The best time to visit Rotterdam is from May through September, when the city’s festivals are in full swing, the weather is warm and the outdoor terraces come alive with locals and travelers alike. This modern Dutch metropolis is known for its bold architecture, art-filled streets and waterfront charm—making it a must-visit any time of year.
But depending on what you’re after—quiet museums, buzzing nightlife or tulip-filled day trips—each season in Rotterdam offers a different kind of magic. Here’s your complete guide to the weather in Rotterdam and what to expect each time of year.
Spring in Rotterdam (March–May)
Best for: Tulips, park strolls and arts events
Average temperatures: 46°F (8°C) in March to 61°F (16°C) in May
Spring in Rotterdam brings a fresh energy. As the days get longer and the chill begins to fade, locals return to the parks and canals and trees start to blossom across the city. By April, the city’s many public spaces—like Het Park near Euromast or Museumpark—are dotted with blooming flowers and laid-back café culture.
It’s also a great time to base yourself in Rotterdam for day trips to the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens or nearby tulip fields in Lisse. Expect mild weather, fewer crowds and plenty of cultural happenings in theaters and galleries.
Key Events and Activities:
- Art Rotterdam Week (March)
- Museum tours without summer crowds
- Day trips to Keukenhof Gardens (mid-March to mid-May)
- Walks or bike rides through Kralingse Bos
- Early café terrace openings by the river
Summer in Rotterdam (June–August)
Best for: Festivals, nightlife and outdoor dining
Average temperatures: 66°F (19°C) in June to 72°F (22°C) in August
If you want to experience Rotterdam at its liveliest, summer is the best time to visit Rotterdam. The streets are buzzing with food trucks, street performers and open-air festivals celebrating everything from jazz to international cuisine. The city’s harbor location makes for breezy waterfront evenings and nearly every public square becomes a temporary stage or beer garden.
The weather in Rotterdam during summer is warm but rarely too hot, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re climbing the Euromast, lounging at beachy pop-ups like Tropicana or taking a boat ride on the Maas River, there’s no shortage of action.
Key Events and Activities:
- Rotterdam Architecture Month (June)
- North Sea Jazz Festival (July)
- Rotterdam Unlimited (late July)
- Open-air cinema at Pleinbioscoop (August)
- Sunset drinks at rooftop bars like The Suicide Club or Fontein
Fall in Rotterdam (September–November)
Best for: Fewer crowds, cultural experiences and cozy dining
Average temperatures: 68°F (20°C) in September to 48°F (9°C) in November
Autumn in Rotterdam is slower and more reflective. The city takes on a golden hue as the leaves change and museums, galleries and theaters fill with new exhibits and performances. It’s the perfect time to explore the indoor side of Rotterdam’s cultural scene—from modern art at Kunsthal to avant-garde design at Het Nieuwe Instituut.
The weather in Rotterdam can be unpredictable in fall, with crisp mornings, occasional rain showers and cooler evenings. But it’s also a perfect season for urban wandering and catching the last outdoor markets of the year.
Key Events and Activities:
- Wereldhavendagen (World Port Days) in early September
- Affordable hotel stays after peak season
- Rotterdam Philharmonic concerts resume
- Autumn menus at food halls like Fenix Food Factory
- Walks through Delfshaven and along the canals in soft light
Winter in Rotterdam (December–February)
Best for: Museums, holiday lights and indoor coziness
Average temperatures: 43°F (6°C) in December to 39°F (4°C) in February
Rotterdam in winter is sleek, cozy and full of charm. While snowfall is rare, the city gets festive with twinkling lights, winter pop-ups and holiday markets. It’s a great time to discover Rotterdam’s innovative museums and architectural icons without the crowds or to curl up in a stylish café with hot chocolate or mulled wine.
The weather in Rotterdam during winter is cold and damp, but manageable. Dress warmly and you’ll find plenty to love—especially if you're a fan of design, culture and calm cityscapes.
Key Events and Activities:
- Rotterdam Christmas Market and Winter Fair
- International Film Festival Rotterdam (late January–early February)
- Cozy dining in the Witte de Withstraat area
- Museum visits: Boijmans Van Beuningen, Depot and Maritime Museum
- Ice skating at Schouwburgplein (seasonal)
When Is the Best Time to Visit Rotterdam Overall?
The best time to visit Rotterdam is from May to September, when the weather is mild, festivals are plentiful and the city feels most alive. Whether you’re here for art, food, music or urban exploration, summer and the surrounding months offer the ideal mix of sunshine and experiences. But if you’re looking for quieter moments, lower prices and a rich cultural calendar, spring and fall are excellent alternatives—especially for museum lovers and architectural buffs.
Want to Explore More of Rotterdam?From cutting-edge architecture to creative local finds, there’s so much more to see. Learn what Rotterdam is known for or explore what to buy in Rotterdam to discover souvenirs and stories that capture the city’s bold personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Rotterdam?
The best time to visit Rotterdam is from May through September, when the weather is warm, events are in full swing and the city offers its most dynamic cultural scene.
What is the weather in Rotterdam like year-round?
The weather in Rotterdam is mild and maritime. Summers are warm (65–75°F), spring and fall are cool and pleasant and winters are chilly and wet (35–45°F) with occasional wind.
Is Rotterdam worth visiting in the winter?
Yes! While it’s cold, winter in Rotterdam brings Christmas markets, indoor cultural events and cozy café culture. It’s a great time to explore museums and experience the city without crowds.
What is the hottest month in Rotterdam?
July is typically the hottest month in Rotterdam, with average daytime highs around 72°F (22°C). It’s also one of the sunniest months, making it perfect for enjoying rooftop bars, riverside strolls and outdoor festivals.
When are Rotterdam’s major festivals?
- North Sea Jazz Festival: July
- Rotterdam Unlimited: July
- Architecture Month: June
- International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR): January–February
- World Port Days: September
Can you take day trips from Rotterdam?
Absolutely. Rotterdam is well-connected by train and makes a great base for visiting Delft, The Hague, Utrecht or Amsterdam—all within an hour.
Is there a rainy season in Rotterdam?
There’s no official rainy season, but October through January typically sees the most rainfall. However, rain is common year-round, often in short bursts.
Keep Exploring Rotterdam, Netherlands
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Rotterdam, Netherlands Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Rotterdam with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Rotterdam, Netherlands Known For? - Learn more about the city's cutting-edge architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
- What to Eat in Rotterdam - Savor the flavors as you taste your way through your latest adventure.
- What to Buy in Rotterdam - Discover the best souvenirs, from timeless Dutch classics to quirky, design-forward finds.
