Areas and suburbs in Rotterdam

When deciding where to stay, there are many exciting areas and suburbs in Rotterdam for new arrivals to choose from. From trendy, upmarket areas in the city centre, to quieter, family-friendly suburbs on the outskirts of town, there's something to suit everyone. 

Here's a list of popular expat areas in Rotterdam.

Kop van Zuid

Resting on the Maas River's south bank, Kop van Zuid is a vibrant area home to many of Rotterdam's architectural marvels. Though the area was once a disused port, the government invested in major redevelopment in the 1990s and today it's a cultural and business hub. Expat professionals, in particular, are likely to enjoy Kop van Zuid's close proximity to the city centre.

Kralingen

As the home of Erasmus University, Kralingen is naturally popular with students. However, its close proximity to the city centre, along with the excellent schools in the area, also make it attractive for families and executives. There are plenty of restaurants and cafés to enjoy, along with the natural beauty of Kralingse Bos, a forested area with a lake. Kralingen has a distinctly international feel and housing in the area ranges from humble apartments to sprawling villas.

Hillegersberg

This upmarket suburb is situated to the northeast of the city centre and is one of Rotterdam's most prestigious addresses. Due to high demand among locals and expats alike, accommodation in Hillegersberg tends to be pricey, but those who can afford to live there will enjoy close proximity to international schools and good public transport links, all in a lush, green environment.

Oude Westen

Oude Westen is a charming, artsy area that acts as a hub for the city's creatives and is especially popular with expats. The area has a distinctly multicultural atmosphere and there's lots to explore in the form of specialty shops, cafés and restaurants, many of which are owned and run by fellow expats. Though close to the city centre, prices in Oude Westen are affordable and this is a good option for those on a budget.

Further reading​

►Learn more about finding accommodation in Rotterdam

 

Are you an expat living in Rotterdam?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Rotterdam. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.

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