Rotterdam Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Rotterdam
This budget-friendly itinerary for Rotterdam families focuses on a mix of iconic free city experiences and exciting, worthwhile ticketed attractions designed to engage children aged 3-12. We've considered early bedtimes, kid-friendly meal options, and plenty of opportunities for active play and learning, ensuring a truly special weekend for everyone.
Friday Evening - Kids' Discovery & Delight
Friday, January 2Interactive Museum Exploration
Dive into the Maritiem Museum, home to a vast collection exploring the Netherlands' maritime history.
It features 'Professor Splash's Maritime Expedition', an interactive children's exhibition perfect for kids aged 4 to 10. Children can learn about shipping, ports, and discover maritime adventures through play.
The 'Professor Splash' exhibit is highly engaging for young children, with hands-on activities, games, and dressing up. Facilities include accessible restrooms and stroller-friendly pathways. Plan for a 1.5 to 2-hour visit. Great for both curious and active kids.
Easily accessible by public transport (metro stop Leuvehaven is right outside). Paid parking garages like Erasmusbrug Q-Park are nearby but can be expensive. Consider public transport for ease.
Dinner at Markthal
Enjoy an early, casual family dinner at the iconic Markthal, a unique architectural marvel combining housing with an indoor market.
Kids will be fascinated by the colourful ceiling artwork and the bustling atmosphere. There are numerous food stalls offering a wide variety of cuisines suitable for all tastes, from Dutch stroopwafels to international dishes.
The Markthal provides plenty of space, and children will love exploring the different food vendors and choosing their own treats. Many vendors offer quick, affordable, and kid-friendly options. Restrooms are available. This is a great spot for a vibrant, yet relaxed, family meal.
Located centrally, easily reachable by metro (Blaak station is underneath). Multiple parking garages are available directly beneath and around Markthal, making it convenient for families with strollers or cars.
Saturday - Grand Animal & City Adventures
Saturday, January 3Diergaarde Blijdorp Zoo
Spend the morning at Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo), one of Europe's oldest and most beautiful zoos.
Explore different continents through their unique habitats, from the African savannah to the Oceanium, where sharks and sea turtles swim above you. There are several playgrounds and ample space for kids to run around.
Perfect for energetic kids, the zoo offers diverse animal encounters and interactive elements. The Oceanium is a highlight, and the various playgrounds help break up the walking. Stroller-friendly paths and numerous restrooms are available. Plan for at least 3-4 hours.
Well-connected by public transport (bus 33 from Rotterdam Centraal). Extensive paid parking is available directly at the zoo for those arriving by car.
Zoo Lunch & Play
Have a relaxed lunch at one of the many family-friendly restaurants or picnic spots within Diergaarde Blijdorp.
The 'Oewanja' restaurant near the African savannah offers a good range of options, and there are several kiosks for quick snacks. Afterwards, let the kids burn off some energy at one of the zoo's large playgrounds, like the 'Indoor speelparadijs Jungle Jim' (Jungle Jim Indoor Playground) which is great for rainy days or to unwind.
Kid-friendly food options are plentiful, from sandwiches to warm meals. The indoor playground is a fantastic feature, especially on a chilly January day, allowing children to play freely and safely. Restrooms are always close by.
Located within the zoo, no additional travel needed from the previous activity.
Erasmus Bridge Walk
Embark on a free, invigorating walk across the iconic Erasmus Bridge, known as 'The Swan'.
This architectural masterpiece offers stunning panoramic views of Rotterdam's skyline, the Maas River, and the bustling port. Kids will enjoy seeing the boats pass by and feeling the open air.
A wonderful photo opportunity for families. The pedestrian path is wide and stroller-accessible. It's an easy, flat walk that allows kids to get some fresh air and appreciate the city's modern architecture. Restrooms are not available directly on the bridge, so plan accordingly.
Easily accessible from the city center via public transport (various tram/bus stops nearby, metro to Leuvehaven or Wilhelminaplein). If driving, parking is available in nearby garages on both sides of the bridge.
Cube House Exploration
Visit the famous Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen), a set of innovative houses built in a unique tilted cube design.
While you can admire the exterior for free, consider visiting the 'Show Cube' (Kijk-Kubus) to experience what it's like inside one of these peculiar dwellings. It's a fun and quirky architectural experience kids will remember.
Kids will be fascinated by the unusual angles and design. The Show Cube is an interesting, quick visit (approx. 15-20 minutes) that provides insight into living in such a house. It can be a bit tight with strollers inside the Show Cube itself, but the surrounding area is accessible.
Located next to the Markthal, making it easy to combine. Accessible via metro/train to Blaak station. Parking available under Markthal.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Fun
Sunday, January 4Plaswijckpark Play
Enjoy a morning at Plaswijckpark, a multi-faceted park offering a wealth of attractions for families.
It features a 'Play City' with indoor and outdoor playgrounds, a 'Traffic Garden' for kids to learn about traffic rules, and a 'Dierenpark' with farm animals and small wildlife.
Plaswijckpark is a fantastic all-weather option. Kids can run, climb, and play for hours. The indoor play areas are perfect for a colder January day. Restrooms and changing facilities are readily available. Ideal for ages 3-12, offering a relaxed pace for Sunday.
Accessible by car with ample free parking. Also reachable by public bus from Rotterdam Centraal Station.
Park Picnic & Relax
After a morning of play, find a comfortable spot within Plaswijckpark for a relaxed picnic lunch.
The park has numerous green spaces and benches ideal for enjoying packed sandwiches and snacks. Alternatively, there are snack bars and a pancake house within the park for a quick bite. Afterwards, visit the 'Dierenpark' section to see and interact with farm animals, offering a calmer, educational experience.
Bringing your own picnic is a great budget-friendly option, providing flexibility and allowing kids to eat at their own pace. The animal park is a lovely wind-down activity for children, offering gentle interaction with animals. Restrooms are nearby.
Located within Plaswijckpark, no extra travel needed.
Central Library Storytime
Wind down the weekend with a visit to the Centrale Bibliotheek Rotterdam (Central Library).
While specific storytime events for this exact time might not be listed this far in advance, the children's section is always open and welcoming. It's a wonderful, free space where kids can browse books, read, and engage in quiet play. Check their website closer to the date for any spontaneous Sunday afternoon activities or story times.
A perfect, free, and quiet activity before heading home to prepare for the school week. The children's section is well-equipped and comfortable. Restrooms are available. Good for all ages, offering a peaceful environment.
Centrally located and easily accessible by metro (Blaak or Stadhuis stations) and tram. Several paid parking garages are nearby.
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