Rotterdam has one of the best public transport systems in the Netherlands, making it easy for cruise passengers to explore the city during a short visit. Whether you arrive at the sea cruise terminal on Wilhelminapier or the river cruise terminal at Boompjes, you can quickly reach the main attractions by metro, tram, bus, waterbus, or watertaxi.
Easy Payment with Your Bank Card or Credit Card
The easiest way to travel in Rotterdam is with OVpay. Cruise visitors can simply use:
- Contactless debit card
- Credit card
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
You do not need to buy a special ticket in advance.
Important: One Card Per Person
Every passenger must use their own payment card or phone.
- 2 travelers = 2 separate cards/devices
Always use the same card during your trip.
Official information:
How to Check In and Check Out
When using public transport in Rotterdam you must:
- Check in at the start of your journey
- Check out when leaving
This works by tapping your card or phone against a scanner.
Where to Tap Your Card
Depending on the transport type, the scanner may be:
- A metro gate or turnstile
- A standalone check-in pole
- A card reader inside trams and buses
If you forget to check out, you may pay a higher fare.
Cruise Terminals and Public Transport
Sea Cruise Terminal – Holland Amerikakade
Most ocean cruise ships dock at the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal on Wilhelminapier, close to:
- Erasmus Bridge
- Hotel New York
- Rotterdam skyline
Nearest public transport:
- Metro station Wilhelminaplein
- Tram stops nearby
- Watertaxi docks
Best Connections from the Sea Cruise Terminal
| Destination | Transport | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Markthal & Cube Houses | Metro to Blaak | 10 minutes |
| Euromast | Tram or metro | 15–20 minutes |
| Rotterdam Central Station | Metro | 10 minutes |
| Kinderdijk | Waterbus | 35–40 minutes |
| Delft | Metro + Train | 35–45 minutes |
River Cruise Terminal – Boompjes
River cruise ships usually dock near Boompjes in the city center.
From here many attractions are within walking distance:
- Markthal
- Cube Houses
- Maritime Museum
- Erasmus Bridge
- Shopping streets
Nearby stations:
- Leuvehaven
- Beurs
- Blaak
Metro: The Fastest Way Around Rotterdam
The Rotterdam Metro is modern, safe, and tourist-friendly.
Most useful metro stations for visitors:
- Wilhelminaplein — cruise terminal access
- Beurs — shopping and city center
- Blaak — Markthal & Cube Houses
- Rotterdam Centraal — trains to Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport
- Eendrachtsplein — museums and restaurants
Trams and Buses
Trams are useful for shorter rides within the city center and for visiting:
- Euromast
- Museumpark
- Delfshaven
Buses mainly serve areas outside the city center.
Waterbus to Kinderdijk
One of the most popular excursions for cruise passengers is visiting the UNESCO windmills of Kinderdijk.
The Waterbus offers:
- Scenic skyline views
- Fast connections
- Easy payment with OVpay
Departure area:
- Erasmus Bridge / Willemskade
Official website:
Watertaxi: A Unique Rotterdam Experience
Rotterdam’s watertaxi is one of the city’s most fun transport options.
Perfect for:
- Skyline sightseeing
- Fast transport between attractions
- Traveling across the Maas River
Popular watertaxi stops:
- Holland Amerikakade
- Leuvehaven
- Boompjes
- Veerhaven
- Willemskade
Official website:
Recommended Apps for Visitors
Useful travel apps for cruise passengers:
Helpful Tips for Cruise Visitors
- Metro is usually the fastest transport option.
- Most city center attractions are walkable.
- Watertaxi is great for sightseeing and photos.
- Always check in and check out.
- Keep your payment card ready when entering stations or vehicles.
- Public transport staff usually speak English.
Suggested One-Day Rotterdam Route for Cruise Passengers
- Walk across Erasmus Bridge
- Metro to Blaak for Markthal and Cube Houses
- Visit the Old Harbor area
- Tram or metro to Euromast
- Return by watertaxi along the skyline
- Dinner at Wilhelminapier before returning to the ship
This route combines:
- Rotterdam highlights
- Easy transport
- Beautiful skyline views
- Local experiences perfect for cruise visitors