Rotterdam is the second-largest city in Netherlands, renowned for its cutting-edge architecture, cosmopolitan charm, and technological drive. With a rich maritime history, this bustling metropolis offers an unparalleled mix of sights, sounds, and experiences. From the iconic Erasmus Bridge to the stunning Fenix Food Factory, Rotterdam is a city that inspires and delights.
Tips for expats in Rotterdam
Visa requirements
For many countries, a short-stay Schengen visa is sufficient to visit Rotterdam, while others may have to apply for a longer-stay visa to work or reside in the city. The exact visa requirements may depend on the passport holder's nationality and length of stay, and interested individuals are advised to consult the Dutch embassy or consulate for further information.
Language resources
Although Dutch is the official language, English is widely spoken in Rotterdam, particularly in business and professional settings. Language resources for learning Dutch include language courses provided by universities and schools, language exchange programs, and language learning apps like Babbel and Duolingo.
Cost of living for expats in Rotterdam
Housing
Accommodation costs in Rotterdam can vary widely depending on the location and type of housing. Sharing a room in a house or apartment can cost anywhere between €300 - €700 per month, whereas a one-bedroom apartment may range from €550 - €1,200 per month. A two-bedroom apartment can cost between €850 - €1,800 per month, and three-bedroom house can range from €1,400 - €3,500 per month.
Groceries
The cost of groceries in Rotterdam is moderate and is similar to that of other major Dutch cities. Basic food items such as bread, cheese, and meat can cost around €10-€15 per week, whereas more luxurious items may run up to €30-€50 per week. Vegetables, fruits, and dairy products are readily available at local supermarkets and farmers' markets.
Transportation
Getting around Rotterdam is both convenient and affordable due to the extensive and efficient public transportation system. A one-way ticket on transportation costs around €3.50, while a daily ticket for the entire public transportation network is €11.50, and a seven-day ticket can cost €35. Monthly public transportation passes are available for €96.
Climate in Rotterdam
Rotterdam has a maritime climate, characterized by cool summers and mild winters. The average temperature in July, the hottest month, is around 17°C (63°F), while in January, the coldest month, it drops to 3°C (37°F). The city experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, mostly concentrated in the autumn and winter months.
Job market in Rotterdam
With a thriving business ecosystem, Rotterdam is a hub for a range of industries, making it an attractive destination for job seekers. Pharmaceuticals, logistics, and tech are the leading employers, with notable companies such as Philips Healthcare, Unilever, and Amazon headquartering their operations in the city. The city is also home to several startups and innovation hubs catering to a diverse range of fields.
Healthcare in Rotterdam
Rotterdam boasts a highly developed healthcare system, with advanced medical facilities and top-notch professionals. The city is home to several international hospitals such as Erasmus MC - Cancer Institute, which offers world-renowned cancer treatment. The Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam's university medical center, is ranked among the top 100 hospitals in the world. Public healthcare is free for residents, and private healthcare is readily available.
Transport in Rotterdam
Rotterdam boasts an efficient and reliable public transportation system, integrating trains, trams, buses, and metro. The network is well-connected, facilitating seamless travel across the city and neighborhoods. Travelling by bike is a popular and eco-friendly mode of transportation in the city, with extensive bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes.
Safety in Rotterdam
Rotterdam is generally considered one of the safest cities in Europe. The city takes a proactive approach to ensuring public safety, investing in advanced security systems and measures. That being said, it is always recommended to remain alert and aware in densely populated areas, especially after dark.
Neighborhoods in Rotterdam
Dijkzigt
Dijkzigt is a splendid residential area in Rotterdam renowned for its green spaces, historic buildings, and peaceful ambiance. It is home to several parks like Het Park and Burgemeester Cisstoem-Clearissenweg, perfect for relaxation and picnics. The area offers easy access to the city center and is well-connected by public transportation.
Centrum
Centrum is the heart of Rotterdam and is characterized by its bustling streets, colorful architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. It is home to several notable attractions like Markthal, a covered indoor market, the Erasmus Bridge, and the Grote Kerk (Great Church). The area offers a vibrant nightlife scene and is well-connected by public transportation.
Nieuw-Mathenesse
Nieuw-Mathenesse is a calm, family-friendly neighborhood in Rotterdam known for its scenic waterfront promenades, quaint houses, and leafy lanes. It is home to several parks like Het Park and De Burcht, perfect for outdoor activities, picnics, and leisure time. The area offers easy access to the city center and is well-connected by public transportation.
Croxwijk-Quaasthof
Croxwijk-Quaasthof is a contemporary residential area known for its innovative architecture, futuristic designs, and artistic vibes. It is home to several cultural attractions like the Hofbogen complex, a hub for art and performance, and DBEX, a reconstructed railway bridge offering a stunning panoramic view of the city. The area offers easy access to the city center and is well-connected by public transportation.
Hillegersberg
Hillegersberg is a residential area in Rotterdam characterized by its green spaces and peaceful ambiance. It is home to several parks like Park Meijersbaan and Park Suurhoff, perfect for nature walks, picnics, and outdoor relaxation. The area offers easy access to the city center and is well-connected by public transportation.
Zuidas
Zuidas is a modern business and residential district in Rotterdam known for its high-rise buildings, contemporary architecture, and thriving business ecosystem. It is home to several notable buildings like the Rotterdam World Trade Center and the Time Square Shopping Center, and is a hub for technology, finance, and innovation. The area offers easy access to the city center and is well-connected by public transportation.
Attractions in Rotterdam
Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge is a striking suspension bridge spanning the Nieuwe Maas, linking the north and south banks of Rotterdam. It is one of Rotterdam's most iconic landmarks and serves as a symbol of the city's innovative and progressive spirit. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the harbor.
Markthal
Markthal is a magnificent indoor market located in the Centrum neighborhood of Rotterdam. The market's unique horseshoe-shaped design is both aesthetically stunning and functional, providing ample space for vendors selling an array of goods, from fresh produce and meat to artisan bakery products and flowers.
Cube Houses
The Cube Houses, also known as the Kijk-Kubus, are a set of unique residential buildings in Rotterdam, designed by architect Piet Blom. The buildings, which resemble giant cubes, are tilted at an angle of 45 degrees, offering a fascinating architectural contrast to the surrounding skyline. They appear to defy gravity and provide a unique and whimsical living experience.
De Rotterdam
De Rotterdam, also known as 'The New York' building, is a striking complex of three interconnected towers located on Wilhelminakade in Rotterdam. The building's unique stepped design provides a subtle yet contrasting backdrop to the city's skyline, particularly against the orange sunset sky. It houses a range of facilities including office spaces, apartments, and restaurants.
Kralingen
Kralingen is a charming residential neighborhood in Rotterdam, surrounded by greenery, water, and parks. The neighborhood is home to several cultural attractions including the Natural History Museum, the Kralingen Boomgaard, and the Hope Plant conservation center. It offers a peaceful, tranquil contrast to the bustling city center, making it a perfect retreat for city dwellers.
Kunsthal
The Kunsthal is a contemporary art museum in Rotterdam, featuring a diverse range of exhibitions, installations, and events from international artists. The museum's interactive and immersive approach to art encourages visitors to engage with the exhibits and explore new dimensions of creativity and expression.
International Schools in Rotterdam
British International School Rotterdam
The British International School Rotterdam is located in the charming suburb of Benoordenkerk, just a short distance from the city center. The school offers an international curriculum, following the British National Curriculum, from Nursery to Year 13 (ages 2-18). In addition, it offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, sports, and clubs to provide a holistic education experience.
The school is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, with students from a range of nationalities and backgrounds. It has a modern and well-equipped campus, with state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including a library, a sports hall, a music and dance studio, and a science lab. The school's highly qualified and experienced faculty and staff provide individualized attention, guidance, and support to each student, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
International School Creys-VWT
The International School Creys-VWT is located on the outskirts of Rotterdam, in the quaint town of Creys-Eeasterbuurt. The school offers an international curriculum, following the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) to the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). In addition, it offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, sports, and clubs to provide a holistic education experience.
The school is committed to fostering a diverse and supportive community, with students from various nationalities and backgrounds. It has a modern and well-equipped campus, with state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including a library, a science lab, an art studio, and a theater. The school's highly qualified and experienced faculty and staff provide individualized attention, guidance, and support to each student, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
Rijnlands College
Rijnlands College is a secondary international school located in the suburban town of Capelle aan den IJssel, just a short distance from Rotterdam. The school offers a unique academic experience, with a dual-diploma program combining the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and the Dutch VWO diploma program. This program allows students to tailor their education based on their academic interests and career aspirations.
The school is committed to fostering a diverse and supportive community, with students from various nationalities and backgrounds. It has a modern and well-equipped campus, with state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including a library, a science lab, a theater, and a sports hall. The school's highly qualified and experienced faculty and staff provide individualized attention, guidance, and support to each student, ensuring their academic success and personal growth.
Useful expat resources in Rotterdam
NFK International Movers
An international moving company that assists expats in Rotterdam with their relocation, storage, and transportation needs. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including packing, shipping, and settling-in assistance.
Rotterdam Laboratory Services (RLS)
A not-for-profit clinical laboratory organization providing language-specific laboratory testing services to healthcare providers and patients in Rotterdam. It offers efficient and reliable laboratory services in various disciplines like hematology, chemistry, and microbiology.
