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About Rotterdam

Rotterdam is Holland’s second largest city and unlike Amsterdam, the majority of the buildings here are quite modern. This is due in large part, to the fact that the area suffered badly from the effects of bombing during the 2nd world war. Since then the city has undergone something of a rebirth and recent building projects have transformed the city from one of broken brick and tile to one of shiny steel and polished glass.

Stylish modern architectures now adorn the skyline, most notably, the awe inspiring Euromast with its elevated restaurant, which stands 185 metres high, giving its patrons a panoramic view of the city and overlooking the River Maas. This river splits Rotterdam in two, or did so until 1996, when Queen Beatrix herself, opened the famous Erasmus Bridge, which is yet another piece of architectural wizardry.

With a shipping industry dating from the late 16th century, the water has always played a prominent role and shaped Rotterdam’s past. The city’s modern sky scraping office buildings, many of which are home to the HQ’s of international companies, indicate that Rotterdam’s future is secure in the worlds of commerce as well as shipping. And considering the city boasts the busiest harbour in Europe, it should come as no surprise that Rotterdam is at the centre of continental exports.

New citizens will delight in wandering the banks of the river or visiting the area known as Oude Haven or Old Harbour with its trendy cafes and bars. Here you will find the amazing “cube houses” These wondrous buildings stand atop a pillared construction and are an exciting example of the city’s contemporary architecture. These exist in striking contrast to some of the other buildings in the area and the old harbour itself with its historic boats.

The high student population around Oude Haven has served to keep prices to a minimum and as a result there are plenty of cheap bars, cafe’s and eateries around the place and there’s a great nightlife scene with regular slots given over to live music. The Maritime Quarter, not far from Oude Haven, is more upmarket with many exclusive restaurants, shops and high fashion appealing to the well healed. Both these areas are within striking distance of some lovely green space parkland.

Most of the time the weather in Rotterdam is temperate and agreeable. Summers are rarely too hot, even during the height of the season the thermometer will not register above 25°C, which is just right for picnicking or a spot of sunbathing on Rotterdam’s artificial beach.