A Brief History of Excelsior Rotterdam
Before we head to Van Donge & De Roo Stadion, let’s take a quick look at the history of Excelsior Rotterdam. Founded in 1902, Excelsior is one of the oldest football clubs in the Netherlands, with a strong community focus. Often referred to as “the people’s club,” Excelsior has built a reputation for developing young talents and playing an attractive, attacking style of football. Despite its modest size, the club has regularly punched above its weight in Dutch football, earning promotions to the Eredivisie and challenging bigger teams in the league.
Excelsior’s journey is one of resilience and ambition. The club has experienced ups and downs, but its passionate supporters and strong local ties keep it thriving. Unlike the city’s larger clubs, Excelsior offers an intimate matchday experience, where fans are close to the action and every seat provides a great view of the pitch.
Hotel tips in Rotterdam: Bilderberg Hotel and Ibis Styles Rotterdam.
Getting to Van Donge & De Roo Stadion
Reaching Excelsior’s Van Donge & De Roo Stadion is straightforward, whether you’re using public transport or driving. If you’re traveling by metro, take Line A, B, or C to Kralingse Zoom station, then hop on bus 36 towards Woudestein, which stops just a short walk from the stadium. Alternatively, tram 7 to Woudestein provides another convenient route. If you’re driving, parking is available near the stadium, but spots are limited on matchdays, so arriving early is recommended. Additionally, some hop-on-hop-off bus tours in Rotterdam include stops near Kralingen, making it easy to incorporate Excelsior into your sightseeing plans.
Why Visit Van Donge & De Roo Stadion on a Non-Matchday?
Excelsior’s Van Donge & De Roo Stadion may not be the largest ground in Rotterdam, but it offers one of the most intimate and authentic football experiences in the Netherlands. Nestled in the leafy Kralingen district, the stadium has a charm that’s hard to find in modern football. With a capacity of just over 4,000, every seat is close to the pitch, making it a great place to truly appreciate the game’s nuances. On a non-matchday, visitors can explore the surrounding training facilities, visit the club shop, or even catch a glimpse of Excelsior’s first team in action during open training sessions.
Beyond football, the stadium is a hidden gem for those looking to experience local Rotterdam culture. Situated near Erasmus University and Kralingse Bos, the area offers a mix of student energy and natural beauty. Whether you’re a football purist or just looking for a unique stop on your Rotterdam itinerary, Van Donge & De Roo Stadion is well worth a visit—even when the stands aren’t packed with cheering fans.
How to Visit a Match at Van Donge & De Roo Stadion
Watching a match at Excelsior Rotterdam is an unforgettable experience for any football fan. Tickets are usually available through the club’s official website, where you can purchase seats in advance. On matchdays, a limited number of tickets may also be available at the stadium’s ticket office, but it’s always best to book early, especially for high-profile fixtures. Excelsior’s relatively small capacity means every seat offers a great view of the pitch, and the atmosphere is always lively, thanks to the passionate local fanbase. If you’re visiting Rotterdam and want to catch a game, keep an eye on the club’s match schedule and secure your tickets well in advance.
Things to Do Near Van Donge & De Roo Stadion
Excelsior’s stadium is located in Kralingen, one of Rotterdam’s most charming districts, known for its mix of student life, green spaces, and local culture. Just a short walk from the stadium, Kralingse Bos offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustling streets. This large park and lake area is perfect for a relaxing stroll, a picnic, or even some watersports if you’re visiting in the summer. It’s a favorite spot among locals, making it a great way to experience Rotterdam beyond its football scene.
If you’re looking for something more urban, Erasmus University Rotterdam is nearby, bringing a lively atmosphere to the area. The streets around the university feature cozy cafés and bars where students and football fans alike gather before and after games. Additionally, the Oostplein and Oude Haven districts are just a short tram ride away, offering a variety of restaurants and pubs where you can continue your football discussions over local beers and Dutch snacks.
The Fans: The Heart of Excelsior Rotterdam
Excelsior may not have the largest fanbase in the Netherlands, but what it lacks in numbers, it makes up for in passion and loyalty. One of their fans called Piebe Guido van den Berg, famous for his viral social media songs about Excelsior and many more football clubs and players. The club has a deeply rooted connection with the Kralingen district, and many supporters have followed Excelsior for generations. Unlike the larger, more commercialized clubs, Excelsior retains an intimate, community-driven atmosphere. On matchdays, you’ll find families, students, and lifelong fans gathering at Van Donge & De Roo Stadion, creating a warm and inclusive football experience. The supporters’ section adds to the energy with chants and banners that reflect the club’s underdog spirit. Whether the team is battling for survival in the Eredivisie or pushing for promotion, the Excelsior faithful remain unwavering in their support.
Exploring Rotterdam After Your Visit to Van Donge & De Roo Stadion
Once you’ve enjoyed the matchday atmosphere at Van Donge & De Roo Stadion, it’s time to explore more of Rotterdam. You can easily continue your journey by hopping back on the metro or bus, as several lines pass close to the stadium. If you prefer to stay closer to the action, a walk through the surrounding Kralingen district offers a relaxing escape. The leafy streets and scenic views of Kralingse Plas provide a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Alternatively, you can explore nearby neighborhoods like Noord or Centrum, which are home to some of Rotterdam’s best spots for food, shopping, and local culture.
Whether you choose to hop back on public transport or enjoy a scenic walk, there’s no shortage of exciting places to explore around Van Donge & De Roo Stadion.
Where to Eat and Drink Near Van Donge & De Roo Stadion
After a thrilling match, you’ll likely want to grab a bite or enjoy a drink nearby. Luckily, the area around Van Donge & De Roo Stadion offers a variety of options that won’t break the bank. For a laid-back meal, head to Bistro de la Gare—a local favorite for hearty Dutch meals in a cozy setting. If you’re craving something lighter, Koffiebar Kralingen serves excellent coffee and sandwiches, perfect for a post-match pick-me-up. For those looking to enjoy a drink, the nearby De Zwarte Ruiter is a great spot to catch up with friends over a cold beer. It’s a friendly, no-frills bar where locals gather to chat about football and life.
If you’re in the mood for a more substantial evening, venture to Oude Haven, just a short tram ride away, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering everything from casual dining to upscale meals.
Planning Your Trip to Rotterdam
Rotterdam is a city brimming with history, culture, and football passion. Whether you’re visiting for a match at Van Donge & De Roo Stadion or just soaking in the unique atmosphere of this vibrant city, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. From exploring the local neighborhoods to enjoying the city’s top restaurants and bars, Rotterdam offers something for every type of traveler. To make the most of your football journey, don’t forget to check out our Ultimate Rotterdam Soccer Travel Guide, where you’ll find more in-depth recommendations and travel tips to help you plan the perfect football getaway.
Affiliate disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.
