We all know the beautiful view from the Euromast, the highest observation tower in the Netherlands. But Rotterdam has so much more viewpoints to offer. A whole new world is hidden on top of the buildings of the city, from green rooftops to office terraces.
Last summer I visited the ‘Rotterdamse Dakendagen’ festival. Here, I enjoyed the unique views of the Rotterdam skyline.
Escape the city streets and pay a visit to the 5 roof terraces below!
Please note: a few rooftops are not public and can only be visited during the Rotterdamse Dakendagen festival.
1. Op Het Dak
You might already know this green rooftop/city garden, because it’s located right next to Annabel and Biergarten Rotterdam. I think this is a special piece of Rotterdam, it looks like a green courtyard, but then 20 meters in the air. In addition, it’s the first green rooftop in the Netherlands where fruit and vegetables are grown and honey bees are kept.
Follow a guided tour by the rooftop farmers with an explanation about the DakAkker. When you are done walking you can take a seat in the rooftop restaurant ‘Op het Dak‘. Enjoy a drink, a snack and a view.
Address
Schiekade 189, 3013 BR Rotterdam
2. Fontein Rooftop
This beautiful hotspot is named after the Hofplein fountain which can be found right in front. At Fontein you can relax on their lovely terrace, but did you know that there is also a beautiful roof terrace on the tenth floor?
From the Fontein Rooftop you have a beautiful 360-degree view of the Hofplein and many iconic Rotterdam buildings. You can even see so far that you can see The Hague!
Here you can enjoy the view with a drink and in the indoor restaurant you can dine extensively.
Address
Hofplein 19, 3032 AC Rotterdam
3. Student flat de Hoge Wiek
You won’t easily find a breathtaking 360 degree view of the entire city. This is the reason that Student Flat de Hoge Wiek is my favourite rooftop of Rotterdam.
You are at eye level with the buildings, which, in my opinion, shows Rotterdam at its best. Watch how the Willemsbrug and Erasmusbrug light up slowly while the sun goes down.
There is a spectacular view over the center of Rotterdam. You can easily spot the Markthal, Laurenskerk and Millennium Tower from the 17th floor.
De Hoge Wiek can certainly compete with the Euromast in terms of shooting the best skyline pictures.
Please note: unfortunately this roof is not a public space, but you can visit it during the Rotterdam rooftop days.
Address
Oostmolenwerf 30-152, 3011 TL Rotterdam
4. Luchtpark Hofbogen
This former train station has been converted into a new public space: Luchtpark Hofbogen. Under this rooftop park you will find trendy restaurants, bars, shops and offices.
I think it’s a nice place where you find your peace and don’t have to leave the vibrant city center at the same time. Take a walk through this green city park while being surrounded by the buildings of Rotterdam.
This is the longest green rooftop in the Netherlands with a length of 1.9 kilometers. So, enough space for picnics, lounging and strolling in between the vegetable gardens and fruit trees.
Address
Luchtsingel, Rotterdam
5. 42WorkSpace
This cozy office terrace positively surprised me, it’s the perfect place for unique photos of the Rotterdam skyline. You won’t get bored of the 360-degree view where you look out over the Leuvehaven, Millennium Tower and more.
Well-known Rotterdam buildings can be seen here from a unique perspective. Working or studying on this rooftop terrace seems very inspiring to me. You buy a day ticket to try out the office spaces of 42WorkSpaces or visit the rooftop terrace during the Rotterdam Dakendagen.
Address
Schiedamse Vest 154, 3011 BH Rotterdam
6. Westewagenstraat
This work terrace has a beautiful view of the Grotekerkplein. You can finally view the beautiful Laurens church at eye level instead of from the ground floor.
You can shoot beautiful pictures and street photos of the church and the lively square. Besides a nice view, you also have a useful work terrace with shelter from sun and wind. I already know where I am going to work in the coming summer!
Please note that this is not a public space, contact the owners before you visit the terrace.
Address
Westewagenstraat 60, 3011 AT
Those were my favorite roofs of Rotterdam! In my previous blog you can find more hidden spots in Rotterdam.
What is your favorite roof in Rotterdam? Let us know in the comments!
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