Where to go clubbing in Rotterdam

Witte de Withkwartier should be visited at night when it really comes alive. During the day you can browse the numerous art galleries or visit the Maritime Museum but, if you want to get a taste of Rotterdam nightlife, head here after dark.

The area around the town hall is where you’ll find the more upmarket bars and restaurants in Rotterdam. This is close to the main shopping area so is busy during the day as well as at night.

In the evenings the restaurants on the main square attract a well-dressed clientele so, if you’re going out in this area, put on your glad rags.

Bars and clubs around the old harbour are popular with students, especially in summer, when the terraces along the waterfront are heaving.

One of the main venues around here is Café Plan C, which recently reopened after five years. This is a great budget place to eat during the day, but in the evening it transforms into a club, with DJs or live music most weekends.

Meent is a slightly alternative place to shop during the day, with smaller more exclusive boutiques rather than high-street chains.

In the evening this area is increasingly becoming a place to go out for a slightly older crowd. So, if your hard-core clubbing days are in the past, this could the place for you.

The Hofplein is home to BIRD, one of the best known jazz clubs in Rotterdam. This restaurant and club is under the arches of the old Hofbogen railway bridge, and has a wide programme of jazz and related music. The area around the Hofbogen viaduct is being regenerated and there are quite a few bars and restaurants popping up under the arches.