A modern, even futuristic city, without having wanted to, the largest port in Europe was indeed a prime target during the Second World War. In 1945, everything had to be rebuilt. Without the taboo of preserving the past, a culture of innovative architecture settled in and continues to produce astonishing buildings. Modernity is the main argument for tourism.

01. Erasmus Bridge

Designed to cross the Meuse in the city centre, since its construction in 1996 the bridge has often served as a symbol for the city. The New Year’s fireworks are fired from here. In addition to its location, the bridge is also attractive for its lines, the undulations of its 446-foot, 136-metre pylon evoking the neck of a swan. A movable section allows larger ships to pass.

02. De Rotterdam

Completed in 2013, the De Rotterdam building is an eye-catcher. It stands next to the Erasmus Bridge like a stack of giant, untidy cardboard boxes. The shifts between the facades give the illusion that the walls move as you move around. A small town of 5,000 people, the building contains flats, a hotel, offices and a shopping centre.

03. Markthal

The audacious architecture of this giant arch houses a traditional food market. Around 100 stalls are combined with several on-site catering areas and restaurants. The exterior of the building is occupied by flats with large balconies and interior windows overlooking the hall.

04. Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen

This ball of mirrors contains the reserves of the neighbouring art museum. In addition to its striking design, which reflects the city around it, the building can also be visited like a museum. However, the works are not in ideal display conditions to see them properly. Once the effect of the originality has worn off, access to the works can be disappointing.

05. Cube houses

The forty or so cube houses date from the 1970s as part of research into the densification of cities. Their original shape and bright colours would draw many curious visitors. One of the cubes can be visited, the space is limited inside and distributed over three levels. The main challenge is to find furniture that fits into the inclined walls.

06. Pauluskerk

Pauluskerk is more than just a church. It is a shelter for those who find themselves in difficulty. In spite of the city’s economic dynamism, there is a segment of Rotterdam’s population that falls outside the system, whether it is alcoholism, drugs, unemployment or homelessness. The new version of the Protestant church dates from 2013.

07. Central Station

Like the rest of the city, the central station was rebuilt after the Second World War. But that was not enough, and an even larger and more modern station was built in 2008. In a densely populated region, rail transport is essential to get from one city to another, and now there is also the international connections.

08. City Hall

One of the few buildings to survive the Second World War. It dates from 1920, when it replaced old and undersized buildings. It was the result of an urban planning operation to replace a slum of bad reputation by a district of large public buildings, the Post Office and the Stock Exchange were also built nearby.

09. Maritime Museum

Rotterdam has many fine museums, and as Europe’s largest port, its Maritime Museum is particularly noteworthy. Part of the collection consists of ships that can be visited and are moored directly in the Old Port in the heart of the city. On the quay, lighthouses and handling equipment are on display, with sheds offering various experiences.

10. Tramway

There are about ten tramway lines, which complement the underground metro network. Line 10 is made up entirely of old trams, designed to provide a tourist route through the city centre during the summer season, with several intermediate stops possible. The old trams offer a retro look amidst the modern buildings.