Rotterdam, The Netherlands — Bethany Wanders

Glittering along the Rotte river, Rotterdam cuts an impressive silhouette compared to other European skylines. Almost entirely leveled in the Rotterdam Blitz of World War II, the city became a creative playground for architects who left their modern, whimsical, innovative mark on Europe’s largest port and turned the violence of war into a canvas for renewal. Today, Rotterdam is the site of ambitious new architectural projects by Erick van Egeraat and firms like MVRDV, OMA, and Neutelings & Riedijk. In fact, Piet Blom’s famous and fanciful cube houses are one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, and definitely something you won’t want to miss.

Things To Do

Spend a night in a cube house

Located near the old harbor, these geometric domiciles seemingly defy gravity, suspended like tops on one corner of the cube. This architectural feat was achieved by Piet Blom in 1984, and they really are habitable, despite what they might look like on the outside. In fact, one has actually been turned into a hostel, so you can get up close and personal with this daring example of modern architecture. Prefer your walls a little straighter? Take a peek inside without making a reservation at the Kijkkubus, a cube house that opens its doors to the public for viewings and insight on the topsy-turvy tree-like structure.

People-watch at the Markthal

Another impressive Rotterdam landmark worth visiting is the Markthal. Built to resemble a massive, horseshoe-shaped arcade, this bright, airy building houses not only market stalls, vendors, and browsing tourists, but also apartments, commercial office spaces, and a huge parking garage. The housing and retail spaces make up the main arch of the hall, complete with breezy balconies overlooking the city and windows looking in on the hustle and bustle of the market.

When you go, don’t forget to look up - the entire interior is comprised of a single, 11,000 square meter 3D digital painting featuring oversized fruits and veggies by Arno Coenen called Horn of Plenty. Printed on 4,000 aluminum panels and pieced together inside the hall, this colorful, exuberant artwork adds another facet to an already culture-rich experience.

Interestingly, the Markthal was actually built over the site of a tenth-century farm, the remains of which can still be seen on exhibition near the central staircases beneath the building.

Walk through art at the Kunsthal

Designed to bring modern art out of the canvas and into the real world, Rotterdam’s Kunsthal is the product of a collaboration between architect Rem Koolhaas and OMA (Office for Metropolitan Architecture). Combining the traditional and functional with the erratic and abstract, from materials to design, the building appears differently from almost every angle. At times seeming to float above the street, at others appearing haphazardly thrown together, the building itself is a work of art.

The Kunsthal has no permanent exhibitions, but hosts multiple temporary collections and exhibitions simultaneously, which you can access by climbing a spiraling set of ramps inside the museum.

Cross the Erasmus Bridge

Spanning the New Meuse (a distributary of the Rhine), this 2,600-foot cable bridge features a distinctive asymmetrical, sky blue pylon on one end. The southern end of the bridge also boasts the heaviest bascule bridge in Western Europe, which can be raised to allow passage for larger ships. The huge pylon supported by a fan of cables has earned the bridge the nickname “The Swan,” and it’s a favorite spot for selfies, panoramas, and even the occasional party. Whether you cross by foot, bike, or car, you’ll definitely be glad you got a few snaps of this bird-y beauty.

Travel like a local from the Centraal Station

As with nearly every major building in Rotterdam, the central station (“Centraal” Station in Dutch - not a misspelling!) features dramatic architecture and emphasizes the modernity of the city. However, if it’s your first time visiting, you may be surprised to know that the epic, swooping roof of the current building’s facade was only completed in 2014. The previous design was completed in 1957 and was far less noteworthy (though still efficient). However, in order to accommodate the increased demand for high-speed trains, and to give the station a much-needed facelift, a massive renovation project began in 2007. At the explicit demand of the locals, however, the original signage remains, including original architect Sybold van Ravesteyn’s iconic 1950s lettering and minimalist clock.

Trains run all over the country multiple times a day, with over 14 departures per day to other major European cities like Brussels, Paris, and Antwerp.

Tiptoe through the tulips at Keukenhof

Okay, okay - this is a bit of a jaunt, but it’s worth making a day trip to see the 800+ varieties of tulips cultivated in the country’s most famous spring garden. Bursting with color and imaginative floral designs and artworks, Keukenhof is a technicolor wonderland, spanning 32 hectares of fields, meadows, pavilions, trails, mazes, and playgrounds. A perfect outing for a spring day.

My dad and stepmom are obsessed with Rick Steves' travel videos and books: here's the 2018 edition for the Netherlands which recommends several of my same tips! It’s a kindle version as well so you can travel light and go digital.

Museums

Maritime Museum

There are a lot of cool exhibitions at this museum highlighting the important influence shipping and maritime industries have on modern society, but my personal favorite was the “Offshore Experience,” a super interactive and educational activity about finding renewable resources, life on an offshore oil rig, and undersea exploration. Super cool! Adult Admission: €12.50

Nederlands Fotomuseum

The only museum to house a conservation studio for photography, Rotterdam’s photo museum also boasts around 5.5 million photographs ranging in styles and purposes, from historical to experimental. With around ten exhibitions on display at any given time, sometimes featuring up-and-coming new photographers, this museum is a must for any shutterbug. Adult Admission: €14

Dutch Pinball Museum

Channel your inner pinball wizard and explore dozens of pinball machines, both vintage and new. Play to your heart’s content, as tickets range from a 90-minute pass to a full day pass. Adult Admission: €8.50 - €15

Museum Rotterdam 40-45

A sobering look at the desolation that befell Rotterdam during World War II and the immense rebuilding projects that took place following the war. It’s an immersive, multimedia experience focused on the importance of choices, and well worth a visit. Adult Admission: €7.50

Where to Eat & Drink

Dudok: Try the apple pie, supposedly the best in Holland, or indulge in some decadent chocolate truffles.

Oude Haven: Specifically, head to Mooii for international chef specialties at a decent price. Oude Haven is generally a solid neighborhood for bars as well.

Witte de Witt Straat: A nice, bar-lined street for a grown-up pub crawl.

Restaurant Fred: If you (like me) are a foodie on a budget, opt to splurge at this Michelin star restaurant where you can get a 3-course lunch for around €50 or a full 9-course dinner for €140.

Man met Bril Coffee Brewery: Brunch on classic hipster fare like chia pudding or avocado toast paired with an artisanal coffee flight. I definitely recommend the coffee tastings, as you’ll really taste the distinct coffee flavors and by the end of your tasting, you’ll be talking shop like a barista.

Bagel Bakery: Pop in for high-quality vegan and gluten-free bagels, sandwiches, and more.

Markthal: A great place to try Dutch classics like Stroopwafel, Poffertjes, and Kroketten (which you can’t leave the Netherlands without trying honestly). Or get yourself some local cheese and Vla (pudding) to go and head for a quiet canal or park bench.

Dutch Innovation in Rotterdam

From the daring architecture to the focus on education and development, Rotterdam has a reputation for being innovative. Even from its earliest days, when the dam constructed in the Rotte gave the city its name, this port city has consistently, steadfastly looked to the future. Currently, around 30 new architectural and building development projects are underway, along with cultural developments thanks to a healthy rivalry between Rotterdam and Amsterdam. The city has much to offer, more than the sights you might expect to entice casual tourists, but also a deep heart for progress, problem-solving, and growth.