Rotterdam holidays

City breaks to Rotterdam pack in almost as much as big brother, Amsterdam. Cue, a clutch of art galleries and museums, plus a proud nautical history.

Rotterdam city breaks

The Netherlands’ second-biggest city usually sits in the shadows of the country’s capital, Amsterdam, when it comes to tourism. However, ‘the Gateway to the World’, as it’s affectionately known, thanks to all the roads, rivers and railways that pass through it, has plenty of its own highlights to shout about. Take it all in by getting a bird’s eye view from the top of the Euromast Tower – the tallest building in Rotterdam. Over in the old quarter, meanwhile, you can learn about the bombing of the city during a tour of the 600-year-old St Lawrence Church – the only building in the area left standing after World War Two. Then, go for a wander around the vast collection of art galleries, where you can be wowed by masterpieces from the likes of Picasso, Rembrandt and Van Gogh. Plus, fun fact, Rotterdam is Europe’s biggest port, so there’s plenty of nautical knowledge to pick up here, too. Head to the Maritime Museum for the full lowdown.