EXPLORATION TOURS IN ROTTERDAM

Experience Rotterdam from many different vantage points on the curated tours taking place on 14th October. You can choose to experience the city’s innovation from the water visiting a floating farm or why not see how Rotterdam is dealing with climate change on the rooftops. Rotterdam is a highly diverse city embracing over 170 nationalities so find out how the city has ensured that the next generation is integrated and yet culturally individual.  

Cycling empowers and changes lives so experience how Rotterdam is a city made for cyclists and enjoy some healthy treats en route! Visit the ‘Cape’ and see smart urban planning which has completely transformed this once undesirable peninsula in Rotterdam.  

Places are limited, we would therefore recommend you select your preference during the registration process to avoid disappointment.

MARITIME & INNOVATION

START: 15:30 
DURATION: 3 Hours
TYPE OF TRANSPORTATION: Water taxi and tram
WHAT TO EXPECT: This dynamic tour offers participants an up-close experience of innovation, circularity, and climate adaptation in action. As we make our way through Europe’s largest port on water taxis and vintage trams, you’ll visit groundbreaking projects like the makerspace at M4H, the nature-inclusive Keilehaven Tidal Park, the circular Stadshaven Brewery, and the world’s first Floating Farm. Along the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Rotterdam is reimagining its port for a resilient and sustainable future—making this tour as insightful as it is exciting.

Photo by Iris van der Broek.
Photo by Iris van der Broek

ROOFTOPS & RESILIENCE

START: 16:00 
DURATION: 2.5 Hours
TYPE OF TRANSPORTATION: On foot
WHAT TO EXPECT: On this tour, participants will gain a fresh perspective—both literally and figuratively—on how Rotterdam is using its flat rooftops to tackle urban challenges. Through hidden rooftop gems, you’ll discover how the city is transforming unused space into vibrant, functional areas while learning how these innovations play a key role in climate adaptation, sustainability, and the future of urban living. This experience isn’t just about the view—it’s about understanding the “why” behind the rooftop revolution.

Rooftops in Rotterdam
Photo by Catherine Kalamidas

HEALTHY CITY

START: 15:30 
DURATION: 3 Hours
TYPE OF TRANSPORTATION: Bicycle
WHAT TO EXPECT: This tour invites participants to experience firsthand how cycling can transform lives—boosting health, independence, and happiness while contributing to a cleaner, greener city. As you ride through Rotterdam’s extensive 500 km network of cycle paths, you’ll explore lush parks, enjoy healthy local bites, and discover how daily biking shapes a more inclusive and sustainable urban lifestyle. It’s not just a ride—it’s a journey into the power of pedals to create positive change.

people on their bikes in Rotterdam
Photo by Iris van der Broek

TRANSFORMATION OF THE CAPE

START: 16:00 
DURATION: 2.5 Hours
TYPE OF TRANSPORTATION: On foot
WHAT TO EXPECT:
This walking tour through Katendrecht offers participants a powerful look at urban transformation in action. Once a gritty sailor’s quarter known for its rough edges, “De Kaap” has reinvented itself into one of Rotterdam’s most dynamic and desirable neighborhoods. Along the way, you’ll discover how smart urban planning breathed new life into this historic peninsula—now home to creative restaurants, quirky architecture, and cultural landmarks like the iconic Fenix, Rotterdam’s answer to Lady Liberty. It’s a journey through the past, present, and future of a city that never stops evolving.

 

transformation of the cape
Photo by Vera Bos

MULTICULTURAL PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

START: 16:00 
DURATION: 2.5 Hours
TYPE OF TRANSPORTATION: On foot
WHAT TO EXPECT: This tour offers a deep and nuanced exploration of Rotterdam’s multicultural identity, shaped by over 170 nationalities and a complex history of migration. As we walk through some of the city’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods, participants will gain insight into how diverse communities have shaped—and continue to shape—Rotterdam’s heritage. From stories of arrival to the rise of a new, integrated generation that remains proudly rooted in cultural individuality, this journey invites reflection on belonging, resilience, and the evolving identity of a true world port city. After this tour you will not only know Rotterdam, you will be able to say ‘I am Roffa’.

multicultural
Photo by Iris van der Broek