Rotterdam

Description

Rotterdam, the second largest city in Netherlands is often known as the gateway to Europe due to its strategic location in the west of the country and its easy access to the rest of Europe. Home to one of the largest ports in the world, this port city is a great destination to visit as it keeps re-inventing itself at a rapid pace and offers visitors not only an impressive skyline; with amazing modern buildings and architecture, but also many attractions and activities to keep them coming back for more. Considered by many to be a must-visit destination, Rotterdam is a vibrant and modern city that has something for everyone. Muslim tourists will be delighted to know that they will be able to find Muslim-friendly facilities in Rotterdam. Both; Halal food and mosques in Rotterdam can be located quite easily.

The bustling metropolis city of Rotterdam, known by most for its large port, is now world famous for its impressive skyline of historic buildings and modern architecture. Visitors will find many interesting modern architectural masterpieces here, such as the iconic Cube Houses and the stunning Erasmus Bridge which are certainly worth a visit. They will also enjoy visiting the city’s historic buildings like the Witte Huis and the former Van Nelle Factory; both heritage sites, as well as the City Hall. The ever changing skyline which can be seen from afar is why Rotterdam is known as the City of Architecture. The Euromast Observation tower is another famous landmark that is a definite must-visit when in Rotterdam.

Those wanting to truly experience Rotterdam must pay a visit to its port. A harbor tour on water is the best way to experience this world class port. There are several tour options available for those wanting to see the city by water; a boat trip will be a fun way to see the port as well as to enjoy the skyline from a different angle.

Those visiting with family have many fun activities to experience and places to visit. Rotterdam is home to several interesting museums. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Kunsthal and Maritime Museum are just a few of the must-visit museums in the city.

Diergaarde Blijdorp is another must-visit when with kids. Said to be one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe, it offers visitors plenty to do and see. Miniworld Rotterdam, the largest indoor miniature world in Netherlands is another wonderful place to take the kids.

The main shopping areas in Rotterdam are Lijnbaan and Hoogstraat. Both are pedestrianized shopping streets. There are also several open air markets dotting the city. The inner city market may be a good one to visit.

Nearby Airports

The closest major airport to the city of Rotterdam is the Rotterdam The Hague Airport, located approximately 6 kilometres from the center of the city. It is the third largest airport in the Netherlands and it not only serves the city of Rotterdam but also The Hague and the surrounding cities. Travelers can use the taxi services available or the bus, to get to their destination in the city.

Halal Restaurants

Muslim travelers will find it easy to locate Halal food in Rotterdam as it is home to several Halal restaurants serving a variety of cuisines such as Turkish, Indian, Pakistani, Moroccan, Lebanese, American and much more. Gate of India, Meram, Madera House, Sofra Restaurant, Afghan Kebab House, Restaurant Tagine, Habibi, Zenne, Mastika, Sangam are just a few of the excellent Halal options available for diners looking to dine at Halal restaurants in Rotterdam. Muslim guests should however confirm the Halal status of these restaurants before dining, and they also need to be aware that most of these restaurants may serve alcohol.  

Mosques

Visitors looking for prayer facilities will be able to find a couple of masjids in Rotterdam. Essalam Mosque is one such mosque where visitors together with the residents may offer their prayers when necessary. This mosque is the largest in Netherlands and is also one of the largest in Western Europe. Another mosque in Rotterdam visitors can use is the Mevlana Mosque. While at one of the above mentioned mosques, visitors can enquire about other prayer facilities in Rotterdam.

Things to Do and See in Rotterdam

• Euromast
•  Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
•  Erasmus Bridge
•   Diergaarde Blijdorp
•  SS Rotterdam
•  Kunsthal
•  Maritime Museum Rotterdam
•  Museumpark
•  Van Nelle Factory
•  Oceanium
•  Natural History Museum Rotterdam
•  Witte Huis
•  Cube Houses