Situated about one hour from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, the second-largest city in The Netherlands and Europe’s largest seaport, is the more futuristic city of the pair. Rather than rebuild as it was before, following its near-destruction in World War II, Rotterdam looked ahead, and its extraordinary architecture is a result. The city has always focused on healthier living and working environments, and today it engages in climate-adaptive urban projects. Two areas harken back to old Rotterdam: Delfshaven (Delft Harbor) and Oude Haven (Old Harbor). Rotterdam is always alive, especially in springtime.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Select airlines now offer direct flights from many European cities to Rotterdam The Hague Airport. From there, travelers can reach Rotterdam by car, rail and bus. Most U.S. travelers will arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, and the NS Intercity Direct train runs between AMS and Rotterdam twice per hour. Train is another viable option for arrival to Rotterdam Central Station. As a port city, ferry arrival is also available.
An extensive public transportation system whisks travelers around Rotterdam via bus, five metro lines and eight tram lines. Public transport cards can be purchased in varying increments, like one-day, two-hour or a tourist day ticket. Travelers can also opt for taxi, ferry and water taxi. And, as this is The Netherlands, bicycles offer another possibility.
LODGING
Hotel New York
“Here is where it all happened,” so states the motto of Hotel New York, housed in the former headquarters of Holland America Line. This is the spot where thousands left for North America in pursuit of a new life. Enjoy boutique hotel rooms, several dining options, meeting and event space, and more.
Koninginnenhoofd 1, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, tel 31 10 439 0500
Savoy Hotel Rotterdam
Find yourself in the heart of Rotterdam during a stay at Savoy Hotel Rotterdam, just minutes from Markthal and other city hot spots. The hip Hoogkwartier neighborhood inspires the vibe, complemented by a retro interior and 1960s design. Ninety-five guestrooms range in size and style.
Hoogstraat 81, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, tel 31 10 413 9280
The Slaak Rotterdam, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Hot off the presses, The Slaak Rotterdam calls a former newspaper pressroom home. Upscale but not uptight, the boutique luxury hotel offers 74 guestrooms and suites as well as Didot34, combining co-working with three meals a day and drinks. Studio34 delivers state-of-the-art fitness equipment and personal training.
Slaak 34, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, tel 31 10 312 0640
DINING
Pesca
Enjoy a meal at this “theatre of fish,” with locations in Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Don’t expect menus or white linens — here you choose your own fish and side dishes. Throughout the day, fishmongers decrease fish prices to help sell all the fish and eliminate food waste.
Botersloot 125, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, tel 31 10 307 1381
Restaurant Ají
Ají can mean many things in different cultures, but in Rotterdam it means “real enjoyment on a culinary level; pure, fiery and refined.” This fusion restaurant takes diners on a culinary journey through South America, Asia and Rotterdam led by Chef Pelle Swinkels.
Pannekoekstraat 40A, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, tel 31 6 574 48679
Savor&Nosh
You can have it all at Savor&Nosh in the city center of Rotterdam: coffee and a sweet, brunch, cocktails and beer, or a delicious dinner. The menu brings together flavors from around the globe, including meat, fish and vegetarian options.
Westewagenstraat 66, Rotterdam,
The Netherlands, tel 31 10 200 4757
ATTRACTIONS
Cube Houses
With a variety of architecture on display in Rotterdam, there’s much to look at everywhere. Taking design to another level are the famous Kubuswoningen, or Cube Houses. Piet Blom designed the block of houses, with Show Cube open to visitors, displaying more on the history of the buildings.
Overblaak 70, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, tel 31 10 414 2285
Maritime History
In this major seaport destination, visitors should immerse themselves in the city’s maritime history in Oude Haven and the Maritime District. Take in Maritime Museum Rotterdam, Maritime Museum Harbor and SS Rotterdam.
Maritime Museum: Leuvehaven 1,
Rotterdam, The Netherlands,
tel 31 6 535 72266
Wereldmuseum
Translating to World Museum and founded in 1883, the ethnographic museum boasts more than 1,800 artifacts from across the globe. This look at world cultures also includes events, lectures, family-friendly activities, guided tours, a restaurant and a shop.
Willemskade 25, Rotterdam,
The Netherlands, tel 31 10 270 7172
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