From 19 June to 5 July, a string of Rotterdam's best bars are serving up exceptional cocktails crafted by top bartenders from across Europe.
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Looking for a new favourite cocktail spot, an original date night idea, or just a good reason for a weekend in Rotterdam? From 19 June to 5 July, the city spends three weekends in the spotlight for the World Class Cocktail Festival. A handful of selected bars are pouring standout creations inspired by the craftsmanship of Europe’s leading bartenders.
From hidden speakeasies and buzzing cocktail bars to landmark institutions, this is where flavour, atmosphere and hospitality all come together. Expect crisp aperitifs, surprising whisky cocktails and modern twists on the classics. The World Class Cocktail Festival is the perfect excuse to explore Rotterdam’s bar scene in a whole new way.
The international cocktail world arrives in Rotterdam
The festival coincides with the European finals of World Class, one of the most prestigious cocktail competitions in the world, taking place in the Netherlands for the very first time this year. That means an extra dose of international flair in Rotterdam’s bars this summer. Some of the city’s best-loved cocktail addresses are taking part, including Bar Bu, Botanero, Hotel New York and Le Flamant Bleu, together forming the perfect route for a summer night out.
Participating bars
Duke of Tokyo combines karaoke and cocktails at Hofplein, with private karaoke rooms and a Japanese-inspired cocktail bar below.
Ox is Rotterdam’s hidden speakeasy restaurant, tucked away in a stylish basement with a cocktail list built to match its Asian-inspired menu.
Botanero brings Mexican bar culture to the corner of Vogelenzang and Mariniersweg, best known for its house Paloma and a snack on the side with every drink.
The Rumah is a favourite hangout among Rotterdam’s own bartenders, known for its relaxed atmosphere.
Bar Break is a cosy neighbourhood bar near the SS Rotterdam.
Bar Bù pairs a fusion restaurant downstairs with a cocktail bar upstairs.
Bar Tender is known for creative cocktails with a bit of fire and smoke for theatre.
Little V combines a Vietnamese restaurant with an easy-drinking cocktail menu.
Le Flamant Bleu is a flamboyant speakeasy in the city centre, where a password gets you into a velvet, art deco world of house-made cocktails.
Hotel New York occupies the former headquarters of the Holland America Line at the Kop van Zuid, a striking building from 1901 with deep ties to Rotterdam’s emigration history, now home to one of the city’s most iconic bars.
SS Rotterdam is a historic ship turned hotel, with a bar on board for drinks with a view over the water.
Three weekends, dozens of bars
Three weekends, dozens of bars, one excellent excuse to discover Rotterdam one cocktail at a time. Whether you’re after a hidden speakeasy, a rooftop with a view, or a bar where the bartenders themselves like to hang out, the World Class Cocktail Festival has a route for you. Grab a friend, pick a few stops, and let Rotterdam’s bar scene show you what it’s made of.
