Set in Glashaven, between the Boompjes waterfront and Rotterdam’s city centre, Ruby Tessa puts the city’s many angles within easy reach. And in a place that rarely does straight lines, there are plenty of them.
Follow the water towards the Erasmus Bridge and the high-rises of Kop van Zuid, or head into town for daring architecture, contemporary art and streets made for wandering.
Architecture & city icons
Rotterdam doesn’t do ordinary architecture. Around Blaak, the Cube Houses tilt at impossible angles, while the Markthal sweeps overhead in one colourful curve.
A few steps away, the Oude Haven brings things back down to water level. Historic boats bob beside waterside terraces, with the city’s modern towers rising just behind them. Old harbour charm, meet bold new Rotterdam.
Want another angle? Follow the Nieuwe Maas towards the Erasmus Bridge. Cross the river and the skyline shifts again, as the towers of Kop van Zuid meet the city’s former docklands along the waterfront.
Art & culture
For a creative change of scene, head towards Museumpark. Kunsthal Rotterdam, Het Nieuwe Instituut and the mirrored Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen bring art, architecture and design together in one striking corner of the city.
The Depot turns the usual museum experience inside out, opening up the world behind the gallery walls and showing how an art collection is stored and cared for.
Nearby, Witte de Withstraat keeps the creative energy going. Galleries and cultural spaces mix with independent shops, restaurants and bars, making it easy to drift from afternoon browsing into evening drinks. No strict itinerary required.
Food & markets
Rotterdam’s food scene is a lot like the city itself: international, unfussy and full of surprises.
The Markthal is a good place to dive in, with global flavours, specialist shops and food stands tucked beneath its vast arched roof. Outside, the Binnenrotte market brings fresh produce, flowers and everyday finds into the mix on market days.
Across the river, Katendrecht serves up a different flavour of Rotterdam. Around Deliplein and the waterfront, restaurants, coffee spots and food halls have settled into a neighbourhood still shaped by its maritime past.
The raw edges remain. They just come with very good coffee now.
Harbour & waterfront
In Rotterdam, water is never just part of the view. The Nieuwe Maas carries working boats, water taxis and ferries through the city, while bridges and quays make the harbour part of everyday life.
For a fresh perspective, take to the water and watch the skyline rearrange itself from the river. Or stay on dry land and follow the waterfront towards Kop van Zuid and Katendrecht.
Either way, Rotterdam looks good from every angle. Especially the unexpected ones.
