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Walking Tour: May Days 1940

Different dates from June till October

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In Rotterdam, continuous fighting for the city took place from 10 to 14 May 1940. An incredible and largely unknown story that precedes the devastating bombing.

From the very first moment of the German invasion on 10 May 1940, Rotterdam was right on the frontline. For five long days, battles were fought in the streets, on the river, and in the skies above the city. German and Dutch troops faced each other along the Maas, with the people of Rotterdam caught in the crossfire.

Former soldier and military historian Wouter Hagemeijer from Strijd om de Maasbruggen will guide you through the course of the fighting and the confusion of these days during this walking tour.

The walk starts at Museum Rotterdam ’40-’45 NU. After a brief introduction, we set off. The route takes you past important positions from the May Days, such as the Noordereiland and Oudehaven. We will also visit the Mariniersmuseum and Plein 1940. The highlight is the impressive view from the roof of the Witte Huis, overlooking Rotterdam and the former battlefield along the banks of the Maas.

PLEASE NOTE: The walking distance is 5 kilometres and there will be extended stops at discussion points. During the tour, several (steep) staircases must be climbed. For the stretch from Coolhaven to Beurs, we take the metro. Please bring your OV-chipkaart for this.