Rotterdam: Exploring the City in a Day

Rotterdam, often overshadowed by Amsterdam, is a hidden gem in the Netherlands, brimming with striking architecture, lively markets, and plenty of free attractions – making it the perfect spot for a budget-friendly day trip. I took the FlixBus from London Victoria to Rotterdam, which made for a convenient and affordable overnight journey. If you’re travelling from Amsterdam, it’s only about 75 km (47 miles) away, with a quick 40-minute train ride between the cities.

Arriving at Rotterdam Centraal Station, I couldn’t help but admire its impressive modern design. From there, I dove straight into exploring. My first stop was the iconic Cube Houses, with their bold yellow, tilted design that’s instantly recognisable. Walking around this area is free, so you’re off to a good start budget-wise. For just €3, you can visit the Kijk-Kubus Museum to explore the interior of one of the cube-shaped houses.

By lunchtime, I was craving something tasty and inexpensive, so I headed over to Markthal, a massive food hall with a striking, colourful ceiling. I treated myself to a couple of budget-friendly vegetarian snacks – fresh stroopwafels and Dutch-style fried cauliflower – for around €5.

In the afternoon, I strolled across the Erasmus Bridge, also known as 'The Swan' because of its elegant, swooping design. The views of the city from the bridge are breathtaking. I also visited Delfshaven, one of the few parts of Rotterdam that survived the bombings of World War II. Its picturesque canals and historic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing walk. If you happen to be in Rotterdam on a Wednesday, many museums, like Kunsthal, offer free entry, so it’s a great chance to soak in the city’s cultural side without spending a penny.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Hotel New York, a historic building that offers stunning views of the sunset over the water. The best part? It’s free to enjoy, and you’ll definitely want to snap a photo.

For dinner, I headed to Fenix Food Factory, a lively street food hall where you can find a variety of international dishes. I opted for a delicious falafel plate with roasted vegetables, which cost me around €10-€15.

After a full day in Rotterdam, I took the FlixBus back to Amsterdam, which remained the most affordable return option when booked in advance.

Rotterdam is a brilliant destination for anyone on a budget. With its combination of free attractions and affordable options, it’s a city that allows you to experience modern architecture, history, and local culture without breaking the bank. Whether you’re wandering through architectural landmarks or enjoying a relaxed afternoon by the canals, Rotterdam offers plenty to see and do, all while keeping your wallet happy.

Cost Breakdown:

Item	Cost
FlixBus (London-Rotterdam return)	£80
FlixBus (Rotterdam-Amsterdam)	£3.49
Kijk-Kubus Museum	£2.50
Lunch (Markthal)	Approximately £4
Dinner (Fenix Food Factory)	Approximately £9.50
Total	£99.50

Budget-Saving Tips:

• Walk: Rotterdam is very walkable, which will save a lot of money on public transport.

• Utilize Free Attractions: Rotterdam offers many free attractions, so take advantage of them.

• Eat at Markets and Food Halls: Markets and food halls are a great way to eat well for less.