FENIX — Attraction in Rotterdam

We were fortunate to stop by Fenix last month, just a few days after it opened, having bought tickets online in advance. The gigantic spiral staircase that's been inserted into and through the historic building is quite impressive, but it isn't clear that it has anything to do with the museum's theme? So yes, walk or elevate up for views from the roof if the weather allows, but it could be more educational. The highly varied displays are set in massive spaces with great light and circulation. Many of the pieces are individually fascinating, but good luck connecting the dots and gaining a larger understanding of human migration from them. Even if you know your history and what you're looking for, it can take a good deal of searching to find that relevant display and then to figure out their backstory from the labels. No doubt years of thought went into designing the museum and forming its collection, but more of that thinking should be made clear to visitors who wish to go beyond just roaming the spaces. And more thought should definitely have been put into locating restrooms and the (limited and disappointing) menu at the overhyped cafe. Considering that based on our experience most visitors have to walk a fair ways from public transit to reach the museum, while its a good start, there is room for improvement once you get there. P.S. For me it really only deserves 3.5 *, but since they're new I error on the side of generosity hoping for...

We visited the FENIX Museum on October 4, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience. My husband and I both loved it. The museum has a fascinating history and striking modern architecture. The spiral staircase leading up to the observation deck is truly impressive.

Even though it was a very windy and rainy day when we went, and I had to explore the viewing platform in the rain, it was still an amazing experience. It’s a perfect spot for panoramic photos of Rotterdam.

The museum’s content is also remarkable. It’s not a traditional ethnographic museum — it’s an art museum. What I especially loved was how it explores the topic of migration through different stories and perspectives: cultural enrichment, assimilation, and deeply personal human experiences of migration. It really makes you think.

We expected to go through the entire museum in about two hours, but we ended up spending all that time in just one hall — simply because there’s so much to see, read, and reflect on. The exhibits are genuinely captivating.

There are also fascinating historical artifacts, like a Nansen passport, which was incredible to see. So I highly, highly recommend visiting this museum — especially if you love art and the theme of migration...

The ‘Tornado’ staircase is absolutely fantastic and the Rotterdam skyline view even better.

We went on a sunny sundaymorning. At 11 in the morning the Tornado staircase was still quiet. The staircase takes a central stage in the building and leads you to the top of the building and higher. The material is metal with a reflection like a mirror. I can’t describe it. Please see my photo’s. On top of the building the tornado staircase gives you a fantastic view on the skyscraper, Maas river and the Erasmus bridge. So beautiful. I think we stayed for an hour. Bring your camera, you can take great pictures.

We bought the tickets before going on their website. We parked in the Felix I parking garage. Expensive but very convenient. We had coffee and a cinnamon bun on the first floor. It was ok. But the view is great.

Fenix is a museum about migration, we also went to the photo exhibition on the ground floor. Powerful photo’s from the last 100 years showing the departure-, travel and the arrival phase of migration around the world. The photo’s are moving and insightful. Well worth a visit.

Secret tip: Go for icecream at Granucci Gelato on the corner of the Fenix...