Rotterdam is one of Europe’s most vibrant and multicultural cities. Its contemporary style is clearly represented by its architecture with the city almost resembling a mini-Manhattan. In the culinary field all the cuisines of the world are represented catering to every taste. Rotterdam also presents a vibrant musical scene and is rich in festivals and events taking place all year round.
Dynamic Modern city
Rotterdam is a dynamic city situated on the borders of the river Maas. Dutch architecture is renowned for pushing the bounderies and Rotterdam is considered to be the modern architectural capital of Holland. Rotterdam had to rebuild from scratch after the heart of the city was destroyed during WW II. As a result, a modern and new Rotterdam has risen from the ashes giving it the nickname: Manhattan on the Meuse.
The Rotterdam skyline is dominated by the Euromast tower, which stands at 185 meters. It boasts a panoramic view lift, a restaurant and two luxury hotel suites. The Erasmus Bridge is one of the icons of Rotterdam. One of Holland’s most famous bridges, designed by Ben van Berkel, was officially opened by Queen Beatrix in 1996 as an important connection between the North and the South of Rotterdam. The so-called cube houses are also one of Rotterdam’s icons. Forty conventional houses were tilted 45 degrees to become the first cube-shaped houses of Holland. Splashtours offers city tours ‘with a difference’ with a spectacular dive into the Meuse river.
Multicultural
Rotterdam has a richness of culture and cuisines from all over the world. 160 nationalities live and work side by side in this modern metropolis, bringing with them all the benefits of a truly multicultural society, from restaurants and ethnic food stores, to festivals and events. From classic French cuisine to spicy and exotic dishes, and from trendy lunch cafés to chic restaurants; Rotterdam has it all. One of the hotspots in Rotterdam for lunch or for a drink, is the former head office of Holland America Line, transformed since 1993 into the elegant Hotel New York.
When in Rotterdam head for a ‘Warung’ where they serve Surinam food. This is a totally eclectic mix of different cuisines, influenced by the difference cultures in Suriname. 
Art and Culture
Rotterdam’s leading concert halls are a feast for the eyes and ears. Classical music, jazz and world music are performed in De Doelen. World-famous artists and bands, stage their shows in Ahoy and De Kuip. The New ‘Luxor Theater’ is Rotterdam’s main theatre. Experts agree that the building’s architecture, location and design make it one of Holland’s most beautiful theatres. Rotterdam has been ranked Best Festival City of the World last year and also has a good international reputation when it comes to sport.
Rotterdam has an attractive contemporary art scene represented by exhibitions at : the World Art Museum, the Netherlands Photo Museum, Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, the Kunsthal and the Netherlands Architecture Institute. One of Rotterdam’s many attractions include the ‘Diergaarde Blijdorp’, a huge zoo which includes an Oceanium, where visitors can walk through a tunnel surrounded by seascape and a variety of marine life.
Shopping
Rotterdam has a diversity of shopping districts. Due to its contemporary influence there are many cutting edge fashion boutiques concentrated around ‘Witte de Withstraat’. The main shopping area is located in ‘Lijnbaan’, where shops are open seven days a week. The luxury brands can be found at the Meent,, Van Oldenbarneveltstraat and Kruiskade . For a moment of relaxation, the squares ‘Binnenwegplein’ and ‘Nieuwemarkt’ offer a cosy and friendly atmosphere . Dotted around the Schouwburgplein are dozens of cafés, restaurants. For characteristic Rotterdam café charm, check out Dudok at the Meent with its cosy terrace and varied daily specials.
Nightlife
The city boasts a wide range of cafés, restaurants and clubs located in the city centre, as well as in areas such as the Scheepvaartkwartier and the Oude Haven. Rotterdam is renowned for innovation in its nightlife, thanks to dynamic young entrepreneurs
who are investing in a vibrant youth culture. Rotterdam has an exciting nightlife with the dance club scene leading the way. Rotterdam has an extensive list of night clubs where DJs work the crowds from Thursdays to Sundays. Rotterdam’s club scene is renowned in Holland and some of its most famous venues include: Off_Corso, Maassilo, the Hollywood music hall, Bootleg DJ café, Club Vie and Thalia Lounge. To experience the atmosphere of live bands, you are best heading for ‘Rotown’. Rotown has become an imminent part of Rotterdam’s night life. It’s a café, restaurant and pop music venue all under one roof.
Rotterdam is a cosmopolitan city, so it has plenty of stylish cocktail bars. The best cocktails in town are served at Level and Blender: trendy designer interior with a laid-back ambiance. ‘Level’ has won prizes in national and international cocktail competitions. After a total metamorphosis, the Holland Casino on Weena offers a complete new concept in entertainment, including a cocktail bar, wine lounge, two restaurants and the Ultralounge Purple. And of course guests can still try their luck at the 58 gaming tables and 750 slot machines.
