Erasmusbrug travel guide

Photo of Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug) and Rotterdam skyline cityscape illuminated at night. Rotterdam, Netherlands.
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Introduction to Erasmusbrug

Erasmusbrug, an iconic landmark of the Netherlands, commands attention in the the heart of Rotterdam. Garnering a commendable 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,048 visitors, this travelers’ hotspot is truly a worthwhile site in the country.

Erasmusbrug was established in 1996 while it’s formal inauguration was held on September 6, 1996. Taking its name from the esteemed Dutch Renaissance humanist, Catholic priest, and theologian, Erasmus, this bascule bridge is indeed an unparalleled sight in Rotterdam.

Don’t forget to include Erasmusbrug in your travel itinerary, and get ready to be mesmerized by its magnificence and notable features. Continue reading and discover captivating details that will elevate your visit to this bascule bridge to a whole new level.

Located in Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Located in Rotterdam, the iconic Erasmusbrug is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Rotterdam or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in the Netherlands.

Rotterdam is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Rotterdam offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Cube Houses, Kunsthal Rotterdam, Maritime Museum, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and Miniworld Rotterdam.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Rotterdam has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Rotterdam - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Netherlands!

Unique features of Erasmusbrug

The Erasmusbrug, affectionately known as 'The Swan' due to its elegant, bird-like design, is a feat of modern engineering. The 802-meter long bridge is anchored by a single, asymmetric pylon that dramatically ascends 139 meters into the sky, giving it a distinctive and striking silhouette. The pylon supports 40 cables that hold the bridge's deck, creating an intricate web of steel that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

One of the notable features of the Erasmusbrug is its bascule bridge, the largest and heaviest in Western Europe. This section can be lifted to allow large ships to pass through, an impressive sight that further cements the bridge's status as a marvel of modern design. At night, Erasmusbrug transforms into a stunning lightshow, illuminated by 2,600 lights, adding another dimension to its beauty. The Erasmusbrug is not just a bridge, but a symbol of Rotterdam's innovative spirit and architectural prowess.

How to get to Erasmusbrug

Erasmusbrug is located in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is approximately 29.98 miles (48.24 km) away from Rotterdam. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Erasmusbrug is located.

If you’re already in Rotterdam, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the bascule bridge. The exact address of the attraction is Erasmusbrug, 3011 BN Rotterdam, Netherlands, the Netherlands.

You can also rent a car and drive to Erasmusbrug. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Erasmusbrug and other top attractions in Rotterdam at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Erasmusbrug!

Erasmusbrug tours & tickets

Photo of Rotterdam, Netherlands by Markus Christ

No visit to Rotterdam is complete without a trip to Erasmusbrug, one of the most iconic attractions in the Netherlands drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique bascule bridge, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Erasmusbrug starting from 19.5 EUR below.

Top tours & tickets to Erasmusbrug

Ensure a hassle-free experience at Erasmusbrug by booking a guided tour. The most recommended tour is this Highlights Rotterdam PRIVE bicycle tour, which starts from 80 EUR.

Rated an average of 5 out of 5 stars by 20 travelers, this tour is one of the most popular Activities in the city. This activity fills up quickly, so make sure to reserve your slot in advance.

Discover and compare more top-rated tours and tickets to Erasmusbrug below.

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Best time to visit Erasmusbrug

The best time to explore Erasmusbrug is during the late spring and early summer (May through July) when the weather is pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. This period sees less rainfall and offers longer daylight hours, allowing tourists to enjoy the architectural marvel and the surrounding views at their leisure. The New Year's Eve celebrations also make for a unique spectacle as the bridge becomes the centerpiece of a mesmerizing firework display. It's also worth noting that Rotterdam hosts the Summer Carnival in late July, during which the city is vibrant with parades, music, and dance. However, if you prefer a quieter visit, consider coming in late autumn (October-November). Although the weather is cooler, it's usually less crowded. Regardless of when you choose to visit, remember to pack appropriately for the weather and always check the local forecast before planning your day at Erasmusbrug.

Erasmusbrug travel plans

Photo of Rotterdam, Netherlands by Mark de Rooij

Discover the enchanting beauty of Rotterdam and top attractions like Erasmusbrug with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Erasmusbrug and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Rotterdam, the Netherlands, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind bascule bridge in the Netherlands.

Top Erasmusbrug travel plans

The easiest way to plan a holiday including a visit to Erasmusbrug is to book a holiday package.

Choose from vacations ranging from relaxing weekend getaways to exciting city breaks in Rotterdam, or embark on an adventurous road trip across multiple regions in the Netherlands.

One of the most popular vacation packages among travelers visiting the Netherlands is the 7-Day the Netherlands Road Trip from Amsterdam traveling west to The Hague. This all-in-one vacation includes adventure-packed days with visits to famous sites in Rotterdam, like Erasmusbrug, and plenty of other bucket-list attractions in the Netherlands, including the famous Moco Museum, Rijksmuseum, Royal Palace Amsterdam, NEMO Science Museum, and Anne Frank House.

If you can extend your stay in the Netherlands for a few more days, you’re in for a treat. Experience the best week and a half of your life with the 10-Day Road Trip to the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium. Your itinerary will be filled with visits to top attractions like Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, Albert Cuyp Market, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and Het Amsterdamse Bos, in addition to recommendations of the best activities to join along your route. You’ll return home with a camera gallery full of memories from your iconic road trip across the Netherlands.

Enjoy the convenience of having all accommodations, transportation, and activities taken care of before you arrive in the Netherlands. All you need to do is pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable holiday in Rotterdam. Discover the best package holidays to the Netherlands below.

Car rental near Erasmusbrug

Photo of Rotterdam, Netherlands by djedj

Discovering the Netherlands's captivating landscapes and the iconic Erasmusbrug becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 7 reputable rental car companies near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the city of Rotterdam, making transportation seamless and efficient.

The Netherlands's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Rotterdam and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, Enterprise currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 21.27 EUR per day or 148.92 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Amsterdam Central Station, 1011DD in Amsterdam, this rental option ensures you can explore the Netherlands's wonders without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near Erasmusbrug

Photo of Rotterdam, Netherlands by Dimitry Anikin

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Rotterdam by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Erasmusbrug just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Rotterdam.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Erasmusbrug below.

Top hotels near Erasmusbrug

Make the most of your time in Rotterdam by staying close to Erasmusbrug. Rotterdam is home to top-rated hotels and places to stay for every budget, within a comfortable distance from Erasmusbrug.

This hotel has earned a remarkable 4 out of 5 stars from 2837 guests. A stay at Hotel Breitner starts at approximately 97 EUR per night.

With an outstanding 4 out of 5 stars from 13336 satisfied guests, this hotel is one of the best-rated stays near Erasmusbrug. One night at this hotel costs from 103 EUR per night.

With an impressive average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 2774 reviews, this remarkable hotel promises an unforgettable stay with rates starting at 219 EUR per night.

Explore all your options and find the best hotel for your trip to Rotterdam below.

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Other top attractions in Rotterdam

Rotterdam offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Rotterdam, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Cube Houses, Kunsthal Rotterdam, and Maritime Museum.

Cube Houses is a bucket-list house and top attraction in Rotterdam, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 16,546 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Cube Houses is Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Another appreciated attraction in Rotterdam is Kunsthal Rotterdam. This is just like Cube Houses, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 6,160 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this exhibition room is Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341, 3015 AA Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Maritime Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Rotterdam. This maritime museum and top attraction in Rotterdam has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,677 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Maritime Museum creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of Leuvehaven 1, 3011 EA Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Rotterdam below.

Map of attractions in Rotterdam

Your next adventure is waiting for you in city of Rotterdam. Explore the map to discover all the incredible attractions you’ll visit on your vacation of a lifetime in the Netherlands.

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