Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a vibrant, modern city in the western part of the Netherlands, located on the River Maas. It is the country's second largest city and is internationally known as a city of commerce, architecture and innovation. Thanks to its location on one of the world's busiest waterways, Rotterdam grew to become Europe's largest port and a major economic engine for the Netherlands.

A city that reinvented itself

During World War II, Rotterdam was hit hard by bombing. Instead of rebuilding the old center, the city opted for a future-oriented approach: space, light and modern architecture. This gave Rotterdam a very different face than many other Dutch cities. Today it is a skyline full of striking high-rises, bridges and modern buildings - unique in the Netherlands and often compared to world cities such as New York and Singapore.

Architecture and sights

Rotterdam is a walhalla for architecture lovers. Well-known icons are:

• The Erasmus Bridge - the elegant "swan" connecting North and South.

• The Market Hall - an indoor market in a spectacular building with colorful ceiling painting.

• The Cube Houses - striking yellow blocks shaped like tilted cubes.

• The Euromast - observation tower with a panoramic view of city and harbor.

You can also find leading museums such as Boijmans Van Beuningen (Depot), Kunsthal Rotterdam and Maritime Museum in Rotterdam.

World port and innovation

Rotterdam is inseparable from its port - the largest in Europe. This "Gateway to Europe" is a place of international trade, logistics and technological innovation. Visitors can experience this up close during a cruise through the ports or a visit to the ss Rotterdam, a former cruise ship that now serves as a hotel and museum.

Culture, entertainment and diversity

Rotterdam is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, which translates into a varied culinary offer: from world cuisines and food markets to Michelin-starred restaurants. Nightlife is also diverse, with countless bars, clubs, concert halls and festivals such as North Sea Jazz and International Film Festival Rotterdam.

Green and relaxation

Despite its modern skyline, Rotterdam has a surprising amount of greenery. You can walk or picnic in parks like the Kralingse Bos, Het Park near the Euromast, or Rotterdam's Dakparken. The proximity of water also gives the city a relaxed, open atmosphere.

A city that continues to surprise

Rotterdam is constantly on the move - building, innovating and experimenting. It is a city where innovation and creativity prevail, and where you discover something new every time. Whether you come for the architecture, the port, culture, gastronomy or just the vibrant atmosphere: Rotterdam leaves no one indifferent.