Rotterdam

Rotterdam captivates visitors with its bold architectural innovations and creative spirit. You know the city is different from the moment you see its bold skyline. The city is not the quieter sibling of Amsterdam; it is a place which dares to stand out. Bombed in World War II, it rebuilt itself into Europe’s most modern city, yet it never lost its soul.

Here, innovation lives alongside tradition. You will wander through colourful food markets and the centuries-old canal district. Rotterdam is a city that makes you feel alive.

The Ideal Time to Visit Rotterdam

The best time to go Rotterdamis spring. Spring is the type of weather that makes you want to grab a bike and explore Rotterdam. Summer is energetic with street festivals, and Rotterdam is famous for outdoor cafes. But the streets can be crowded.

Autumn, with its cosy vibe, is perfect for a quieter visit. Avoid winter if you are after outdoor fun. Winters in Rotterdam are chilly and rainy.

Top Destinations in Rotterdam to Visit

The following are the best Rotterdam places to visit.

• Markthal:The Markthal is the culinary crown jewel of Rotterdam. The apartments curve over a vibrant food hall. Inside, over 100 food stalls serve everything, from Dutch specialities to international cuisine.
• Cube Houses:The iconic yellow Cube Houses feature 45-degree tilts. One cube house serves as a museum, letting visitors experience this unique living space.
• Rotterdam Zoo:More than a zoo, it’s an adventure. From lush tropical enclosures to Arctic wildlife, every corner is a new discovery.
• Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot:The newly opened Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot mirrors the city in its reflective facade. Inside, art lovers discover an innovative way of displaying collections.

Best Activities to Indulge in Rotterdam

Here are the best things to do in Rotterdam.

• The Port of Rotterdam:Speed through the largest port in Europe on a water taxi, zipping past massive container ships and historic shipyards. These yellow boats offer an unforgettable tour of the harbour.
• Fenix Food Factory:Dive into local flavours at Fenix Food Factory, where an old warehouse now houses Rotterdam's best local producers. The waterfront location adds spectacular views to your food adventure.
• Shop at Witte de Withstraat:This street is Rotterdam’s heartbeat. You will find art, music, fashion, and food wrapped in one eclectic neighbourhood.
• Cycle Through Kralingse Bos:At times, you need a breather. This lush park offers picture-perfect cycling paths for tourists and locals.

Beyond Rotterdam: Perfect Day Trips

Rotterdam is perfectly placed for exploring. Hop on a train to Delft, where the canals feel like something out of a painting. You can visit The Hague, home to grand palaces and a breezy coastline. For something truly Dutch, Kinderdijk’s iconic windmills are just a short trip away. You must have enough time to explore the nearby cities in Rotterdam.

How to Reach Rotterdam?

Landing in Rotterdam is straightforward through The Hague Airport. The airport connects to major European cities. The efficient metro whisks you to the city centre in 20 minutes. Are you travelling from Amsterdam? Direct trains from Schiphol Airport take just 30 minutes. Once in Rotterdam, the integrated network of metros, trams, and water taxis makes exploration easy.