Frequently asked questions
Answers to what tourists ask most — short and concrete.
How do I get from Schiphol airport to Rotterdam? +
The direct Intercity train runs every 15-30 minutes, takes 25-45 minutes (€11.80 one-way). One change at Rotterdam Centraal and you're in the city centre. A taxi costs €70-90 and takes 35-45 minutes without traffic.
Does the OV-chipkaart work, or can I just tap to pay? +
Since 2024, OVpay works: tap your bank card, credit card or phone (Apple/Google Pay) at the gates — same rate as the OV-chipkaart. No need to buy or top up a card.
What language do people speak in Rotterdam? +
Dutch, but nearly everyone speaks fluent English — especially in hospitality, museums, hotels and taxis. German and French are also widely understood.
What absolutely must I see in one day? +
Markthal + Cube Houses + Erasmus Bridge + Hotel New York on Wilhelminapier. That's a ~3 km walking route, 4 hours total including lunch in the Markthal. Use our "Plan your day" tool to organise it.
What should I do when it rains? +
Markthal and Hofbogen are covered. Boijmans, Kunsthal, Maritime Museum and Wereldmuseum are within three minutes' walk of each other — perfect for a rainy day. Or the Maastunnel cycling tube (free, 1942 art-deco interior).
How expensive is food and drink? +
Coffee + apple pie at Dudok: ~€7. Fries or sandwich at a snackbar: €5-8. Lunch café: €15-20. Mid-range dinner: €30-45. Michelin star (FG Food Labs, Parkheuvel): €100+. iDEAL and contactless work everywhere.
Is Rotterdam safe at night? +
The centre, Kop van Zuid, Witte de With and Kralingen are perfectly walkable in the evening. In Rotterdam South (Spangen, Bloemhof, Hillesluis) keep valuables out of sight as in any large city.
Can I visit Kinderdijk from Rotterdam? +
Yes — the Waterbus (line 20, from Erasmus Bridge) takes 30 minutes to the UNESCO windmills. Combine with a return via Dordrecht for a full day trip.
How much does a harbour cruise cost? +
Spido Harbour Cruise: €15.75 for 75 minutes (adults). Splashtours (amphibious bus): €31. Water taxi to Hotel New York: €5.50 flat rate. Book direct via this site, zero commission.
What currency is used and can I pay by card everywhere? +
Euro (€). You can tap-pay almost everywhere with bank card, credit card or phone. Many places no longer accept cash — always carry your card.
What are museum opening hours? +
Most museums: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-17:00, closed Monday. Depot Boijmans and Kunsthal are open 7 days. Book tickets ahead to skip the queue. Seniors 65+, students and Museumkaart holders often get discount.
What events are on this month? +
See our /agenda/ page for live events. Yearly highlights: Koningsdag (27 April), World Harbour Days (first weekend of September), North Sea Round Town (July), Rotterdam Marathon (April).