About Rotterdam

Holland's most modern city began as a fishing village in the 13th century. It was developing into an industrial and trading power when German bombers destroyed the city center and harbor in 1940. However, Rotterdam's unique architecture now brings many visitors to bike around this urbane, cosmopolitan city. Old Dutch-style houses can still be found in historic Delfshaven, from where the pilgrims set sail in 1620. Cultural offerings from summer's carnival to classical music give Amsterdam competition.

Towering skyscrapers dot the glittering skyline of Rotterdam, the Netherlands’ second-largest city and Europe’s biggest and busiest port. The waterfront city is a true modern metropolis - unlike other Dutch cities that feature tiny cobblestone streets and centuries-old canal houses, Rotterdam is rich with cutting-edge architecture and modern art. Rotterdam grew in importance thanks to its centrally located port and association with the Dutch East India Company. During World War II, the medieval city centre of Rotterdam was destroyed, but massive reconstruction transformed it into the impressive city it is today.

What is known in Rotterdam?

The largest indoor market in the Netherlands, Markthal is a true paradise for the culinary minded. The food market houses nearly 100 shops and stalls in its football pitch-sized warehouse, offering everything from meat and fish to dairy and bread.

A remarkable remnant of Rotterdam city centre's medieval history, the Sint-Laurenskerk is a breath-taking example of 15th-century architecture. Tour the inside of the church, visit the permanent exhibition to explore its history, or attend one of its many concerts and events.

The Port of Rotterdam is not your typical tourist attraction: it is a working port, with dozens of cargo ships arriving and departing daily alongside the bustling piers. Walk or bike around the port, or hop on board the “Spido” for a 75-minute boat tour in Rotterdam. There's even a museum called “Futureland” where you can learn about the ongoing evolution of the port area.

One of the few buildings in Rotterdam’s city centre to survive the bombing, the 19th-century Witte Huis, whose Art Nouveau style is striking against a modern backdrop, was once the tallest office building in the city. Take the lift for a view over the Oude Haven, or stay on the ground and have a cup of coffee in the café.

What makes Rotterdam attractive to visit?

Rotterdam’s zoo is called “Diergaarde Blijdorp” and includes “Biotopia”, an indoor playground that features all the fun of the jungle, desert, sea and the animals that live there. Slow boat tours may not be high on the list of things to do with kids in Rotterdam, but “Splashtours” is anything but: it rides on both land and sea, making for a unique tour of the city. The Maritime Museum is another great spot for kids to play and learn while doing it. It’s full of fun, interactive exhibits for kids of all ages.

Rotterdam is good for tourists. From the medieval St. Lawrence Church, old Maritime Museums, Renaissance City Hall to the futuristic Cube Houses and illuminating Erasmus Bridge, Rotterdam has a lot to offer to tourists

An international, modern city means plenty of shopping. In addition to the well-known shopping streets of Lijnbaan, Hoogstraat, Meent, Van Oldenbarneveltstraat and Beurstraverse (also known as the Koopgoot), Rotterdam has indoor shopping malls including Central Plaza Rotterdam and Alexandrium Shopping Centre.