Witte Huis Rotterdam
Europe's first skyscraper, a stunning 1889 art nouveau marvel in Rotterdam's historic old harbor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Facade shines bright
Witte Huis Rotterdam
Best Time
Facade shines bright
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Europe's first skyscraper, a stunning 1889 art nouveau marvel in Rotterdam's historic old harbor.
"Rarely felt so genuinely welcomed in a bar, and the kindness of the team made the evening unforgettable."
Roof Access Not Available
The rooftop isn't a tourist spot for views. Focus on the building's architecture and the restaurant.
Warm Welcome at Restaurant
Staff are known for being incredibly welcoming, even late or with pets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Europe's First Skyscraper
Marvel at the art nouveau architecture of the Witte Huis, the first high-rise in Europe, built in 1889.
Historic Old Harbour Setting
Admire this imposing 10-story building in the charming old harbor, a survivor of WWII bombings.
Delicious Dining Experience
Enjoy a warm welcome and delicious food, including highly-rated burgers and bitterballen, at the Witte Huis restaurant.
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Planning Your Visit
A Skyscraper's Legacy
Beyond the Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Het Witte Huis Roof Access
Roof Access Not Available
The rooftop isn't a tourist spot for views. Focus on the building's architecture and the restaurant.
Warm Welcome at Restaurant
Staff are known for being incredibly welcoming, even late or with pets.
Het Witte Huis (1897) in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, the first skyscraper in Europe and one of the few buildings to survive the Rotterdam Blitz (1940).
Great Burger Spot
The smashed burger is a must-try, often called one of the best ever eaten.
Historical Significance
Appreciate its status as Europe's first skyscraper and a WWII survivor.
Tips
from all over the internet
Roof Access Not Available
The rooftop isn't a tourist spot for views. Focus on the building's architecture and the restaurant.
Warm Welcome at Restaurant
Staff are known for being incredibly welcoming, even late or with pets.
Great Burger Spot
The smashed burger is a must-try, often called one of the best ever eaten.
Historical Significance
Appreciate its status as Europe's first skyscraper and a WWII survivor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Witte Huis, praising its historical significance as Europe's first skyscraper and its striking art nouveau architecture. The restaurant receives exceptional commendations for its incredibly warm and welcoming staff, delicious food (especially the burgers), and accommodating atmosphere, even for late arrivals or those with pets. It's a landmark that offers both a visual and culinary treat.
"We arrived late with our nervous dog and were welcomed so warmly at Het Witte Huis, even though the kitchen had pretty much closed. The staff went out of their way to make us a smashed burger, sardine spaghetti, and bitterballen – all of which were absolutely delicious. The burger in particular was one of the best I’ve ever eaten, clearly made with care. We tucked ourselves into a cosy corner with beers while our dog relaxed and fell asleep, and the staff never rushed us, even though we were the last ones in. We’ve rarely felt so genuinely welcomed in a bar, and the kindness of the team made the evening unforgettable. Thank you for such a lovely experience – we can’t wait to come back on our next visit to Rotterdam!"
Mark Aspin
"Rotterdam's very own White House, the first skyscraper in the city. While obviously dwarfed by the recent true skyscrapers this building, in art deco style, remains imposing and grand. A landmark in this magnificent city"
Dr Win Sutanto
"Amazing building in the old harbour area. It looks most impressive in the summer when surrounded by green trees the white facade shines bright like a diamond. While visiting the cube houses (what everybody does) it would be a shame not to make those few steps and see this end of the XIXth century building."
Pan Piotr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Witte Huis is located in the old harbor area of Rotterdam. It's easily accessible by public transport, with tram and metro stops nearby. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option, taking you through charming streets.
There are several parking garages in the vicinity of the old harbor. However, parking in Rotterdam can be expensive, so consider public transport if possible.
Yes, it's a short walk from attractions like the Cube Houses and Markthal. The old harbor area is quite walkable and picturesque.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you don't need tickets to view the exterior of the Witte Huis. It's a historical building in a public area. Entry to the restaurant/bar is free, but you'll pay for food and drinks.
Unfortunately, the rooftop of the Witte Huis is not accessible to the public as a tourist viewpoint. It's a private building.
The restaurant and bar typically have evening hours, and staff are known to be accommodating even when the kitchen is closing. It's best to check their specific hours online before visiting.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is admiring the architecture of Europe's first skyscraper. You can also dine at its restaurant or enjoy a drink at the bar, experiencing its historical ambiance.
Yes, reviews suggest the Witte Huis restaurant is very welcoming to dogs, making it a great spot if you're traveling with a pet.
Walk around the building and view it from different angles in the old harbor. Consider visiting during daylight to see its facade shine, or in the evening for a cozy atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, with a particular highlight being their smashed burgers, which are highly praised. They also offer items like sardine spaghetti and bitterballen.
While prices aren't explicitly detailed, reviews suggest the food is delicious and made with care, implying good value for the quality.
Absolutely! The Witte Huis has a bar where you can enjoy a selection of beers and other drinks in a historical setting.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the Witte Huis from across the water in the old harbor for a full view of its facade. The surrounding historic port area also offers great photographic opportunities.
The building looks particularly impressive in the summer when surrounded by green trees, and its white facade shines bright. Evening light can also create a dramatic effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Its art nouveau style is characterized by its elegant lines, decorative elements, and a sense of grandeur. Unlike the stark functionality of modern skyscrapers, the Witte Huis embodies a more ornate and artistic approach to vertical architecture. Visitors can appreciate the intricate details of its facade, which contribute to its imposing yet graceful presence. The building's historical context is crucial; it represents a pivotal moment in European urban planning and architectural ambition, offering a tangible link to the late 19th century's vision for the future of cities.
While the rooftop is not accessible for panoramic views, the Witte Huis offers a unique opportunity to connect with architectural history. Its presence in the old harbor area, surrounded by other historic structures, creates a compelling visual narrative of Rotterdam's past. It serves as a reminder of the city's enduring spirit and its capacity for innovation, from its early days as a maritime hub to its modern status as a vibrant metropolis.
Dining at a Landmark
The menu at the Witte Huis restaurant is noted for its quality and delicious offerings. The smashed burger has received particularly high praise, with some diners declaring it one of the best they've ever tasted, a testament to the care and quality ingredients used. Other popular items include sardine spaghetti and traditional Dutch bitterballen. The cozy corner seating and relaxed ambiance make it an ideal spot to unwind, especially after a day of exploring Rotterdam. It's a place where you can truly feel at home, even as a visitor.
This combination of historical significance and excellent hospitality makes the Witte Huis restaurant a must-visit for those looking to experience Rotterdam from a unique perspective. It’s a place where the past and present blend seamlessly, offering both a visual feast and a culinary delight. The fact that it's also noted as being dog-friendly adds another layer of appeal for many travelers.
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