Amsterdam has its own graces, with greenery, coffee shops and bicycles, pulling the lights on. Rotterdam, however, is rich in innovation, inspiration, and futuristic architecture, always ready to impress tourists worldwide. The second-largest metropolis of the Netherlands, Rotterdam, in the south of the country, is the largest port in Europe and until recently the largest port in the world, on the banks of the river Niue Maas. It is also a good place to start a small Dutch business and enjoy the local opportunities.
This, however, is not its only advantage. It is a city with a special high level of architecture, inspired local initiatives, such as in-city surfing channels, with a strong element of Art, with the wealth of top museums, good cuisine and lively nightlife.
If you’ve already visited Amsterdam, but Dutch culture draws you in, make a trip to Rotterdam. The reasons are many, and below you will find some of them.
Erasmus Bridge, for its advanced architecture
Also known as Erasmusbrug, the Erasmus Bridge was designed by Ben van Berkel, is the second largest in the Netherlands, is located in the city centre and connects the north with the south. Its nickname is “swan”, and it seems to remind of a specific angle, while at its highest point, it reaches 139 meters. The night is illuminated and becomes even more impressive, with tourists and flashes flooding it.
Old Port, for a special atmosphere and fun
In the Old Port, you will meet a different aura from the one that characterizes the rest of Rotterdam since it is a point of remembrance of another era. It was built in the 14th century, and there you will find historic ships and a mixture of old houses and modern design, which is also the city’s characteristic. It houses some of Rotterdam’s oldest buildings, in contrast to the famous 45-degree Cube Houses, designed by architect Piet Blom.
Het Park en Tuin Schoonoord, for an escape in the green
You can easily escape from the urban “jungle” by taking a walk in Het Park, between the lakes and its green areas. In summer, the locals usually have a barbecue on the grass. To the east is the Tuin Schoonoord, a “hidden” representation of Dutch nature that looks like it has sprung from a Renaissance painting. You can browse this place, with the comfort of your own vehicle, rented or not. If you are looking for a car hire, then you can turn to Enjoy Travel, which can offer you affordable options at the most fantastic prices you can find.
Markthal, for a special shopping experience
Many believe that a trip to Rotterdam would not be complete if one did not visit the Markthal. It is a modern mall with a pop style and arched ceiling of 40 meters, the interior of which represents a digital mural by artists Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam, which also has… sound. It depicts grocery products that can be bought in the market, while the flowers and insects refer to the still lifes of Dutch artists from the 17th century. Giant glass walls protect the market from the cold and wet weather, which houses dozens of stalls with fresh produce, while it has units and retail stores on the two lower floors, with hundreds of apartments above the market. The size of all of them? As much as a soccer field!
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