The largest port in Europe and the second largest city in the Netherlands is a distinctive destination worth discovering.
It may not have Amsterdams tourist fame, but Rotterdam - the second most populous city in the Netherlands - is a destination with its own unique identity that holds surprises around almost every corner. In fact, according to a recent Time Out article, Rotterdam is among the top city break destinations in Europe for 2025.
If youre looking for an alternative destination without overtourism, its worth adding to your travel agenda this city famed for its multicultural character, rich maritime tradition (the port of Rotterdam is the largest in Europe), an engaging cultural scene and its striking contemporary architecture.
Travel to Rotterdam: What to see
Rotterdam has never tried to claim the title of a picturesque city. Dont expect to see a fairy-tale historic center and many old buildings. A large part of the city was razed during World War II and rebuilt from scratch with its gaze set on the future. Postwar architecture and modern skyscrapers make Rotterdam a jewel of a city for design lovers.
The striking Cube Houses (cube-shaped houses, the creation of architect Piet Blom), the Nieuwe Luxor Theatre and Rotterdam Centraal station are among the citys architectural landmarks. For more on the art movements that inspired these buildings, visit the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum. The citys bridges are particularly distinctive too, especially the Erasmusbrug (also known as "the Swan") which is considered a symbol of the Netherlands contemporary architecture. The Markthal (covered market) is another architectural masterpiece. Its ceiling is adorned with a colossal artwork depicting a festive canvas bursting with fruit, vegetables and flowers.
FENIX, set to open in 2025, in a historic warehouse in the port, will be the first museum in the world to tell the story of migration through contemporary art. The warehouse was renovated by Bureau Polderman and redesigned by architect Ma Yansong of Beijing-based architecture firm MAD.
A stroll along Witte de Withstraat, the citys liveliest street, packed with bars, boutiques, galleries and colorful graffiti, is a must for every visitor. Food lovers will find paradise in the bustling food markets, such as the Markthal and Fenix Food Factory. The once-notorious Katendrecht neighborhood has been transformed in recent years and hosts some of the citys most interesting restaurants and bars.
Rotterdam is also Europes largest port, from where Dutch families once emigrated to New York. You can learn more about Rotterdams maritime past at the citys Maritime Museum. To enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the port and urban landscape, from a height of 185 meters, go up the Euromast tower. Alternatively, take a ride on a water taxi to see the city and its buildings from the water.
If your eyes want a break from the futuristic architecture, visit the historic Delfshaven neighborhood, one of the few places left standing after the bombing of the city during World War II. This picturesque area is known for its charming canals and traditional Dutch houses.
Finally, two distinctive hotels in the city: Hotel New York, which once housed the offices of the Holland America Lines shipping company, is a hotel with a singular history. An unforgettable stay also awaits at the S/S Rotterdam, the ship that crossed the Atlantic in the 19th century and now operates as a hotel and restaurant.
