Rotterdam cruise port guide and cruise terminal information

Rotterdam Cruise Port Information

The Rotterdam Cruise Port boasts a state-of-the-art passenger terminal, which serves as the primary point of arrival and departure for cruise ship passengers. One of the notable advantages of the Rotterdam Cruise Port is its proximity to the city center. Passengers can easily explore Rotterdam’s vibrant attractions, including museums, architectural landmarks, shopping districts, and vibrant culinary scenes. The city’s excellent public transportation system ensures easy access to various points of interest. For people who love to walk and explore cities, the location where the ships dock is close enough to much of the city center by foot, starting off with a lovely walk over the iconic Erasmus Bridge (weather permitting of course).

Rotterdam serves as both a starting point and a port of call for many cruise itineraries. Passengers can embark on cruises to various destinations, including the Baltic Sea, Norwegian fjords, British Isles, Mediterranean, and beyond. The port’s central location allows for convenient access to a range of unique cruise routes.

The address of the Rotterdam Cruise Port

The cruise terminal is located at Wilhelminakade 909, 3072 AP Rotterdam 

How far is Rotterdam city center from the cruise port?

Walking distance from the part of Rotterdam to the city center (Blaak) where Markthal and the Cube Houses are is approximately 30 minutes by foot (1.5 miles / 2.5km). Alternatively, the Metro station just outside of the cruise ship will get you to the same location in just 10 minutes. When you exit the ship, go left towards Wilhelminaplein metro station.

Cruise Terminal Rotterdam public transport options, Getting to and from the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal

The Rotterdam Cruise Port is well-connected to the city’s public transportation network. Passengers can easily access taxis, public buses, and the nearby Rotterdam Central Station (Or Rotterdam Blaak, the actual city center), which provides connections to other parts of the city and the wider Netherlands. Additionally, the port offers ample parking facilities for passengers who choose to arrive by car.

The most convenient method to discover the city with public transportation is to make use of the Metro station (Whileminaplien) just a short walking distance from the ships. 

How far is the train station in Rotterdam from the cruise port? Can you walk to Rotterdam Central Station from the Rotterdam Cruise Port?

Yes, it’s possible with a 45-minute walk (about 2 miles away), however, the Metro goes directly to Central Station which may be a better option for people with more limited time or mobility issues. 

Here’s a map of the Rotterdam Cruise Port

How to get from Rotterdam cruise port to Amsterdam

Getting to Amsterdam from the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal is relatively simple using public transportation. However some people may choose a private transportation service, which can be quite expensive.

The train travel time is about 40 minutes from Rotterdam Centraal Station and tickets are available at a ticket counter or via kiosk. The trains are almost all direct without any changes and will end in the city center of Amsterdam. 

How to get from Rotterdam cruise port to Amsterdam airport?

Schiphol Airport is a close train ride from Centraal Station and getting there is relatively simple UNLESS you are traveling with a lot of luggage, then making use of the cruise line shuttle or private taxi is best. 

Cruise Terminal Rotterdam public transport options

The Rotterdam Cruise Port is well-connected to the city’s public transportation network. Passengers can easily access taxis, public buses, and the nearby Rotterdam Central Station, which provides connections to other parts of the city and the wider Netherlands. Additionally, the port offers ample parking facilities for passengers who choose to arrive by car.

The most convenient method to discover the city with public transportation is to make use of the Metro station (Whileminaplien) just a short walking distance from the ships. 

Things to do near the port of Rotterdam:

If you’re not doing any shore excursions, then there is plenty of options to spend a day in Rotterdam! Here are the most popular self-guided activities, however, we’ve prepared a full list of our favorite things to do in Rotterdam in detail! 

Walk over the Erasmus bridge

If you’re going to go into the city center on foot, a walk over the New Mass (Nieuwe Maas) via the Erasmusbrug or Erasmus Bridge is required. It’s also a beautiful way to take in the city skyline, take selfies, and observe firsthand the engineering marvel that Rotterdam is famous for.

Markthal

Explore abundant food options inside the most unusual “food hall” and market in The Netherlands that opened in 2014 with huge fanfare including ceremonies by the Queen. 

Markthal is a vibrant and bustling food market housed within a unique horseshoe-shaped building. The structure features a stunning ceiling adorned with colorful artwork, creating a visually captivating environment. Inside, you’ll find a diverse array of food stalls, shops, and restaurants offering a wide variety of fresh produce, local specialties, international cuisine, and gourmet delights. Discover hundreds of stalls serving just about everything you can imagine. So if you’re in the mood for a quick bite or even a leisurely meal, try Markthal. If you’re in the mood for beer and wine, there are plenty of stalls that have bar areas. 

The combination of its eye-catching design and culinary offerings makes Markthal a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike.

Euromast

Euromast is an iconic observation tower in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Standing at 185 meters (607 feet) tall, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The tower features two observation decks accessible by high-speed elevators. The lower deck, situated at 92 meters (302 feet), provides a wide view of Rotterdam, while the upper deck, located at 112 meters (367 feet), offers an even more extensive panorama. Try Brunch, Lunch or Dinner for a memorable dining experience above the city.

Be sure to book Euromast tickets online, or if you’re dining in the restaurant, make reservations! 

SS Rotterdam Tour

The SS Rotterdam is the original transatlantic oceanliner for Holland America Line and has been docked and converted into a floating hotel, restaurant, bar, and tourist attraction. Docked near the Port of Rotterdam (cruise port), it’s relatively easy to get to. Buy Tickets to the SS Rotterdam!

Popular Shore excursions from Rotterdam

For visitors who want to experience a more authentic Dutch excursion, there are plenty of easily accessible cities and villages that have a lot to offer! A few of our favorites are:

Kinderdijk

Experience the iconic windmills of The Netherlands by taking the Waterbus directly to the windmills. This is an easy day trip that can be done self-guided by walking or biking among the windmills. Alternatively, there are two windmills open to the public for a nominal fee, where you can tour and learn about how the windmills have helped the Dutch manage water for centuries. 

Gouda

A day trip to Gouda, especially on a weekend, is an amazing way to discover the “Real” Dutch culture. The trip is under 20 minutes from Centraal Station and easily done by train & is one of our favorite Day trips from Rotterdam

The picturesque city is located in the western Netherlands, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and the world-famous Gouda cheese. It is situated in the province of South Holland and is easily accessible from Rotterdam.

Gouda is famous for its cheese market, which has been held in the city’s central square for centuries. Visitors can witness the traditional cheese weighing and trading ceremonies that have been carried out since the Middle Ages. Gouda cheese itself is internationally renowned for its distinctive taste and creamy texture. The cheese market operates from 10am until 12.30pm every Thursday from April until September. Be sure to check the Gouda travel information website for actual dates and times, as they vary a little year over year.

Delft

Delft is a charming city located in the province of South Holland in the Netherlands. Known for its rich history, picturesque canals, and renowned Delftware ceramics, Delft offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and vibrant cultural experiences.

Delft is particularly renowned for its distinctive blue and white ceramics, known as Delftware. Visitors can explore the Royal Delft factory & museum, where they can watch the traditional production methods and admire the exquisite hand-painted pottery. To complete the experience you can join one of the painting workshops and discover the skills needed to be a Royal Delft craftsman (upon reservation).

With its rich cultural heritage, iconic ceramics, and enchanting cityscape, Delft is a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into the Netherlands’ history and artistic traditions.