Rotterdam is a city that wears its creativity on its sleeve, and there’s no better way to experience this artistic pulse than through its vibrant street art scene. Every corner of this modern city bursts with color and expression, as talented local and international artists transform urban spaces into open-air galleries. When I embarked on my street art tour in Rotterdam, I was expecting to see impressive murals—but what I discovered was so much more. This journey revealed the heart and soul of the city, as each piece of street art told a unique story about Rotterdam’s culture, history, and identity.
I’ll take you along on my personal street art tour through Rotterdam. I’ll share the details of three immersive experiences I had, followed by four highly recommended street art activities for those looking to dive deeper into Rotterdam’s creative landscape. Along the way, I’ll provide all the practical information you need, including locations, transportation tips, services, prices, and real-life booking options. By the end, you’ll have a full picture of how to explore the artistic soul of this dynamic city.
My Personal Street Art Adventures in Rotterdam
1. Street Art Walking Tour with Rotterdam Street Art Collective
One of the best ways to dive into Rotterdam’s street art scene is by taking a guided walking tour. I decided to join the Rotterdam Street Art Collective for their highly recommended walking tour, which takes you through some of the most iconic street art spots in the city.
Location & Directions
- Starting Point: Schilderstraat 40, 3011 ER Rotterdam.
- How to Get There: The meeting point is conveniently located near the Witte de Withstraat, one of Rotterdam’s most vibrant cultural districts. It’s a short 5-minute walk from the Eendrachtsplein metro station (lines A, B, and C).
The Experience
The tour began at Schilderstraat, where I met our knowledgeable guide, a local street artist who has been deeply involved in Rotterdam’s art scene for years. The group was small, which made for an intimate and interactive experience. As we walked through the city, our guide shared the history behind each mural and introduced us to different street art styles, from graffiti and stencils to large-scale murals.
One of the highlights of the tour was the “Rewriters” mural on Witte de Withstraat, a massive piece created by several local artists. The bold colors and intricate designs immediately caught my eye, but what really fascinated me was the story behind the mural. It was a collaboration meant to symbolize the unity and resilience of Rotterdam’s art community. Another favorite was the stunning “Waterwerk” mural, located near the Leuvehaven. This mural uses optical illusions and bright blues to play with the reflection of the nearby water, giving the illusion that the entire wall is submerged in water.
As we wandered from one piece to another, I learned that street art in Rotterdam is more than just decoration—it’s a commentary on social issues, a celebration of diversity, and a testament to the city’s progressive nature.
Highlights for Participants
- Interactive and Informative: The guide’s insider knowledge brought each piece to life, providing context that I would have otherwise missed.
- Small Groups: The tour is capped at a small number of participants, ensuring that everyone can ask questions and engage with the guide.
- Exploring Hidden Gems: Many of the murals are tucked away in alleys or lesser-known streets, so the tour felt like a treasure hunt through the city’s back alleys.
Ticket Prices & Hours
- Price: €25 per person for a 2-hour tour.
- Hours: Tours run daily at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, with private tours available upon request.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great for anyone looking to understand the stories behind the art.
- The tour covers a wide range of street art styles.
- The guide is passionate and knowledgeable, making the tour both educational and entertaining.
Cons:
- The walking pace can be a bit fast if you want to take lots of photos.
- Some of the murals are in hard-to-reach areas, so wear comfortable shoes.
2. Street Art Workshop at RAW Street Art Studio
After soaking in the sights on the walking tour, I wanted to try my hand at creating some street art myself. That’s where RAW Street Art Studio comes in. This hands-on workshop offers an opportunity to learn the techniques behind spray painting and stencil art.
Location & Directions
- RAW Street Art Studio: Zomerhofstraat 71, 3032 CK Rotterdam.
- How to Get There: The studio is located in the emerging ZOHO district, just a 10-minute walk from Rotterdam Central Station or a quick tram ride on line 4 to the Zomerhofstraat stop.
The Experience
The moment I walked into RAW Street Art Studio, I could feel the creative energy buzzing in the air. The walls of the studio were covered in bold graffiti, giving the space a raw and edgy vibe. Our instructor, an experienced street artist, welcomed us with a quick introduction to the history and culture of graffiti.
We started by learning basic spray-painting techniques, like controlling the pressure of the spray can and creating clean lines. It wasn’t as easy as it looks, but after a few tries, I got the hang of it. The next part of the workshop involved creating stencils. I opted to make a simple design—a stylized version of a lion, inspired by Rotterdam’s resilience.
The workshop culminated in us using the techniques we learned to create our own mural on one of the studio’s outdoor walls. This was by far my favorite part of the experience. It was incredibly satisfying to see my design come to life on such a large scale, and there was something empowering about leaving my mark (even if it was temporary) in a city known for its street art.
Highlights for Participants
- Hands-On Creativity: You get to create your own mural, which is a rare opportunity for non-professionals.
- Personalized Guidance: The instructor tailors the workshop to your skill level, so whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, you’ll feel supported.
- Take Home Your Artwork: At the end of the workshop, you can take home a canvas or wooden board featuring your stencil work as a keepsake.
Ticket Prices & Hours
- Price: €50 per person for a 3-hour session, including all materials.
- Hours: Workshops are available on weekends, with morning and afternoon sessions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- A unique chance to create your own street art.
- The workshop is both fun and educational, perfect for creatives and curious minds alike.
- You get to take home a piece of art that you’ve made yourself.
Cons:
- The outdoor portion can be affected by weather, so check the forecast before booking.
- The price is a bit higher compared to other workshops, but it’s worth it for the hands-on experience.
3. Self-Guided Street Art Bike Tour with Fiets Tours Rotterdam
While I loved the guided walking tour, I wanted to explore more street art at my own pace. Renting a bike and going on a self-guided tour turned out to be the perfect way to do that. Rotterdam is a bike-friendly city, and cycling allowed me to cover more ground while discovering hidden murals scattered throughout various neighborhoods.
Location & Directions
- Fiets Tours Rotterdam: Westblaak 23, 3012 KP Rotterdam.
- How to Get There: Fiets Tours is centrally located, just a few minutes’ walk from Beurs metro station (lines A, B, and C). You can also easily access it from the popular shopping street, Koopgoot.
The Experience
After picking up my bike from Fiets Tours, I was provided with a map highlighting some of Rotterdam’s best street art locations. The map included detailed descriptions of each mural, along with information about the artists. Armed with this guide, I set off on my cycling adventure.
One of the first stops on my tour was Het Kruisplein, where a massive mural called “Make It Happen” spans the side of a building. The mural, created by local artist Saïd Kinos, is a colorful homage to Rotterdam’s entrepreneurial spirit. From there, I cycled to Afrikaanderwijk, a neighborhood known for its vibrant street art scene. The “Luchtsingel” mural, a bold geometric piece that stretches across the pedestrian bridge, was a standout.
As I cycled through the city, I appreciated the freedom of being able to stop whenever I wanted to take photos or simply admire the artwork. I ended the tour in Katendrecht, where I was treated to a series of large-scale murals by international artists as part of the Pow! Wow! Rotterdam street art festival.
Highlights for Participants
- Flexible Exploration: You can set your own pace and choose which murals to visit based on your interests.
- Cover More Ground: Biking allows you to explore areas that may be too far to reach on foot, giving you a broader view of the city’s street art.
- Eco-Friendly: Biking is a sustainable way to explore the city, and it’s a common mode of transport for locals.
Ticket Prices & Hours
- Price: €15 for a full-day bike rental, including a street art map.
- Hours: Bikes can be rented from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with flexible return times.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ideal for independent travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace.
- Affordable and eco-friendly.
- The provided map is detailed and easy to follow.
Cons:
- You miss out on the expert knowledge of a guide, so it’s more of a visual experience.
- Some murals are in harder-to-reach areas, which can make the route a bit challenging.
Recommended Street Art Activities in Rotterdam
1. Street Art Boat Tour with Spido Rotterdam
For a completely different perspective on Rotterdam’s street art, why not take to the water? The Street Art Boat Tour with Spido allows you to view large murals along the waterfront, including works in the Maashaven and Delfshaven districts.
Highlights
- Unique Viewpoint: Enjoy Rotterdam’s street art from a boat as you cruise along the Maas River.
- Perfect for Photography: Capture murals from angles that are difficult to reach on foot.
- Narrated Tour: Learn about the history of the city’s street art from a knowledgeable guide.
Price: €30 per person for a 90-minute tour.
2. Graffiti Workshop at Walls and Skin
This workshop, located in the hip neighborhood of Rotterdam-Noord, is perfect for anyone looking to create their own graffiti masterpiece. Walls and Skin specializes in graffiti art, offering workshops that teach you the ins and outs of tagging, spraying, and street art techniques.
Price: €45 per person for a 2-hour session.
3. Interactive Street Art Tour with UrbanGuides
For a more in-depth exploration, the Interactive Street Art Tour by UrbanGuides offers a deep dive into Rotterdam’s street art culture. This tour includes an interactive app that allows participants to learn more about each piece of art and even contribute their own digital graffiti to a virtual mural.
Price: €20 per person for a 2-hour tour.
4. Street Art Photography Walk with Rotterdam Photo
If you’re a photography enthusiast, the Street Art Photography Walk organized by Rotterdam Photo is a must. You’ll be guided by a professional photographer who will teach you how to capture the perfect shot of Rotterdam’s dynamic murals.
Price: €50 per person for a 3-hour workshop.
Exploring Rotterdam’s street art scene was a highlight of my visit to the city. From walking tours and bike adventures to hands-on workshops, I discovered that Rotterdam’s street art is not just visually stunning but also deeply connected to the city’s identity and spirit. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious traveler, or someone looking to try something new, these street art activities offer an unforgettable way to experience Rotterdam.
No matter which tour or workshop you choose, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the creativity and culture that make Rotterdam one of Europe’s most exciting cities. I know I did. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the creative soul of Rotterdam through its incredible street art!