Harbor Area & Oude Haven Rotterdam
Rotterdam's Oude Haven: Where iconic Cube Houses meet historic ships, offering a unique blend of modern architecture and maritime charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for photos.
Harbor Area & Oude Haven Rotterdam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for photos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rotterdam's Oude Haven: Where iconic Cube Houses meet historic ships, offering a unique blend of modern architecture and maritime charm.
"A stunning blend of historic ships and avant-garde architecture, most notably the iconic Cube Houses."
📸 Capture the Architecture
The unique Cube Houses and historic buildings offer incredible photo ops. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Docks
Wander along the harbor to admire the old ships and waterfront views. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen)
Oude Haven
Iconic, gravity-defying homes that look like tilted cubes. A must-see architectural wonder.
Historic Ships
Oude Haven
A charming collection of old vessels docked in the harbor, offering a glimpse into maritime history.
The White House (Witte Huis)
Oude Haven
A survivor of WWII bombing, this historic building was once Europe's tallest. Admire its resilience and architecture.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Architecture
Best Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Architecture
The unique Cube Houses and historic buildings offer incredible photo ops. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Docks
Wander along the harbor to admire the old ships and waterfront views. :athletic_shoe:
Where to hang out im rotterdam?
What are the best terraces (bars/ restaurants) to enjoy the sun until late in Rotterdam?
☕ Enjoy Waterfront Dining
Plenty of eateries with patios offer great views of the harbor. :knifeforkplate:
Visiting in October.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Architecture
The unique Cube Houses and historic buildings offer incredible photo ops. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Stroll the Docks
Wander along the harbor to admire the old ships and waterfront views. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Enjoy Waterfront Dining
Plenty of eateries with patios offer great views of the harbor. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Oude Haven's unique architectural blend, from the iconic Cube Houses to the resilient White House. The charming collection of historic ships adds a nostalgic maritime feel, and the numerous waterfront eateries provide a pleasant atmosphere for dining and enjoying the views. It's a visually captivating area that offers a delightful stroll and excellent photo opportunities.
"Beautiful harbor area surrounded by the Kijk Kubus, interesting shaped buildings, eateries with patios, and full of old vessels. I wanted to pass by here after hearing of the scenic viewpoint down the Canal, but found the entire area around the docks to be quite charming. So many interesting buildings, architecturally."
Graham Tranter
"Brilliant viewpoint. Cube houses, rivers, and pletty of food places."
Hug Dealer
"Quiet place to stroll, several benches with a view of the old port, the Kijk Kubus, the White House."
tchi tcha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oude Haven is easily accessible by public transport. Take tram lines 8 or 21 to the 'Kubushaven' stop, or metro lines A, B, or C to 'Oostplein' station. It's also a pleasant walk from Rotterdam Centraal Station, taking about 15-20 minutes. :train:
Parking can be challenging and expensive in the city center. It's recommended to use public transport or a taxi. If you must drive, look for parking garages like 'Oostplein' or 'WTC Parking'. :car:
Yes, Oude Haven is centrally located and within walking distance of many other Rotterdam attractions, including the Markthal and the city center. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Oude Haven area itself is a public space and free to explore. You can walk around the harbor and admire the ships and architecture without any admission fee. :ticket:
While you can admire the exterior of the Cube Houses for free, there is a small entrance fee if you wish to visit one of the show houses (Kijk-Kubus) to see the interior. :moneywithwings:
Oude Haven is always accessible as it's an outdoor public area. However, individual shops, restaurants, and the show Cube House will have their own operating hours. :clock:
📸 📸 Photography
The area around the Cube Houses offers fantastic angles. Also, capture the historic ships against the modern skyline, and don't miss the view from the bridges. :camerawithflash:
Yes, the harbor area can be quite picturesque at sunset, with the lights reflecting on the water and the buildings. :city_sunset:
Absolutely! The historic ships are a major draw, and visitors are encouraged to take photos of them. Some may even be open for tours. :ship:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Oude Haven is dotted with numerous restaurants and cafes, many offering outdoor seating with lovely harbor views. You can find a variety of cuisines. :foodie:
You'll find everything from casual snacks and Dutch specialties to international dishes. It's a great spot for lunch or dinner. :fries:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There are plenty of open spaces along the harbor for kids to move around, and the numerous eateries offer kid-friendly options. Consider visiting the Kijk-Kubus (show Cube House) for a unique indoor activity that’s both educational and fun. :child:
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the White House for its historical significance and architectural details. The waterfront offers beautiful reflections, especially during the golden hour or at night when the area is illuminated. :camerawithflash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of Oude Haven
Dominating the skyline are the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen), designed by Piet Blom. These innovative, tilted cubes are a bold statement in modern urban living and a photographer's dream. Visitors can even tour one of the show houses, the Kijk-Kubus, to experience the unique interior design.
Beyond these iconic structures, the area features other interesting buildings on Wijnhaven, some of which were rebuilt after the war, adding layers to the district's architectural narrative. The blend of historic maritime charm and cutting-edge design makes Oude Haven a unique urban landscape.
Exploring the Historic Harbor
Many of these vessels are well-preserved and offer a tangible connection to Rotterdam's rich seafaring heritage. You can often see them from the outside, and some may even offer tours or have small museums on board. It's a peaceful and picturesque part of the harbor, offering a stark contrast to the modern architecture nearby.
This area provides a wonderful opportunity for leisurely walks, with benches strategically placed to enjoy the views of the water, the ships, and the surrounding cityscape. It’s a quiet escape within the bustling city, perfect for reflection and photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit