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Bridge · Roterdã, Holanda Meridional
Erasmusbrug
White cable-stayed bridge from 1996 over the Nieuwe Maas, linking the centre to the Kop van Zuid. The shape of the mast earned it the nickname De Zwaan, the swan.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Erasmusbrug
The Erasmusbrug spans the Nieuwe Maas, the branch of the river that runs through Rotterdam, and connects the city centre to the south bank, where the Kop van Zuid neighbourhood is located. Construction began in 1986 and finished in 1996. The bridge combines a cable-stayed section attached to a 139-metre white mast and a bascule section that lifts to allow ships to pass.
The name honours Erasmo de Roterdã, the Renaissance humanist born in the city. The inclined mast with its fanned cables resembles a bird's neck, hence the nickname De Zwaan, the swan. The bridge has become a symbol of Rotterdam and even appears in the city's official logo.
Walking across takes about 10 minutes and shows the city centre on one side and the Wilhelminapier on the other, with the Hotel New York and the south-bank skyscrapers. There is a wide pavement and a separate cycle path; pedestrians should keep out of the bike lane.
At the city-centre end, on Willemsplein, are the Spido sightseeing-boat quay and the Waterbus stop, the boat that goes to Kinderdijk.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 to 40 minutes to cross and photograph.
Best time
At dusk and at night, when the bridge is illuminated. In summer the sun sets late, after 21:00.
How to get there
Metro to Wilhelminaplein station (south bank) or tram to the city-centre end. From Rotterdam Centraal, it's about a 25-minute walk along Coolsingel avenue.
Tip
The best full-bridge photos come from Willemsplein on the city-centre side and from the foot of the Hotel New York on the south side. It can be very windy on top of the bridge—hold on to your hat.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Erasmusbrug
Can you walk across the Erasmusbrug?
Yes, there are wide sidewalks on both sides and a separate cycle lane. The crossing takes about 10 minutes.
Why is the bridge called Erasmus?
It is a tribute to Erasmo de Roterdã, a 16th-century humanist philosopher born in the city.
Where do the boats near the bridge depart from?
From Willemsplein, at the city-side end, depart the Spido harbour cruises and the Waterbus to Kinderdijk.