A vibrant city with incredible architecture along with a fantastic foodie scene, Rotterdam is among the largest cities in the Netherlands, second only to Amsterdam. Here are a few amazing good reasons to visit Rotterdam in your next Europe trip!
The good reputation for Rotterdam
Though the majority of the city was flattened throughout the Blitzkrieg of WWII, leaving behind an empty space which probably the most challenging architectural bits of Europe happen to be built, some of the historic city centre of Rotterdam remains to this day.
For example, one of the first skyscrapers in Europe can be found near the Overblaak Development in the type of the Witte Huis. Nearby, the Oude Haven (old port) part of the Maritime district is stuffed with old boats and ships, and encompassed by the bars and cafés where all of the locals spend time. Further in to the city still, the
Rotterdam makes for a great alternative to Amsterdam
The second largest city within the Netherlands certainly packs a punch and its modern architecture and fast-paced vibe certainly feels worlds away from the charming Dutch capital. Instead of quaint canals and canalside houses, Rotterdam is filled with futuristic architecture as well as an incredible foodie scene.
Art, design & Museums in Rotterdam
Throughout Rotterdam, there’s an abundance of lots of beautiful galleries and modern museums to understand more about. The best Rotterdam museums include the Maritime Museum (that was founded in 1874 by Prince Henry from the Netherlands) and also the Kunsthal (an art museum which opened in 1992).
Even if you’re ‘not a museum person’, the whole city is filled with works of street art. Around virtually every corner, a new mural are available. For instance, near to the stop, there’s a Picasso sculpture, while street art are available around virtually every corner.
If you’re spending a considerable amount of time in holland, then you might consider investing in the Holland Pass that allows for free admission to up to six museums/ attractions. Included in the pass really are a skip-the-line feature along with a Holland Pass discount card.
The architecture of Rotterdam is incredible
Even those people who are not really acquainted with the Dutch city of Rotterdam will have likely seen those yellow cube houses posted somewhere around the interwebs. Highlights of Rotterdam architecture include the Overblaak Development (i.e. those cube houses by Piet Blom), de Rotterdam (a uniquely shaped block of three connected towers), and also the Centraal Station (make it your mission to a minimum of arrive or depart Rotterdam via train).
Other architectural must-sees within the city include wandering over the Erasmus Bridge, which is known locally as ‘the swan’, the Van Nelle Factory (an old factory which is now a designated UNESCO world heritage site), and also the beautiful historic old harbour. For additional info on Rotterdam’s harbour, you might consider taking this Rotterdam Harbour Tour.
Rotterdam is a great city to cycle (or walk) around
One of the very best good reasons to go to the Netherlands is the fact that it’s pretty simple to cycle, virtually anywhere. Because of the incredibly flat nature of the country, renting a bicycle and exploring another side of Rotterdam couldn’t be easier. Alternatively, if you only have a limited amount of time in the town, i quickly recommend taking your self on this free and self-guided walking tour of Rotterdam.
One district of Rotterdam is known as the ‘Cool District’
And while we’re on the subject of nightlife, bars, and clubs, it’s worth talking about the hippest part of the city. There’s one word for a certain district in town, which word is ‘cool’. Home to plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs, el born area is how all the best nightlife of Rotterdam are available.
The food scene of Rotterdam
Rotterdam is among the top foodie destinations in the Netherlands. From cafés to fancy restaurants to lunch hotspots, this city truly has everything with regards to culinary experiences. For the quirkiest food encounter of all, however, make sure to head to Fenix Food Factory. This daily market can be found in the center of the former warehouse and is open daily, with the exception of Monday.
For among the best lunch spots in town, go to the Markthal. Open every single day of the season, then, in the largest glass archway in Europe, you’ll find a plethora of restaurants, bars, cafés, and take off spots that will focus on any foodie whim. Housed within one of the trendiest buildings in town, head there to snap some photos, even when you’re not hungry!
The Mills of Kinderdijk
Now an existing UNESCO world heritage site and located only a short cycle ride from the city centre, the Mills of Kinderdijk are easily one of the most ‘Instagrammable photo spots in Rotterdam’. Constructed in around 1740, these nineteen original windmills demonstrate the way the Dutch dealt with the issue of water over the centuries.
Easily among the best places to visit in the Netherlands, other types of original mills include those in the pretty Dutch capital of scotland- Zanse Schans. If you wish to have a less touristic example of windmills close to the Hague, you very well may think about a trip to the Molendriegang close to Leidschendam.
Practical advice and tips for planning your trip to Rotterdam
If you’re looking for a great weekend escape in Europe, then you may well want to plan a trip to Rotterdam. Easy to cycle or walk around, a lot of the city’s major attractions may be easily explored during the period of an extended weekend. If you’re short promptly, then Rotterdam is a straightforward day trip from Amsterdam or any easy day trip in the Hague.
If you’re planning to stay overnight, when planning your vacation, you’ll want to book your accommodation well in advance (quite literally as soon as you’ve secured your transport). Check for the best accommodation rates in Rotterdam.
I recommend at least arriving or leaving by train (the stop architecture is fantastic!) and Schipol airport is a short 25-minute ride away on the train! Among the best views of Rotterdam are available previously mentioned in the Euromast Tower. Constructed from 1958 to 1960, the tower offers particularly great views from the Erasmus Bridge. Check here to reserve your ticket ahead of time.
