The Netherlands, or Holland as it is commonly known, is one of Europe’s smaller countries. Although small, it makes up for this with an abundance of quality attractions. Its rich cultural heritage can be seen not only in the many museums, but also in the old buildings and streets of the country’s historic towns. Of course, Holland – and Rotterdam in particular – can also boast interesting post-war and modern architecture. Rotterdam and its surroundings offer a wide variety of attractions: history, modern architecture, culture, beaches, nature, shopping and an enjoyable city center. Amsterdam can be reached within the hour and the same goes for a day visit to Antwerp – Belgium.

Things to see in and around Rotterdam (for more details, email me please at [email protected] ) are

Museums
There are some 30 museums in Rotterdam where you can drift back to the days of yore, explore the Dutch Masters or view some fine contemporary art. Some internationally renowned museums are Boijmans van Beuningen, the Maritime Museum, the Schielandshuis and the Kunsthal.

ArchitectureRotterdam can rightfully call itself the Dutch capital of (modern) architecture. In addition to its impressive modern skyline – Rotterdam is also commonly referred to as Manhattan on the river Maas – the city also offers a wealth of history. The jewel in Rotterdam’s historic crown is without a doubt Delfshaven. The Pilgrim Fathers, who founded the United States, set sail from here to the New World in 1620. The Wilhelminakade, where the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam is located, is also of historical significance, particularly to American passengers: in the 18th and 19th century, hundreds of thousands of emigrants from all over Europe set sail for America in search of a better life. Here you will also find the former head office of the Holland Amerika Lijn. The building nowadays serves as a hotel and is located a stone’s throw from the Cruise Terminal Rotterdam.

Surrounding places of big interest are:

Delft
Visit the Royal Mausoleum in the New Church and the other magnificent historical buildings around Delft’s bustling market square. Wander along quiet canals or have lunch at a waterside café, followed by a visit to the famous Chinaware factory at the Royal Porceleyne Fles.

Gouda
If you say Gouda, you do not only think of cheese, candles, pipes, waffles and pottery, but also of stained-glass windows, which depict the history and faith of Holland, a fairy-tale like city hall and attractive canals. Gouda is a real old Dutch city, where the precious square in the centre has been a market since the Middle Ages.