image courtesy of: inspiringcities.org
Sure, sure - there are a million guides to Amsterdam and it's charming canals, houses, tiny alleyways and coffeeshops. But not many people visit Rotterdam except for the architectural students, which is a shame because this city really does have a lot to offer. Just think of it - tourist-free streets in a major European city! Rotterdam is also a very kid-friendly city, and there is a lot of space to run around, ride your bike, or just wander around, which we think is the best way to get to know a city!
Places to visit:
Very long extension bridge that connects two parts of the city - quite nice to look at, and surely an architectural/engineering wonder.
Supposedly the highest needle-esque building in Europe - we'll take their word for it! It's one of those places that if you live somewhere you never visit yourself until you have guests, then you remember how cool your city is when you see it from that height!
The point from which many people left for the shores of America, this place holds a special place in many people's hearts. The location is beautiful, although the restaurant rides a bit on the reputation of the place and doesn't really offer much substance.
Funny - yes. Desirable to live in - not so much. These unsual cube houses are a real treat for kids to visit, and you'll marvel at how they made them, and more so how people actually live in them! Next to the large library it makes a nice day trip with the kids.
Places to Eat:
An industrial "un-done" interior setting for simple foods like sandwiches, soups and teas. If you like the mix of sweet and salty (think cheese and fruit purees) then this place is for you. Super busy on the weekends.
This used to one of my old haunts that I don't get to go to often enough. They make a great soy latte and have just opened a new location in my old'hood in the city: Nieuwe Binnenweg - which has a lot of business, stores and interesting things happening now.
Located not too far from where I live, this corner-cafe has a great mix of sandwiches, proper tea time rituals and amazing sweets to tempt you. Old school chairs mixed with menus that have vintage black and white photos add to the allure of this (very rarely open!) spot.
If you're around in Rotterdam on a Sunday, you are more than likely to find me here, having my usual: hummus bagel with mint tea and the (perfectly salted) soup of the day. Always busy, always fresh, always a pleasure to have a taste of "NYC deli" in Rotterdam. Plus they have real shakshuka on the menu!
Hands-down the best place in Rotterdam for pizza. Authentic wood-burning ovens and Italians flipping the dough, this is a gem in the sea of pizza restaurants that haunt the city. Undeniably fun and chic, it's well worth the wait (nearly an hour every time we go!), as long as you're sipping wine or beer to pass the time (and thus forget the long wait...)
This place holds a special place in my heart as I went into labor soon after eating there! Delicious Ethiopian food on injeera will delight those in search of something a bit different, yet authentic. Never too spicy, I love the combination of the vegetarian set meal, fuul for appetizer, followed by a beer served in a gourd-cup.
Fresh, fresh, fresh is the name of this spot (actually, not true - the name means "to eat" in Italian) but everything tastes like the sun kissed it, which is a rarity in these neck of the woods. Not a menu in sight, but the staff are happy to help and accomodate even strange eating habits (like mine).
Places to Shop:
Besides being owned by the coolest Dutch duo around, this is also the place to shop if you've got a kiddo to buy for. Kids love all the delights at their height (Lil'Miss loves the cutlery and toys), while the parents have the pick of the litter with uber-cool brands for urban chic kiddos like yours. A must-visit.
Even if you have a black thumb like me, have a gander in this gorgeous shop that'll make you feel like it's Valentine's Day 365 days a year. Florist heaven, with some rare gem of knickknacks to catch your eye (and empty your pockets).
If you love all things recycled, repurposed and refashioned, then this shop is for you. A combination of an atelier and gallery for eco-minded artists, this is a great place to pick up something a bit offbeat for yourself or someone else. I personally love the unusual housewares and bags I didn't even know I needed!
This is a store that (interior decorating) dreams are made of - everything from the walls to the furniture to the nails in the floor will leave you drooling to re-do your apartment. What's great is the owner is totally down-to-earth and unassuming so no need to feel weird browsing time and time again before you make that big splurge you've been wanting to make for months (or years).
These streets are excellent for a bit of wandering, daydreaming, and of course - spending:
Have not been to Rotterdam yet but with these adresses I might give it a go...
Thank you!
Posted by: Pauletpaula | March 01, 2011 at 09:56 AM