Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, is a spectacular port city that dazzles visitors not only with its futuristic architectural masterpieces but also with its vibrant cultural life and culinary delights. Here, every street corner offers something unique and interesting – Rotterdam is a place where the past and the future meet in perfect harmony.
TIP: Rotterdam 1-Hour Sightseeing Splash Tour
• Grand Holland All-Day Tour with Rotterdam and The Hague
History
Although Rotterdam’s historical roots date back to the Middle Ages, the cityscape was profoundly changed by the bombings it suffered during World War II. However, this tragedy inspired its residents: today, Rotterdam symbolizes innovative architecture and new beginnings. Its unique urban panorama is a tribute to modernity and creativity.
Attractions
Erasmus Bridge: Nicknamed „The Swan,” this bridge is not only an icon of Rotterdam but also a testament to modern engineering. It is particularly breathtaking at sunset.
The Famous Yellow Cube Houses: Known in Dutch as „Kubuswoningen,” Rotterdam’s famous cube houses were built by Piet Blom in 1984. These are actual homes and unlike anything else in the world – a true 20th-century icon. The architect aimed to create a small village within the city, and you can feel it. Each cube is tilted downward, with three sides facing the ground and the other three facing the sky. Visitors can step into a “Show Cube” to see what living here is like.
Markthal: This spectacular indoor food market, designed in a giant, inverted U-shape and bordered by glass-walled apartments, offers not only stunning frescoes but also mouthwatering delicacies. Every bite here is both a gastronomic and visual experience.
Witte de Withkwartier: This lively district is the heart of Rotterdam’s arts and culture scene. At its core is the famous Witte de Withstraat, an eclectic street showcasing the best of Rotterdam’s multiculturalism and artistic spirit. Lined with bustling galleries, independent fashion boutiques, trendy restaurants, and bars, it’s also home to some of the most creative and colorful street art in the area.
Euromast: The tallest observation tower in Rotterdam, standing at 185 meters, offersbreathtaking views. For the more daring, there’s even the option to combine the experience with abseiling!
Did you know? Rotterdam’s port is the largest in Europe, welcoming dozens of ships from around the globe every day.
Fun fact: The Rotterdam Street Art Route is a living gallery where art and the streets meet, featuring stunning murals.
Just 23 kilometers from Rotterdam lies the magnificent Kinderdijk, one of the most iconic sights of the Dutch countryside. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its 19 windmills, serves as a living museum of Dutch water management history. Built in the 1700s to drain the area’s marshy land, these windmills remain a testament to the technical ingenuity that has ensured Holland’s survival.
Visitors can explore the area on foot, by bike, or even by boat, admiring the windmills reflected in the canals. A boat or water taxi ride from Rotterdam offers a particularly scenic approach to Kinderdijk. At the visitor center, interactive exhibitions and demonstrations provide deeper insights into the workings of the windmills and the challenges of water management. Kinderdijk is a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike, where the full beauty of the Dutch landscape comes alive.
TIP: Rotterdam Kinderdijk Windmill Village Entry Ticket
While Rotterdam isn’t traditionally associated with tulips, the city bursts with colors and fragrances in the spring. Local parks, such as Arboretum Trompenburg, feature stunning tulip beds that make for a serene walk or picnic. Although tulips are most famously linked with Amsterdam or Keukenhof’s renowned garden, Rotterdam’s central location makes it easy to reach these iconic sites. Keukenhof, one of the world’s largest flower gardens, is only an hour’s drive from Rotterdam and boasts millions of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils. This experience is especially enchanting during the flower festival when the gardens host special themed exhibitions. Organized tours from the city or rented bikes are excellent ways to explore Keukenhof.
Did you know? January 18 is Tulip Day, celebrated worldwide to honor Dutch flowers as a symbol. The diversity and history of tulips add a special charm to cold January days, perfectly preparing for the coming spring.
TIP: Keukenhof Skip-the-Line Entrance
Rotterdam’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, with flavors from around the world. The city’s iconic Markthal is a true culinary paradise, offering everything from fresh seafood and artisan cheeses to exotic spices. Modern restaurants like Restaurant FG impress guests with innovative dishes and stunning presentations. Local favorites include kibbeling, crispy fried fish pieces often served with garlic dip. Don’t miss the stroopwafel, a heavenly caramel-filled Dutch treat that pairs perfectly with a hot coffee!
Rotterdam is not just a city but an ever-evolving experience. This dynamic port city is a place where modernity, culture, and gastronomy harmoniously converge. If you’re open to innovation and looking for something different, Rotterdam promises to be an inspiring and unforgettable destination.