Car rental in
Rotterdam

Guidance for driving in Rotterdam

Rotterdam’s city center includes the Milieuzone, or environmental zone, designed to reduce traffic and exhaust pollution. Vehicles allowed in the Millieuzone must meet certain emissions standards. Speak to your SIXT rental agent for more information. Speed and traffic violations are monitored with traffic cameras throughout the city.

Traffic Rules Overview

• Yield to the traffic on the right at unmarked intersections.
• The general speed limit is 50 km/h (30 mph) but usually drops to 30 km/h (18 mph) in residential areas.
• Dedicated bicycle lanes crisscross intersections. The cyclists have the right of way, so be sure to yield.
• Moped drivers may use arm signals, rather than light turn signals.

Road Conditions & Navigation

• Expect wide bridges, frequent canals, and roundabouts or traffic circles throughout the city.
• Look for digital signs for information about route updates, especially near the Maas river.
• Trolleys have the right of way at intersections; be aware of pedestrians at the stops.

Parking Advice

Rotterdam uses permit-based street parking and municipal garages, such as Schouwburgplein Garage, Kruisplein Garage, and Museumpark Garage.

• Paid, on-street parking is available but the meters don’t accept cash or coins, only credit cards or in-app payments.
• Avoid “Blue Zone” spaces because they require a specific marker for legal short-term parking.
• Consider private parking, which may be less expensive than public garages.

Fueling Instructions

Dutch stations offer Euro 95 (E10), Euro 98, and diesel fuel. Most stations are self-serve and will accept credit cards.

Tolls

No tolls apply within Rotterdam limits; nearby highways may impose automatic tolls or e-tag systems. Speak to your SIXT rental agent for more information.