Quick ride by bicycle from Barendrecht to Rotterdam

Roll out from Barendrecht’s quiet, green neighborhoods and polder edges, then follow smooth, mostly separated cycle paths north into Rotterdam-Zuid. It’s an easy 10 km spin, almost entirely on paved asphalt, with only gentle rises—classic Dutch flatland riding.

As you near the city, pick a Maas crossing: the iconic Erasmusbrug (the “Swan”) for skyline views, or the slightly calmer Willemsbrug. From there it’s a short glide into central Rotterdam around Coolsingel/Blaak, close to the Markthal and the famous Cube Houses.

Fun bits:

• Barendrecht sits just south of Rotterdam and is known for its parks and access to the Oude Maas’ tidal nature areas.
• Rotterdam is Europe’s largest port city and a showcase of modern architecture—Erasmus Bridge, Markthal, Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, and more.

Tips: watch for wind on the bridges, and enjoy the near-continuous cycleway network—about as stress-free as city riding gets.