The autumn period is approaching and for some that also means: time off! The official autumn holidays in Rotterdam are from October 17th to 25nd 2026. After a warm summer, it is a bit of a switch when it is suddenly a bit colder. However, it cannot be denied that autumn also has its charms.
For example, nature is at its most beautiful in autumn! No other season is as colourful. Mushrooms are sprouting from the ground and when you walk outside, the scent of the leaves and trees is nice and clear. Grab this underrated time of year with both hands and brave the rain in Rotterdam Centre! To help you find your way, we have listed a few autumn tips for you.
Yes, you read that right. This fall break, you can enjoy ice skating with the family! From October 17th to 25th, the Rotterdam Ice Rink will be open especially for the fall break. The early opening of the rink offers a unique opportunity to experience the ice in the fall.
The entrance fee has been reduced to approximately €5 per person, especially for the fall break, so the whole family can enjoy a day out at a great price.
The Maritime Museum Rotterdam opened a fascinating new underwater world for children. The interactive children's exhibition "Splash! The Future of the Sea" is the long-awaited successor to "Professor Splash." Discover it during the fall break
For over thirty years, children have learned about the maritime world through play with Professor Splash. This iconic exhibition is now making way for a new exhibition that uniquely illuminates life with water.
In the new exhibition, young visitors are fully immersed in the fascinating underwater world. The new exhibition encourages children aged four to twelve to consider the opportunities the sea offers to address the challenges of climate, pollution, and the energy transition.
Autumn is the season when colour really comes into its own. At Remastered, you can experience colour in a way you’ve never seen before. Beneath the Erasmus Bridge, you’ll step into a new world designed to stimulate all your senses. There are currently two immersive experiences to choose from: Dutch Masters and Spirit of Japan.
In Dutch Masters, the art of famous Dutch masters such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt is given a completely new lease of life. Never before has art come to life quite like this. Create your own 3D artwork, swim among the fish or fly alongside birds. In each of the different spaces, you become part of the artwork yourself.
With Spirit of Japan, you’ll step into the world of Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. More than 400 masterpieces from 20 museums around the world are brought to life through mesmerising 360° visuals. You’ll be surrounded by colour, movement and Japanese art from every angle. This isn’t an exhibition you simply look at – it’s an experience you can completely immerse yourself in.
Both Remastered experiences last around an hour, taking you through a series of different spaces in this unique world. Tickets start from €24.50 and are available via the Remastered website.
What is of course always possible during the fall break, is to visit the warmth of the great shops in Rotterdam Centre! There is something for everyone at the awesome concept stores, large department stores and cozy vintage shops. Also, we have the best coffee in the Netherlands! We call it a bakkie pleur.
Visit the world-famous Lijnbaan or Koopgoot, come and have a snack at Jamin or find clothes at Pull & Bear, Bershka, Urban Outfitters, Stradivarius and of course H&M and Zara. Don't forget to discover hidden gems such as The Swapshop op Weena. Oh, and if you want to take something special with you, stop by the LUSH and KKEC.
If you are enjoying shopping in Rotterdam Centre, then a quick and delicious pick me up can't be missed. Warm up while enjoying a hot cup of coffee at one of the many different coffee bars in Rotterdam Centre.
At Starbucks they have the ideal fall coffee: the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Come and try it out at the Starbucks at Rotterdam Central, van Oldenbarneveltplaats or Hoogstraat.
Sometimes it's time for some self care, especially during the fall. Okay, there are really a lot of fun elements to autumn, but we all secretly go through a little autumn dip. Time to take care of yourself!
At Skins you will be completely pampered by skilled specialists. For example, choose an instant facial, a deluxe facial or a good connective tissue massage for your face.
In the Skins store you can shop wonderfully scented candles and perfumes, in addition to of course fantastic skin care products. Get advice from the beauticians and relax during your fall break.
Rotterdam has many beautiful parks and green spots. Ideal to go out and discover these places during the autumn holidays. For example, visit Het Park in Rotterdam and admire the beautiful water features, lawns and old trees.
Immediately visit the Historical Garden Schoonoord, located next to Het Park, between Parklaan and Westzeedijk. This hidden green gem has a rich history that goes back 350 years. As soon as you enter the 18th century entrance gate of this garden, you are no longer in the city centre, but you are in a protected national monument, a piece of oasis with a rich collection of flora and fauna. Walk around and enjoy the greenery, take a seat on a bench by the pond and read a book. This way you can really relax.
Or take a (free!) street art tour and discover new murals. Nice to immediately improve your photography skills.