Rotterdam, the second largest city of Holland, is an international city with one of the world’s largest ports.

It has been rebuilt since it was bombed flat during WWII so there is not much evidence of the classic Dutch medieval old town centres. There are some old buildings around the Delftshaven harbour area. Noticeably, there was an abundance of statues in the parks and sidewalks.

Rotterdam 9^th to 12^th Feb, 2012

 

Thursday 9^th     

10.57  Depart St Pancras arrive in Brussels at 14.05.  (clocks one hour ahead). 15.18 Depart Brussels arrive in Rotterdam at 17.08.  The Manhatton Hotel

Dinner at Stadsbrouwerij de Pelgrim in the Delfshaven district – 3 courses €29.90pp – Rotterdam’s only traditional brewery that produces 6 special beers.

 

Friday, 10^th

Guided tour of the City Hall, the shopping area, Museum, Euromast tower and park.

Rotterdam's White House (Witte Huis) was the tallest office-building in Europe when it was built in 1898, and one of the few buildings in the centre of town that survived the bombing raid on May 14,1940 during World War II.

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen – impressive displays through the history of art from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. From Bosch, Rembrandt and Van Gogh to Dalí and Dutch Design. The museum shows some of Europe's greatest masterpieces.

Ascend the 328-foot Euromast Tower for a panoramic view of the city and harbour. (Had lunch here)

Afternoon in Delfthaven the scenic, old area of Rotterdam.

Dinner Parkheuvel, Michelin 2 star

 

Saturday, 11^th

Cross over the imposing Erasmus Bridge, considered an architectural work with its harp like shape that soars over the largest harbour in Europe.

Fotomuseum - located on the "other side" of the Erasmus Bridge, it’s a modern and classy museum with some interesting exhibits. If you like photography, just go there, you won't be disappointed.

Blijorp Oceania and Zoo

Dinner at Restaurant Kip in the Von der Ohe room-  4 course meal for €45.50.

 

Sunday 12^th

12.55    depart Rotterdam  (lunch in Brussels). 15.56  Depart Brussels, arrive at St Pancras at 16.57.

 

Note

The Rotterdam Welcome card includes the Dutch version of an Oyster card (Chipkaart) and also a number of vouchers for entrance to museums, attractions, some restaurants etc. YOU CANNOT TRAVEL ON THE TRAMS OR METRO without the Chipkaart! Cash cannot be used.The cost is €15 for three days.