The beautiful Dutch city of Utrecht is full of history and marvellous architecture, and it is worth visiting on your trip to the Netherlands! Here is my recommendation for one day in Utrecht, covering all the highlights!

Am I allowed to say Utrecht is better than Amsterdam? Don’t cringe at that statement, but I honestly feel Amsterdam was probably like Utrecht before the tourism boost happened.

Imagine Amsterdam with only 20% tourists! That’s Utrecht for you!

You will not need maps or an itinerary to visit Utrecht, as the pretty cobbled streets will lead you to beautiful corners all over the city.

Utrecht has canals that are double-storied; so on the lower story, there is a narrow walkway beside the edge of the canal, and the upper story is the main road.

Utrecht also has a university town that dates back to medieval times and screams Europe from all directions!

It is bike-friendly, but you won’t have to dodge people if you are on a bike and dodge bikes if you are walking.

Shopping is cheaper than in Amsterdam, and you will find souvenirs and garments at 40% less cost.

Does this convince you to go to Utrecht?

I arrived by train, a short 35 minutes ride from Rotterdam. With almost 70 train connections between the two stations every day, you can decide to go to Utrecht for the whole day or just spend a morning or evening. 

As soon as I got down at Utrecht Centraal station, I was overwhelmed by this huge shopping mall connected. Known as the largest indoor shopping mall in the Netherlands, it is designed in such a way that one has to cross the entire mall having a few 100 outlets (and the urge to shop) to outside to the old urban center. If you do give in to the urge, there are shops selling everything you need – tulips, cheese, bread, souvenirs, clothes, and cafes selling Stroopwafels. I bought a couple of souvenirs which were dirt cheaper here than in Rotterdam and Amsterdam, and I was on my way out.

One day in Utrecht: What to do in Utrecht

Dom Tower, Utrecht

Dom Tower (Dutch: Domtoren) is not only Utrecht’s notable landmark but also of the whole Netherlands. Built between 1321 and 1382, the Dom Tower is the main attraction in the middle of the historic town centre. It is the highest and oldest church tower in the Netherlands, soaring at 112 meters (or 367 feet). The tower was originally part of a 14th to 15th-century cathedral complex, but due to a hurricane in 1674, it was blown down and never rebuilt. There are 465 steps to the top for a small entrance fee in case one wants to see the entire town for unbeatable views, which on a clear day stretch as far as Amsterdam. The tower features 13 bells that weigh between 880 and 18,000 pounds. I decided to give-a-miss to the climbing tower as it was super cloudy, which meant I wouldn’t have good city views. 

It is here that I came to know about the rich and interesting history of Utrecht dating back to the Medieval Ages. Historians believe that the first inhabitants date back to the Stone Age, earlier than 2000 BC. For many centuries, Utrecht was considered the heart and capital of the Netherlands but was replaced by Amsterdam in the 17th century, during the Dutch Golden Age.

Pandhof Domkerk

I walked around the Dom square and came across the medieval monastery courtyard called Pandhof. The garden here is scrupulously designed and in the center features a fountain with a bronze statue of priest Hugo Wstinc, sitting and writing. It is extremely peaceful and you can spend some quality time here.

The 15th-century courtyard was built to connect the Dom tower to the rest of the buildings. The courtyard was abused in the 16th century wherein locals stored their chicken and wagons. In the 17th century, it was used as a meat market and gunpowder storage. In the 18th century, it was used as a cemetery for university students.

Academiegebouw

Next to Pandhof is the beautiful building of Universiteit Utrecht which is hard to miss! Academiegebouw or the Academy building was donated to Utrecht University in the later part of the 18th century. It serves as a ceremonial centre in which major academic functions are held. The hustle and bustle of students was quite evident here.

Stadhuis Quarter 

I walked around Dom square and reached the Stadhuis Quarter selling Tulips. The Stadhuis Quarter is located here which is one of the most popular and lively part of Utrecht. This quarter has numerous shopping streets and plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants. Besides the canal that runs through it, you’ll find beautiful landmarks worth checking out.

Oudegracht Canal 

Also known as the old canal, Oudegracht passes through the centre of the city and Utrecht’s most scenic spots. Utrecht’s canals have a different vibe than Amsterdam and you just can’t help but fall in love with them. Along the canals, there are outdoor seating areas as well as the city’s signature wharf cellars. These water-level cellars are built under street level and open out to the city’s waterfront. Inside them, you’ll find everything from restaurants and bars to art galleries and even people’s homes.

Museums of Utrecht

Just like Amsterdam, Utrecht has many museums to choose from. Most popular amongst the lot is the Centraal Museum, which is near Dom Square, and showcases art. Other museums worth visiting are Musical Speelklok Museum, the Nijntje Museum, the Adventurous Railroad Museum (Spoorwegmuseum), the University Museum and the Sonnenborgh Observatory and Astronomy Museum. I am not a museum person and did not visit any of them, instead chose to stroll around the town on foot.

Where to stay in Utrecht 

Although my post specifies One day in Utrecht, the town has a lot to offer and I would highly recommend you to stay overnight or for a weekend. The plus point of accommodation in Utrecht is that hotels in Utrecht are considerably cheaper than those in Amsterdam. Those on a budget will love the clean and affordable hostels in Utrecht.

Luxury: Grand Hotel Karel V , Dom Tower Suites II by VGW, Mother Goose Hotel 

Mid range: Daen’s Room One, Cozy pillow, Ibis Utrecht 

Hostels: Stone Hostel, Stayokay Utrecht Centrum, Stowis Hostel 

The post One day in Utrecht: Day trip from Amsterdam appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

While there are many things to do in Rotterdam, the highlight of the city lies in its modern architecture. 

As a tourist, it is only fair to visit all of these landmarks that make Rotterdam architecture stand out.

WHAT MAKES ROTTERDAM ARCHITECTURE SPECIAL?

While most cities around the world take pride in its historical heritage, Rotterdam is all about modern architecture. So much so that, tourists consider visiting Rotterdam as of the best options for day trips from Amsterdam.

Rotterdam was destroyed in World War II and was rebuilt entirely. This is the reason why the new buildings in Rotterdam are modern and sustainable.

Rotterdam Centraal Station

One of the best architecture in Rotterdam starts with the entry into the city.

Rotterdam Centraal Station underwent a 7-year redevelopment and opened in 2014 and has all the modern and sustainable features. It has also retained some of its original artefacts like the clock.

The new station uses contemporary materials such as solar panels and is made of steel and wood.

The exterior of the station is the highlight of Rotterdam. The building has a triangular shape that points towards the sky at a protruding angle. Because pointing towards the city centre, the roof’s V-shaped corner shows you exactly which way to go.

Rotterdam Centraal Station – The best Architecture in Rotterdam

The Markthal (Market Hall)

The Market Hall in Rotterdam is a sustainable combination of a market selling food, restaurants, apartments, parking, and public transportation, all integrated to enhance the synergistic possibilities of the different functions all under one roof. 

It also has the world’s largest artwork on the ceiling. Its bright colours cover an area of 11,000 square meters, resulting in this creation now being known as Rotterdam’s very own Sistine Chapel.

Markthal Rotterdam – Best Rotterdam attractions for architecture

The Dak Park

Dak Park literally means Roof Park.

Dak Park is a public garden on the roof of a shopping centre which supports businesses, restaurants and parking spaces. Measuring 1,200 metres in length and 85 metres in width, it is the largest public roof park in Europe.

With ample biodiversity on the top like indigenous trees, the park is accessed by a wide stairway, with a waterfall in the middle. If you look closely you will be able to spot rabbits here.

The local community has taken up the ownership of this project and attends to a compost plant in the vicinity of the park.

Dakpark Rotterdan | PC: www.dakpark.nl

Erasmusbrug

The Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug) is a combined cable-stayed and bascule bridge in the centre of Rotterdam, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city. The bridge is also known as ‘The Swan or Zwan’. This is one of the Architecture in Rotterdam that visitors should not miss.

It is an architectural marvel and can be visited by going on a run over it, taking a tram, a car or a water bus under it. If this does not give you a feeling to appreciate its beauty, have a meal or two in the restaurants nearby overlooking the bridge.

Rotterdam Architecture – Erasmus bridge

Floating pavilions

Architects have developed floating houses to help maximize living space in Rotterdam, which has vast areas of water. 

They believe floating farms may be a way for the cities of the future to feed their growing populations and reduce pressure on land. This floating Pavilion in the Rijnhaven area is used to host events.

Floating pavilions of Rotterdam

Cube houses of Rotterdam

Cube houses are a set of innovative houses based on the concept of “living as an urban roof”. 

It is high-density housing with sufficient space on the ground level since its main purpose is to optimize the space inside. Each house is tilted 45 degrees and rested upon a hexagon-shaped column that contains the entrance and stairway. The architect wanted to represent a village within a city, where each house represents a tree, and all the houses together, a forest.

Living in the cube house requires quite a bit of imagination and adaptability of residents as they must be creative enough to place furniture in this house. You can experience staying in these houses by spending a few euros. Book here.

Cube Houses of Rotterdam

Hotel New York

Hotel New York is a significant historical landmark in Rotterdam. This 4-star property has a gorgeous rooftop terrace with a bar overlooking the Rhine river.

Hotel New York is based in the former head office of the Holland America Line. This exemplary 1901 Art Nouveau building was once the departure point of Dutch immigrants who set sail to America. 

Book your historical Rotterdam accommodation here.

De Rotterdam

De Rotterdam (The Rotterdam) is an interesting-looking landmark overlooking the Erasmusburg and Rhine river. The building is named after one of the original ships on the Holland America Line.

Designed as a ‘vertical city’, De Rotterdam consists of three linked towers. The towers are each 150 metres tall with 44 floors and are spread over an area of 162000 m². 

All 3 buildings consist of apartments, offices, shops and restaurants, making this building a mini city in Rotterdam. 

Witte Huis

Built in the late 18th century, the 43m tall Witte Huis (White House) was Europe’s first-ever skyscraper. And it is not surprising that it still stands against modern skyscrapers.

Due to its white exterior made of white glazed brick, it is called the White House.  Constructed in the Art Nouveau style, it consists of features such as fairy-tale turrets, mosaics and stone sculptures. Due to its traditional architecture, Witte Huis is recognised as a National Heritage Site.

In summers, the rooftop viewing platform is open to the public, which provides beautiful panoramic views of other Rotterdam architecture.

Kunsthal

Kunsthal is said to be the Netherlands’ first ‘Art Hall’. It is a display space that hosts art and craft exhibitions.

The building is made of steel, marble and corrugated plastic. The main architectural feature of Kunsthal is the gently sloped ramp that leads visitors from the ground floor to the top, visiting the seven gallery spaces along the way. Every gallery space is unique which is why is one of the unique architecture in Rotterdam.

One of the most important features of the building is that it looks different from each angle.

Depot Boijmans

Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen is the first depot in the world that offers access to a complete museum collection. 

This is a depot and not a museum which means there are no exhibitions, but visitors can catch a glimpse of behind the scenes of the museum world. Visitors can wander – independently or with a guide – through the building. There are 151,000 art objects to explore in the depot. 

It wants to break the barrier of international museums which can only showcase six to seven per cent of their collections in exhibitions. The remaining 94 per cent is hidden in storage. The Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen breaks with this tradition of concealment as the design makes visible all these previously invisible artefacts in a unique and iconic reflective building,

The Depot features exhibition halls, a rooftop garden, and a restaurant, in addition to an enormous amount of storage space for art and design.

Depot Boijmans is also sustainable as the construction has utilized sustainable materials and technologies.

Timmerhuis

Have you ever played the Tetris game? Timmerhuis (Carpenter’s House) looks like that in real.

The building consists of stepped modular blocks kept upon each other.

Unlike its more traditional brick-built neighbours, the 15-storey structure is designed to express its contemporary steel structure. Timmerhuis accommodates municipal services, offices, restaurants and residential units.

And with its materials being entirely recyclable, it’s also one of the most sustainable mixed-use buildings in the Netherlands.

Van Nelle Fabriek

Van Nelle Fabriek (Van Nelle Factory) is an industrial architecture turned into commercial use. It is a UNESCO Heritage site.

It’s a large building complex that consists of several factories where they used to produce imported goods like tobacco, tea and coffee. 

Van Nellefabriek was designed and built in the 1920s and was one of the icons of 20th-century industrial architecture, comprising a complex of factories, with façades consisting essentially of steel and glass, making large-scale use of the curtain wall principle.

It is now a perfect location for events, conferences and trade fairs. It also doubles up as an office complex and museum. 

Pauluskerk

This futuristic-looking building is of St. Paul’s Church. 

Unlike a typical church, the building functions as multifunctional accommodation. St. Paul’s Church remains a centre for the parish where anyone can enter. 

There are spaces for social and diaconal work, medical care, assistance for refugees, assistance with the return of refugees to their country of origin, art and music by visitors and temporary housing. 

Local residents and other third parties may use spaces. 

The church houses a large, multipurpose hall that can be utilised for wedding and funeral services. 

Euromast

The Euromast Tower is an observation station in Rotterdam. The tower stands at 606 feet, making it the tallest building in Rotterdam. 

Euromast is a National Monument and it’s part of the World Federations of Great Towers. Other iconic towers on the list include the Eiffel Tower (Paris), Burj Khalifa (Dubai), Berliner Fernsehturm (Berlin), Tokyo Tower (Tokyo) and many others.

The Euromast has a restaurant, a conference room for business meetings, a hotel suite and an observation deck. The observation deck provides panoramic views of Rotterdam city.

Euromast also paints a pretty picture across Rotterdam city as it can be seen from everywhere.

Rotterdam architecture tour

If you loved this post and want to go on a Rotterdam architecture tour then there are many that are offered. Check this tour.

Sustainable tips for Exploring Rotterdam Architecture

• Rotterdam is an extremely bike-friendly city so use the bike or the city’s efficient public transportation to explore the architecture in Rotterdam.
• Try the restaurants in Markthal, Dak Park, De Rotterdam and other aesthetic buildings of Rotterdam. Most of them serve local food and offer amazing views of the city.
• Do not litter in these buildings and around them. Dispose of plastics in the designated waste bins.
• Respect the churches, museums, walls and old architectural buildings by not sitting on them.

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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The post All about Rotterdam Architecture and Iconic Landmarks appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands. Often suppressed over Amsterdam, there are many attractions in Rotterdam that must not be missed by tourists.

With many other cities in the Netherlands having colonial architecture like Utrecht, The Hague and others, the modern architecture in Rotterdam take centre stage.

Rotterdam has served as a major port of the Dutch East India Company since the 13th century. The port city of Rotterdam was heavily bombarded during World War II, and its centre was almost destroyed.

Thanks to the never-say-die spirit, Rotterdam was rebuilt with modern architecture and port services. Check out these Rotterdam sightseeing places.

THINGS TO DO IN ROTTERDAM

Walk on the Erasmus Bridge

Erasmus Bridge is the highlight of Rotterdam. It is locally known as Erasmasbrug.

This bridge is constructed over the Rhine River. Due to its massive length of 802 meters, the Erasmus Bridge is the second-longest bridge in the Netherlands. It is a combined cable-stayed and bascule bridge in the centre of Rotterdam, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city.

The bridge is nicknamed the Swan due to its large upright mast that resembles the neck of a swan.

In the centre of the bridge, there is a bascule section that opens to allow larger ships to pass through the waters. 

It is an architectural marvel and can be visited by going on a run over it, taking a tram which crosses it, driving a car over it or hailing a water bus under it.

Swoon over Markthal Rotterdam

The Markthal or Market Hall in Rotterdam is a stunning combination of the market selling food, restaurants, apartments, parking, and public transportation, all under one roof. 

Constructed in 2009, the Markthal Rotterdam has a unique structure with a large semi-circular grey façade and a large windowed section facing out to the surrounding courtyard. 

The inside of the structure has the world’s largest artwork on the ceiling. Fruits, plants and flowers in bright colours cover an area of 11,000 square meters. Visiting Markthal is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam.

With a tram station just outside the Markthal, it is one of the best places to visit in Rotterdam.

Visit the Rotterdam Zoo

Also known as the Diergaarde Blijdorp, the Rotterdam Zoo is a lovely place to have a family picnic. The zoo has a Botanical garden and Oceanium.

The zoo is divided into several different themed areas such as a Chinese garden, a Malayan Forest, Mongolian Steppes and a crocodile river. Animals include the Black Rhino, Greater Kudu, Sumatran Tiger, Asian Elephant and the Amur Leopard. 

Rotterdam Zoo also operates breeding programs to help endangered species such as the Red Panda.

This zoo can be enjoyed both by adults, kids as well as tourists. Make sure to book these tickets before arriving.

Reach the top of Euromast Tower

The Euromast Tower is an observation station in Rotterdam.

The tower stands at 606 feet, making it the tallest building in Rotterdam. 

The Euromast has a restaurant, a conference room for business meetings, a hotel suite and an observation deck. The observation deck provides panoramic views of Rotterdam city. Euromast also paints a pretty picture across Rotterdam city as it can be seen from everywhere.

✦ Pro tip: Skip the line and get Euromast Lookout Tower Ticket

If you’re feeling really brave, you can even abseil or zip line from the tower itself. Though it might be best to skip lunch if you plan to do that!

Oh, and don’t forget to book an incredible tour of the harbour by boat in Rotterdam. It’s such a great way to explore the city, especially for a few hours.

Visit Rotterdam Centraal Station

I love how most Dutch stations are architecturally mind-blowing!

A visit to the Rotterdam Centraal Station is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam.

Among all the beautiful buildings in the city, Rotterdam Centraal station has iconic architecture. The building has a triangular shape that points towards the sky at a protruding angle. The entrance has a wall clock and large letters that were transferred from the old station to retain some of its memory.

The Rotterdam Centraal Station has many eateries and pack-and-go food counters for commuters. There are also souvenir shops and shops selling tulip buds. There is a free bike parking stand.

The station connects to many other destinations in the Netherlands and neighbouring European countries.

Visit Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk

Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk is a church constructed in the 15th century. Also known as the Church of Saint Laurence, it is the only medieval architecture remaining in Rotterdam. 

Located in the old town centre, near the Maritime Museum and the Erasmus Bridge, the all-stone church stands out against the relatively modern skyline of Rotterdam.

The interior of the church is exquisite with decorated arches, high vaulted ceilings, a variety of stone reliefs and rich religious decoration.

Watch cargo ships at Europoort Rotterdam

Rotterdam Port is one of the busiest ports in Europe. 

Europort serves as an entry point in the Netherlands and the entire Europe.

Located in Zuid-Holland, Netherlands, Europoort Rotterdam has an impressive selection of attractions and things to do in Rotterdam.

Other than watching huge cargo ships go by, visitors can take a guided tour to FutureLand to learn about automatic container transhipment and the world’s biggest container ships. 

Boat tours are a great way to view the port, and you will see many immense cargo ships, a large number of quays, storage facilities and boat yards.

Explore Rotterdam Maritime Museum

The Rotterdam Maritime Museum is one of the unique and largest maritime museums of its type in the world. It has a huge collection of cartography, maritime memorabilia and art. 

Some of the interesting exhibitions include a controversial painting of the Battle of Trafalgar, a collection of figureheads from various ships, different navy uniforms and flags from sea battles.

Book your spot in advance: Maritime Museum and historic museum harbour ticket

Visit Delfshaven

Delfshaven is must see in Rotterdam.

It is an old district of Rotterdam that survived World War II. Because it survived, it still retains the medieval architecture, making it one of the most popular tourist spots in Rotterdam. Its brick houses, cafes, and chill atmosphere are well worth a stroll.

The historic district of Delfshaven is believed to be the birthplace of Admiral Piet Hein, a 16th-century hero of the country’s long war against Spain. This is commemorated with a memorial and bronze tablet.

Enjoy at the Fenix Food Factory

Wondering about the fun things to do in Rotterdam? Then head to Fenix Food Factory.

A food factory that has unique and interesting cooking workshops, cheese and meat tasting sessions and an open market that promotes fresh local produce. 

If workshops are not our thing, then visitors can simply chill, soaking in the vibes with a freshly roasted coffee or a home-brewed beer.

Get awed by Miniworld Rotterdam

As the name suggests, Miniworld Rotterdam hosts all the main landmarks of the Netherlands on a miniature scale. However, a large portion of the miniatures is of Rotterdam itself.

It is set up in a large warehouse and covers an area of over 535 square meters. 

There is also a 2.3-kilometre-long network of model railway tracks, with over 150 trains running around the area.

Visitors can also learn how the trains are controlled from the command centre, including how the whole display is lit up when night falls – an event that happens every 25 minutes in Miniworld Rotterdam.

✦ Pro tip: Book the Miniworld Rotterdam Entry Ticket

Take a Rotterdam Boat Tour

This is one of the Rotterdam things to do, I highly suggest visitors do.

A boat tour is the best way to see the port city of Rotterdam.

These boat tours take visitors on a ride around the port as well as along the Rhine River, overlooking all the Rotterdam architecture. These are guided tours with audio commentary.

The boats have plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and large, wide windows for unobstructed viewing.

Visitors can also enjoy food and drinks on the boat.

Visit Museum Rotterdam

Museum Rotterdam is one of the best Rotterdam Attractions. 

Established in the 1950s, the museum displays a rich collection of documents and artefacts, including artworks from the 17th and 18th centuries. 

More recent history is also featured at the museum’s Coolhaven annexe. Dedicated to World War II, Museum Rotterdam ’40 -’45 NU opened in 2015 and features exhibits relating specifically to the Dutch wartime experience. 

A notable artefact on display is the original flag of surrender used in May 1940 after Germany invaded the country.

Photograph the Witte Huis

The iconic Witte Huis (White House) is a 10-story building built in 1889. It is one of the buildings to survive World War II and proudly stands in central Rotterdam. It has been declared a National Heritage Site.

The striking Art Nouveau style of this building makes it stand out with its white façade, ornate turrets and decorative roof, giving it great character.

Explore the Cube House Rotterdam

Cube houses are a set of innovative houses based on the concept of “living as an urban roof”. 

Each house is tilted 45 degrees and rests upon a hexagon-shaped column that contains the entrance and stairway. 

The architect wanted to represent a village within a city, where each house represents a tree, and all the houses together, a forest.

The exterior, as well as the interior of Cube Houses Rotterdam, are sure to amaze the visitors. Aside from being residential spaces, some of them also serve as hostels and pedestrian bridges for people and tourists to cross one of Rotterdam’s busiest streets.

You can experience staying in these houses by spending a few euros. Book here.

Must try food in Rotterdam

While talking about things to do in Rotterdam, how can one forget about the must-try food in Rotterdam?

Stroopwafels

A stroopwafel is the go-to Dutch snack. Popularly available as street food as well as in restaurants, Stroopwafel contains two thin, round waffles sandwiched with a caramel filling. 

The traditional way to eat the stroopwafel is to place it on top of a cup of hot coffee, tea or chocolate. This heats the waffle and slightly softens the syrup making the waffle soft on one side and slightly crispy on the other.

Poffertjes

Poffertjes is one of the most famous Dutch dishes and is found across the Netherlands. Poffertjes are small pancakes, baked in an iron skillet, and traditionally served with melted butter and dusted with icing sugar.

Kapsalon 

Another popular Dutch street food is Kapsalon. It consists of French fries topped with meat, various types of cheese (typically Gouda), salad greens, and various sauces (typically garlic sauce). For vegetarians, there is a special version of the dish where falafel is used instead of meat.

Places to visit near Rotterdam

The Netherlands is a small country, and most cities are close to each other. Rotterdam has good inter-city transport with good frequency so it is possible to go on day trips from Rotterdam by train or weekend trips from Rotterdam to the following places. Some of the places I went to during my 3 weeks in Rotterdam –

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands and in Europe. Brimming with amazing culture, incredible nightlife, world-class museums and historical gems, Amsterdam is one city not to miss. Amsterdam to Rotterdam is 60 km and takes approximately 40 minutes on a fast train.

The Hague

The Hague (Den Haag) is the home of the Dutch royal family and the seat of government for the Netherlands. With magnificent gardens, world-class museums, and a lively culinary scene, The Hague is a gorgeous and culturally rich destination. Rotterdam to Den Hague is 25 km and 20 minutes train ride away. 

Keukenhof / Lisse

With coverage of over 80 acres, Keukenhof is probably one of the largest outdoor gardens in the world. Famous for the tulip gardens, Keukenhof is a must-visit when the flowers bloom in spring. Rotterdam to Lisse is 40 km and is 40 minutes train ride away. Check out this Keuhenhof guide.

Utrecht

Utrecht is the fourth largest city in the Netherlands and also one of the oldest. The city’s history goes back to the 1st century which makes Utrecht one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. Rotterdam to Utrecht is 48 km away and takes 50 minutes to reach by train.

Kinderdijk’s Windmills

Windmills are an iconic structure that is synonymous with the Netherlands. To get the perfect photos of the countryside overlooking the windmills, head to the small village of Kinderdjik which is  20km to the east of Rotterdam.

What makes this village special is that 19 windmills line the canals here. All of the windmills have been restored to their original condition and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From Rotterdam, it is possible to sail directly to Kinderdijk from the Erasmus Bridge with Line 21.

Brussels

The capital city of Belgium is full of rich culture, fascinating historical sites, and some very lovely cafes. Not to mention, Brussels is also the hub of many cartoon museums and Belgium chocolate shops. Rotterdam to Brussels is 118 km and takes 1.30 hours by train. Check out this guide on things to do in Brussels.

How to Reach Rotterdam

By Flight

Rotterdam The Hague Airport is located 8 km away from the city centre. Rotterdam airport is connected to a few European cities. Visitors can get to the city centre by bus, taxi and car.

By train

One of the fastest and easiest ways to get to Rotterdam is to travel by train. Intercity trains are available from most cities in the Netherlands that make a stop at Rotterdam Centraal Station. The fastest connection between Amsterdam to Rotterdam is the NS Intercity Direct.

By road

Rotterdam can easily be reached by car, using the A4, A13, A15, A16 and A20 motorways from all major cities in the Netherlands and neighbouring countries.

Getting around in Rotterdam

Rotterdam also offers many other forms of public transport, such as the bus, metro and even a water taxi. However, the local’s favourite is the bike.

By Bike

The most obvious way of getting around any Dutch city is by bike. If you haven’t brought your own wheels, then there are several places where you can rent a bike in Rotterdam.

By Public Transport

Rotterdam’s excellent public transport system includes buses, trams and metros, all run by the RET. To travel by public transport, you will need a valid public transport card, known as an ‘OV-chipkaart’. There are various types of cards available, and for up-to-date information, it’s best to see the RET website.

Where to Stay in Rotterdam 

If you have loved all the things to do in Rotterdam, and if you are here for more than a day trip to Rotterdam then it’s time to look at the stay options in Rotterdam.

If you’re visiting Rotterdam for the first time and want to see some of the city’s top sights, the best area to stay is in the city centre. There are options for luxury and mid-range hotels and great hostel options as Rotterdam is a student hub.

Luxury Hotels: Mainport Hotel, Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Hilton Rotterdam 

Mid-Range Hotels: citizenM Rotterdam, Ibis Rotterdam City Centre, Holiday Inn Express Rotterdam 

Budget Hotels: easyHotel Rotterdam City Centre, Bienvenue, Hotel Baan

Hostels: Hostel The Golden Stork, Hostel ROOM Rotterdam, Sparks Hostel

Frequently Asked Questions about Rotterdam

Is Rotterdam worth visiting?

Yes! Although Rotterdam is a business city and has many universities which means it caters to businessmen and students it is equally a great place for tourists. This port city has trendy nightlife, chic shopping places, and many museums to explore. Exploring modern architecture is one of the best things to do in Rotterdam.

How many days do you need in Rotterdam?

Ideally, 2 days in Rotterdam are enough to explore all the architectural wonders, museums and parks.

What’s Rotterdam famous for?

Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture as the city was rebuilt after World War II. It is also famous for its Europoort Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe.

Is Rotterdam expensive?

Rotterdam is the 3rd most expensive city in the Netherlands after Amsterdam and Utrecht. One can stay in Rotterdam and take day trips to other cities in the Netherlands to explore and save costs on accommodation. 

Sustainable tips for Things to do in Rotterdam

• Rotterdam is an extremely bike-friendly city so use the bike or the city’s efficient public transportation to get around.
• Try the local items on the streets rather than going to the chain restaurants. It gives a fair chance of earning for the locals.
• Do not litter in market/palace squares. Dispose of plastics in the designated waste bins.
• Respect the churches, museums, walls and old architectural buildings by not sitting on them.

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Amsterdam is the best example of Sustainable development – whether it is using bicycles, constructing green buildings, having energy neutral institutions or simply upgrading an obsolete area into an artistic, usable and interesting area which is economically viable. I happened to visit NDSM wharf located in the north-west Amsterdam as a part of my Masters course in Green cities from Erasmus University, Rotterdam.  Since this was for study course, we were given a private tour by one of the artists there and introduced to various sustainable practices they follow.

About NDSM Wharf

At first sight this place looks littered with rustic metal, abandoned vehicles and graffiti relics of the industrial days which is the historical remainder of the largest shipyard in Amsterdam on the bank of IJ river which when closed 30 years ago gave space to a large void area. NDSM wharf stands for News Dock Activities Stories. You will come across dozens of boats and ships which are now being transformed into creative office spaces in the Kunststad (Art City), the largest breeding site in the Netherlands. There are happening places where you can eat, drink, party, attend an exhibition or live on luxury hotel at the river bank, enjoying the best view of Amsterdam.

NDSM wharf is reportedly one of the 3 most wanted development areas of Amsterdam and has been announced as a “model project of urban renewal in the Netherlands” since 2002 by the Ministries of Planning, Environment and Economy Affairs.

NDSM wharf may not feature as an offbeat destination in Amsterdam but it is one of the most sustainable places and a must-visit if you are a local or tourist in Amsterdam.  With a range of activities possible here, you will not be disappointed to add it to your Amsterdam Bucketlist. You can also look at Sustainable Architecture in Rotterdam which is a day trip from Amsterdam.

Sustainable offices

NDSM wharf is a workplace for artists and they live like a close-knit community. They have turned the old boats into their offices using the locally available resources. Peek into these offices from the windows and I bet you cannot stop yourself from going in and seeing what they offer. The artist community meet up every few days to discuss issues and take solution. They come together to tend to nearby areas or garden, or deload the toilet or compost the poo!

Sustainable toilets

The water used to flush the toilet is rainwater filtered by the moss sedum bed on the roof. The sewage is transported to a helophyte filter system and a floating bamboo and reed garden which is transported through a pipeline outside the boat. Once purified, the water is pumped back into the boat closing the loop of sustainable toilet.

Composting

The poo from toilet is collected separately and composted in a designated area. These machines are manually rotated for aeration. Micro-organisms, disinfectants and anti odour powder is added to this for handling safety.

Accommodation from shipping containers

There is no lack of creativity when it comes to interesting yet sustainable accommodations in Amsterdam. Making accommodation inside a shipping container is one of them! The Wenckehof is turned into an affordable student accommodation from shipping containers. Initially, it was constructed for Amsterdam’s Salvation Army and for temporary workers but now is mainly a student complex.

The complex, which was constructed in 2006, has over thousands of container flats, divided into six blocks of five floors. Each container is roughly 28 metres squared.

Nobody knew that living in a shipping container would gain so much popularity. So much so that its success has intrigued architects all around the world. Even locally, a luxury hotel is made from a shipping container by restoring its old parts and adding new ones, creating a space that’s both luxurious and a little unorthodox. Known as the ‘Yay’s Crane Apartment‘, this is an interesting concept as the shipping container is suspended in the air via a crane.

Shipping warehouse for exhibition hall and office space

There is a massive exhibition space for events and festivals at Kunststad. It also offers 2 levels of office space that renters can modify to their needs at very cheap costs. Over 250 office spaces are present within this warehouse.

Hotels from Ships

An old boat has been converted into a 3-star hotel and named “botel”. This floating hotel is in the centre of Amsterdam on the river IJ, very near to NDSM Wharf. There are a total of 175-room, which was a former river cruise converted into a floating hotel. There is a complimentary ferry connection to the Central Station, from where there are direct connections to Schiphol International Airport.

NDSM wharf is very creatively transformed into an activity site using green development approaches and the community is completely involved in maintaining so!

Have only 24 hours in Amsterdam? Be sure to check this guide: Amsterdam in One day.

Have you been here already? If yes, how was your experience? If not, would you like to visit here? Tell me in the comments below.

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

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If you are an Indian and you hear Tulips, the first thing that will invariably come to your mind is Amitabh Bachhan and Rekha singing ‘Dekha to yeh khwab..’ from the movie Silsila. Of course that song was filmed in Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands. As if 2 big Bollywood superstars were not enough to inspire you here is Keukenhof Tulip Garden Guide, tips and photos.

Do you love being in nature, love photographing manicured gardens, and enjoy bright-coloured flowers? Then Keukenhof is the place for you. With coverage of over 80 acres, Keukenhof is probably one of the largest outdoor gardens in the world.  The garden draws about 800,000 visitors during the 8 weeks it’s open every year. It is located in Lisse, which is a small town about 40km from Amsterdam and 60km from Rotterdam. Lisse is famous not only for Keukenhof but for the tulips farms and cycling around them. Don’t get mistaken as there are many other flowers in the garden. This was my very first cherry blossom tree <3

My short course post-graduation in Rotterdam ended right around the beginning of spring which meant tulips had just started blooming and my husband joined me for a Europe tour. Before we headed to Paris, we visited Keukenhof in April (the first week) of 2015.

How to reach Keukenhof Tulip Garden – Guide

It totally depends on where you will be travelling. However, trains and buses are easily available to reach Keukenhof. If you are in Amsterdam, the probability of your hostel/hostel having the tickets with them is quite high. You can of course book them online but there was a problem with our card accepting the payment so we chose to buy them in person. On inquiry at the front desk of our hotel, we got our combo ticket – bus + garden entrance at €23,50.

The Keukenhof express bus left from Schiphol airport from the bus station in front of the airport. The bus is easy to find when you walk outside from Schiphol Plaza. The bus leaves every 15 minutes to the Keukenhof (entrance) and takes around 35 minutes to get from Schiphol to the Keukenhof. Here’s a guide map.

Once at the entrance, get a map of the Keukenhof garden which will have directions, exhibition details, food stalls, etc. you will be thankful for picking this up. And then start walking.. walking.. and walking… However, there is much more to just tulips. Know more here:

Walk in one of the many exhibition halls to know the origin of Tulips.

Or learn some flower arrangement or decoration.

Some souvenir shopping, perhaps?

Or satiate the foodie in you with crepe or stroopwaffles. Oh you fail to amaze me Keukenhof!

Enjoy watching the local dance in the sun

Photograph beautiful women dressed up like tulips and still rocking at it.

Keukenhof tulip gardens guide for sustainable visit

• Respect the flowers. Don’t go too close to them for a selfie which will damage their shoots or step in the soil which will damage their roots
• Respect the fact that people do not want to hear music. Keep the music volume low or use the headphones if you must.
• Throw garbage in dedicated bins
• There are barn animals in a small barn – do not feed them. We saw a lot of people doing it.
• Respectfully ask for permission to click photographs with a dancer or a locally dressed lady.
• Use the extremely efficient public bus to reach the garden and reduce the carbon footprints.

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