Best photo spots in Rotterdam
Hello again – after an unplanned but, as it turns out, much-needed break from blogging.
I’m back to writing with a head (and notebook) full of topics that have been piling up over the past few weeks - all carefully stored on the hard drive of my brain.
Here in the Netherlands, summer has started to show up - still a bit shy, but definitely on its way. And since summer is all about going places and wandering around, I thought it’s the perfect moment to share a few articles with tips on where to head if you’re looking to put your camera to good use.
Since a big part of my readers are scattered across the Netherlands, I figured I’d start close to home - with a local gem, my personal number one among number ones: Rotterdam.
Let this also be a continuation of the little series I started on photo-friendly locations in the Netherlands. If you’ve been following, you’ll know I’ve already covered a piece of the coast and Amsterdam.
Rotterdam holds a special place in my heart.
I love this city - and that says a lot coming from someone who doesn’t really like cities (especially the big ones). But with Rotterdam, it was love at first sight. Long before photography ever entered the picture.
This place has it all.
And if you’re anything like me - if you’d pick good vibes over big crowds, subtle details over flashy landmarks, and if you enjoy discovering places slowly, soaking in the culture, food, light, nature, and architecture - all with a camera in hand - then Rotterdam might just be your perfect city break destination.
In this blog, I’ll give you a glimpse into some of my favourite streets, neighbourhoods and photo spots. And at the end, I’ll drop a few practical tips on how to get around.
Katendrecht
I’m a bit embarrassed to admit I only really discovered this part of Rotterdam recently.
This district — once the largest Chinatown in the Netherlands — doesn’t exactly have the most polished past. It used to be known for opium dens and prostitution, a place where sailors from nearby ships would come ashore and… well, let’s say it was lively.
But since around 2010, Katendrecht has been going through a full-on transformation.
The Katendrecht waterfront feels like it was made for fans of all things industrial. Old port warehouses, steel, brick, and factory bones - I could spend hours just walking around and taking it all in.
The newly opened Fenix Migration Museum is absolutely worth a visit (pro tip: book your ticket online).
After a photo walk, definitely swing by Deliplein, where you’ll find a handful of great bars and restaurants. My top pick is Deli Bird - a small Thai place with big flavour. It’s super popular though, so make sure you book in advance.
Kop van Zuid
Katendrecht connects to Kop van Zuid via the Rijnhaven Bridge — a pedestrian and bike-friendly crossing with a great view.
This district sits on the southern bank of the Nieuwe Maas, directly across from the city center. It’s got a super New York vibe - think wide streets, towering buildings, and a certain cinematic energy - but still feels totally like Rotterdam.
No surprise there, considering this is where Holland America Line ships used to dock, and where you’ll find the iconic Hotel New York, along with a few streets that look like they were lifted straight out of the Big Apple.
The waterside here is perfect for skyline shots - with the Erasmus Bridge slicing across the view and the city rising up behind it.
Need a bit of inspiration? Drop into the Nederlands Fotomuseum for some, or head to Lantaren Venster - a cozy arthouse cinema and concert venue with just the right atmosphere.
Delfshaven
Once a port of the city of Delft, later a town of its own, and now a fully-fledged district of Rotterdam.
It’s one of the few parts of the city that wasn’t flattened during the 1940 bombing, and although it was partially hit again in 1943 by the Allies, much of its original charm survived. And you can feel it in every corner.
Today, it’s a small, laid-back residential area filled with cozy bars and tiny restaurants. With the canal running through it, houseboats along the edge, and an old port vibe, it’s full of lovely details waiting to be photographed.
A few streets here genuinely feel like a mini Amsterdam - in the best way possible.
Perfect for a slow morning walk (if you’re into calm and quiet) or an evening stroll (if you prefer a bit of buzz).
Euromast
Euromast towers over Rotterdam like it owns the place - and it kind of does.
At 100 meters, the observation deck already gives you killer 360° views of the city, but if you take the Euroscoop up to 185 meters, things get even better. It’s definitely worth timing your visit for a clear day - unless you’re into those heavy, moody skies (which also look amazing in photos).
If you're planning a night shoot, bring a tripod - the tower’s open until 10 PM, and there’s enough space on the deck to set up without getting in anyone’s way. No special permit needed.
Tickets cost €12.50 if you book online, and the views are worth it - Rotterdam laid out at your feet, from the port to the skyline, with the river weaving through it all.
Museumpark
Museumpark is home to the three of my favorite museums: Kunsthal, Boijmans Van Beuningen, and Het Nieuwe Instituut. Each one has not only a great cultural offer, but also their own vibe and style, and none should be missed - whether you’re into culture, art, or architecture photography.
If you want to check out all three, get yourself a Museumkaart - an annual museum pass that gets you into over 500 spots across the Netherlands. It’s a smart investment if you’re planning to visit museums or galleries regularly, saving you a good chunk of money in the long run.
Transport in Rotterdam
The best way to get around the city is usually by bike or public transport - and Rotterdam has plenty of both. But there are a couple of even cooler options that make getting around feel like an experience in itself.
First up: the Waterbus - a ferry running along the Nieuwe Maas river, from Rotterdam all the way to Dordrecht. It’s part of the public transport system, so you can use your OV-chipkaart (the same card you use for buses, trams, metros, and trains).
Even cooler is the Watertaxi. These bright yellow water taxis cruise between Schiedam and Oostwijk. They’re not just a super cool way to get around, they’re also super fast. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends, and you’ll need a dedicated app to do it. Fun fact: it’s cheaper than a regular taxi or Uber.
Both options offer more than just transport - they give you a fresh perspective on the city from the water. And as you probably know, being on the water is a shortcut to some truly amazing photo opportunities.
I created a guide (well, a mini-course is a better word), which will help you make more compelling, clean pictures.
It includes a little bit of theory, example images and practical tips/exercises.
Do you want to start making minimalistic, clean images that stand out? That guide is for you. And yes, it’s FREE.