Rotterdam Balloon Company
© Frans Berkelaar
Cruise Terminal Rotterdam. What to see and do.
by Rotterdam Balloon Company, 2024-05-11
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The Cruise Terminal Rotterdam is the place where cruise ships enter and leave the city. Located on the Wilhelminakade on the Kop van Zuid, you are right in the middle of the tall skyscrapers, old warehouses and a lot of cozy places to eat and drink. Whether you have just disembarked, want to go into the city before departure or are just curious about this special place, there is plenty to do here.
From the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam you can walk to a number of top hotels, nice restaurants and nice cafes. You can admire the skyline from a terrace, have a bite to eat with a view of the Maas or explore the city further by water taxi. The Wilhelminapier is a mix of history and modern architecture, which makes it a unique place to stroll around.
In this article you can read exactly what you can do here and which places you really should not miss. This is how you make your cruise adventure from Rotterdam complete!
Hotels
If you are looking for a hotel near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, Wilhelminakade is the place to be. On Wilhelminapier, in the middle of the modern Kop van Zuid district, you will find several hotels with a beautiful view of the Maas and the Rotterdam skyline. Whether you stay a night before or after your cruise, you will sleep within walking distance of the terminal and you will be surrounded by nice restaurants and sights. From luxury hotels to trendy boutique stays, there is always an option that suits you!
nhow Rotterdam Hotel
Are you looking for a hotel with a great view of the Maas and the skyline? nhow Rotterdam is located on the Wilhelminakade, right next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, and is situated in the iconic De Rotterdam skyscraper. This modern hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop bar and an ideal location on the Kop van Zuid. Perfect for an overnight stay before or after your cruise, with restaurants, attractions and the water taxi within easy reach.
Room Mate Bruno Hotel
Room Mate Bruno is a modern and colorful hotel on the Wilhelminapier, diagonally across from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam. Housed in a former tea warehouse, this hotel combines historical elements with a hip design. Due to its central location on the Kop van Zuid, you have restaurants, sights and the metro within easy reach. An ideal base for cruise travelers who want to spend the night in style!
Hotel New York
Hotel New York is an iconic location on the Wilhelminakade, right on the Maas and next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam. This historic hotel, located in the former head office of the Holland-America Line, breathes the atmosphere of times gone by when thousands of travelers left Rotterdam by ship. Today it is a unique place to stay, with an atmospheric restaurant, a large terrace on the water and a beautiful location on the Kop van Zuid. Perfect for cruise travelers who want to start or end their journey with a touch of nostalgia!
Restaurants
The area around the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, on the Wilhelminakade and the Wilhelminapier, is full of good restaurants and cozy bars. Whether you want to dine extensivelyeren, a quick bite to eat before your cruise, or just a drink with a view of the Maas, you're in the right place. From sushi to steak, cocktails to craft beer - at the Kop van Zuid you'll find something for everyone. A perfect place to start or end your cruise in style!
Happy Italy
On the Kop van Zuid, near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you can enjoy large portions of pizza and pasta for a small price at Happy Italy. Whether you opt for a classic Italian meal or a surprising creation such as the Pizza Kapsalon, you are guaranteed to leave with a full belly and a smile. With a terrace on the Maas and a location right next to the Erasmus Bridge, this is the perfect place to eat before or after your cruise. Would you rather enjoy it in your hotel room? Ordering and pick-up is also possible!
Ketelbinkie
In the middle of the Wilhelminapier, next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you will find Ketelbinkie, a restaurant where good and affordable food meets real Rotterdam coziness. Located in the impressive skyscraper De Rotterdam, this place has a warm, nostalgic atmosphere with high ceilings, brick walls and stained glass details. Here you can enjoy a casual meal in an atmospheric setting, perfect for a lunch or dinner before or after your cruise. Whether you're going for a hearty meal or a quick bite, at Ketelbinkie you can taste the Rotterdam mentality!
Elvy
On the 7th floor of the nhow Rotterdam hotel, next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you will find Elvy, an urban gastrobar with a panoramic view of the Maas and the city skyline. Here, global street food influences merge with refined cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. From pork belly and burrito bowls to vegetarian curries and falafel, the menu offers an eclectic mix of flavors. During the day, you can go here for lunch and dinner, while the rooftop bar serves the most delicious cocktails from 4:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday nights, DJ sets provide extra atmosphere, and in the summer, the terrace is the place to be for an after-work drink or a relaxing evening with friends. A unique experience on the Wilhelminapier where taste and skyline come together!
Vista
On the Wilhelminapier, in the iconic De Rotterdam building, lies Restobar VISTA, a stylish eatery with a relaxed atmosphere and a spectacular view of the Maas and the Erasmus Bridge. This Rotterdam restobar is the sister of the Michelin-starred VISTA in Willemstad and offers refined brasserie dishes with the finesse of star cuisine. The menu includes classics that can be ordered à la carte, but also a surprising chef's menu for those who want to be surprised. The extensive wine list, with a strong focus on Burgundy wines, completes the culinary experience. Whether you choose to dine inside, with a view of the open kitchen, or relax on the spacious terrace by the water, at VISTA you can enjoy high-quality gastronomy ina relaxed setting on the Kop van Zuid.
Aqua Asia Club
On the Wilhelminapier, also next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you can enjoy Aqua Asia Club sushi and cocktails with a spectacular view of the Erasmus Bridge. In the winter you can dine inside, while in the summer you can lounge by the water. In addition to the well-known sushi classics, the menu also includes luxury versions with lobster, caviar and foie gras. With a good glass of wine or a refined cocktail, this is the perfect place for a relaxing evening. Especially when the city lights up in the dark, the view is breathtaking!
Foodhallen Rotterdam
In the middle of the Wilhelminapier, directly opposite the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you will find Foodhallen Rotterdam, located in the monumental Pakhuis Meesteren. Here you can choose from twelve changing restaurants, from street food to fine dining, all under one roof. Perfect for a cozy evening where you first get a drink at the bar and then decide for yourself what you feel like. On Friday and Saturday evenings, Beats & Bites provide extra atmosphere, with drinks and music until the early hours. An ideal place to taste, discover and enjoy at the Kop van Zuid!
Gauchos on the Maas
At the end of the Wilhelminapier, in the World Port Center, you will find Gauchos on the Maas. This Argentinian steakhouse is located in a prime location near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam and offers a beautiful view of the Rotterdam skyline. Thanks to its fantastic location on the waterfront, you can enjoy perfectly grilled steaks and Latin American specialties while looking out over the Erasmus Bridge and the Maas. Whether you join us before or after your cruise, this atmospheric spot on the Kop van Zuid is a guaranteed must!
Hotel New York
At the head of the Wilhelminakade, within walking distance of the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, stands the iconic Hotel New York. Located in the former headquarters of the Holland-America Line, this hotel exudes the atmosphere of past ocean voyages. Here you can not only stay overnight, but also enjoy delicious food, drinks cocktails and even visit a private cinema. On sunny days you can enjoy on the large terrace by the water with a view of the skyline. In the basement you will find a hidden gem. NY Basement, a luxury restaurant and cocktail bar where you can end the evening in style. A unique location on the Wilhelminapier, perfect for cruise travelers who love nostalgia and hospitality!
Loetje
On the Kop van Zuid, near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you will find Loetje, the place to be for lovers of a juicy steak with extra gravy. Everything here revolves around good and tasty food, where you can dip your bread or fries in the gravy. In addition to the well-known steak, there are also fish dishes and a vegetarian steak on the menu, so there is something tasty for everyone. With a top location on the water and a relaxed atmosphere, this is the perfect place for a hearty meal before or after your cruise.
Restaurant Azura
Near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, on the Wilhelminapier and next to the famous Hoerenloper, you will find Azura, an exclusive fusion restaurant where luxury and refinement come together. Here you can enjoy high-quality sushi with ingredients such as scallop, foie gras, lobster, Wagyu steak and caviar. In addition, there are other culinary highlights on the menu, such as lamb chops and red curry. Can't choose? Then let yourself be surprised by the chef's menu. With a chic ambiance and a top location, Azura is the perfect place for a stylish evening out on the Kop van Zuid.
Humphrey's
On the ground floor of the Montevideo Tower, near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, lies Humphrey’s, an atmospheric restaurant with a contemporary and daring interior. Pink walls, beautiful wallpaper, atmospheric lighting and lots of greenery create a warm, cozy ambiance. Thanks to the large windows you have a beautiful view of the water, and on the terrace at the Rijnhaven you can dine outside when the weather is nice. Here you can enjoy a seasonal three-course menu, including artisanal bread and side dishes, for a fixed price. A stylish spot on the Wilhelminapier for a relaxing night out!
Joya
In addition to Humprey's, JOYA offers an atmospheric setting where shared dining is central. Here it is all about enjoying delicious, globally inspired dishes together, prepared with high-quality ingredients. Whether you sit at the lively bar or at a cozy table, the warm and contemporary ambiance ensures a relaxed evening. With a beautiful location near the Maas and iconic architecture such as De Rotterdam, you can enjoy not only culinary creations here, but also an impressive view. The carefully composed selection of wines and cocktails completes your dinner. A perfect place on the Wilhelminapier for a special night out!
Ono Rotterdam
Also on the Kop van Zuid, near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you will discover ONO Rotterdam, where Japanese and French cuisine come togetherncome to refined fusion dishes. Under the leadership of chef Daniel Kwan and sous-chef Stefan Mercera, pure taste explosions are created here, from authentic Japanese classics to innovative combinations. Think of tartare of yellowtail kingfish with yuzu, avocado and wasabi ice cream – one of their signature dishes. Everything here revolves around balance, harmony and culinary surprises, perfect for lovers of refined dining on the Wilhelminapier.
Putaine
Close to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, next to the Rijnhavenbrug – better known as the Hoerenloper – lies Putaine, a restaurant that literally floats on the water. As soon as you step inside, the neon letters, pink chairs, blue sofas and atmospheric candles immediately catch your eye. Everything here revolves around experience, down to the smallest details. The menu consists of thirty small dishes, where you choose what and how much you eat, while the chef determines the order. Oysters and the cheese platter are absolute musts! A unique culinary experience in a special location at the Kop van Zuid.
Mood
On the Kop van Zuid, in the street opposite the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you can enjoy a unique combination of French and Asian flavors at Mood. This stylish restaurant is known for its iconic sushi boat, where you are served sushi and sashimi in a miniature boat on the table. In addition to the refined dishes, the ambiance is perfect for a romantic date or a night out with friends. End your dinner with a luxurious dessert or one of the many cocktails. A culinary experience on the Wilhelminapier that you don't want to miss!
Rolph's Deli
Also on the Kop van Zuid, a stone's throw from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, Rolph's Deli has been given a completely new concept. During the day you can still go here for all-day breakfast, sandwiches and bowls, but in the evening the place changes into an atmospheric bistro with classic dishes and an extensive wine list. The interior has been given a warm, intimate look, fitting the new petit restaurant. The evening menu is inspired by the early years of HMB, the owner's previous business, with recognizable flavors and a more accessible, bistro-like approach. Whether you fancy a relaxed breakfast or a cosy evening with good food and special wines, this is the place to settle down on the Wilhelminapier!
BY AMI
At the beginning of the Wilhelminapier, near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you will find BY AMI, a restaurant where everything revolves around experience. From the colorful, artistic interior to the creative dishes - everything here is a picture. The menu includes surprising dishes, such as a sandwich where you squirt smashed avocado into the bun yourself. Whether you come for lunch, dinner or a cocktail, here you can enjoy yourself instyle. Extra fun: in addition to the classic high tea, you can also go here for a high gin. A unique hotspot on the Kop van Zuid where taste and presentation come together!
Itami
Behind the Nieuwe Luxor Theater, near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, lies Itami, a high-quality teppanyaki and sushi restaurant where Japanese cuisine is prepared to perfection. Everything here revolves around craftsmanship and tradition, with dishes carefully composed by experienced chefs. Whether you opt for a classic sushi roll or an impressive teppanyaki show, quality and experience are central. The stylish and modern interior creates a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a special culinary experience at the Kop van Zuid.
VersNUL10
Close to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, at the beginning of the Wilhelminapier, you will find VersNul10, a brasserie where traditional charm and modern elegance come together. Here you can enjoy seasonal dishes, prepared with the best local ingredients, in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you sit down for a fresh lunch, share tapas or end a dinner with a perfectly grilled specialty, every dish is carefully composed. With an extensive wine and cocktail menu, VersNul10 is the perfect place for a culinary experience before or after your cruise.
Eetcafé Erasmus
For cruise passengers who just want a quick and affordable meal without any fuss, Eetcafé Erasmus is a no-nonsense option on the Wilhelminapier. This eatery is actually an oriental snack bar, where you can get a large portion of shoarma, kebab or a falafel sandwich without too high expectations. Not a place to hang around for long, but perfect if you just want to fill up on something for a reasonable price. Ideal for a quick bite before or after your cruise!
Diego’s Burgers
Near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, next to the new Luxor Theater, you will find Diego’s Burgers, the place to be for lovers of artisanal burgers with a twist. This is not your average burger restaurant – here you can enjoy surprising combinations such as a vegan smash burger or a chicken burger with goat cheese and truffle honey. Start your meal off right with the fried brie with truffle and combine your burger with their own brewed blond beer, developed together with Brouwerij Noordt. A perfect spot on the Kop van Zuid for a hearty meal before or after your cruise!
Sights
There is plenty to see and do around the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam on the Wilhelminakade and Wilhelminapier. From modern skyscrapers to historic warehouses, this spot perfectly illustrates how Rotterdam has developed. Stroll along the water and enjoy the view oon the skyline, discover impressive architecture or dive into the world of theatre, film and photography. Whether you have a few hours or a whole day, there is always something to do at the Kop van Zuid!
Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge is the icon of Rotterdam and connects the city center with the modern Kop van Zuid, where the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam is also located. With its characteristic shape and almost 140 meter high pylon, the bridge is also called 'The Swan'. Whether you walk over the bridge, cycle or sail under it with the water taxi, the view of the skyline and the Maas is always impressive. Especially at sunset or when the city lights up in the evening, this is a must-see for cruise passengers who want to experience Rotterdam at its best.
The Rotterdam
On the Wilhelminakade, where cruise ships dock daily, De Rotterdam towers high above the city. This imposing building, designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, consists of three interconnected towers and is one of the most striking skyscrapers in the Kop van Zuid. Inside you will find a mix of offices, luxury apartments, restaurants and a hotel, making it a vibrant place. From the quay, the building offers a spectacular contrast between the historic port and the modern skyline of Rotterdam. A must-see for architecture enthusiasts and a perfect landmark for those exploring the city from the water.
World Port Center
At the end of the Wilhelminapier, right next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, stands the imposing World Port Center. This striking building, designed by Sir Norman Foster, reflects Rotterdam's maritime identity and houses various port and maritime companies. With its strategic location on the water, it not only offers an impressive view of the Maas and the skyline, but also marks the point where the past and future of the port city come together. A recognizable eye-catcher for anyone who enters Rotterdam by cruise!
Hotel New York
At the head of the Wilhelminapier, where ocean liners used to depart, stands the iconic Hotel New York. This former head office of the Holland-America Line exudes the atmosphere of the time when thousands of emigrants started their journey to America here. Today it is a hotel and restaurant where nostalgia and modern comfort come together. With its characteristic turrets and stately appearance, it is one of the most recognizable buildings on the Maas. Whether you step in for an overnight stay, a cup of coffee or just to experience the historic ambiance, Hotel New York remains a must-see for anyone exploring the area around the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam.
Montevideo Tower
With its striking red logo and stately appearance, the Montevideo Tower is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers on the Wilhelmina Pier, near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam. This 152-meter-high building was for a long time the highest residential tower in the Netherlands and offers a mix of luxury apartments, offices and catering facilities on the ground floor. The name Montevideo refers to Rotterdam's rich maritime past and the historical port activities at this location. With its impressive architecture and situated on the Maas, the Montevideo Tower is an unmistakable part of the skyline of the Kop van Zuid.
Lantaarnvenster
At the Wilhelminapier, in the middle of the modern skyscrapers and a stone's throw from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, lies LantarenVenster. This unique cultural hotspot combines arthouse films with live jazz and an atmospheric café-restaurant with a view of the Maas. Whether you fancy an inspiring film, an intimate concert or just a drink in a relaxed atmosphere, art and relaxation come together here. A perfect place on the Kop van Zuid to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy culture with a Rotterdam edge.
Nederlands Fotomuseum
On the Wilhelminapier, in the heart of the Kop van Zuid, lies the Nederlands Fotomuseum, the place to be for lovers of photography and visual arts. This museum guards the photographic heritage of the Netherlands and presents changing exhibitions of both established names and emerging talent. With impressive visual stories that range from documentary photography to experimental art, the museum offers an in-depth view of the world through the lens of photographers. An inspiring stopover for cruise passengers who want to discover Rotterdam off the beaten track.
Nieuwe Luxor Theater
At the foot of the Wilhelminapier, overlooking the Maas and within walking distance of the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, is the Nieuwe Luxor Theater. This modern theater, with its striking red facade, is the place in Rotterdam for large-scale musicals, cabaret, concerts and other performances. With an impressive hall and an atmospheric foyer, it offers a unique theater experience on the Kop van Zuid. Whether you're planning a night out before or after your cruise, a show at the Nieuwe Luxor Theater will make your visit to Rotterdam complete.
Parking
If you're driving to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, there are several parking options on the Wilhelminakade and in the immediate vicinity. There are parking garages within walking distance and you can park (paid) in some streets. Keep in mind that it can be busy here, especially when cruise ships arrive and depart. A smart option is to reserve a parking space in advance or use a P+R location on the edge of the city. You can read more about this in the article about free parking Rotterdam.
Q-Park De Rotterdam
With 659 parking spaces, a clearance height of 2.00 meters and a location directly next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, Q-Park De Rotterdam is one of the most practical parking options on the Wilhelminakade. The modern and spacious garage is open 24/7 and ideal for cruise passengers who want to park nearby. Thanks to its central location, you can reach hotels within minutes, restaurants and attractions on the Wilhelminapier.
World Port Center (WPC)
Just a four-minute walk from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, next to Hotel New York, is the World Port Center (WPC) parking garage. With 495 parking spaces, a headroom of 1.90 meters and 60 electric charging points, this is a spacious and well-equipped parking facility. The garage has fixed entry times, but exit is possible 24/7, making it a flexible option for cruise passengers who want to safely park their car on the Wilhelminapier.
Q-Park Boston & Seattle
Q-Park Boston & Seattle is just a three-minute walk from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, a modern parking garage on the Otto Reuchlinweg. With 230 parking spaces, a clearance height of 2.10 meters, security cameras, a lift and 20 electric charging points, this garage offers all the conveniences for cruise passengers. The 24/7 accessibility and additional services such as license plate recognition and a pick-up point make it a convenient and safe parking option at the Kop van Zuid.
Transport
The Cruise Terminal Rotterdam is easily accessible by public transport and water taxi. The metro stops within walking distance and takes you quickly to the city centre or other parts of Rotterdam. Do you want to travel on the water in a unique way? Then take the water taxi and enjoy a fast and spectacular ride on the Maas. Whether you want to explore the city or need to go to another location, there There are plenty of options for easy and fast travel. You can read more about transport options in the article about how to go from Cruise Terminal to Rotterdam Centrum .
Metro station Wilhelminaplein
Metro station Wilhelminaplein, a 3-minute walk from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, is the ideal way to cruise passengers to travel quickly and comfortably to and from the terminal. Line D and line E take you directly to Rotterdam Central Station or other parts of the city, ideal for those travelling on by train or bus. Visitors who combine their cruise with a stay in Rotterdam can easily reach the city centre and other attractions from this station. Thanks to its excellent accessibility and frequent connections, this is a fast and efficient choice for travellers on the Wilhelminapier.
Shared bicycles and shared scooters
There are shared bicycles and bicycle racks all over the Wilhelminakade, around the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam. shared scooters ready to use. This is an ideal option for cruise travelers who want to explore the city quickly and flexibly. With a few taps in an app, you can easily rent a bike or scooter and drive to the center, a hotel or a place of interest. Whether you Whether you need a short ride or simply want to explore Rotterdam in an active way, these shared vehicles offer a convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around the Kop van Zuid.
Taxi
< p>A convenient taxi rank is located right next to the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, at the nhow Rotterdam hotel. This is the ideal place for cruise passengers who want to travel quickly and comfortably to their hotel, train station or other destination in Rotterdam. Taxis are usually available here, so you can continue without waiting. Whether you are traveling with a lot of luggage or simply looking for convenience, This taxi rank on the Wilhelminapier offers a direct and stress-free way to continue your journey.Water taxi
Next to Hotel New York, on the Wilhelminapier, lies one of the most iconic water taxi stands in the Netherlands Rotterdam. From here you can quickly and uniquely travel to various locations in the city, such as the city centre, the Veerhaven or even the other side of the Maas. The water taxi is a popular choice for cruise passengers who want to start or end their stay in Rotterdam with a spectacular ride over the water. With the skyline in the background and the Maas beneath your feet, this is not only practical, but also an experience in itself.
Handy
In the vicinity of the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam you will find all kinds of useful facilities. Whether you need last-minute groceries, want to withdraw money or are looking for a place to sit quietly, everything is within within easy reach. There are supermarkets, ATMs and other facilities that may come in handy before or after your cruise. This way you can start or end your trip without stress!
Albert Heijn
At Otto Reuchlinweg 968, a 3-minute walk from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, you will find a Albert Heijn, ideal for cruise passengers who want to get something quick. Whether it's snacks, fresh sandwiches or a bottle of water for the road, you'll find everything you need here. The store also has a coffee bar for a fresh espresso or latte macchiato, a flower department for a last-minute gift and the possibility to buy lottery tickets. With self-scan you can pay quickly, and there is paid parking in the immediate vicinity. A convenient stop before or after your cruise!
Toilet
For cruise passengers looking for a toilet near the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam, there is a convenient option on the Wilhelminapier. In the Foodhallen Rotterdam you can use the toilet for free, without having to buy anything. This makes it a practical stop before or after your cruise, or during a visit to the many restaurants and sights in the area.
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