The first thing that caught my attention about Rotterdam was its modern architecture and skyscrapers, which have become the city’s signature. The contemporary buildings and bold architectural designs are truly impressive. Rotterdam is considered the most modern city in the Benelux region, largely because it was almost completely destroyed during the bombings of World War II and had to be rebuilt from the ground up. The city itself has several nicknames such as Roffa, Rotjeknor and Rotje.
Rotterdam is Europe’s largest port and the second-largest city in the Netherlands after the capital, Amsterdam. It stands as the country’s economic and political hub. The Rhine, Meuse, and Scheldt rivers provide crucial waterway access directly into the heart of Western Europe. In 2022, the city had a population of 655,468 and is home to over 180 nationalities. Today, 70% of the youth in Rotterdam have migrant roots.
Some of the most striking landmarks of modern Rotterdam are:
The Erasmus Bridge, proudly nicknamed “The Swan,” is a cable-stayed bascule bridge and the most remarkable bridge in the entire country, as well as the largest landmark in the city. It connects the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam.
Markthal opened in 2014, and this horseshoe-shaped complex is renowned for its delicacies from around the world, which are sold inside and available at bars and stands throughout the market. While enjoying flavors from various cultures, visitors can also admire the stunning artwork that adorns the ceiling of this unique marketplace.
The Cube Houses were designed by architect Piet Blom, with the goal of optimally distributing space within the interiors. Initially, the local population was reluctant to consider living in such unconventional structures, but today, these unique buildings have become an unmissable tourist attraction for visitors from around the globe.
Rotterdam’s White House was the first skyscraper built in Europe.
Rotterdam Central Station is one of the city’s main landmarks, with an appearance reminiscent of spacecraft from science fiction films.
The Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen is a public art storage facility with a striking mirrored exterior. Inside, it houses over 150,000 collected artworks, and from the rooftop, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the entire city. Tickets can be purchased online.
Lijnbaan is Rotterdam’s main shopping street and a completely car-free zone. This street served as a model for many pedestrian-only shopping areas worldwide.
Delfshaven – the old, historic part of Rotterdam
If you’re wondering whether there’s an area in Rotterdam that preserves the traditional Dutch charm, the answer is yes. There is an old part of the city where one street survived the wartime bombings, retaining its historic character amidst the modern landscape.
This is one of the few streets that survived the bombings, and today it features beautiful houses that have preserved their authentic appearance, along with small artisan shops and a few cozy bars. On this street, you’ll find De Pelgrim Brewery, the only brewery in Rotterdam; De Distilleerketel, an 18th-century windmill; and the Pilgrim Fathers Church, also known as the Old Church, with a history dating back to 1417.
Rotterdam is something truly unique, unlike anything you can find in Belgium, the Netherlands, or Luxembourg. Because the city was devastated during World War II bombings, it rose from the ashes like a phoenix, transforming itself into a masterpiece of modern architecture.
