Rotterdam sits on the banks of the River Maas, in the Netherlands region of South Holland and has the largest cargo port in Europe. The city was founded during medieval times, but suffered major damage following bombing during World War Two. Today Rotterdam has been rebuilt, and is the Netherlands’ second city, home to a vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture, magnificent museums and art galleries, and diverse districts. Rotterdam has a proud sporting tradition, with three football teams based in the city: second tier Sparta Rotterdam and the Eredivisie duo of Excelsior and Feyenoord. The city stretches from the North Sea across an expanse of 125 square miles, with the best way of taking in the city’s sights by car. Hire a car in Rotterdam, and explore this maritime hotspot.
Rotterdam’s 14 districts are full of exciting experiences and the city still has medieval landmarks, with the heavily restored gothic Grote of Sint Laurenskerk, still standing tall. One of its most striking monuments is the 800-metre long Erasmusbrug, which bridges the Maas, while equally inventive are the Kubuswoningen, designed by Dutchman Piet Blom. Take in one of the country’s finest collections of art displayed at the idyllic Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. Meanwhile one of the city’s hidden gems is the indoor Markthal, which hosts 100 stalls, and has a breath-taking mural on its ceiling. To take in the beauty of local historic town of Schoonhoven, 17 miles outside Rotterdam, rent a car from the city, and enjoy its well-preserved medieval monuments.
