Rotterdam is a bustling port city located in the western part of the Netherlands. It is known for its innovative architecture, great amounts of green spaces, and delicious food. With its combination of modern and traditional elements, Rotterdam is a city that truly stands out and is well worth a visit. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top reasons why Rotterdam is worth visiting, and provide a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip to this Dutch gem.
View unique architecture in Rotterdam
This Dutch city boasts a skyline that is unlike any other in the world. It is known for its modern and innovative architecture, with landmarks such as the Cube Houses, Markthal, and the Erasmus Bridge that are must-visits for anyone interested in architecture. The city is constantly evolving, with new buildings being added to the skyline every year.
Experience the largest port in Europe
Rotterdam is the largest port city in Europe and is known as the Gateway to Europe. Visitors can witness the hustle and bustle of ships and cargo at the Maritime Museum or take a boat tour of the harbor to see the scale of the port’s operations. The harbor also offers a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The best (and cheapest) way to travel on the water is by hopping aboard a WaterTaxi.
Rotterdam is a true foodie heaven
With a wide range of international cuisine and local specialties to try, Rotterdam is a food lover’s paradise. From Indonesian to Surinamese cuisine, the city has something to offer for every taste. Must-try local specialties include stroopwafels and herring. With so many options, visitors will never run out of delicious food to try.
- Have breakfast and coffee at Man met bril koffie
- Grab lunch at Markthal
- Fancy dinner at Tres or Héroine
- Late night snack at McDonald’s (their Netherlands menu is awesome, try the McKroket and the chicken tenders with curry sauce!)
- Grocery shopping at Albert Heijn (Dutch chain similar to Whole Foods)
Green spaces in Rotterdam
The city is surrounded by parks and waterways, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Whether you want to take a stroll in the park, rent a bike, or go for a swim, there’s something for everyone in Rotterdam’s green spaces.
Rotterdam is very affordable
Compared to Amsterdam, Rotterdam is often more affordable for travelers, with lower prices for accommodation, food, and attractions. This makes it a great option for those on a budget who still want to experience all that the Netherlands has to offer. Also, one of the best ways to experience Rotterdam is to simply wander around and explore the city on foot, which is totally free. If you don’t feel like walking, their transit system is very efficient, and can bring you virtually anywhere in the city. You can buy day passes directly at Centraal Station or you can buy tickets directly from RET, on your smartphone. Pro tip: make sure to check in and out each time to be able to continue using your pass.
Where to stay?
We found this very cute Airbnb in Rotterdam West, 6-minutes away from the train station. This apartment was clearly designed by an architect or an interior designer. The space was large enough for two people, the bed was very comfortable and the internet was very fast; what more can you ask for? Nice perks in the kitchen included granola, enough coffee pods for 2 coffee lovers for 2 days. They even added beers, soda and chocolates in the fridge.
In conclusion, Rotterdam is a city that offers something for everyone. With its innovative architecture, rich cultural scene, and fascinating history, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Netherlands. So why not plan your next trip to Rotterdam today and experience the dynamic energy of this unique and captivating city.
