Rotterdam is one of the most cyclist-friendly cities in the Netherlands, and combined with an efficient metro and tram network, getting around without a car is easy. The city's modern infrastructure, rebuilt after World War II, means wider roads, dedicated bike lanes, and a metro system that's more extensive than in older Dutch cities. For expats, mastering bike and public transport is the key to feeling at home in Rotterdam.
Cycling in Rotterdam
Cycling is the default mode of transport for most Rotterdammers. The city has an extensive network of segregated bike paths (fietspaden), and the flat terrain makes cycling effortless. If you don't own a bike yet, you can buy an affordable second-hand one at a local bike shop (fietsenmaker) or through Marktplaats, the Dutch classifieds site. For short-term use, the Donkey Republic bike-sharing app offers rentals at hubs across the city. Always lock your bike to a fixed object with a chain lock. Bike theft is common, and a good lock can cost nearly as much as a cheap used bike.
Metro, Trams, and Buses (RET)
The RET operates Rotterdam's metro, trams, and buses. The metro has five lines (A through E) connecting the city center to neighborhoods like Alexandrium, Hoogvliet, and Spijkenisse, with Line E also running to Den Haag as a Randstadrail service. Trams cover the inner city and are useful for shorter trips. All RET services use the OV-chipkaart. Check in at the platform or vehicle entrance and check out when you leave. If you commute daily, consider a RET monthly subscription loaded onto your personal card for unlimited travel within your chosen zones.
Combining Bike and Metro
Rotterdam's layout makes combining bike and metro easy. Many metro stations have secure bike parking (bewaakte stalling), often free, so you can cycle to a station, park your bike, and continue by metro. The Rotterdam region also participates in the OV-fiets scheme. If you have a personal OV-chipkaart, you can rent a bike at major stations for a few euros per trip. For longer distances, NS trains connect Rotterdam Centraal to Amsterdam in about 40 minutes and Utrecht in about 35 minutes.
Related Resources
For the latest on Rotterdam transport and infrastructure, follow our transport coverage. If you're new to the Netherlands, our guides on the OV-chipkaart and getting a BSN will help you get set up quickly.