Rotterdam took me by surprise. I knew it was a city with a fascinating history, but I didn’t expect to fall in love with it as quickly as I did. From its bold architecture to its quirky public art and lively waterfront, Rotterdam completely won me over. Here are some of my favourite things about this incredible city.

A City Rebuilt with Creativity

Unlike many European cities, Rotterdam had to rebuild after being heavily bombed in World War II. But rather than trying to restore what was lost, the city embraced innovation and modern creativity, making it one of the most unique urban landscapes I’ve ever seen.

Living in a Cube? The Fascinating Cube Houses

One of the first things that caught my eye was the Cube Houses—these bright yellow, tilted cubes that look like something out of a sci-fi movie. I had to see them up close, and I learned that while they look amazing, they’re not the most practical homes. Because of their unusual angles, only about two-thirds of the space inside is actually usable! Still, they’re an architectural marvel, and I loved wandering around them.

Markthal: A Foodie’s Dream

I have a weakness for food markets, so I was thrilled to visit Markthal. It’s not just a giant indoor market—it’s also a work of art. The massive curved ceiling is covered in one of the world’s largest paintings, and the best part? People actually live in the apartments built into the structure! I grabbed some delicious snacks and just took in the atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and soak everything in.

Rotterdam’s Waterfront and Massive Port

I’ve always been fascinated by ports, and Rotterdam has the busiest port in Europe. Standing by the water and watching the enormous cargo ships and barges go by was mesmerizing. The sheer size of these vessels is mind-blowing—I couldn’t believe how small other boats looked in comparison!

Erasmus Bridge: The Swan of Rotterdam

One of the most striking sights in the city is the Erasmus Bridge, also known as “The Swan” because of its sleek design. I found myself stopping multiple times just to take in the view. It’s the perfect blend of elegance and engineering, and it really reflects Rotterdam’s modern spirit.

Quirky and Unexpected Discoveries

One of the things I loved most about Rotterdam was how full of surprises it was.

The Controversial Christmas Statue

I stumbled upon one of the most talked-about sculptures in the city—a Christmas-themed statue that cost the government €200,000. Let’s just say, its design raised a few eyebrows! Locals have their own interpretations, but legend has it that rubbing it brings good luck in relationships. I wasn’t sure if that was true, but I gave it a go anyway—why not?

A Floating Poker Machine on a Ferry?

Only in Rotterdam would you find a gigantic poker machine on a water bus. I couldn’t resist pulling the lever, and instead of coins, I got a city map! It was such a quirky way to get around, and it’s moments like this that make traveling so much fun.

A City with Deep History

For all its modern architecture, Rotterdam hasn’t forgotten its past. I was particularly moved by Sint-Laurenskerk, the only medieval church that survived the bombings. Seeing old photos of the destruction alongside the beautifully restored building was a powerful reminder of the city’s resilience.

Final Thoughts: Rotterdam Stole My Heart

I didn’t expect to fall so hard for Rotterdam, but it’s a city that embraces both its history and its future in such an incredible way. Whether it was marveling at the Cube Houses, indulging in delicious treats at Markthal, or standing in awe of the massive port, Rotterdam kept me constantly intrigued.

Now, I’m off to Amsterdam for the next part of my adventure! But I know that Rotterdam will always hold a special place in my heart. 🚲💛