Information about flights to Rotterdam
One of the largest maritime centres in the world, Rotterdam is nicknamed the 'Gateway to Europe' and is only a 75-kilometre drive to Amsterdam. The city is noted for its lovely waterside setting and was declared the European Capital of Culture in 2001.
Erasmus Bridge
The Erasmus Bridge (Erasmusbrug) is one of Rotterdam's most recognisable landmarks and was opened by Beatrix of the Netherlands in 1996, who was queen at the time. This cable-stayed bridge, which is more than 800 metres long, is one of the biggest bascule bridges in the world and is known for its impressive views over Rotterdam's skyline and its large harbour area.
The Witte Huis
Designed in the beautiful Art Noveau style, the Witte Huis (White House) was once Europe's tallest building and was completed at the end of the 19th century. The landmark is one of many in the Netherlands to be protected as a rijksmonument, a prestigious designation that also includes the 19th-century Wereldmuseum and the 17th-century Pelgrimvaderskerk church.
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
If you love medieval and modern art, don't forget to visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in the Rotterdam Centrum area, which has been open to the public since the middle of the 19th century. Here, you can admire the impressionist work of the country's most distinguished artist, Vincent van Gogh, as well as many other esteemed artists.
Entertainment
Many people visit Rotterdam to enjoy its diverse nightlife scene, which ranges from rock venues to historic waterside pubs. If you're looking for some great techno music, head to the Bootleg DJ Cafe, or visit the Cafe de Willemsbrug and have a nice drink on its beautiful terrace. Visit in February to witness the Cross-Linx festival, an amazing combination of classical music and modern day pop music performances, or fly to the city in July to enjoy the trendsetting open-air Metropolis Festival music and dance celebration.
Food
As you would expect for such a cosmopolitan city, the food scene in Rotterdam is flourishing. The city is known for its fusion of South American and Southeast Asian cuisine but is also revered for its bakeries and fresh seafood. You can find food from practically any established cuisine, although if you want to book ahead, consider the Michelin-starred Restaurant Amarone for some fine French dining. For some traditional local cuisine, head to the renowned Bierhandel de PijpBierhandel De Pijp, or enjoy some innovative Asian fusion dishes, Sushi and international dishes at the Izkaya Asian Touch Table Restaurant.
