I used AI travel planner GuideGeek to plan a trip to Rotterdam and this is what happened
Read this article in the original Dutch.
For a native Rotterdammer who now mainly works and lives abroad, coming home to the port city sometimes feels like a mini-reunion with my younger self. The city changes so quickly. New buildings and coffee shops are popping up like mushrooms, and old spots are disappearing again. That's why I often ask myself: what do I actually miss when I'm not there?
So I decided to try something new. I completely outsourced the planning of a weekend in Rotterdam. To whom? To AI. But not just any. GuideGeek is a smart travel planner that you can use via WhatsApp, Instagram or Messenger. No app, no account, just type as if you were texting a friend.
Except this friend has access to more than 1,000 travel data sources, from TikTok trends to local events, and is available 24/7.
Why I chose GuideGeek (and not Chat GPT or Google)
I’ve been working with AI tools for years, so the idea of “a digital travel planner” isn’t new to me. But GuideGeek is different. Its AI is truly purpose-built for travel – with up-to-date data on flights, hotels, weather, events, opening hours, and lesser-known tips. Think the power of Google, combined with the convenience of chatting on your phone.
And to be honest: I also thought it was a fun test. Could AI plan a weekend in my hometown better than I could?
My assignment: “Plan a perfect weekend in Rotterdam, without clichés”
I asked GuideGeek for a two-day itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, fun things to do, preferably with a local vibe. No tourist traps, no Euromast (sorry, nostalgia), and definitely no chain restaurants. I asked for street food, culture, bikes, vintage shops, nature. A bit of everything, but thoughtfully curated.
Within a minute I had my first suggestions.
Day 1: A fresh look at familiar places
Breakfast at Lilith Coffee
Located on Nieuwe Binnenweg with pancakes, great coffee, lots of plants, and a touch of hipster. I had been there before, but GuideGeek reminded me that they now also offer vegan options and chai specials. Not a bad way to start the day.
Street art walk via Rewriters010
GuideGeek provided a whole route with QR codes for explanations along the way. I thought I knew Rotterdam’s street art, but I discovered new pieces in the side streets of Witte de Withstraat that I had never seen before.
Lunch at Ayla's
Described as “world cuisine with a Rotterdam twist.” The vibe was right, and so was the food. Without GuideGeek, I might have just walked past it.
Walking and shopping in 't Zwaanshals
GuideGeek recommended Rotterdam Centrum and Noord for vintage shops, small galleries, and good coffee. And indeed: Objekt Rotterdam was a hidden gem.
Dinner at Rotonde
A surprising choice. Sustainable, plant-based and stylish, yet pleasantly informal. The kind of place you wouldn't book yourself, but which you'll be happy about afterwards.
Day 2: Rotterdam, but slightly different
Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen
GuideGeek described the depot as “a museum where you get to peek behind the scenes.” And that’s exactly right. The rooftop view and transparent layout make it one of the most original cultural spots in Rotterdam.
Boguette: Vietnamese street food at Blaak
GuideGeek suggested this for “a light and flavorful lunch close to the Markthal, but without the tourist crowds.” A fresh and unique lunch spot.
Cycling tour along the Maas, Katendrecht, Fenix Food Factory
GuideGeek recommended renting a bike (even suggesting specific apps like Donkey Republic) and riding along the Maaskade towards Katendrecht. The idea to take the ferry back made it feel like a spontaneous vacation in my own city.
Cocktails at Spikizi Bar and Drinks at Bar Berta
GuideGeek added the note: “for a relaxed evening without tourists.” And that proved true — original cocktails, a great atmosphere. A perfect ending to an AI-planned weekend.
What Worked Well and What Didn’t?
What I Loved:
✅ The timing was perfect—no rushing, no long waits.
✅ Local, up-to-date tips—even weekend events were included.
✅ Accessibility—no app needed, just type via WhatsApp.
✅ Personalization—the more you chat with GuideGeek, the better the suggestions match your preferences.
What Could Be Improved:
❌ A few suggestions were a bit too trendy.
❌ No integration with a map app—you have to open Google Maps yourself.
My Conclusion as a Rotterdammer Abroad
I didn’t expect that chatting with AI would make me genuinely excited to rediscover my own city. But that’s exactly what happened. GuideGeek helped me see Rotterdam as a curious visitor would — with wonder, spontaneity, and an open mind.
And maybe that’s the biggest win of this tool: it helps you discover what you almost missed. Not because you don’t know about it, but simply because you wouldn’t have thought of it yourself.
Whether you live in the Netherlands or, like me, frequently travel abroad — give GuideGeek a try. It feels like a travel buddy who never complains, is always available, and is surprisingly good at matching your taste.
You just need to visit guidegeek.com and say “Hi!” on WhatsApp.
Maybe I’ll let it plan a trip to Tokyo next. Or Cape Town. Who knows!