The 25 Most Vibrant Nightlife in Rotterdam

Disclaimer: We receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

From bustling clubs to intimate bars, Rotterdam has something for everyone when it comes to nightlife. As one of the most vibrant cities in the Netherlands, Rotterdam offers a wealth of nightlife areas where you can spend the night in style. Whether you're looking for a night filled with electronic beats, live music, or a cozy evening with friends, Rotterdam has it all. Explore the various neighborhoods and their unique nightlife venues, from the trendy streets of Witte de Withstraat to the lively harbor areas. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor looking for an unforgettable night out, Rotterdam guarantees a lively experience you won't soon forget.

 

De Meent

Discover De Meent, a lively street between the famous Coolsingel and Goudsesingel in Rotterdam. From a cozy shopping street during the day to a bustling nightlife destination in the evening, De Meent offers a range of trendy bars and hotspots such as the popular 1NUL8 and Thoms. With various bars and clubs for a more mature audience, this neighborhood is ideal for a night out in Rotterdam.

Oude Haven

Experience the lively atmosphere of Oude Haven, the most popular nightlife area in Rotterdam, especially during the summer months. With an abundance of restaurants, bars, and terraces overlooking the historic harbor, Oude Haven is an absolute must-visit destination. At night, this bustling hospitality area truly comes to life, with terraces brimming with people on summer days. With more than 20 bars and restaurants, including a Michelin-starred restaurant and an award-winning cocktail bar, there is something for everyone. Come and enjoy the unique atmosphere and vibrant nightlife that Oude Haven has to offer.

Stadhuisplein

Discover the bustling nightlife of Stadhuisplein, where you can enjoy an old-fashioned night out in Rotterdam. This square is a favorite destination among both locals and tourists and hosts some of the city's most famous pubs. One of the most iconic nightlife spots is the Après-Skihut, where various types of party music are played, and it's always gezellig! As the name suggests, this place offers a ski holiday-like atmosphere with cheesy music and a simulated wooden ski hut. Come and experience the lively ambiance of Stadhuisplein, where the party mood never stops!

Witte de Withstraat

Explore the lively atmosphere of Witte de Withstraat in Rotterdam, one of the city's most popular nightlife areas and a renowned spot in the Netherlands, loved by students and young professionals. Here, impromptu drinks are an indispensable phenomenon for the vibrant ambiance, and with hotspots such as NRC, De Witte Aap, Ballroom, and Reijngoud, this street offers an international vibe until the early hours. Known as Rotterdam's hippest cultural nightlife street, Witte de Withstraat is home to numerous art galleries, trendy cafes, restaurants, and unique shops, while the many terraces enhance the great atmosphere. A must-visit for anyone visiting Rotterdam, where you shouldn't miss stepping into iconic bars such as Café De Witte Aap, Nieuw Rotterdams Café, and Bierboutique Rotterdam.

 

1NUL8

Discover 1NUL8, a lively hotspot located on one of Rotterdam's most popular streets, De Meent. Started in 2012 as a modest wine bar, 1NUL8 quickly gained a reputation as a trendy meeting place for a hip crowd. With an exclusive menu of over 80 wines, it is the ideal destination for wine lovers. What began as a wine bar has grown into a full-fledged restaurant, transforming into a bustling club on weekends. The name 1NUL8 is derived from the house number on De Meent (108), making it not only a popular spot but also a recognizable landmark in Rotterdam's nightlife.

to the Website

Annabel

Discover Annabel, the bustling pop stage located at Hofplein in Rotterdam, which offers the perfect location for the right dance moves. With a varied lineup of evenings, ranging from hip-hop to techno and pop music, there is something for everyone. Annabel is just a stone's throw from Rotterdam Central, making it the ideal destination if you still need to catch the train home. As the largest pop stage in Rotterdam, Annabel attracts international, leading acts in various music genres, from hip-hop to pop to electronic. Whether you want to enjoy a beer on the terrace, dance during one of the many parties or festivals, or listen to live music at one of the concerts, there is always something happening at Annabel.

to the Website

Biergarten

Discover the well-known Rotterdam Biergarten, located right next to Annabel at Hofplein. Although it is not really a traditional club, Biergarten offers a relaxed atmosphere of a large open-air bar, especially during the summer months. Here you can enjoy a variety of craft beers served cold. Biergarten truly embodies the essence of what a beer garden should be: a garden with wooden benches, large mugs of beer, and delicious sausages from the grill.

to the Website

Bird

Discover Bird, much more than just a club, and comparable to the aforementioned Biergarten and Superdisco. Bird is a sublime example of Rotterdam's coziness and melting pot, where you can not only enjoy great music but also delicious food and a lively atmosphere. The food at Bird is considered a reflection of the city itself: unpolished, honest, and a crossroads of different styles and cultures. This is reflected in both the club and the diverse performances they organize. Located under the Hofbogen in Rotterdam, Bird offers a varied program full of jazz, soul, hip-hop, funk, and new electronic music. Deeply rooted in jazz, but branching out to soul, funk, hip-hop, and electronica, Bird is the place for the cultural omnivore. The name Bird refers to the poetic nickname of American jazz saxophonist Charlie 'BIRD' Parker and stands for jazz, warmth, soul, urban rawness, and much more. At Bird, you can enjoy atmospheric listening concerts and exuberant parties while savoring delicious pizzas, fine wines, and no-nonsense beers. Have a taste!

to the Website

Cafe in the City

Discover Café in the City, a trendy restaurant concept firmly anchored in the bustling heart of Rotterdam. For those who didn't know: the club nights are legendary. On Friday and Saturday after 11:00 PM, Café in the City transforms into a party hotspot with killer cocktails, next-level beats, and live entertainment. Whether they come for the dance moves, the unparalleled vibe, or just to see and be seen, visitors find everything here for an epic night out. So put on your best outfit, gather your crew, and get ready for an unforgettable evening at Café in the City, where weekend magic happens. On Friday and Saturday, Café in the City turns into an exclusive nightclub, where the refinement of the dining experience turns into a dance floor with sophisticated beats and sexy vibes.

to the Website

Cruise Terminal

Discover the Cruise Terminal in Rotterdam, one of the city's most beautiful nightlife venues, where the popular Frankborrel takes place once a month, loved by locals. From the balcony, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the iconic Erasmus Bridge. This historic terminal, once an arrival and departure hall of the Holland America Line, exudes history and architecture, surrounded by Rotterdam's modern skyline. Today, it is a sought-after location for various events, thanks to the impressive glass façade that offers a panoramic view of the city. The Cruise Terminal on the bustling Kop van Zuid offers a unique atmosphere where history and contemporary entertainment come together, making it an unmissable place for a special night out in Rotterdam.

to the Website

De Unie

Discover De Unie in Rotterdam, a historic monument originally designed by architect J.J.P. Oud in the 1920s. Today, the building serves as a versatile location with a café, nightclub, and event space. De Unie is known for its lively themed parties and DJ sets that range from disco and house to funk and soul. Whether you come for dancers in a shower cabin, GIGA parties, theater performances, cinema, or even a wedding, you can find it all at De Unie. With its diverse range of activities, De Unie is the place where wine bar, brasserie, club, theater, and event venue come together for a unique nightlife experience in Rotterdam.

to the Website

De Witte Aap

Discover the legendary De Witte Aap in Rotterdam, located on the lively Witte de Withstraat and belonging to the category of "bars that got out of hand." Although De Witte Aap is not exactly a bar, nor can it be called a club, it guarantees an unforgettable night out. Start with a drink at the bar and then show off your best dance moves. It's definitely worth it! In 2009, De Witte Aap was named the best bar in the world by Lonely Planet, making this place a must-visit when you're in Rotterdam. Located on the lively Witte de Withstraat, the door opens at one o'clock in the afternoon and only closes in the late hours. Thanks to the heated terrace, you can sit outside here all year round, while DJs play on Saturdays. Fun fact: the building of De Witte Aap dates back to 1888 and was a grocery store until the war.

to the Website

De Vrienden Live

Discover De Vrienden Live in Rotterdam, as the name suggests, a place where you can often enjoy live music. At the heart of the club is a large bar, surrounded by plenty of space for dining and dancing. In the evening, you can sing along to the best hits at De Vrienden Live while enjoying a delicious dinner. Located in the picturesque Oude Haven, De Vrienden Live is an absolute must for a night out in Rotterdam. You can go here for dinner and parties from Thursday to Saturday. A unique experience is the Humor Dinner, a musical show with lots of interaction led by a pianist. A fun night out, combined with a three or four-course dinner, optionally with a drink package, and ending with live music.

to the Website

Maassilo

Discover Maassilo in Rotterdam, a former factory and one of the city's best-known and largest clubs, where the nightlife goes on all night long. The industrial character of Maassilo creates a unique atmosphere you won't find anywhere else. With no less than three floors, the club offers a spectacular experience. Here, parties are regularly organized for which you need to buy a ticket in advance, so you are sure to have a great time. Maassilo is one of the most impressive club locations in the Netherlands, where weekly dance events take place in various music genres. This unique location offers an innovative mix of dance, pop, art, and theater, making it a must-visit for nightlife enthusiasts in Rotterdam.

to the Website

Munch

Discover Munch, another up-and-coming club located on the Maasboulevard under the impressive Willemsbrug in Rotterdam. With its breathtaking view over the river that flows through the city, this relatively new club offers a unique experience. Housed in the former Club Vie building, Munch is known as one of Rotterdam's chicer clubs, with an urban and R&B vibe that is definitely worth a stylish night out. It is positioned as 'the new going out in Rotterdam,' where every Friday and Saturday night is celebrated without fuss. With two beautiful rooms filled with fun, dancing, drinking, flirting, and even an 'arcade room' for a dose of playful entertainment, Munch promises an unforgettable night out, just as going out is meant to be.

to the Website

Now & Wow

Discover Now & Wow in Rotterdam, located on the tenth floor of the Maassilo. This nightlife venue is known as an "ultra desirable dance and relax club" and offers a unique experience 40 meters high. With three different rooms presenting various music genres, there is something for everyone in this legendary club. Whether you like Rave or Urban, you can find it all at Now & Wow. The club is an institution in the Rotterdam nightlife scene and guarantees legendary club nights with a beautiful view and a great lineup.

to the Website

NRC

Discover NRC (Nieuw Rotterdams Café) in Rotterdam, located opposite De Witte Aap and an institution on the lively Witte de Withstraat. This bar is also known as NRC and offers an experience similar to De Witte Aap. With both pubs only 30 meters apart, it is very convenient to switch between the two if one is full. NRC transforms every weekend from a café-restaurant into a club, making it the ideal place for a night out in Rotterdam.

to the Website

Oyster Club

Discover The Oyster Club in Rotterdam, a versatile venue consisting of 'Le Restaurant', 'Le Bar', and 'Le Club', aimed at guests between 30 and 65 years old. The restaurant mainly offers delicious seafood dishes, and the interior is a feast for the eyes. Enjoy a sensational dinner and end the evening on the dance floor, where resident DJs play the best beats every Friday and Saturday. But even for a relaxed lunch or a cozy drink, The Oyster Club is the perfect place in the heart of Rotterdam. And for the night owls, there is Le Club, where the evening remains cozy long after the last restaurant guests have left.

to the Website

Perron

Discover Perron in Rotterdam, located around the corner from Biergarten and Annabel, this cultural stage is perfect for all electronic music lovers and party-goers who like to go on until the very last hours. The club is located in the basement of a vacant old post office on Schiestraat and offers a unique atmosphere for nightly adventures. For fans of electronic music and nights of long dancing, Perron is an unmissable destination in the heart of Rotterdam.

to the Website

Sahara

Discover Sahara in Rotterdam, located in the former dark basement of Annabel where Transport was previously located. Where Transport was dark and hidden, Sahara shines brightly and warmly. The brick wall between Annabel and POING is painted terracotta, with the name Sahara in glowing yellow letters. Sahara mainly focuses on futuristic genres from the African diaspora, such as afrobeats, amapiano, afrorave, dancehall, hip-hop, and R&B. With a focus on innovation and a fresh perspective on nightlife, Sahara already promises to be a valuable addition to Rotterdam's nightlife culture.

to the Website

Superdisco

Discover Superdisco in Rotterdam, a fantastic mix of restaurant and club, located on the lively Witte de Withstraat. Unlike De Witte Aap and NRC, restaurant Supermercado transforms into a real nightclub called Superdisco in the evening. Here you can enjoy delicious Mexican food and cocktails during dinner, and then continue the evening with a drink and a dance in the club. The perfect combination if you ask us! Located in the basement of Supermercado, Superdisco offers hip parties with big hits, smooth R&B, solid hip-hop, delightful house, or guilty pleasures. Whether you come to eat, drink, or dance, Superdisco is the place to be for an unforgettable night out in Rotterdam.

to the Website

TIWYA

Discover TIWYA (This Is What You Are) in Rotterdam, the newest Indonesian restaurant on the Kruiskade. Do not expect a traditional eatery, but a luxurious club experience with delicious snacks. Upon arrival, TIWYA feels like a nightclub, with a dark entrance and a large bar as soon as you step inside. The music evolves from lounge to more upbeat, just as you would expect from a club night. TIWYA is a unique combination of restaurant, bar, and club, where you can enjoy traditional Indonesian dishes in a luxurious, modern style, accompanied by exotic cocktails. When the gong sounds late in the evening, the venue transforms into a bustling club where you can dance the night away.

to the Website

Toffler

Discover Toffler in Rotterdam, an underground club similar to Perron, where mainly techno-related music is played. They also organize a festival in the spring for real techno fans every year. This club is ideal for those who want to dance the nights away and for whom a night out in Rotterdam should never end. Located in a former pedestrian tunnel in the center of Rotterdam, Toffler is also known for its characteristic LED lighting.

to the Website

The Grit

Discover The Grit in Rotterdam, a remarkable 23+ club with a fantastic and lively decor where disco, house, R&B, hip-hop, Latin, Afro, and more can be heard. Established as an underground club, The Grit has a spectacular interior with a classic look. It is the ideal place to shine on the dance floor while DJs play a variety of warm styles. You can find The Grit on Stadhuisplein, next to Grace, another new hospitality venue by Rotterdammer Herman Hell. Enter a musical party full of glitter and glamour when you descend the stairs. Dance on moving images because the floor consists of LED screens. It's time to party!

to the Website

Villa Thalia

Discover Villa Thalia in Rotterdam, located in what was once the Thalia cinema. This past as a movie theater forms the central theme of this new nightlife venue, where luxury and style are paramount. As the first nightlife venue in the Netherlands with 360-degree projections, flying machines, and continuous entertainment, Villa Thalia offers a unique experience. Enjoy dinner shows in cinema style, complete with an international 3, 4, or 5-course menu and matching drink arrangement, followed by a night of clubbing. From Thursday to Saturday, Villa Thalia transforms into a dazzling club where every minute is different. With regular performances by the most famous Dutch artists from the hip-hop scene, Villa Thalia is one of the largest and most extravagant clubs in Rotterdam. Don't miss the chance to see your favorite singer or rapper shine on stage soon!

to the Website