Rotterdam, Netherlands: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Rotterdam, Netherlands? If you're planning to go to Rotterdam, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Rotterdam, Netherlands

Based on the climate and weather in Rotterdam, Netherlands, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Rotterdam, Netherlands

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Rotterdam, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Rotterdam, Netherlands by month

January

January in Rotterdam is pretty cool, very rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Rotterdam is pretty cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Rotterdam is brisk, very rainy and very hazy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you are traveling to Rotterdam in April, you will notice that it is brisk, very rainy and very hazy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

In May, Rotterdam can be chilly, very rainy and very hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Rotterdam, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Rotterdam is chilly, very rainy and very hazy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you go to Rotterdam in July, you will notice that it is balmy, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Rotterdam is mild, very rainy and very hazy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you are traveling to Rotterdam in September, you will notice that it is relatively cool, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Rotterdam is crisp, very rainy and somewhat hazy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to Rotterdam in November, you will notice that it is pretty cool, very rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain most days. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you visit Rotterdam during December, you might see that it can be very chilly, extremely rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain most days and snow once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Rotterdam. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you intend to check out the lovely Oude Kerk, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanische Tuin Kralingen, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands and is known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife and rich culture. The city has a lot to offer visitors, from beautiful parks to bustling streets, museums and galleries. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to see in Rotterdam.

1. Markthal Rotterdam - This is a covered food market located in the city centre, featuring over 100 food stalls, restaurants and bars. The unique design of the building with colourful murals and beautiful mosaics on the ceiling makes it a must-see attraction.

2. Euromast - This is the tallest tower in the Netherlands standing at 185 meters high. It offers stunning views of the city, harbour and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the restaurant located at the peak of the tower, or go bungee jumping from the top if they dare!

3. Cube Houses - These unusual cube-shaped houses were designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom and are a striking example of modern architecture. Visitors can take a tour of one of the houses which has been converted into a museum, offering a unique insight into the design and layout of these special buildings.

4. Rotterdam Zoo - The zoo is home to over 2,500 animals from around the world, making it a popular destination for families. Visitors can see tigers, elephants, monkeys, penguins and more, as well as engaging in daily interactive shows and demonstrations.

5. Kunsthal Rotterdam - This museum features a range of temporary exhibits showcasing art, design, and photography by both Dutch and international artists. The museum has previously hosted exhibitions on some of the world’s most famous artists, including Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol.

6. Erasmusbrug - This is a must-see landmark in Rotterdam, known locally as the "Swan" due to its elegant, sweeping shape. The bridge connects the city centre with the southern suburbs, offering views of the river and harbour below.

7. Delfshaven - This charming neighbourhood is filled with historic architecture, quaint cafes and restaurants. Visitors can take a stroll through the streets and admire the traditional Dutch houses and windmills.

Rotterdam has much to offer visitors from around the world, from its modern architecture to its rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in food, art, or just enjoying the sights and sounds of this vibrant city, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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