An inspiration of futuristic architecture, creative design, eclectic nightlife and diverse cultures– welcome to Rotterdam!
The second-largest city in The Netherlands is a remarkable testament of triumph, creativity and perseverance over the destruction and bombing of WW2. With its medieval churches, 2,000-year-old maritime history, contrasted with modern architecture, a lively arts scene and pulsating nightlife, Rotterdam is indeed a city where old meets new.
Renowned for its architectural marvels, Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk (the only surviving 15th-century building) and the distinctive Cube Houses are not to be missed! The Art Nouveau-inspired White House is also worth a visit.
Take a trip down memory lane aboard the historical Snerttram, giving visitors a guided tour of the city. There are also numerous boat tours exploring Europoort (known as the Gateway to Europe) and Rotterdam’s most famous landmarks, including Erasmus Bridge. History enthusiasts should stroll through the Blaak district, reconstructed with fascinating buildings, while Delfshaven is a 17th-century neighbourhood dotted with canals, museums and pubs. The city’s four major lakes offer sailing, yachting and rowing. For spectacular views over the city, enjoy a night’s stay or dinner atop the Euromast or, if you’re feeling super adventurous, you can abseil down the building!
For a unique shopping experience, head to Lijnbaan and Hoogstraat where you can find some quirky souvenirs, while the Markthal is bursting with fresh produce and delicious Dutch-French inspired treats over the weekend. Those in search of a more ‘when in Holland’ experience should pop into notable coffeeshops, like Nemo or The Rookies, to try out the local coffee and cannabis varietals.
For a scenic day out, the picturesque village of Kinderdijk is home to 19 windmills where visitors can wander inside these 18th-century structures. A 30-minute drive from Rotterdam’s centre lies the sprawling fine-sand beach of Scheveningen, where bars, restaurants and water sports make for the ultimate beach party.
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