Rotterdam in the Netherlands isn’t your typical Dutch city. 

Forget about quaint, canal-lined streets or tranquil bike rides past tulip fields.  

Rotterdam is bold, modern, and unapologetically futuristic. A city rebuilt from the ashes of World War II, it’s now a playground for architects, artists, and innovators. 

Let’s take a closer look! 

Image Credit: Getty Images, 0.  Image Location: Erasmus Bridge, Rotterdam, Netherlands 

How to get to Rotterdam: effortlessly cool train travel 

Zip from Amsterdam to Rotterdam in under an hour by train or connect easily from major European cities. The convenience of Trainline’s app means you can manage your trip with a tap — talk about smooth sailing! 

Did you know? Rotterdam is home to the largest seaport in Europe, a title it held globally until surpassed by Shanghai in 2004. This port is a vital link in international trade routes. 

Sightseeing with a twist: Rotterdam’s must-visits 

  • Erasmus Bridge. Start with Rotterdam’s icon. Affectionately called The Swan, the Erasmus Bridge’s elegant design is a perfect backdrop for your first Instagram post from the city. 
  • Cube Houses. Next, wander through the Cube Houses, an architectural marvel that defies norms. These tilted, cube-shaped buildings will make you question everything you know about design. 
  • Markthal. For foodies, the Markthal is a temple. This arched building, adorned with a mammoth artwork, houses a bustling indoor market, offering everything from Dutch cheese to international delicacies. 
  • Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. Art lovers, rejoice! This museum is a treasure trove of fine art, ranging from medieval to modern times. Though it’s under renovation till 2029, the museum keeps enchanting with off-site exhibitions. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, Image Location: Het Park, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Discover Rotterdam’s secret spots 

  • Witte de Withstraat. Dive into Rotterdam’s cultural artery. This street buzzes with avant-garde galleries, quirky boutiques, and hip bars. 
  • Fenix Food Factory. For a taste of local life, head to this food market in a former warehouse. It’s less touristy than Markthal and brimming with artisanal charm. 
  • Het Park. Need a green escape? Het Park provides lush tranquility, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. 
  • Windmills of Rotterdam. While less famous than those in other Dutch cities, Rotterdam has historic windmills, including the picturesque De Ster and De Lelie, which are still operational and open to visitors. 
  • Floating Pavilion in Rijnhaven. Rotterdam’s commitment to sustainability is showcased by the Floating Pavilion in the Rijnhaven harbor. This structure is designed to be climate resilient and is an example of innovative architecture on water. 

Culinary delights: where to eat in Rotterdam 

  • FG Food Labs. For an extraordinary dining experience, book a table at FG Food Labs. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative dishes that are as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate. 
  • Bazar. For more casual fare, Bazar serves up hearty Middle Eastern and North African dishes in a colorful, lively setting. 
  • Hotel New York. Once the headquarters of the Holland America Line, this historic building is now a popular restaurant. Enjoy classic Dutch cuisine with a view of the Nieuwe Maas River. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, RossHelen. Image Location: Markthal, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam after dark: a city that never gets bored 

  • Nieuwe Binnenweg. As night falls, head to Nieuwe Binnenweg for a mix of cozy cafés and pulsating clubs. 
  • Annabel. For the ultimate Rotterdam nightlife experience, Annabel, the city’s largest music venue, hosts everything from electronic to indie bands. 

Shopping spree: Rotterdam’s retail therapy 

  • Van Oldenbarneveltstraat and Kruiskade. These streets are a shopper’s paradise, lined with high-end boutiques and designer stores. 
  • De Groene Passage. For sustainable shopping, this eco-friendly mall offers everything from organic food to green fashion. 

Image Credit and Location: CitizenM Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam’s lodging: where to stay 

  • nhow Rotterdam. Located in the striking De Rotterdam building, this 4-star hotel offers sleek design and stunning views of Nieuwe Maas River. 
  • CitizenM Rotterdam. For budget travelers, CitizenM combines affordability with style, right in the heart of the city. 

Save the dates! Dakendagen is an annual festival that transforms the rooftops of Rotterdam into cultural stages, offering music, art installations, and urban gardens. The next Rotterdam Rooftop Days will take place from May 24 to 26, 2024. 

Image Credit: Getty Images, momo11353. Image Location: Kinderdijk, Netherlands

Day trips from Rotterdam: explore more 

  • Kinderdijk. Just a short trip away, the UNESCO-listed windmills of Kinderdijk offer a quintessential Dutch experience. The waterbus route 202 takes you directly to Kinderdijk in about 30 minutes. 
  • The Hague. Easily accessible by train, The Hague, the seat of the Dutch government and the International Court of Justice, presents a mix of politics, history, and culture. 

Rotterdam is an enigma — a city that constantly reinvents itself yet retains its soul. It’s where every alleyway, bridge, or market tells a story. So, pack your curiosity and let Trainline handle the logistics. 

Laten we gaan! (Let’s go!) 

Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Achim Thomae. Image Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands

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