Best Areas to Stay in Rotterdam for Expats

SolsBury Prime Rentals B.V.
1 day ago
4 min read

Moving to Rotterdam as an expat comes with plenty of decisions—but one of the most important is where to live. Each neighborhood offers a different lifestyle. Some areas are ideal for professionals working in the city center, while others are better suited for longer stays, offering more space, greenery, and a residential feel. In this guide, we break down the best areas to stay in Rotterdam for expats—so you can choose a location that fits your lifestyle, work situation, and length of stay.

1. City Center (Centrum): Best for Convenience and City Life

If you want to be in the middle of everything, Rotterdam Centrum is the most convenient option.

This area is perfect for:

Business travelers
Consultants on short-term projects
Expats staying for a shorter period

What to expect:

Walking distance to offices, restaurants, and shops
Excellent public transport connections
A vibrant, fast-paced environment

Considerations:

Higher rental prices
Less quiet compared to residential neighborhoods

Centrum is ideal if your priority is accessibility and being close to the action.

2. Kop van Zuid: Modern and International

Kop van Zuid is one of Rotterdam’s most modern and rapidly developing areas, known for its high-rise buildings and waterfront views.

This neighborhood is especially popular among:

International professionals
Corporate tenants
Expats looking for a more premium living experience

What to expect:

Modern apartments with high-quality finishes
A professional, international atmosphere
Close proximity to the city center

Kop van Zuid offers a polished, business-friendly environment that appeals to companies housing employees.

3. Kralingen: The Ideal Base for Expats and Professionals

Kralingen stands out as one of the most attractive neighborhoods in Rotterdam for expats, young professionals, and companies arranging accommodation for their employees. It offers a rare combination: a green, residential environment with quick access to the city center.

This area is ideal for:

Expats relocating to Rotterdam
Young professionals staying for several weeks or months
Companies housing employees during projects or relocations

What to expect:

A balanced lifestyle with both city energy and tranquility
Just 10 minutes from the city center by bike or public transport
A wide range of cafés, restaurants, and everyday amenities

Why it’s a top choice for longer stays:Kralingen provides the kind of environment people need when staying longer than a few weeks. It’s less hectic than the city center, while still being highly connected. The international character—partly due to Erasmus University—makes it easy to settle in quickly.

For companies, this is a particularly strategic location. It offers:

A comfortable and safe living environment for employees
Easy access to key business areas
A setting that supports both productivity and well-being

A practical advantage:

SolsBury Prime Rentals offers fully furnished apartments in Kralingen, making it easy for expats and companies to secure high-quality, move-in ready accommodation in one of the city’s most desirable areas.

Bonus:

With Kralingse Bos and the lake nearby, residents have direct access to green space—something that significantly improves day-to-day living during longer stays.

4. Hillegersberg: Quiet and Residential (Ideal for Families)

Hillegersberg is one of the best areas in Rotterdam for expats relocating with family.

This neighborhood offers:

A peaceful, residential atmosphere
Larger homes and apartments
Proximity to international schools

What to expect:

Green surroundings and lakes
Local shops, cafés, and restaurants
A suburban feel within the city

Hillegersberg is ideal if you’re looking for space, safety, and a quieter lifestyle.

5. Delfshaven: Historic and Characterful

Delfshaven is one of the few areas in Rotterdam that has preserved its historic charm.

It’s best suited for:

Expats looking for something unique
People who prefer a quieter, more authentic environment

What to expect:

Canals and historic architecture
A slower pace of life
Easy access to the city center

Delfshaven offers character and atmosphere that you won’t find in newer parts of the city.

6. Noord: Creative and Up-and-Coming

Rotterdam Noord is becoming increasingly popular among younger expats and creatives.

This area is ideal for:

Freelancers and remote workers
Young professionals
People looking for a more local, less corporate environment

What to expect:

Trendy cafés and co-working spaces
More affordable housing options
A growing international community

Noord offers a more informal and creative side of Rotterdam.

How to Choose the Right Area

The best neighborhood depends on your situation and priorities.

Choose Centrum if you want maximum convenience and a short commute
Choose Kop van Zuid if you prefer modern, high-end living
Choose Kralingen if you want the best overall balance for medium to long stays
Choose Hillegersberg if you’re relocating with family
Choose Delfshaven or Noord if you value character or a more local atmosphere

Why Location Matters for Short Stay

When booking temporary housing, location has a direct impact on your experience.

Consider:

Distance to work
Access to public transport
Nearby supermarkets and restaurants
Overall neighborhood atmosphere

Choosing the right area can significantly improve both comfort and productivity during your stay.

Looking for an Expat-Friendly Apartment in Rotterdam?

SolsBury Prime Rentals offers fully furnished apartments in carefully selected locations, including Kralingen—one of the most popular areas for expats and professionals.

Our apartments are designed for: