Going out

In this section, we have gathered a collection of places for going out in Rotterdam, and other activities to enjoy in the city. Click on the images for more details.

If you’re interested in knowing the schedule of festivals and events, make sure to visit our events/agenda section.

Rotterdam is a bustling city. Most people leave their homes early in the morning and return around six in the evening. During winter, it gets dark by that time, and it’s usually rainy and cold. It’s rare to see groups of friends socializing at venues during weekdays because they must wake up early the next day.

Throughout the week, people usually go for a run, visit the gym, or attend courses.

On weekends, things get livelier, and many people go out for drinks, dinner, concerts, or dancing. Most music venues close around 2 a.m., so the areas are more vibrant earlier compared to the south of Europe. Some nightclubs stay open later, and private parties are often organized among friends or colleagues.

In the summer, things change a bit. All the bars set up their outdoor seating, and on weekends, families escape the city in search of tranquility on the Dutch coast or in other countries. There are several parties, concerts, festivals, and barbecues in the parks. Rotterdam is truly lively during the summer.

The prices at bars are higher compared to Spain. A half-liter of beer costs over seven euros, a gin and tonic can reach eight euros, a pack of cigarettes costs nine euros, entering a nightclub can cost between 10 and 40 euros, and finding an affordable restaurant is challenging.

Explore the different options for going out in Rotterdam where you can eat, dance, relax, find new experiences, watch movies and theater, or enjoy live music performances.