Katendrecht, Rotterdam: A Neighbourhood Guide to 'De Kaap'

Katendrecht is a narrow peninsula on the south bank of the Maas, wedged between two former dock basins. Locals call it "De Kaap" — the Cape. For much of the twentieth century it had a rough reputation as a sailors' quarter, and later it was largely ignored by the rest of the city. Over the last couple of decades it has become one of Rotterdam's most popular neighbourhoods for food, culture and waterfront walks. It is a natural stop on any harbour-themed visit.

A quick history

When the docks around it were busy, Katendrecht was home to dock workers, seafarers and, famously, one of Europe's early Chinese communities, made up largely of sailors who settled here. As the port moved west, the area declined. New housing, the footbridge to the Wilhelminapier and a wave of restaurants and theatres gradually brought it back to life, while many of the older streets kept their character.

The Deliplein

The heart of the neighbourhood is the Deliplein, a square lined with restaurants, bars and small venues. On warm evenings the terraces fill up and the square feels like a village festival. It is a good place to start or finish an evening, and there is a wide range of cuisines within a few steps.

Waterfront walks

• Follow the quays along the Rijnhaven for views of the Wilhelminapier towers.
• Walk to the tip of the peninsula to see the SS Rotterdam moored across the Maashaven.
• Look out for old harbour details — bollards, cranes and warehouse façades — between the new apartment blocks.

Getting there

The quickest walking route from the centre is over the Erasmus Bridge and along the Wilhelminapier, then across the Rijnhaven footbridge into Katendrecht. Trams and the metro stop within walking distance, and water taxis call at the peninsula too — our getting around guide explains how they work.

Tips for a visit

• Popular restaurants fill up at weekends; reserving ahead is wise.
• Go around sunset for the best light on the water and the skyline.
• Pair it with the city's bridges walk for a full afternoon on the river.
• It is a residential area as well as a dining spot, so keep noise down late at night.