With the Christmas holidays just around the corner, it's time to discover wintery Rotterdam! The city is even cozier, more pleasant and there is plenty to do. Below are some great tips to ensure you don't get bored during these winter weeks.
For the real winter feeling, have a hot chocolate in your hand, a beanie on your head and take a fresh walk through the city. Would you rather drink something stronger? Then get yourself a delicious Mulled Wine.
The ultimate place to get a hot drink this Christmas holiday is of course Winterplein (Winter Square). On the Beursplein in the centre you will find cozy food trucks, live music and entertainment. And of course the Winterplein is not complete without a chocolate milk stall.
Would you rather go in a different direction? At Parqiet in Het Park, for example, you can get delicious hot chocolate and something tasty for the road. Is it busy? Right next to it you have Dudok with delicious options. Ideal to enjoy during your walk.
The Rotterdam Skating Rink will be open again from Saturday, November 25, for the 11th time! That means another three months of ice fun and skating under the rainbow. Get your skates out, gather your friends and enjoy a 400-meter track, the ice rink, several cool events and of course hot chocolate!
Of course, Het Park or the Kralingse Bos is beautiful for a walk. But how fun is it to do this in the city? The centre offers a beautiful decor thanks to the atmospheric Christmas lights.
For example, walk past the shop windows of the Bijenkorf or through the richly decorated Koopgoot. Here you will not only find a gigantic illuminated Christmas tree, but also a mega Christmas card in which you can take a selfie! Would you like to have that photo printed? This is possible at HEMA!
Be sure to walk to the Binnenwegplein, the Lijnbaan and to Central Plaza, for even more mega light letters, Christmas trees and sparkling lights. It promises to be the ultimate winter walk!
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Rotterdam has several Christmas markets where you can experience the ultimate winter feeling! For example, the green Christmas market in Trompenburg takes place from 8 to 10 December. Here you can not only walk through the beautiful garden, but also shop sustainable Christmas items for the most unique gifts.
The Danish Christmas market at Coolhaven is also a great tip. This will take place from Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 November. Another nice one: on Sunday, November 26, you will get into the Christmas spirit during the Sofas & Balls sale at On Other Drugs, where they sell luxury furniture for great prices. Of course with a glass of bubbles, mulled wine and a snack in your hands.
It's Christmas holidays and the 25th is approaching, but you don't have any presents yet! Don't worry, because Rotterdam Centre has countless shops where you can find the perfect gifts. For sports enthusiasts, of course, go to the Decathlon. Do you want to buy a gift for someone who loves a bit of luxury? Then we recommend Skins on the Kruiskade, where they sell the most unique perfumes and scented candles.
Need more inspiration for a winter experience in Rotterdam Centre? Or curious about the opening hours of the shops around Christmas? Then read our article containing the complete winter programming for the coming weeks. This way you can be sure you don't miss anything!