Rotterdam is a city that constantly renews itself, and there are lots of things to see and do here. Sparkling skyscrapers, a dynamic port, trendy restaurants and food markets, renowned museums and awesome festivals all combine to make Rotterdam a must-see destination.
The 185-meter Euromast Tower is the tallest building in the city and offers incredible views over the Maas River. Plus, you can eat at one of the two restaurants at the top.
1. Cube Houses
The Cube Houses are one of Rotterdam's most distinctive architectural projects, and they're a real must-see when visiting this historic city. Designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom, they optimize public space by leaving room for pedestrians on the ground level.
The houses are built up on concrete pillars that form a hexagon-shaped core or trunk. These pillars are connected to block walls that also use concrete.
2. Old Harbor
The Old Harbor or Oude Haven is a unique area of Rotterdam where old historical buildings and new modern ones coexist. This creates a unique landscape, a contrast that is particularly attractive when walking around day or night.
The old port is a very popular destination with locals and visitors alike. It is filled with restaurants and bars and becomes a buzzing entertainment center at night.
3. Markthal
Located in the historic Laurenskwartier, Rotterdam’s Markthal is a unique public building realised as a hybrid between market hall and housing. Using privately developed apartments arranged into a large arch, it creates a covered square with a market hall during the day and a lively series of restaurants on its lower levels.
Unlike many of the world-class market halls in Europe, which often feature dark, introverted buildings with little connection to the urban surroundings, Markthal’s open structure and colourful interior make it a distinctive symbol for Rotterdam. It’s also home to a vertical exhibition alongside the escalator that connects the market hall to four underground levels, presenting the history of the city and its food in displays with findings and models, accompanied by images and sound.
4. De Doelen
De Doelen is a huge monumental building in the centre of Rotterdam that hosts a staggering 600 concerts a year. Not only is it the place to see a concert but it’s also a venue for conferences and events.
Known for its great hall, a stately foyer and excellent acoustics. It’s a great place to experience the latest in music, culture and technology.
The building is divided into 3 complexes that offer a variety of meeting spaces for a range of delegates. Each complex has its own entrance, hall and foyer.
5. Witte de Withstraat
Known as the art axis of Rotterdam, this street is lined with galleries and avantgarde fashion boutiques. It connects Museumpark (where the world-famous Museum Boijmans van Beuningen is located) with the Maritime Museum and is the perfect place to indulge in the arts.
It is a great place to get a culture fix and take a walk on the wild side in the evening. The street is a hive of activity during the day, but it becomes a vibrant and energetic place to explore at night.
6. World Museum
Originally founded in 1885, the World Museum in Rotterdam provides insight into the cultures of the world through the collection. Its exhibitions tell the history of international relations, colonialism and commerce.
It is also a great place to learn about the history of Rotterdam. There are several exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Another must-visit for art lovers is the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, which showcases works by famous Dutch artists including Rembrandt, Vincent van Gogh and Dirksz van Hoogstraten. The museum is also home to many modern pieces.
