Rotterdam, Netherlands' second largest city, is located in the South West of the country. It takes its name from 'Rotte' an ancient settlement situated at the end of a stream dating back to the 13th century, and means rotten or boggy. Its counterpart, 'dam', is owed to the location and large port culture of the city. The port is the second largest in Europe and is one of the main reasons for its reputation of a busy and bustling commerce capital, often dubbed, the 'gateway to Europe'. For this reason business trips as well as holidays are common - stay at Campanile ROTTERDAM OOST hotel [link to relevant hotel page] for your business break and have easy access to conference facilities whilst in reach of the city centre.

Rotterdam has a history of change and rebuild: damaged in WWII, it was gradually reconstructed throughout the years. The city saw a cultural revamp in the 1980s with new architecture and cityscape planning, bringing new life to the city. The Rhine and Meuse rivers allow access to Europe's trade and transport. And Rotterdam's many universities add a lively contemporary atmosphere to this Dutch city.

A two-day break:

Two days is enough to experience the buzz of Rotterdam's busy culture. On day one discover the Wereldmuseum (the World Museum), a stunning building housing over 1800 pieces of sculpture and art. On selected times exhibitions are held and for something to eat, try their impressive cafe terrace. In the afternoon, ride along the Meuse River on the city's Splashtours. On day two, go shopping in the Lijnbaan and Beursplein, Rotterdam's main shopping area. Or try, Nieuwemarkt and Pannekoekstraat for smaller quirky shopping. In the evening, head to De Tuin restaurant and dine along the water - music and performances are on hand on selected evenings.

A week-long stay:

With so much to do and see, you can get a real flavour of the varied nature of Rotterdam's historic and contemporary culture. With great architecture, old and new, the sights are second to none: Beursgebouw's, (World Trade Center), impressive modernist design encapsulates the city as an exciting point of trade - it is now open for public viewing on the ground floor. If architecture with history is what you want, explore the 17th century, Schielandshuis, said to be Rotterdam's only building to survive WWII bombing: a museum of the city's history and cafe make this a great day out! Partyschip Jorina, a ship-based workshop for business or leisure offers a once in a lifetime excursion! And for nightlife check out the Hollywood Music Hall packed with house and electro music, whilst Club Vie guarantees stylish waterfront views.

A family holiday:

There are lots to do for families too: Plaswijckpark is an amazing family park packed with animals, a water park, English gardens, gnomes and more! And Miniworld Rotterdam will keep you and your children amused as it showcases miniature models of city buildings, trains and workshops to see how it all works. For a treat, set sail on the Pannenkoekenboot, literally meaning 'Pancake boat', as it glides past the city while you eat all the pancakes you can imagine and more.

Transport:

A business destination, Rotterdam, holds good links to the main airport, Rotterdam The Hague Airport; fly from or to many European capital cities and neighbouring Dutch destinations. Choose Campanile ROTTERDAM WEST - Vlaardingen [link to relevant hotel page] hotel to stay nearby travel links and easily commute to city centre. Rotterdam Central Station offers high-speed links to surrounding capital and main cities - use Thalys, Fyra (within Netherlands) or Eurostar, if transferring from Brussels. And P&O and Stena Line provide ferry rides from the UK. While moving about the city, use any number of public transports: Metro, bus, tram and bikes. Watertaxis and Waterbusses are also available! Alternatively hire a car from the airport or city centre.

Gastronomy:

Best known for Dutch pancakes, Rotterdam has lots to offer with a varied number of city districts serving up their own culinary delights. Dine by the waterfront on any of the restaurant boats - De Machinist for lunch and Humphrey's, for dinner recommended. Or head to the city's China Town for a true taste of the orient!

Events:

With a range of events happening all year round, Rotterdam has lots to get involved with whenever you visit. Zomercarnaval, (Summer Carnival), in late-July is a Brazilian inspired extravaganza full of dancing, music and impressive costumes! Catch the World Port Days in early September: it is a more traditional homage to the city's port life. Mid-September hosts 24 Hours of Culture - a celebration of performing arts, music, film and literature spread across the city: a great way to explore!

Interesting fact:

Something you might not know about Rotterdam is that it developed the first metro system to open to the public in the Netherlands; proving this city a historical point of revolution!

Useful Links:

stenaline.co.uk
poferries.com
en.rotterdam.info
thalys.com
nshispeed.nl