Hey there, travel enthusiasts! We’ve just returned from an incredible trip to Rotterdam, Netherlands, and we can't wait to share our adventures with you.
This vibrant city is a true testament to modern architecture and dynamic urban culture.
Whether you're a fan of cutting-edge design, bustling markets, or delectable local cuisine, Rotterdam has something to offer everyone.
Marvel at Modern Architecture
Our journey began with a deep dive into Rotterdam's architectural wonders. The city is renowned for its innovative skyline. One of our first stops was the Markthal, a visually stunning market hall that combines shopping and dining in a striking horseshoe-shaped building. Open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 9 PM, it’s a great place to marvel at the building’s colorful, mural-covered ceiling and sample local treats. We enjoyed a delightful sandwich for around €6 and a refreshing juice for €3.
Next, we visited the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen), an architectural icon designed by Piet Blom. These unique, tilted houses are a feast for the eyes and provide a fascinating glimpse into avant-garde living. You can explore a model Cube House at the Kijk-Kubus, which is open from 11 AM to 5 PM daily, with tickets priced at €3.50. It was incredible to walk through a house built on a 45-degree angle!
Dive into Cultural Experiences
No trip to Rotterdam would be complete without experiencing the city’s rich cultural offerings. The Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive collection ranging from medieval to contemporary art. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM, with tickets costing €17.50. We spent hours wandering through the exhibits, admiring pieces from renowned artists like Salvador Dalí and Hieronymus Bosch.
Another highlight was the Rotterdam Maritime Museum, which delves into the city’s maritime history. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM, with tickets at €14, it offers interactive exhibits and historical artifacts that make the rich maritime heritage come alive.
Savor Local Flavors
Of course, a trip to Rotterdam wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. We discovered some fantastic spots for authentic Dutch food. For a quick and tasty bite, we recommend trying Friteshuis Vleminckx, where we sampled some of the best fries in the city. A portion of fries with a variety of Dutch sauces cost us around €4.50. The crispy fries were a real treat!
We also enjoyed a hearty meal at Bazar, a vibrant restaurant offering a mix of Middle Eastern and North African dishes. The colorful atmosphere and flavorful food made for a memorable experience. We tried the chicken shawarma platter, which was both filling and delicious, priced at around €15.
For a sweet treat, we visited Lanskroon and enjoyed a delectable stroopwafel, a traditional Dutch caramel waffle. A single stroopwafel cost us just €2, and it was the perfect ending to our culinary adventures.
Lykkers, rotterdam is a city that embraces innovation while celebrating its history and culture. From its architectural marvels to its diverse culinary scene, there's always something exciting to explore. We hope our experiences inspire you to visit this Dutch gem and discover its many wonders for yourself. Happy travels!
