Rotterdam’s nightlife has quite a reputation. In the 80s and 90s, people came from far and wide for the Rotterdam dance scene. Like so much else in Rotterdam – the architecture, the people, their cultures and customs – the city’s nightlife is filled with contrasts. Today, the focus is wider, and all trends are well represented. The most unique clubs – Perron, Annabel, Toffler, Now&Wow – can be found in interesting and unexpected locations throughout the city. Hip and happening dance clubs and classic pubs, sunny terraces versus intimate concert venues. Looking for the underground scene? Here in Rotterdam, it’s literally underground: Toffler is a house and techno club situated in a former metro tunnel.
Witte de With is one of Rotterdam’s most popular nightlife areas. The street’s many restaurants, cosy cafés and stylish wine and cocktail bars attract a varied crowd. Tourists, locals, students, creative professionals, colleagues: they all rub shoulders in an exuberant and cheerful atmosphere.
A true local favorite, Biergarten is Rotterdam’s go-to open-air hangout for good vibes, cold beers, and grilled classics. Just steps from Central Station, it’s the perfect spot to kick back with friends, soak up the sun, and enjoy the city’s relaxed energy. Whether you’re starting your night or spending the whole evening, Biergarten delivers casual fun in an urban setting.
Stage, club and restaurant BIRD is located under the Hofbogen in Rotterdam and offers a program full of jazz, soul, hip hop, funk and new electronics. In the last century, a rich music tradition dominated the area around the Hofbogen. Sailors and the first generation of Surinamese introduced soul, funk and R&B from America. Bird wants to breathe new life into this jazz history and bring it into the 21st century.
WORM is place that screams art and culture. This organization makes a variety of alternative movies, music and products. They organize concerts, movies, workshops, masterclasses, festivals and different events.
Annabel is the largest music venue in Rotterdam, a stone's throw from Rotterdam Central Station. At Annabel you can see and hear international, leading acts, from hip-hop to pop to electronic. Come have a beer on the terrace or just come and dance during one of the many parties or festivals. Listen to music at one of the concerts.
In one of Europe’s largest and oldest silos, Maassilo, you’ll find a unique club experience: Now & Wow. This legendary venue offers stunning views, three distinctive rooms, and space for up to 2,000 people. Located in the heart of Rotterdam’s industrial heritage, Maassilo sets the perfect backdrop for unforgettable nights. The club’s events range from Rave to Urban, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
This is where you go to experience that special jazz ambiance. Jazz café Dizzy offers nice drinks and meals and great jazz music. It is one of the premier jazz clubs in The Netherlands an a cultural institution located in Rotterdam.
FERRY is a vibrant LGBTQ+ bar and café located at Westblaak 127 in Rotterdam. Known for its inclusive atmosphere, FERRY hosts a variety of events, including karaoke nights, drag performances, and themed parties. The venue features two floors, a separate room, and a spacious terrace, offering ample space for guests to enjoy. Diversity is a core value at FERRY, reflecting Rotterdam's rich cultural tapestry.
A similar vibe like ‘the witte de with’ can be discovered at the Oude and Nieuwe Binnenweg, where several of the city’s most popular bars and clubs are located: Sijf (#1 bar of the Netherlands), Stalles, Rumah and Rotown.
KINO and Cinerama offer a mix of arthouse and Hollywood films. LantarenVenster only shows arthouse films and is also one of the most well-known jazz stages in the city, together with BIRD and de Doelen. For an evening of guaranteed laughter, drop in at Comedy Club Haug where English-speaking stand-up comedians often perform.