Drinking

There are many places to go drinking in Rotterdam. Instead of mentioning specific bars, we prefer to highlight areas where the local people hang out.

In all Rotterdam bars, you can find different types of beers, with the most popular ones being Amstel, Heineken, Grolsch, Bavaria, Hoegaarden, Wieckse Witte, Hertog Jan, and Palm.

If you order beer on tap, they will probably offer you these sizes:

Small, Regular (19-25 cl), or Large (23-33 cl)

To go along with your drink, many bars serve typical snacks like fried meatballs, sausages, cheese snacks, and spring rolls. You can also get a mixed snack platter to try a little bit of everything.

Since the neighborhood of Schiedam is well-known for producing gin, the local people have a strong fondness for this drink. A shot of local gin is always appreciated.

Places to drink in Rotterdam:

Here, we have selected areas in Rotterdam where you can find lively bars and outdoor terraces.

Oudehaven: Pub area with vibrant terraces, especially during the summer.

Stadhuisplein: Several neighboring cafes that turn into nightclubs as the night goes on.

Wilhelminakade / Deliplein: Recently renovated area with a lively atmosphere and great city views. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Our favorite is the New York hotel.

Biergarten: A highly popular area throughout the year, with nearby nightclubs and concert venues.

Witte de With: An artistic street with many pubs offering outdoor seating. Witte Aap and Nieuwe Rotterdam Café are always busy. The supermarket has a wide variety of cocktails.

Meent: Another street in the city center with several bars. We recommend Paddy Murphy’s for an international vibe and live broadcasts of European league matches.

Weena: Pubs frequently visited by office workers.

Oostplein: A favorite area among Erasmus university students. Don’t miss Locus Publicus, where you can choose from over 200 beer brands.

Nieuwe Binnenweg / Oude Binnenweg: These streets have several bars with outdoor terraces. Rotown always has some event happening.

Delfshaven: A lively area with bars and terraces in a charming harbor setting. Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim brews their own beer there.

Westersingel: Bars located along the canal where you can have a drink and grab a bite.

Corner of Nieuwe Binnenweg and Heenradsingel: Three vibrant bars popular among the 35 plus crowd.

Other options to go out in Rotterdam