Views & landmarks
De Hef
De Hef
De Hef is a vertical-lift railway bridge spanning the Koningshaven waterway in the port of Rotterdam. Built in 1927, it is a designated national heritage site that retains its original industrial appearance. Travelers visit this landmark to observe its engineering design and view the surrounding port architecture.
Getting There
The bridge is located on the edge of the city centre. It is accessible via a short walk or a brief trip by tram or bus from the central station area. Depending on the starting point in the centre, the journey typically takes 10 to 20 minutes.
Time Allocation
Since the attraction is an outdoor landmark viewed from the ground, visitors generally spend 30 to 60 minutes exploring the immediate area and taking photographs.
When to Visit
The site is open to the air and accessible at any time of day. It is most visited during daylight hours for better visibility of the structure. While it does not typically experience extreme crowding, the surrounding waterfront areas can be busier during weekends and summer months.
Nearby Attractions
The location is well-positioned for combining with other nearby sites on foot:
- Koninginnebrug: 0.1km
- Kop van Zuid: 0.8km
- The Red Apple: 0.8km
- Netherlands Photo Museum: 1km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors