This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Rotterdam.
Rotterdam, Netherlands, was once known as a boring city, but it is now one of the most vibrant in the Netherlands. The port city was bombed in World War II and has been rebuilt, but with a completely different look. The vibe and the architecture are very different from any other Dutch city and is absolutely worth a visit. There is a reason that many guidebooks and other media put Rotterdam on their list of best cities to visit.
While there are just a few hostels in Rotterdam, Netherlands, it is home to a few award-winning hostels. You may find accommodations in the city's iconic cubic houses; some other Rotterdam, Netherlands hostels are decorated like typical Dutch homes, while there are also Rotterdam, Netherlands hostel options for the low-budget traveler.
Even though some leading media are raving about Rotterdam, the city receives only a fraction of the tourists that Amsterdam receives. If Amsterdam feels like Disneyland to you, and prefer a place where there are not hundreds of tourists taking a picture of the same thing, then you may like Rotterdam. Rotterdam is not about the canals and warehouses from the Middle Ages; Rotterdam is where you can find modern architecture, and architecture lovers may need an extra memory card for their photos.
Some newbies do not fall in love with Rotterdam at first sight. Many nice cafes and restaurants are a bit hidden, so it is helpful to ask some locals. Although there are a few sites worth seeing, such as the Euromast, the SS Rotterdam, Markthal, and several museums, Rotterdam is also a city where you have to discover the different areas. Visit Katendrecht, het Oude Noorden, Delfshaven, Witte de Withkwartier, Oude Haven, and chill out at the Kralingse Plas in summer. A daytrip to the windmills in Kinderdijk can also not be missed.
Rotterdam is also home to many events. Rotterdam City Racing, where you can watch Formula One cars driving through the city centre; World Port Days; and Rotterdam Unlimited (previously called Summer Carnival) and the Rotterdam International Film Festival are just a few of the annual events.
Rotterdam is a great and vibrant city, but the best places tend to be hidden. The locals will happily share hidden places with you, but deep in their heart they also like to keep it hidden from the general public, because Rotterdammers are afraid that their beloved city will be overtaken by tourists like Amsterdam is.
Written by local enthusiast for Rotterdam hostels
Martin Straatman
