Rotterdam Ferry

Rotterdam Guide

Rotterdam is situated on the west coast of the Netherlands, in the South Holland Region that borders the North Sea. The port is used as the gateway to the United Kingdom, with crossings to Hull on the east coast of England.

What is there to do in Rotterdam?

Amsterdam grabs the attention for much of the Netherlands, dominating the country’s reputation with its picturesque scenery and decadent nightlife, but a growing number believe that Rotterdam is the jewel in the Dutch crown. The second city is like the cool, younger brother that casually attracts visitors and keeps them there with its effortlessly trendy bars, captivating architecture and wealth of culture. Every major European city has a myriad of interesting buildings and popular areas, yet it’s the unique infrastructure and idiosyncratic attractions that separate Rotterdam from the rest. The Markthal is symbolic of the distinctive nature that embodies the city; browse quintessential Dutch cheeses at the copious stalls whilst admiring the beautiful artwork that decorates the ceiling.

Hours could be spent perusing the market, yet to ignore the innovative vibe flowing through the city would be unforgivable; The Pavilion is a seemingly floating office space in the heart of the centre, and if that’s not impressive enough, The Kubus are a selection of cubed, angled houses that are breathtaking on your first visit. The buildings’ individuality is spectacular, yet the pinnacle of stunning architecture belongs to De Rotterdam - a towering example of urban design and modern ideas, laying host to shops, deluxe hotels and fine restaurants. View it in the evening for enviable photos to elevate your reputation on Instagram.

After basking in the alluring architecture and sampling the sumptuous food, enjoy the endless museums that define Rotterdam’s cultural history. Free outdoor art galleries grace the landscape and The Natural History Museum offers a fascinating insight into the country’s past. The Boijmans Van Beuningen displays world class art exhibitions, unsurprisingly the country’s most famous artist, Vincent Van Gogh, features most heavily. So much art and culture can tempt many into indulging in refreshing alcohol amid a lively bar scene, which is where Witte de Withstraat takes the limelight. The numerous outlets exude a stylish and hip energy, epitomised by Stirr, a cocktail bar that doesn’t believe in menus, instead the bar staff just ask what you like and create the perfect drink.

How do you get around Rotterdam?

When in Rotterdam it is almost compulsory to grab a bicycle and cycle around the glorious city. Biking is the most popular form of transport, but for the tired and weary, an efficient public transport system operates around the entirety of the districts.