What was once a city all but destroyed in the Rotterdam Blitz during the Second World War, today Rotterdam is a sparkling example of ultramodern architecture, skyscrapers, street art and an unwavering cultural flare. As The Netherlands’ second largest city and busiest European port which started out as a medieval fishing village, today it buzzes with the sights and sounds of its global community and eclectic mix of buildings, museums, restaurants and events. Divided by the Nieuwe Maas shipping channel, a tributary of the Rhine, Rotterdam can be crossed by a series of tunnels and bridges – many of which add to the futuristic style of this metropolis – while the city centre itself is small enough to be enjoyed on foot.

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Stay

CitizenM Rotterdam | Gelderse Plein 50

Affordable luxury in the heart of the city centre, CitizenM offers the boutique experience in avant-garde settings.

Suite Hotel Pincoffs | 34 Stieltjesstraat

This small and sustainable boutique hotel dates back to 1879 when it used to be a customs office. Today it stands tall as a 17 suite luxury residence and is considered one of the most beautiful hotels in the city.

Eat

Parkheuvel | Heuvelaan 21

Chef Cees Helder is the first Dutchman to win three Michelin stars and you can see why.  Beyond the innovative menu this restaurant offers striking views across the Nieuwe Maas and of course its  iconic industrial shipping vessels.

FG Restaurant | Katshoek 37b, 3032

The former assistant chef of Heston Blumenthal at The Fat Duck in Bray, Francois Geurds uses locally sourced organic produce at his eponymous restaurant. With an internationally inspired menu, FG Restaurant is every inch the modern and forward thinking Rotterdam.

Do

Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum | Mathenesserlaan 18-20

Housing one of the most important collections of art in The Netherlands, Boijmans Van Beuningen offers an array of paintings, sculptures and decorative art. From Flemish masters to Pop Art, the museum contains pieces by Dali, Magritte, Rembrandt, Max Ernst, Rubens and Bosch.

Maritiem Museum | Leuvehaven 1

An ode to the essential seafaring tradition of Rotterdam, Maritiem Museum Rotterdam was founded in 1874 and contains a mammoth collection of ocean vessel artifacts and curiosities dating back to medieval times.

Luxor Theatre | 1 Posthumalaan

This prominent minimalist building stands tall at the foot of the noteworthy Erasmus Bridge and hosts a packed programme of dance, theatre and music events. Located in the South Docks area the Luxor lays at its cultural heart.