I’m no authority in what places are the must-dos. But I can tell you which are the ones I went to. I’ll sprinkle in some basic information along the way and tell you about my experience. Your trip will be different than mine. But I thought I’d share what I saw.

Rotterdam has a special place in my heart. Since July 2021, the city has been my home.

In the Netherlands, it is the second largest city and municipality in terms of population after Amsterdam. Many would hear its name because of the well-connected and well-organised port. And depending on the source I read, that is the largest in Europe.

The architecture is modern and eclectic at the same time. Some find fault in the lack of classic elements in its style. But can you blame the city if a huge chunk of it got bombed during the war?

It is home to a diverse population (of which I am proudly part of). Back in 2021, the mayor was apparently awarded the most inclusive in the world.

For other places I’ve visited in the Netherlands, you can visit these links: Amsterdam and Groningen.

For photos I’ve taken in the Netherlands, you can visit these links: Rotterdam and Maastricht.

Here are five places I visited in Rotterdam:

Erasmusbrug

If there is one iconic landmark that people who’ve visited Rotterdam would recognise, it must be the Erasmus Bridge. The structure is huge and the design resembles a swan. The place commanded my attention. And once I saw it, it’s hard not to be in awe. And… I find the place an easy addition to anyone asking for recommendations of places to visit in Rotterdam.

I would make a caveat that weather makes a significant impact to my experiences. I’ve crossed the bridge on multiple occasions.

In two of those instances, due to the wind and the rain that decided to show up at the same time, I could not enjoy the moment. I was just looking forward to finishing the route and surviving the journey. Back then, I could not be bothered to marvel in its beauty.

But during other visits, the experience was fine! Or more accurately, great.

Kralingse Bos

In Rotterdam, the most relaxing strolls I’ve taken are in Kralingen. And if I biked, I might’ve listed this park in the places to cycle at. There are always cyclists when I go, so I assume the area is conducive.

I find it calming because I would describe it as “a massive green park where people can do whatever they want to do”. There are people who walk, run or bike. The activities range from lying down to doing a full-blown outdoor workout. Some are alone, while others are in huge groups. I can see people eating, drinking or sleeping. Some use the area to setup their barbecue. Others prefer to do their painting or drawing.

I can go on and on. You get the point! I’ve seen all these different scenes in Kralingen and I’m sure I’m only scratching the surface.

Maritiem Museum

Rotterdam is home to the largest port in Europe and one of the biggest in the world. Having a maritime museum as one of the city’s main attractions should not come as a surprise.

The exhibition includes a historical overview of maritime culture in the region, science lessons for the seafaring imbeciles like me, and a practical exam / game to awaken the competitor in me.

Many cities and towns have their versions of a maritime museum. But how often is it that the maritime culture continues to be pivotal to a place’s identity?

Markthal

I went to the Rotterdam website and a description in there struck me as accurate – “the Dutch version of the Sistine Chapel”. I might say something blasphemous. But I was even more captivated by the ceilings of Markthal than what I had seen in the Vatican. Clearly, my appetite for food is bigger than it is for organised religion.

Markets – either indoor or outdoor – aren’t unique to Rotterdam. But the architectural fusion is. There is a constant contrast and unity, in the traits of luxury and accessibility, modernity and tradition, and housing and shopping, making this attraction a functional experiment like no other. And I cannot believe I found those combination of words!

Kunsthal

Kunsthal literally translates to “art hall”. (And I pride myself for not using Google to arrive at the meaning.) The two words pretty much encompasses what experience is in store for the visitor.

I think we can all agree that art is subjective. And that fact can be intimidating at times. But the variety in form and subject matter in Kunsthal gave me a psychological safety to explore and feel included.

The collection ranges from classic to modern. There’s paintings. There’s fashion. There are people. There are animals.

The exhibitions are mostly temporary. Hence, any new offerings will make me consider revisiting the place. Or maybe, this arrangement sparks reconsideration for someone else, if interest at the moment is simply absent.

All photos were taken in the second half of 2021