Rotterdam, Netherlands sights to see!
The blog you were waiting for… a second part to truly highlight the beauty and complexity of Rotterdam, Netherlands. Our project Coordinator Debbie has broken down the best spots in town, food that you must try, and other helpful tips to make sure when you take a trip, you’re prepared to have the best time. If you haven’t read it yet, check out the Rotterdam, Netherlands Blog to understand more of cities history
The Rotterdam library (Bibliotheek Rotterdam) is a perfect spot whether you’re looking to relax, take in a good view, get work done, or even grab a coffee, the library has a little bit of everything. The library is renowned for its modern and innovative architecture . There were three different designers (Winy Maas, Jacob Van Rijis, and Nathalie de Vries) that created this building with striking geometric shapes and large glass windows that fill the rooms with natural light. The library also has an extensive collection of books, magazines, newspapers, and other materials that cover a wide range of subjects to cater to everyone.
The library stands six floors high, with different views and spaces throughout to ensure that everyone can have a great experience when visiting. When looking out of the glass windows in one of the library’s wings, you can actually see the well-known cubed houses, or you can head to the rooftop where you’ll see panoramic views of the city. You can also take a walk around the building and take in the breathtaking architecture including wooden staircases and designs, unique relaxing spaces, or you can join in on different activities and events going on.
In the previous blog, the history and evolution of the city in response to WWII was explained in detail. When visiting the city, you can take many different tours that will dive deep into the history and architecture throughout the city. However, you can make your own itinerary of significant spots, amazing views, and architecture. Around the city you can see lit markers and fire stones that mark the perimeter from when the city was bombed and destroyed. Another spot, located in the center of the city, is Post Rotterdam, which is one of the only original structures still standing after the Rotterdam Blitz. The post office has been remodeled on the inside, but if you look at the exterior you can still see bullet holes in the building’s original structure. You can also visit Markthal which was designed to create a combined market and residential building. The building has a combination of food, living, shopping, and parking all in a single structure. Throughout the Markthal you can see over 90 different spots to eat or shop at, with more than 200 apartments, and 1,200 below-ground parking spaces. Although the building is shaped like a dome, it is enclosed by a cable net façade with glass panes that are hanging on it for protection from weather.
The transportation system in Rotterdam, Netherlands is famous for its complexity and effectiveness due to many factors. Rotterdam is one of the largest and busiest ports in the world, and its transportation system is intricately connected to port facilities to allow efficient movement of goods by sea, rail, or road. This transportation plays a major role in the economy, not only for Rotterdam, but also the entire European continent. Rotterdam has various modes of transportation, such as trains, trams, buses, bicycles, and water taxis. The diverse options provide numerous ways to navigate the city and the surrounding areas for the most convenience to you. The city promotes eco-friendly modes of transportation, such as cycling and electric vehicles, and has implemented policies to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and encourage the use of renewable energy sources while using transportation. There is also bike traffic control, with rules and laws to follow just like a car. This is to ensure that the car lanes, bike lanes, and walking lanes all work seamlessly together to make sure everyone is safe. Despite its complexity, the transportation in Rotterdam is highly effective and efficient, as it connects people and goods within the city and beyond while also prioritizing sustainability and innovation.
The best was saved for last… the food! Rotterdam’s food scene is diverse and dynamic, reflecting the many cultures of the people that have settled there and call it home. Stroopwafels are a delicious Dutch treat that are thin waffles filled with caramel syrup. You can find these all across Rotterdam in different bakeries and shops. Rotterdam has many different cuisines including Indonesian, Surinamese, and Turkish foods that will be all throughout the city. Seafood is also very popular as Rotterdam in a port city, so they are able to offer a lot of fresh seafood options. Rotterdam is also becoming a craft beer scene with several breweries and bars offering a wide selection of local and international brews.
