Rotterdam’s warm months bring life to unexpected corners of the city. From riverside hangouts to creative courtyards, pop-up terraces appear where you'd least expect them—drawing in locals for long evenings of drinks, music, and sun.
Summer pop-up terraces in Rotterdam
When spring returns and the sun begins to linger, Rotterdam’s seasonal bars and terraces re-emerge across the city. From gritty industrial zones to leafy waterfronts, these spots offer a relaxed and spontaneous way to enjoy the outdoors—often for just a few months each year.
Biergarten, Garden of BIRD, De Maaskantine, De Kerktuin and Keilecafé are some of the city’s most talked-about open-air venues. Each has its own flavour—some are loud and lively, others quietly tucked away—yet all capture something essential about Rotterdam’s creative, ever-changing spirit.
Garden of BIRD
Garden of Bird. Photo credit: Garden of Bird Instagram
Tucked between the Luchtsingel footbridge and the Hofbogen, Garden of BIRD offers a relaxed setting just minutes from Rotterdam Centraal. Reopening in early April, the urban garden combines lounge seating, a small herb garden, and open grassy areas where guests can unwind with a cocktail or special beer and a bite to eat.
Known for its silent discos, hip-hop and salsa nights, the terrace also serves as a casual daytime spot. Visitors can order pizzas and small plates while relaxing in one of the garden’s lounge chairs. Herbs are often freshly picked for garnishes, giving the drinks a subtle seasonal twist.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gardenofbird/
Address: Raampoortstraat 24–28, 3032 AL Rotterdam
Biergarten
Biergarten. Photo credit: Sam Nobili. Instagram: sam_nobili
Biergarten, located beside the Schieblock near Rotterdam Centraal, is once again preparing to welcome back guests. The venue, which remained partially open through winter, is known for its relaxed courtyard setting and communal picnic tables. With freshly grilled food, cold beer and music from live DJs and the homegrown Biergarten Soundsystem on Friday nights, the bar has become a popular place to gather as soon as the sun returns.
Serving craft beers on tap, burgers, snacks and grilled dishes, Biergarten has long held its place as a spring and summer staple. Now entering its thirteenth season, the venue once again offers a low-key meeting spot in the heart of the city.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biergartenrotterdam/
Address: Schiestraat 18, 3013 BR Rotterdam
Keilecafe
Keilecafe. Photo credit: Keilecafe Instagram
Keilecafe has built a loyal following thanks to its relaxed terrace, Italian-inspired small plates, wood-fired pizzas, and community vibe. DJs often play late into the evening, and the venue is described as a place to come alone and leave with new friends. Surrounded by industrial warehouses and creative studios, it offers an alternative hangout away from the city centre.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keilecafe/
Address: Vierhavensstraat 46, 3029 BG Rotterdam
De Maaskantine
De Maaskantine. Photo credit: De Maaskantine Instagram
De Maaskantine is preparing to launch its season along the banks of the Nieuwe Maas in Rotterdam-Zuid. The terrace offers a mix of deck chairs, picnic tables and sandy spots by the water. Visitors can expect riverside views, live entertainment, and food with an East Coast BBQ influence.
The venue plans to host open-air film screenings, themed quizzes and late afternoon parties. Cocktails, fresh lemonades, and grilled dishes are all served with a view of the water, making the space feel like a beachside escape within the city. The riverside location has become popular among those looking to enjoy a slower pace during warm weather.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/demaaskantine/
Address: Plantagelaan 2, 3063 NG Rotterdam
De Kerktuin
De Kerktuin. Photo credit: De Kerktuin Instagram
De Kerktuin will reopen this spring in the courtyard of the Arminiuskerk. The pop-up terrace offers long shared tables surrounded by greenery in the city centre, creating a quiet space to enjoy a wide range of drinks, including cocktails, sangria and locally brewed beer.
De Kerktuin is positioned as a gathering space for locals, tourists and anyone looking for a more low-key setting in a historic part of the city. As in previous years, the venue will open just ahead of King’s Day (Koningsdag), with the season’s launch aligning with a female-led music programme.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dekerktuin/
Address: Museumpark 3, 3015 CB Rotterdam
