It may be known as Netherlands’ “second” city, but it seems dynamic Rotterdam has stepped out of Amsterdam’s shadow with its progressive architecture, an increasingly diverse and multi-ethnic community, and a burgeoning creative scene. Make time for these must-visits.
It may be known as Netherlands’ “second” city, but it seems dynamic Rotterdam has stepped out of Amsterdam’s shadow with its progressive architecture, an increasingly diverse and multi-ethnic community, and a burgeoning creative scene. Make time for these must-visits.
STAY: Mainport (77 Leuvehaven, tel: +31 10 217 5757, www.mainporthotel.com)
Located on the bank of River Maas, and aff ording sweeping views of the iconic Erasmus Bridge and the city skyline, Mainport is conveniently within reach of many of the city’s highlights – though you may find it difficult to tear yourself away from this stylish Design Hotels member. All 215 rooms (room rates vary by season) are kitted out with plush beds and cool furniture by local designers, and many rooms offer facilities you’ll usually find only in spas, such as oversized hot tubs and private saunas. Consequently, Spa Heaven, the hotel’s in-house spa, pulls out all the stops with a Turkish steam room, a hammam complex with heated marble tables, a Finnish sauna with panoramic views, and a full range of relaxing body massages, gratifying body wraps and cleansing facial treatments.
CHILL OUT: NHOW BAR (Level 7 Nhow Rotterdam, 137 Wilhelminakade, tel: +31 10 206 7600, www.nhow-rotterdam.com/bar-kitchen)
The four-star Rotterdam hotel is located in the iconic De Rotterdam building designed by celebrated architect Rem Koolhaas. Here, it’s the seventh-floor hotel bar – voted Best Hotel Bar of Rotterdam in 2014 – that you want to check out. Decked out in sleek white and black, its floor-to-ceiling windows off er stunning views of the city skyline. Order a delicious cocktail (from 7.50 euros, or roughly S$12), then head out onto the rooftop terrace to lounge in style. Beer lovers, take note: a quarter pint of Heineken goes for just 3 euros! On Fridays and Saturdays, stay a bit later – local DJs spin till 2am.
EAT: TER MARSCH & CO. (70 Witte de Withstraat, www.termarschco.nl)
This burger bar now lays claim to being one of the best in the whole of Netherlands after its De Burgeresse burger was deemed the best last year at a nationwide F&B trade fair. The joint occupies the former space of a century-old butchery of the same name on the bustling Witte de Withstraat, and its industrial-chic get-up, convivial atmosphere and downright delicious burgers have people flocking to it. Don’t let its no-reservations policy deter you; the De Burgeresse, which comes with a Wagyu and Scottish Angus beef patty topped with truffle gravy, young salad, pickles, tomatoes, Spanish white onions and local farm cheese, is worth the wait.
SHOP: GROOS (203 Schiekade, tel: +31 10 413 3344, www.groosrotterdam.nl)
“Groos” is an old forgotten Dutch word for “pride” and is an apt name for a concept store that sells only local products. Whether it’s a knitted scarf from Granny’s Finest or a handmade, vintage-design-inspired tea towel from Stiksel you’re looking for, Groos is bound to have something to tickle your fancy. Buoyed by the city’s growing creative scene, the shop is working on becoming a collaborative platform for everything fashion, design, art, music, literature and film – to that end, it has an expansive basement studio that currently houses designers, photographers and even a small tattoo shop.