When I planned my trip to Rotterdam, I knew I wanted to explore more than just the city center. As efficient as the public transportation system is, there’s something about the freedom of having your own car—especially when venturing to nearby attractions like Kinderdijk or taking spontaneous road trips to towns like Delft or The Hague. That’s why I decided to rent a car in Rotterdam.
Here’s a detailed account of my experience renting a car in Rotterdam, from the booking process to the pros and cons of driving through the city’s streets, and some useful tips if you’re thinking about renting a car yourself.
Why I Chose to Rent a Car in Rotterdam
Initially, I wasn’t sure if I needed a car for my trip. Rotterdam’s public transport is excellent, and the city itself is very walkable. However, after doing some research, I realized there were several sights outside of the city I wanted to visit. I also liked the idea of having the flexibility to make unplanned stops or explore lesser-known areas of the Netherlands at my own pace.
The idea of visiting the windmills at Kinderdijk, hiking through Biesbosch National Park, and spending a day in the seaside town of Scheveningen really made me consider the convenience of having my own car. While public transport would have been an option for many of these trips, having a car would save me time and allow me to explore more freely.
Booking the Car: A Smooth and Easy Process
I opted to book my rental car online before arriving in Rotterdam. After checking out several rental companies, I decided to go with Hertz, one of the more reputable options in the city. Hertz has multiple locations in Rotterdam, and I found their website easy to navigate. I was able to compare prices, vehicle types, and pick-up options. Plus, they had a convenient pick-up location near Rotterdam Central Station, which made things a lot easier for me.
The booking process was straightforward. I input my travel dates, selected a compact car, and added some extras like GPS and full insurance coverage. Renting a car in the Netherlands typically requires an international driver’s license if you’re from outside the EU, so I made sure to bring mine. The total cost came out to about €45 per day, which I found reasonable considering the added flexibility it would give me.
I was also able to choose the option to return the car at a different location, which was great since I planned to drop it off in Amsterdam at the end of my trip. Hertz offered both full-day and half-day rental options, but I went with a three-day rental to make the most of my time.
Picking Up the Car: A Convenient Experience
When I arrived in Rotterdam, the pick-up process was incredibly smooth. The Hertz office was located just a five-minute walk from Central Station. I was greeted by friendly staff, who reviewed my reservation and went over the insurance options again. They offered me a choice between the car I had booked and a small upgrade to a Volkswagen Golf for an additional €10 per day, which I decided to take.
Before driving off, the staff gave me a quick rundown of the car’s features, which included built-in GPS and a touchscreen control panel. Since I hadn’t driven in Europe before, they also kindly reminded me of a few road rules—like the priority for cyclists and the roundabout system, both of which are important to keep in mind when driving in the Netherlands.
Driving in Rotterdam: Navigating the Streets
Once I had the car, it was time to hit the road. Driving in Rotterdam was both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking at first. The roads are well-maintained, but the number of cyclists took a little getting used to. In Rotterdam, cyclists have right of way in most situations, so I had to be extra cautious at intersections and pedestrian crossings.
The GPS in the car was a lifesaver, as it helped me avoid getting lost in the city’s intricate road network. I found that most roads in the city center are clearly marked, and the traffic was manageable, even during rush hour.
Parking in Rotterdam
Parking in Rotterdam can be a bit of a challenge, especially in the city center. Most street parking is paid, and spaces can be limited. I used the ParkMobile app, which allows you to find available parking spots and pay directly through your phone. It was very convenient, and I was able to find parking near most of the attractions I visited.
I also made use of the Park and Ride (P+R) facilities located on the outskirts of the city. These lots are much cheaper, and you can park your car there and then take public transport into the city center. One P+R I used was the P+R Kralingse Zoom, which only cost me €2 per day, and included free tram rides into town.
My First Destination: Kinderdijk
With the car ready, my first stop was Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its iconic windmills. The drive to Kinderdijk was about 25 minutes from Rotterdam, and it was a pleasant experience. The route takes you through a mix of city streets and countryside roads, giving me a great sense of the surrounding area.
Once I arrived, parking was easy. There’s a dedicated parking lot at Kinderdijk, and it costs about €5 for the whole day. From the parking area, it was just a short walk to the main visitor center and the windmills themselves. Having the car made it convenient to get there early, and I avoided the larger tourist crowds that tend to show up later in the day.
Exploring More of the Countryside
After spending a few hours at Kinderdijk, I hopped back in the car and headed towards Biesbosch National Park, another one of my must-see locations. The park is about a 30-minute drive from Kinderdijk, and driving through the rural landscapes was a highlight of the trip.
Biesbosch is one of the largest national parks in the Netherlands, with a network of rivers, lakes, and marshes. I spent the day hiking and enjoying the tranquility of nature. Having a car was a huge advantage, as there’s no direct public transport to the park. The freedom to explore at my own pace made the experience even more memorable.
My Hotel Experience with the Rental Car
During my stay, I stayed at a hotel in Katendrecht, a neighborhood just outside the city center. The hotel had free parking, which made things much easier. I didn’t have to worry about finding a spot each night, and I could easily drive to different parts of the city or beyond without any hassle.
The car also made it convenient to check out nearby areas like Delfshaven, which was only a short drive away. This historic part of the city is full of charming streets, old buildings, and canals that make for a perfect day trip from the bustling city center.
Alternatives to Car Rentals in Rotterdam
While renting a car gave me a lot of flexibility, it might not be necessary for everyone visiting Rotterdam. The city’s public transportation system is excellent, and you can easily get around by tram, bus, or bike.
For those who are considering day trips, many of the nearby towns and attractions, like The Hague and Delft, are well-connected by train. However, for destinations like Kinderdijk or Biesbosch National Park, renting a car offers the most convenient and efficient way to get there.
Tips for Renting a Car in Rotterdam
- Book in Advance: Rental prices are usually lower if you book in advance online. Compare rates across different companies to get the best deal.
- Get Full Insurance Coverage: I highly recommend getting full insurance coverage. It gave me peace of mind, especially when navigating unfamiliar roads.
- Mind the Cyclists: Always be aware of cyclists, especially when turning or merging. In the Netherlands, bikes have the right of way.
- Use Parking Apps: Parking can be tricky in Rotterdam’s city center, so using apps like ParkMobile or Yellowbrick can save you time and frustration.
- Consider P+R: If you’re planning to spend the day in the city center, use one of the Park and Ride facilities to save on parking costs.
- GPS is Essential: Whether you opt for a built-in GPS system or use your smartphone’s navigation app, having GPS is incredibly helpful when driving in and around Rotterdam.
A Smooth Ride Around Rotterdam
Renting a car in Rotterdam was one of the best decisions I made during my trip. It allowed me to explore not only the city but also the stunning Dutch countryside, making my journey much more flexible and enjoyable. From the easy booking process to the thrill of driving along the scenic roads, my experience with renting a car was smooth and hassle-free. If you’re looking for the freedom to explore beyond Rotterdam’s city limits, I highly recommend considering a rental car for your trip.
