Travel tips · Rotterdam · Netherlands
Rotterdam travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Quick answer
Rotterdammers have a reputation for directness and hard work, summed up in the local saying about rolling up your sleeves. The city is young and diverse, with large Surinamese, Antillean, Cape Verdean, Turkish and Moroccan communities, and treats architecture and design as part of its identity.
Key facts
- Language
- Dutch
- Currency
- EUR
- Plugs
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe and of high quality.
- Emergency
- 112 (European emergency number)
Things to know
- Stay out of the red-painted cycle lanes when walking; bikes have priority and move fast.
- Directness is normal and not meant as rudeness.
- Greet staff with 'Goedemiddag' or 'Hallo' when entering a shop.
- Splitting the bill ('Dutch') is common among friends.
- Let passengers off trams and metros before boarding.
- Book Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen ahead: Timed-entry tickets are recommended at weekends and in school holidays.
- The Rotterdam Welcome Card combines transport and attraction discounts if you plan several paid visits.
Tipping
Service is included. Rounding up or leaving about 5–10% for good table service is appreciated but not expected.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Dank je wel | Thank you |
| Goedemorgen | Good morning |
| Mag ik afrekenen? | Can I pay, please? |
| Proost | Cheers |
What to wear
Casual and practical; bring a waterproof and windproof jacket year-round, as the river and open quays can be windy.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe and of high quality.
- Emergency number
- 112 (European emergency number)
- Phone and internet
- Mobile coverage is excellent and free Wi-Fi is common; EU roaming applies to European SIMs.
- Time zone
- Europe/Amsterdam
Rotterdam is generally relaxed for visitors. Watch for pickpockets at Rotterdam Centraal and on crowded trams, take care with fast-moving cyclists in bike lanes, and use the official water taxis rather than unlicensed boats.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Netherlands's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Rotterdam?
Service is included. Rounding up or leaving about 5–10% for good table service is appreciated but not expected.
+Can you drink the tap water in Rotterdam?
Tap water is safe and of high quality.
+What plugs are used in Rotterdam?
Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Rotterdam?
Dutch.