Top 10 tourist attractions in Rotterdam

　　Rotterdam is the second largest city in the Netherlands. It is located in the province of South Holland in the west of the Netherlands. It is one of the largest ports in Europe and is known as the "Gateway to Europe". It connects five continents: Europe, America, Asia, Africa and Australia. Rotterdam combines modernity and antiquity. After World War II, the city underwent large-scale restoration and reconstruction, retaining many modern buildings newly built after the war. Next, Travel Diary will sort out the top ten tourist attractions in Rotterdam for everyone. Let's take a look.

　　1. Rotterdam Centraal

　　Rotterdam Central Station is one of the most iconic buildings in Rotterdam and the best way to reach Rotterdam by train, with about 110,000 passengers passing through here every day to catch the bus, tram, subway or train. Rotterdam Central Station was renovated in 2014 and its unique design highlights are the glass curtain wall on the front and the futuristic stainless steel roof that towers above the building.

　　2. Markthal

　　Markthall Rotterdam is a residential and office building with a market hall in Rotterdam, which was inaugurated by Queen Maxima of the Netherlands on 1 October 2014. In addition to the large market hall, the complex features 228 apartments, 4,600 m2 of retail space, 1,600 m2 of catering facilities and a 4-level underground parking garage for more than 1,200 cars. Markthall Rotterdam is also the largest indoor market in the Netherlands, and the building's architectural style is striking, with apartments flanked by horseshoe arches.

　　3. Euromast

　　The Euromast is 185 meters high and offers spectacular views of Rotterdam and its surroundings. The Euromast lift takes visitors to a height of 100 meters in just 30 seconds, where there is an observation deck and a bistro restaurant. The Euroscope revolving lift takes people to a height of 185 meters for a 360-degree view, from the iconic skyline to the bustling port.

　　4. ss Rotterdam

　　The ss Rotterdam is the former flagship of Holland America Line and has a rich history. The ship was built in Rotterdam and returned to its home port in 2008 after many voyages. Since then, it has been permanently docked in the port of Maashafen and is used as a hotel, restaurant and event venue. The terrace on the deck includes a small swimming pool and offers unique views of the city. The general areas of the ship, including the restaurant, are open to the public. Visitors can explore this historic ship, which has been carefully restored while retaining many of its original features.

　　5. Delfshaven

　　One of Rotterdam's oldest districts, Delfharm is a place that escaped bombing during World War II and is located on the western edge of the city on the banks of the New Meuse River. Originally the port for the nearby city of Delft and the starting point for Puritan pioneers in 1620, it attracts visitors with its gabled houses, historic ships, and quayside shops and restaurants.

　　6. Cube Houses

　　The Cube Houses are a unique architectural wonder in Rotterdam, designed by Dutch architect Piet Blom and known for their unique cubic structure and tilted positioning. Built in the late 1970s as part of Rotterdam's urban renewal project after World War II, the Cube Houses showcase innovative and modern design. The cubes are tilted at a 45-degree angle, presenting a completely abstract look and a very cool space.

　　7. Erasmus Bridge

　　The 800-meter-long Erasmus Bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas River, connecting the north and south of Rotterdam. The bridge is part of the redevelopment of the old port area and was specifically designed as an iconic building to give the area a strong presence. The bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas River over the Rhine and is the second longest bridge in the Netherlands, a work of architectural art.

　　8. Rotterdam Zoo

　　Considered one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands, Rotterdam Zoo was founded in 1857 and is a great place for a family day out. Rotterdam Zoo is well known for its successful conservation and breeding programs, and a visit to the zoo gives you the opportunity to see animals from all over the world, from African pygmy hippos to Asian lions, from North American polar bears to Australian swamp kangaroos, and there is even an aquarium and butterfly garden within the zoo.

　　9. Kinderdijk Windmills

　　The Kinderdijk Windmills are located on the Nord River in the village of Kinderdijk, about 23 km east of Rotterdam. This place is one of the most visited places in the Netherlands. It is also known as the Kinderdijk. There are 19 windmills built in the 18th century here. It is also known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Netherlands is famous for its windmills, and the most fascinating place to admire the traditional landmarks of the Netherlands is the Kinderdijk Windmills.

　　10. Rotterdam Old Harbor

　　One of Rotterdam's trendiest corners, Old Harbour Rotterdam was the city's first port, dating back to 1350. Today, this vibrant area on the north bank of the Meuse River is a mix of historic and modern architecture - including Peter Blom's famous Cube Houses - where visitors can experience the best of the city's dining and nightlife.