Transfers Countries Netherlands AmsterdamAmsterdam to Rotterdam

Private car transfer from Amsterdam to Rotterdam

Door-to-door
in 1 h 10 min

From €39
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Amsterdam.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 1 h 10 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Rotterdam.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

80 km1 h 10 min

Overview: Car trip from Amsterdam to Rotterdam

Taking a car trip from Amsterdam to Rotterdam is a smart way to see the contrasts available in the Netherlands. You’ve seen Amsterdam's classical charm and romantic canals, but now it’s time to go to Rotterdam to see the economic and innovation center of the Netherlands. The modern vibe and artistic boundary-pushing expressed in Rotterdam is only 50 miles (80 km) away from the old-world charm of Amsterdam’s cobbled streets and intimate alleyways.

It is a short distance, but there is so much to see. One of the advantages of using a Daytrip private driver over a train or bus is the ability to customize your trip. Stop by little towns forgotten to time, see UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or visit artisan farms. The choice is yours, but we’ve included the most popular options!

What is a trip to the Netherlands without a visit to the windmills? A stop you should definitely add to your itinerary is the Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can book a tour and explore two museum mills, take a boat ride along the canals that feed the windmills, and learn about the intricate network of dikes and canals that have safeguarded the Netherlands from flooding for hundreds of years. This engineering system is being studied today as a means to combat losing land to climate change as well, so while it is historic, it is also very relevant for the modern day.

Are you a foodie? If so, make a detour to Gouda, home of the famous cheese. If you are taking your trip on a Thursday between April and August, you can go to the Gouda trading market and see farmers buying and selling their cheese the old-fashioned way. Another stop to make is the Clara Maria Cheese and Clog Farm. Either way, you won't leave hungry!

About Rotterdam

As you travel from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, you will be going from the largest to the second largest cities in the Netherlands. Rotterdam has been shaped by centuries of maritime trade as a port city and a major influence during the Dutch Golden Age of Exploration. Modern Rotterdam reflects the Dutch spirit of adapting to the environment around them and building for the future.

Rotterdam’s History

The story of Rotterdam begins in the late 13th century when a small fishing village emerged at the confluence of the Rotte River and the Nieuwe Maas. Its strategic location near the North Sea soon led to the development of a bustling port, laying the foundation for Rotterdam's sea-faring legacy.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Rotterdam flourished as a hub of trade and commerce, gaining city status in 1340. By the 17th century, the city had become one of Europe's busiest ports. Its success helped fuel the Dutch Golden Age of exploration and economic prosperity.

Rotterdam Rebuilt

Like many areas of Western Europe, Rotterdam was unfortunately not spared during World War II. In May 1940, German forces bombed Rotterdam, leveled much of the city center, and inflicted widespread destruction on the region. In the aftermath of the war, Rotterdam faced the monumental task of rebuilding and reinventing itself from the ashes.

Rotterdam is now the capital of cool buildings, and much of its modern architectural innovation can be attributed to the post-war rebuilding period. Architects and city planners embarked on ambitious projects to reshape the cityscape, giving rise to iconic structures like the Cube Houses and the Euromast.

Amsterdam may have charmed you with its cute classical buildings, but in Rotterdam expect to see mid-century-style buildings that push the limits of modern design and engineering stability. Sharp angles, exposed scaffolding, and mirrored facades are tell-tale signs of Rotterdam’s post-war revival style. It is a far cry from Amsterdam’s historic style.

Rotterdam Today

In recent decades, Rotterdam has undergone a cultural renaissance, with a thriving arts scene and a hotbed of innovation and creativity. The city's commitment to sustainability and resilience is evident in projects like the Rotterdam Climate Initiative, which aims to combat climate change and promote sustainable urban development.

Odds are even if you haven’t been to Rotterdam before, some of your stuff definitely has! Spanning 40 sq. miles (105 sq. km), Rotterdam is still Europe’s largest port. It handles 450 million tons of cargo from over 28,000 ships per year. It is a vital artery of global commerce and trade. From its historic maritime roots to its cutting-edge architecture and vibrant culture, Rotterdam continues to captivate visitors with its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

From Amsterdam to Rotterdam: Travel tips

We know there is always room for hiccups when traveling in new countries, but follow these travel tips and your trip from Amsterdam to Rotterdam will go as smoothly as possible.

Talk with your driver

Daytrip drivers are locals and are happy to answer any burning questions about the Dutch lifestyle, history, legends, and the best things to see and do in Rotterdam. They speak both English and Dutch (and oftentimes even more languages!) and are very informative on the local happenings.

Book your tours ahead of time

While our drivers can get you where you need to go, the last thing you want is to arrive at your stop and find out that the tour you wanted is sold out or that an exhibition is closed for renovations. There may even be a Dutch holiday you weren’t aware of and the whole attraction will be closed. Booking your tickets ahead of time helps ensure your added detours go exactly as you would like them to go.

Also, make sure you double-check what language the tour is in, as sometimes your desired language may be sold out or only available on certain days. Don’t assume every tour will be in English, especially for more remote destinations.

How to get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam

The Netherlands has excellent connections between its major cities, so you won't struggle to figure out how to get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, the journey from Amsterdam to Rotterdam is a quick and easy one.

Amsterdam to Rotterdam by Private Driver with Daytrip

A private taxi service like Daytrip is the best way to customize your trip and see the places in the Dutch countryside that you'd miss taking public transportation between the Netherlands’ largest cities. Whether you would like to see Rotterdam just as a day trip from Amsterdam, or if you would like to spend the night, Daytrip offers the ultimate flexibility in terms of scheduling and points of interest between these cities. Let Daytrip take the hassle out of finding which places are worth visiting, and the logistics behind getting there. Our drivers speak English, are local to the area, and are insured.

If you are spending the night in Rotterdam, door-to-door drop-off and luggage assistance is just one more perk to booking a private taxi through Daytrip. No need to plan out a rental car, returns, or parking in one of the least car-friendly countries in the world! With Daytrip, you will be able to immediately begin your fun in Rotterdam.

Amsterdam to Rotterdam by Train

Head to the Amsterdam Central Station and hop on one of the frequent intercity trains bound for Rotterdam. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the Dutch landscape whizzing by outside your window. With a travel time of around 40 to 50 minutes, you'll arrive in Rotterdam in no time, ready for your next adventure. About 100 trains travel between these two largest Dutch cities per day. This frequency allows you to make last-minute plans and you won’t have to worry about booking tickets ahead of time. The only thing to be aware of would be if you have a lot of luggage or would like to make diversions to smaller towns and points of interest.

Amsterdam to Rotterdam by Bus

Amsterdam’s central bus terminal has various bus operators offering comfortable and affordable rides to Rotterdam. These cities are not far apart, so the bus is a cost-effective option for people who are comfortable riding on buses for short distances. When you book your ticket, make sure to have your luggage accurately counted and paid for to avoid any confusion and possible fees, and that the bus will have enough space!

Amsterdam to Rotterdam by Bike

Perhaps the lowest-cost option to get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam would be by bike! Is there any more Dutch way to travel? Covering this distance of 50 miles (80 km) should take about 4 hours, and the well-marked cycling paths are easy to follow. Once you’re in Rotterdam, park your bike at one of the endless parking spots for bikes and enjoy your trip!

Things to do when you get to Rotterdam

Rotterdam is so close to Amsterdam that it could easily be a day trip, but there is so much to do that you should spend at least one night. Regardless of how long you end up staying, you don't want to miss these things to do when you get to Rotterdam. Getting from Amsterdam to Rotterdam is only the beginning of the fun! As you mark things off your list, try to find all of the public artworks scattered around Rotterdam- for the best price: free!

Eat at the Markthal (Market Hall)

Indulge in all your senses at Rotterdam's Markthal. This food hall was opened in 2014 and has almost 100 stalls selling fresh produce, gourmet delicacies, and international foods. Pick up some local cheese fromage, stroopwafels, herring, and bitterballen (breaded meatballs) while you’re here. If you’d rather have a sit-down meal, it also has 20 restaurants and shops. Make sure while you are there to look up! This stunning horseshoe-shaped building has the world’s largest artwork on the ceiling - it's the size of two football fields.

Be Charmed by Rotterdam’s Delfshaven District

Wander through the historic district of Delfshaven. This neighborhood miraculously survived the bombings of World War II. Admire the beautifully preserved 17th-century architecture, stroll along cobblestone streets lined with cozy cafes and artisan boutiques, and visit the Pilgrim Fathers' Church, where the Mayflower set sail for America in 1620. Go along with this maritime theme and book a ferry tour on the riverfront and see Rotterdam from a different perspective!

See Rotterdam’s Wild Side at the Zoo

Go on a wild adventure at Rotterdam Zoo! It is home to over 2,000 animals and has species from far-off places all around the globe. With immersive habitats like the Oceanium, you can observe marine life in a vast underwater tunnel. Or maybe you want to visit the Amazonica, a tropical paradise teeming with exotic plants and animals. Check the schedule ahead of time so you don't miss the daily animal feedings and educational presentations.

Get a Bird’s Eye View of Rotterdam at Euromast

Ascend to new heights at the Euromast, Rotterdam's iconic observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and into the countryside. Take the high-speed elevator to the top observation deck, where you can enjoy Rotterdam's skyline, the bustling port, and the scenic countryside. If you aren’t afraid of heights and are feeling particularly brave, then make a reservation to rappel down the side of the Euromast.

Spend Your Evenings on Witte de Withstraat

Witte de Withstraat, the “art axis of Rotterdam,” is in the Rotterdam Centrum district. It is the center of Rotterdam's vibrant nightlife scene, with trendy bars, cafes, and eclectic art galleries. Join locals and visitors alike as you hop from one venue to the next, sampling craft beers, cocktails, and delicious street food. Take this energetic atmosphere inside and visit one of the many nightclubs while you are there.

Sail the Seven Seas in Rotterdam

Step aboard the SS Rotterdam, once the flagship of the Holland-America Cruise Ship Line. Explore the cruise ship's luxurious interiors, including elegant lounges, ballrooms, and cabins through interactive exhibits and guided tours. You can even have dinner in one of the restaurants or book a room and spend the night aboard!

Take advantage of Rotterdam’s river access! Although the SS Rotterdam has been stationary for years and no longer sails, if you would like to take a ferry to the UK or other Dutch cities, it is possible on other ships and water taxis.

When is the best time to visit Rotterdam

The best times to visit Rotterdam are typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded than the peak summer season. Spring offers blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring outdoor attractions, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage and cultural events.

If you plan to visit during the summer, do not fret too much about the summer heat. The Netherlands has calmer and cooler summers than many other parts of Europe. Whenever you visit, bring an umbrella. The Netherlands experiences about 130 rainy days a year, and October is the wettest month.

Rotterdam hosts several annual festivals throughout the year, including the International Film Festival Rotterdam (January and February), Rotterdam Unlimited (July and August), North Sea Jazz Festival (July), and World Port Days (September), offering visitors unique cultural experiences and vibrant celebrations. No matter which time of year you visit Rotterdam, there is always something to do!

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Amsterdam to Rotterdam

How do you get from Amsterdam to Rotterdam?

You can easily travel from Amsterdam to Rotterdam by train, bus, and car with frequent services running throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour, making it a convenient option for a day trip or longer visit. Rotterdam is south of Amsterdam, and inland from The Hague. You can even take a bicycle if you have a spare 4 hours and can fit everything you need on your bike!

How long is the train from Amsterdam to Rotterdam?

The train journey from Amsterdam to Rotterdam typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on the type of train and any potential stops along the route. It's a fast and efficient way to travel between these two important Dutch cities, as there are not any required transfers.

Is Rotterdam worth going to?

Yes, Rotterdam is definitely worth visiting! With its striking modern architecture, bustling port, and vibrant cultural scene, Rotterdam offers a unique contrast to the more traditional charm of Amsterdam. From iconic landmarks to innovative museums, there's plenty to explore and discover in this dynamic city. Add it to your trip to the Netherlands!

Can Rotterdam be a day trip from Amsterdam?

Yes, Rotterdam can easily be enjoyed as a day trip. You can get to and from Rotterdam within an hour each way. Thanks to its proximity and efficient transportation links, you can experience the highlights of Rotterdam in just a day, including its impressive architecture, lively waterfront, and diverse culinary scene. But beware, you may like Rotterdam so much you will want to stay a few days.

Are there coffeeshops in Rotterdam?

Yes, just like in Amsterdam, Rotterdam has a thriving coffee shop scene. You can legally purchase a wide range of weed products, and you can smoke inside the shops. Have fun responsibly, but there are a few rules: alcohol is not permitted in the coffee shops, you must be over 18 years old to enter, and there is a purchase limit of 5 grams per day.

Are there direct flights between Amsterdam and Rotterdam?

No, any flight between Amsterdam and Rotterdam would require a transfer to another airport. This 50-minute drive takes less time than it would take to get through airport security and to your terminal. Consider driving or taking public transportation for this short distance and skip the airport for this trip!

Visit these sights on the way

Clara Maria Cheese & Clog Farm

Step into Dutch culture at this historic farmhouse, where things are still done the old-fashioned way. Dutch Delights

Leiden

Home to the country's oldest University, this picturesque, canal-lined city has ties to Rembrandt, Einstein, and the Pilgrims. A Beautiful Mind

De Haar Castle

Get a glimpse into the extravagant lives of the Rothschilds in the largest castle in the Netherlands. The Golden Age

Utrecht

The canals in this ancient Dutch city were voted the most beautiful in Europe. Canal Culture

Gouda

This charming medieval city has plenty of historic heritage, such as its UNESCO-listed church, to serve with its world-famous cheese. Cheesy Charms

Kinderdijk

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to human ingenuity and a distinctive part of Dutch culture. Monumental Machinations

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

1,842 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Nov 7, 2022

Excellent Experience

“We needed transportation from Amsterdam to Rotterdam when our cruise departure port changed. Taking the train was not something we wanted to do with luggage and mobility issues. Our driver picked us up at our Amsterdam hotel on time. We enjoyed a pleasant drive to Rotterdam in her very CLEAN car. She also provided information about Rotterdam, engaging conversation along the way and dropped us at our Rotterdam hotel. Very happy with our choice to use DayTrip and would do it again.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler D3977ACwilliamc

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.