Maastunnel
Europe's longest underwater vehicle tunnel, offering historic walks, unique wooden elevators, and a cycling path.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful cycling
Maastunnel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful cycling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's longest underwater vehicle tunnel, offering historic walks, unique wooden elevators, and a cycling path.
"It's amazing due to the historical past behind it and also it's my first time seeing a wooden elevator!"
🚫 No Overtaking Allowed
Police enforce a strict no-overtaking rule in the tunnel. Stick to your lane to avoid tickets.
🚲 Bike or Walk
The tunnel is designed for cars, bikes, and pedestrians. Enjoy a unique cycling or walking experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Underwater Walk
Pedestrian tunnel
Experience Europe's longest underwater vehicle tunnel on foot, feeling the weight of history.
Antique Wooden Elevators
Entrances
A classic Rotterdam experience! Take a ride on the charming, antique wooden elevators.
Cycling Through History
Bicycle tunnel
Cycle through this unique bike tunnel, a first of its kind in Europe, connecting the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Rules: No Overtaking!
Embrace the History & Unique Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Why can't you overtake in Maastunnel and why people drive so slow there?
🚫 No Overtaking Allowed
Police enforce a strict no-overtaking rule in the tunnel. Stick to your lane to avoid tickets.
🚲 Bike or Walk
The tunnel is designed for cars, bikes, and pedestrians. Enjoy a unique cycling or walking experience.
Running 🏃🏻♂️ in Rotterdam
Travel advice for Rotterdam
🕰️ Ride the Wooden Elevators
Don't miss the antique wooden elevators – a classic Rotterdam experience!
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Available
Book a tour with Gilde Rotterdam for behind-the-scenes access and historical insights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Overtaking Allowed
Police enforce a strict no-overtaking rule in the tunnel. Stick to your lane to avoid tickets.
🚲 Bike or Walk
The tunnel is designed for cars, bikes, and pedestrians. Enjoy a unique cycling or walking experience.
🕰️ Ride the Wooden Elevators
Don't miss the antique wooden elevators – a classic Rotterdam experience!
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Available
Book a tour with Gilde Rotterdam for behind-the-scenes access and historical insights.
📸 Capture the History
The tunnel's architecture and history make for impressive photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Maastunnel a cool and historic place, especially appreciating the antique wooden elevators and the unique experience of walking or cycling through Europe's longest underwater vehicle tunnel. Some note the strict no-overtaking rules and the tunnel's functional, rather than purely scenic, nature.
"Really cool place to visit even through foot although it would also be cool to be able to bike through this tunnel! It's amazing due to the historical past behind it and also it's my first time seeing a wooden elevator! Very convenient to those who wants to cross to the other side."
Argie Karl Mayrong
"Beautiful historic tunnel. You can visit behind the scenes with a tour from Gilde Rotterdam. Taking your bike on the antique wooden escalator is a classic Rotterdam experience!"
Nena V
"Bike tunnel to cross the river in Rotterdam.
Escalator or Elevstor to go up and down
Only bicycles! Nice experience but very widely used by people.
This is the first bike tunnel made. Similar to the one in Antwerpen
To be done!"
Davide Quadrelli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Maastunnel by public transport, cycling, or walking. The visitor center is located at Charloisse Hoofd 27, 3087 CA Rotterdam.
Yes, the Maastunnel has dedicated lanes for cars, but overtaking is strictly prohibited.
Absolutely! The Maastunnel has a dedicated bicycle path, offering a unique cycling experience.
Limited parking may be available near the entrances, but cycling or public transport is recommended for easier access. Check local parking regulations.
Pedestrian access is available at both ends of the tunnel. It's a great way to experience the tunnel's atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to walk or cycle through the Maastunnel is free. Guided tours may have a fee.
The Maastunnel is generally open 24/7 for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Check for any temporary closures or maintenance schedules.
The main restriction is the prohibition of overtaking, even for cyclists. Be mindful of traffic rules.
Yes, taking your bike on the antique wooden escalator is a classic Rotterdam experience!
Information on visitor center fees can vary. It's best to check their official website or inquire locally.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Maastunnel is unique for its historical significance as Europe's longest underwater vehicle tunnel and its antique wooden elevators.
Walking through the entire pedestrian tunnel can take around 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace and stops.
Yes, the pedestrian tunnel is generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings and any cyclists or vehicles.
You can see the tunnel's impressive engineering, historical elements, and the unique wooden elevators.
Basic facilities like lighting are present. For more amenities, you'll find them at the entrances or nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The entrances, the interior of the pedestrian tunnel, and the antique wooden elevators offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Maastunnel for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors.
The tunnel has artificial lighting, which can create a unique atmosphere for photography. Consider using a tripod for low-light shots.
Avoid using flash photography that might disturb other users, especially cyclists or drivers. Professional shoots might require permits.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and tunnels due to safety and privacy regulations. Check local drone laws.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚲 Cyclists
🚶♀️ Pedestrians
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Maastunnel's History
During World War II, the tunnel played a crucial role, and its survival is a testament to its robust construction. Today, it continues to serve as a vital link connecting the north and south of Rotterdam, facilitating daily commutes for thousands. The tunnel's historical significance is further highlighted by the presence of the antique wooden elevators, which are a charming reminder of a bygone era and a unique feature that sets it apart from modern tunnels.
For those interested in delving deeper, guided tours are available through organizations like Gilde Rotterdam. These tours offer fascinating insights into the tunnel's construction, its historical context, and its ongoing importance to the city. It's an opportunity to go behind the scenes and truly understand the engineering marvel that is the Maastunnel.
Navigating the Maastunnel: Practicalities for Visitors
For cyclists, the experience of riding through this historic tunnel is often described as unique. The antique wooden elevators are a particular highlight, providing a charming and classic way to ascend or descend.
Pedestrians can enjoy a walk through the tunnel, soaking in the atmosphere and appreciating the scale of the structure. It's a convenient way to cross the Maas River and connect different parts of the city. Remember to be mindful of cyclists and any vehicles, and enjoy the historical ambiance of this Rotterdam icon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit