Known as 'The Swan' due to its elegant asymmetric pylon, this cable-stayed bridge is Rotterdam's most recognizable landmark. The 802-meter bridge connects north and south Rotterdam across the Nieuwe Maas river, offering spectacular views and photogenic angles especially when illuminated at night.
The Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug) spanning the Nieuwe Maas river in central Rotterdam is an 802-metre cable-stayed bridge completed in 1996 and designed by architect Ben van Berkel. The bridge is instantly recognisable for its single asymmetric pylon, 139 metres tall and angled backward from the deck, from which 32 cable stays fan out in a harp configuration to support the northern half of the bridge span. The overall silhouette — slender white pylon and sloping cables — has earned the bridge the popular nickname 'The Swan' (De Zwaan). The southern section of the bridge is a bascule drawbridge for tall shipping, which opens periodically for large vessels navigating the Nieuwe Maas. The Erasmus Bridge connects the post-war rebuilt northern bank, including the financial district and Central Station, with the Wilhelminapier on the south bank — a former shipping-company headquarters district that has been redeveloped as a high-density mixed-use neighbourhood with the Hotel New York, apartments, and restaurants in former warehouse buildings. Walking across the bridge takes approximately 15 minutes and provides views over the busy river traffic, the Maas Towers residential towers, and the post-war city skyline. The best photographic positions are from Leuvehaven to the northwest, from the southern Wilhelminapier waterfront, and from the water on a harbour cruise. At night, the bridge's cable lighting and reflected image in the river make it one of the most dramatic urban spectacles in the Netherlands.
Good to know
- Hours
- 24/7
- Best for
- photographers, architecture enthusiasts, walkers, everyone
Location
Erasmusbrug, Rotterdam
51.9088, 4.4822 View on map
Highlights
- Iconic 139-metre asymmetric pylon giving the bridge the nickname 'The Swan'
- 802-metre span connecting Rotterdam's central districts across the Nieuwe Maas
- Movable bascule section opening periodically for tall shipping
- Night-time cable lighting with dramatic reflection in the Nieuwe Maas river
- Access to the Wilhelminapier redevelopment and Hotel New York on the south bank
Tips for visiting
- Best photographed from Leuvehaven or Wilhelminapier
- Walk across for views of modern Rotterdam skyline
- Illuminated beautifully at night
- Combine with harbor cruise or Hotel New York visit
When to visit
Blue hour (approximately 30 minutes after sunset) is the prime time for photography when the bridge lighting activates against the dark sky and reflects on the water. Daytime views are best in clear weather with good contrast.
Accessibility
The Erasmus Bridge pedestrian and cycle path is flat and fully accessible for wheelchairs throughout its entire 802-metre length. Both approach streets on the north and south banks are also step-free.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to walk across the Erasmus Bridge?
No, crossing the Erasmus Bridge on foot or by bicycle is free at any time of day. There is also a water-taxi service that operates on the river below.
What is the best vantage point for photographing the Erasmus Bridge?
The Leuvehaven quay to the northwest provides a classic full-length view. The Wilhelminapier on the south bank gives a close-up view of the pylon. Harbour cruise boats provide water-level perspectives.
What is on the Wilhelminapier south of the bridge?
The Wilhelminapier contains the iconic Hotel New York (former Holland America Line headquarters), upscale apartments and office towers, waterfront restaurants, and the Fenix Food Factory market.
Is the Erasmus Bridge accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the bridge has a flat pedestrian and cycling path along its full length with no steps. It is fully accessible for wheelchairs and cyclists.