Discover the best museums in Rotterdam

Discover the variety of museums in Rotterdam

What can you do in Rotterdam when it's raining or you've had enough of the harbour flair? It's simple: head to one of the many fascinating museums! The second-largest city in the Netherlands is not only known for its avant-garde architecture and the largest harbour in Europe – culture fans also get their money's worth here. From photography and modern art to maritime history: the museums in Rotterdam are definitely among the most exciting sights in Rotterdam.

In this article, we present the best museums in Rotterdam – with all the important information about opening hours, admission prices, permanent exhibitions and tips for your next city trip. Let's get going!

Book your accommodation now: Plan your city trip in a relaxed way and stay at the a&o Hostel Rotterdam City – centrally located, affordable prices, perfect for culture fans!

1. Kunsthal Rotterdam – art you can touch

A place for the curious, explorers and art lovers: Kunsthal Rotterdam is not a classic museum – it's an experience. The building, designed by star architect Rem Koolhaas, presents up to 25 (!) changing exhibitions every year from the fields of photography, design, fashion and, of course, contemporary art.

Permanent exhibition: The Kunsthal does not have a permanent collection – but always has new and surprising highlights.

Opening hours: Tue-Sat: 10-17 hrs | Sun & public holidays: 11-17 hrs

Admission: Adults: €16 | Children (4-18): €6 | Children under 4: free

2. Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot – A look behind the scenes

Not a traditional museum, but a revolutionary concept: the Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot is the world's first art depot open to the public. Here you can watch restorers at work through the glass walls or lose yourself among over 151,000 works of art in one of the 14 storage rooms.

The building itself is an architectural highlight with a mirrored façade and roof garden with panoramic views.

Permanent exhibition: Not classically curated – instead free exploration through the collections.

Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 11-18 hrs (closed Mon)

Admission: Adults: €20 | Young people (12-17): €10 | Children under 12: free

3. Nederlands Fotomuseum – Geschichten im Bild

A paradise for photography enthusiasts: the Nederlands Fotomuseum displays historical, documentary and contemporary photography on several floors. The collection comprises over five million images – including many works by Dutch photographers. This is complemented by digital archives, workshops and family-friendly events.

Permanent exhibition: ‘The Gallery of Honour of Dutch Photography’ – a journey through 100 years of photographic history.

Opening hours: Tue-Sun: 11-17 hrs (closed Mon)

Admission: Adults: €12.50 | Students: €6 | Children under 18: free

4. Maritiem Museum – experience seafaring

Want to find out more about Rotterdam's maritime past? Then the Maritiem Museum is a must-see. Original ships, walk-in harbour facilities and an offshore experience bring history to life. There's also a great play harbour for children – perfect for a family outing!

Permanent exhibition: ‘Offshore Experience’, “Masterpieces”, ‘Kinderdoehoek’

Opening times: Tue-Sat: 10-17 hrs | Sun & public holidays: 11-17 hrs | Also open Mon during holiday periods.

Admission: Adults: €19 | Children (4-15): €13.50 | Children under 4: free | Students: €11.50

5. Museum Rotterdam – The city in focus

How do people live in Rotterdam – past and present? Museum Rotterdam takes you on a journey through the eventful history of the city. Particularly exciting: the stories about the reconstruction after the Second World War, when Rotterdam reinvented itself - urban, courageous, modern.

Permanent exhibition: ‘Rotterdam – City on the Move’

Opening times: Tue-Sun: 11am-5pm

Admission: Adults: €7.50 | Children (4-17): €2 | Children under 4: free

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Which museums in Rotterdam are particularly suitable for children?
The Maritiem Museum and the Nederlands Fotomuseum offer interactive exhibitions, hands-on workshops and child-friendly guided tours.

Can I visit several museums with one ticket?
With the ‘Museumkaart’ or the ‘Rotterdampas’ you get free admission or discounts at many museums.

How do I get to the museums?
Most of them are centrally located – ideally accessible from Rotterdam Central Station or directly from the a&o Hostel Rotterdam City. You can get anywhere quickly by bus, tram or metro.

What can I do in Rotterdam apart from visiting museums?
How about a walk along the Erasmus Bridge, street art in the Witte de Withstraat or a harbour tour?

Rotterdam – an Eldorado for culture lovers

Rotterdam is more than just a stopover. It is a city full of contrasts, innovation – and also a place for anyone who loves culture. Whether you are interested in modern art, photography or seafaring – the museums in Rotterdam are definitely one of the most exciting things to do in Rotterdam.

Got hooked?

Then book your trip with a&o to Rotterdam!