself.

2: Kinderdijk Windmill Village – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Kinderdijk Day Trip from Rotterdam｜Transport & Tips

Kinderdijk is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its 19 historic windmills. It’s one of the best-preserved windmill clusters in the Netherlands. The combination of windmills, canals, and open fields creates a peaceful and scenic setting. You can explore on foot, rent a bike, or take a boat tour. Entry tickets allow access to a windmill museum for a closer look.

Take the Waterbus from central Rotterdam to Kinderdijk. It’s one of the most unique nearby destinations, showcasing traditional Dutch windmill landscapes.

Transport: The Waterbus from central Rotterdam takes about 30–40 minutes.

Waterbus Tickets to Kinderdijk
Kinderdijk tickets

3: Erasmus Bridge Photo Stop

On your way to and from Kinderdijk, the Waterbus passes the iconic Erasmus Bridge. This modern structure is one of Rotterdam’s most famous landmarks. It’s a great photo opportunity to enjoy views of the bridge and the river.

If you’d like a more leisurely sightseeing cruise ➡️
- Rotterdam: Harbour Sightseeing Boat Tour

4: Markthal – A Food and Architecture Highlight

Back in the city centre, head to Markthal, a perfect lunch stop after your morning at Kinderdijk. It’s also one of the city’s architectural masterpieces.

Recommended Experience：Walking Tour of Rotterdam City Centre

Markthal is a combination of a food hall and residential building. From the outside, it looks like a giant arch, while the inside ceiling features vibrant fruit and vegetable artwork. You’ll find a wide range of Dutch and international street food here.

Don’t miss the chance to try Stroopwafels, Dutch cheese, and freshly squeezed juices.

5: Cube Houses and Blaaktoren

Next, visit the Cube Houses designed by architect Piet Blom. These tilted homes are rotated 45 degrees and appear like a row of upside-down cubes – a signature of Rotterdam’s unique architecture.

You can visit the Kijk-Kubus (Show Cube) to explore one of the houses and appreciate the clever use of space.

Next to the Cube Houses is the Blaaktoren, also known as the “Pencil Building” due to its cylindrical shape. It contrasts sharply with the Cube Houses and is another notable landmark. However, as it’s a private residence, it’s not open to the public.