Category: Attractions

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Hafencity University subway station creates a music and light spectacle

Hafencity university subway station

Near the concert hall, there is very interesting architectural work, the Hafencity University subway station. In 2000, the master plan for one of the largest urban projects in Europe was accepted. HafenCity Hamburg is located on approximately 220 hectares at the place where the harbor was before. The neighborhood is formed with residential, office, cultural and recreational facilities. And today, the construction of this huge master plan continues. On January 11, 2007, the construction of one of the most famous symbols of this city – the Elbphilharmonie concert hall Hamburg has been completed.

Table Of Contents
  1. About Hafencity University subway station
  2. The most beautiful light show
  3. The mixture of classical music and a light spectacle

About Hafencity University subway station

By expanding the city, the U-Bahn subway system also increased. One of the central points of this new part of the city is HafenCity University Hamburg. This underground station is especially interesting for lighting with a total of 12 metal volumes that constantly change colors. The concept came from the use of steel, light, paint, and reflection. The volumes are the dimensions of the standard shipping container (6,5 m x 2,8 m x 2,8 m) and have a weight of 6 tons each.

The most beautiful light show

In each glass container is a total of 280 RGB LED lights. The lighting changes color in all the colors of the rainbow. Sometimes they change individually but more often all together. Also, they have the ability to signal the arrival or departure of the train. This project is a work of Raupach Architects from Munich, while Pfarré Lighting Design is responsible for lighting. The co-operation of these two offices was more than successful. This project was completed in November 2012.

The mixture of classical music and a light spectacle

In addition to the impressive light show, the Hafencity University subway station has a sound performance. Every weekend and holidays between 10 am and 6 pm you will enjoy classical music. The whole place looks extremely symmetrical, making it perfect for photographing. Probably during the visit you will not notice a large number of people waiting for the train because it is still working on extending the U4 subway line. Station Hafencity University is currently one before the last subway station.

In conclusion, it is Hamburg’s most beautiful subway station worth a visit. During my two visits to Hamburg, I visited this place both times. I really like it.

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The Elastic Perspective, architectural installation in the middle of nowhere

The Elastic Perspective was designed by NEXT architects with offices in Amsterdam and Beijing. This very interesting project is located in the suburb of Rotterdam, Carnisseland. It is part of the city with very good traffic links to the city center. But there is one big problem. The suburban area is located on the opposite side of a very important traffic artery and its residents don’t feel like a part of Rotterdam. Therefore, with this project, architects wanted to bring the city center visually much closer to this suburb.

Table Of Contents
  1. Inspired by the Morbius ring
  2. Corten steel
  3. The Elastic Perspective, a local art initiative

Inspired by the Morbius ring

The design consists of circular stairs leading visitors to a height that allows an unobstructed view of the horizon. In principle, these stairs have neither beginning nor end. The design is inspired by the Morbius ring. In general, Morbius is a surface with only one side and one border in a three-dimensional space. Accessing the top of stairs is possible only on one side. On the other side, the stairs become upside down. Consequently, the idea of a continuous path is ultimately impossible. Therefore, if visitors want to continue their journey they must turn and return to their suburb. This project gives residents of Carnisseland to still feel connected with the city, but in everyday life, they remain unconnected.

Corten steel

The Elastic perspective is located on a small grassy hill. From a pedestrian perspective, it looks like it hovers. The main material of the stairs is Corten, which is in full contrast to the grass below it. The idea of this material is to form a rust surface layer that protects the steel from further decay and eliminates the need for color.

The Elastic Perspective, a local art initiative

The project was as part of local art ordered by the local municipality of Carnisseland. During 2014 the cost of the whole installation was about 150,000 Euros.

Find out more information about the Elastic Perspective on:

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Unité d’Habitation Berlin, enjoy the aesthetics of modernist architecture

For anyone interested in a bit of architecture, this house justifies traveling to Berlin! Unité d’Habitation Berlin is a residential building dating back to 1958, located in Berlin, Germany. It is designed by Le Corbusier following its concept of Unité d’Habitation. Designed for the International Construction Exhibition in 1957, Corbusierhaus is the fourth largest building (530 apartments) and the only one outside France.

Table Of Contents
  1. Main information of Unité d'Habitation Berlin
  2. An absolutely impressive example of brutalism
  3. A must for every architecture fan
  4. Recommended Experiences

Main information of Unité d’Habitation Berlin

After the Second World War, there was a housing crisis in Europe. The building conceived as a symbol of the modernization of Germany after the war. Moreover, about 2000 people live in the building. One of the biggest features of the Unité d’Habitation building is the residential duplex units (2-story apartments). Because of the characteristic section with duplexes, corridors are located on each third floor. Although it looks like a full copy of the most famous building in Marseilles, the Berlin building differs by the height of housing units. The light height is 2.26 meters in Marseille, while in Berlin it is a little higher, 2.5 meters.

An absolutely impressive example of brutalism

The building was built in Béton brut (raw concrete). Also, it is part of the architectural style which we know today as Brutalism. On the ground floor, you will certainly notice the famous Le Corbusier’s Modular. The greatest achievement of the Unite d’Habitation is in the innovation value of apartment projects, technical solutions, and aesthetic achievements. If you want to learn more about the history of this building and the life of Le Corbusier, you can also book tours. The route price is approximately 5 euros while.

A must for every architecture fan

For all the lovers of architecture, I would also recommend visiting the Museum for Architectural Drawings. It is located in the Prenzlauer Berg district at the site of the former brewery Pfefferberg. This tiny museum has dozens of drawings and sketches by architects like Zaha Hadid, Frank Lloyd Wright, Adolf Loos, Norman Foster, etc. Find out more about the museum on the following link.

Discover the most beautiful and interesting sights around Berlin with Berlin Travel Guide Experiences. Find, compare, and book sightseeing tours, attractions, excursions, things to do, and fun activities.

For anyone seriously interested in architecture, the building will be something special. Find out more information about Unité d’Habitation Berlin on:

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Haus Schwarzenberg, a nice street art courtyard in the center of Berlin

One of the reasons why Berlin is so popular as a tourist destination is numerous graffiti that you will find on many buildings. Graffiti is actually a part of street art. Probably the most famous place for graffiti is East Side Gallery (find out more information here). If you are interested in this kind of art, you should definitely visit the backyard of the Haus Schwarzenberg.

Table Of Contents
  1. Arty courtyard of Haus Schwarzenberg
  2. Anne Frank Museum
  3. Fantastic vibrant atmosphere

Arty courtyard of Haus Schwarzenberg

Berlin is famous for its hundreds of beautiful and unique courtyards, but this one is really special. It is located in the Hackescher Markt district, just a few minutes’ walk from Alexander Platz. This part of the city is mostly known as a shopping destination for small and medium-sized designer shops. Schwarzenberg’s yard is a bit difficult to find from the street. It is located right next to Cafe Cinema (Facebook page). It is a legendary cafe in which directors, artists, bohemians and locals have met for years. The entrance is a bit dark, but when you pass, you will enter the yard with lots of graffiti.

Anne Frank Museum

In the yard of Haus Schwarzenberg, there are entrances to the Anne Frank Museum (link) and the Blindenwerkstatt Museum Otto Weidt. Although a very small exhibition space of the Anne Frank Museum, you can learn a lot about her life and her diary. When you reach the end of the yard, it’s worth the climb up the stairs to the shop on the first floor. You will find there a beautiful and inspiring selection of prints, books, and curiosities.

Fantastic vibrant atmosphere

During the summer months, Cinema Cafe has its own terrace in this yard. It often happens that there is no free table on the terrace (especially during the summer). That is why I would recommend that you avoid the afternoon hours. Don’t forget that graffiti changes every couple of months.

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Citadel Spandau, a place that returns you to the Middle Ages

If you want to go a little bit from the center of Berlin, one of the best options is to visit Spandau Altstadt (Old Town) with Citadel Spandau. Spandau is the westernmost of the twelve districts of Berlin and it is about 45 minutes away from the city center. The Citadel consists of 4 bastions that are symmetrically positioned and represent an ideal example of a 16th-century fort. This place will definitely bring you back to the Middle Ages!

Table Of Contents
  1. History of Citadel Spandau
  2. Citadel Today
  3. Interesting arts, exhibitions, and craft workshops
  4. Awesome view from the tower
  5. Citadel Spandau – fantastic concert venue

History of Citadel Spandau

In 1685, Swedish soldiers were the first to besiege the citadel. In 1806, during the Fall of Berlin, the citadel’s garrison surrendered to the French army under Napoleon. It was retaken by Prussian and Russian forces in 1813. In 1935 the citadel received a different purpose – the Military Laboratory. There were many scientists working on chemical weapons and testing on animals and humans. During World War II, the fortress remained intact thanks to the successful negotiation of the surrender of the citadel to Soviet soldiers. After the division of Berlin, the Citadel Spandau became a part of the British sector.

Citadel Today

Today this fortress has a completely different purpose. Most importantly, it has a function as a cultural center of that part of Berlin. Therefore, it’s not just a tourist attraction. Some of the contents that are inside are art and craft studies, military and historical exhibitions, art exhibitions, theatre puppet shows for children and their parents, ceramics studio and much more.

Interesting arts, exhibitions, and craft workshops

The whole complex consists of as many as 9 museums/galleries make a list can be found at the following link. I especially liked the city historical museum that explores the history of this area from the Middle Ages to modern times. The museum also shows Spandau’s production from ancient times until today and displays various crafts.

Awesome view from the tower

If you don’t have time to walk around the citadel I would recommend that you at least climb the tower. It offers beautiful views of Spandau and the city of Berlin. Also, Havel River, which floats around the Citadel of Spandau, gives beautiful reflections for good photographs.

Citadel Spandau – fantastic concert venue

Finally, I will point out that there is a very nice restaurant. It is decorated as a real medieval tavern with a barrel vault and a medieval menu. Also, Citadel offers a brilliant acoustic sound and venue for a concert during the summer months. In addition to the various events here, the citadel is sometimes a wedding venue.

Find out more information about Citadel Spandau on:

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Charlottenburg Palace, a place to learn about Kings of Prussia

One of the best attractions in Berlin is the Charlottenburg Palace. It’s located in the Charlottenburg district of Berlin and it is the largest palace in Berlin. It was built in the 17th century while the greatest damage occurred during the Second World War after which it was restored. The way how the palace is renovated is incredible! During 2017, I visited the palace several times. Some parts of the palace were under renovation and had scaffoldings outside.

Table Of Contents
  1. Berlin's largest palace
  2. History of Charlottenburg Palace
  3. The gardens are free
  4. Every year in front of the Charlottenburg Palace is a Christmas market

Berlin’s largest palace

Approaching the palace (except its size) you will also notice the horseman statue of Friedrich Wilhelm Brandenburg, created in 1696-1700. The Old Palace is a U-shaped two-story building with a dome at the top of the middle part. The entrance is located in the middle part where you will buy tickets and start a tour. We had an audio guide that was informative. You can turn off the voice and just read the text if you like. I was a little surprised by the price of the ticket, which is € 17, while you will have to pay another € 3 fee for photography.

History of Charlottenburg Palace

The original palace was designed as a summer residence for Sophie Charlotte. The construction started in 1695 and was built at stages. It contains numerous rooms with baroque decorations. It also includes a room called the Porcelain Cabinet, which contains thousands of porcelain items. Don’t miss visiting the room described as the “Eighth Miracle of the World”. The name of the room is Amber Room (Bernsteinzimmer), the room with walls made of ornamental amber. In general, through the tour, you will find so much information about the history of the royal family in Berlin, as well as a very good introduction to Prussian history and many links between European royal families.

The gardens are free

Although you have to pay for the entrance to the palace, the gardens are free and accessible to everyone throughout the year. First of all, walking you will notice the influence of the Versailles style. The garden was designed by Simeon Godeau in baroque style who had been influenced by André Le Nôtre, a garden designer in Versailles. Actually, the German equivalent of Versailles is a slightly smaller version but certainly not the poor relation. There are several other interesting points in the gardens including the mausoleum and the Belvedere.

Every year in front of the Charlottenburg Palace is a Christmas market

Every year during the advent, in front of the palace, there is a large beautiful and festive Christmas market. Moreover, I’m sure you will enjoy walking with hot mulled wine, listening to music playing Christmas songs and enjoying Currywurst. The market is large and not as crowded as those in the city center. Check out The ultimate guide for finding the best Berlin Christmas markets on the following link.

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Hotel New York, a piece of Rotterdam’s history

In 1993, the Hotel New York was officially opened after this facility was abandoned for up to 20 years. This building with two green towers is in the hearts of many Rotterdam people, just because of its rich history.

Table Of Contents
  1. History of Hotel New York
  2. Hotel New York today
  3. The restaurant has a wonderful ship-like atmosphere with decent food

History of Hotel New York

In 1873, a company was founded which started the transfer of immigrants to the United States. The first name was the Nederlandsch-Amerikaansche Stoomvaart-Maatschappij company, but in 1896 the company got its new name – Holland America Line. This company builds this building in 1901 to accommodate its offices. For many Europeans, this connection to Europe with America was the salvation of poverty and religious persecution. During the beginning of the century, tens of thousands of people left Europe every year. In 1971, after more than 100 years of passenger transport, this company left the city. It was one of the biggest stories in the history of this city.

Hotel New York today

In 1993, the New York Hotel was officially opened. This year (2018.), this hotel celebrates 25 years since its opening. The hotel has 72 rooms each unique in colour and style. One of the reasons why to stay here is a spectacular view of the city and the port in the distance. Although surrounded by tall skyscrapers, it still stands out today with its appearance.

The restaurant has a wonderful ship-like atmosphere with decent food

On the ground floor of the hotel, there is a café and a restaurant. What will attract you to stay here for some time is definitely the interior. Filled with naval elements with high ceilings and a lot of details creates a unique ambience. Of course, during the nice weather, you can go out on the huge terrace and enjoy the ambience and the view.

The price of one night’s room is 100 euros to more. But this spectacular place has received very high reviews. Some of them can be read on the following link.

Find out more information about Hotel New York in Rotterdam on:


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Delfshaven, quiet location with the original architecture of old Rotterdam

After bombing the city of Rotterdam during the Second World War the only part that has survived is the Delfshaven. The demolished parts of the city were filled with skyscrapers that had no connection with traditional Dutch architecture. That is why it is a real surprise that during a walk in the city you can accidentally find a channel like Delfshaven.

Table Of Contents
  1. Quiet location with the original architecture of old Rotterdam
  2. History of Delfshaven
  3. The Pilgrim Fathers' church and museum well worth visiting
  4. A huge contrast with the centre of Rotterdam

Quiet location with the original architecture of old Rotterdam

We visited this attraction during the tour of the city on bicycles (link). If you don’t have a bike to the location it is easy to reach with tram or metro (official website of public transport company). The day during our visit was rainy so the whole part was extremely quiet. I would recommend visiting you in the morning. Also, if you have the time, you have the opportunity to stop at one of the restaurants along the channel.

History of Delfshaven

This city was founded as a colony of the city of Delft. In 1795 Delftshaven became a free city, while in the late 19th century it became a part of Rotterdam. In the history of the Netherlands, Delftshaven was of great importance because the warehouses and important ports of the Dutch East India Company were located here. Also, here was born the famous Dutch Navy Officer and National Hero Piet Hein.

The Pilgrim Fathers’ church and museum well worth visiting

At the centre of the canal, there is a church called Old Church, better known as the Pilgrim Fathers Church. In 1620, the Pilgrim Fathers left the Netherlands and went to America. There is also a brewery, located in the former town hall of Delfshaven. At the end of the channel is a huge windmill De Distilleerketel. It was a windmill that used to produce traditional Dutch alcoholic beverages. Today you will be able to taste it as well as all local beers in the Pelgrim brewery.

A huge contrast with the centre of Rotterdam

The two sides of the channel with 2 historic bridges will surely be the perfect places to take photos for Instagram or any other social network. First of all, this part of the city is in full contrast with other parts of the city and will surely delight you with its ambience.

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Cube houses, one totally unusual concept of building designing!

Opposite the Markthal, a building that has become the symbol of Rotterdam, there is another attraction that you shouldn’t miss visiting. It’s a Cube house (Kubuswoningen) where each of the houses represents a tree and altogether a large forest. Because of its specific design, this house has become famous all over the world. This fantastic architectural realization was designed by the Dutch architect Piet Blom. 

Table Of Contents
  1. Experience the modern architecture of Rotterdam
  2. The Cube House museum
  3. Completely unique
  4. Most iconic buildings in the city
  5. Recommended Experiences

Experience the modern architecture of Rotterdam

The whole complex consists of a total of 38 interconnected houses. Each house has 3 floors with a total of 100 square meters. The entrance is located on the ground floor. On the first floor, there is a living room with a kitchen and a small bathroom. On the second floor are two bedrooms and a bathroom, while on the third or last there is a small space in the form of a triangular pyramid.

The Cube House museum

The reason why we stayed a long time in this place is taking photos. You will be able to make countless wonderful photos and by the way to visit one of the houses. After the tourists began to come in bigger numbers in this place, one of the residents decided to open his home for visitors. The ticket price is 3 euros while the working time is from 11:00 to 17:00. Also, some of the houses have been converted into a hostel. If you want to spend the night in one of these houses, you will find all the information on the Official Stayokay hostel website or Booking.com. 

Completely unique

When you come there and you are under the Cube houses you will certainly be wondering how to live in one. I would recommend that you visit this place during the morning hours when there are not so many tourists. Then you will probably have a much better experience. The reason is that the whole pedestrian level is very small and you will pass it very quickly.

Most iconic buildings in the city

Take a day to explore architecture in Rotterdam. In the last few decades, many new city icons have been designed. The Markthal, De Rotterdam, and Kunsthal were designed by Rem Koolhaas, one of the most accomplished Dutch architects of all time.  Do you know why we have a lot of masterpieces of architecture in Rotterdam? Let’s go back to the time of World War II. A total of 150 bombs of 50 kilograms and 158 bombs of 250 kilos were dropped in the center of the city. Approximately 2.6 kilometers square was almost leveled and more than 900 civilians were killed by the bombs.

Discover the most beautiful and interesting sights around Rotterdam with Rotterdam Travel Guide. Find, compare, and book sightseeing tours, attractions, excursions, things to do, and fun activities.

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Markthal Rotterdam, the most beautiful Market hall I’ve ever seen

If you visit Rotterdam, Markthal is an attraction you should not miss. The contemporary architectural design of the building attracts you by approaching this building, particularly painted ceilings. Although newly constructed in 2014, this building has become a symbol of the city. It is located in the very center of the city, near another popular attraction – Cube houses (more information find here). 

Table Of Contents
  1. Architecturally stunning
  2. Definitely Europe’s largest indoor market
  3. A market to tickle your food senses
  4. Martkthal – must do in Rotterdam
  5. Most iconic buildings in the city
  6. Recommended Experiences

Architecturally stunning

The shape of the building and the colorful ceiling of the marketplace creates a special ambiance. The specialty of this building is its function. While on the ground floor there is a market with various restaurants and shops, in the horseshoe that cover the entire area are flats. This fantastic architectural realization was designed by architects from the office MVRDV.

Definitely Europe’s largest indoor market

On the ceiling of the building, there are artworks on an area of 11,000 m2. Painted by the artist Arno Coenen who showed fresh products that you can buy at Martkhal. Here you will find fish, bread, vegetables, fruit, etc. The name of this piece of art is ‘Hoorn des Overvloeds’ (Horn of Plenty / Cornucopia). More pictures and information can be found here.

A market to tickle your food senses

When you enter the marketplace you will see rows of stalls of various offers. At each stall you can enjoy free tastings, giving you the opportunity to taste the food before buying. On the ground floor, you will find various shops selling food, cheese, fruit, drinks, fish, local desserts, Japanese food, Turkish food, Italian food, etc. In the basement, there are supermarkets Albert Heijn, Etos and Gall & Gall and a few more shops.

Martkthal – must do in Rotterdam

Simply, if you like food, you will love Markthal. We have often come here to have breakfast or have lunch during our stay in Rotterdam. It was difficult to go somewhere else when the food here was so perfect. I would recommend chocolate sweets that were delighted to us. Also, check Tripadvisor where this place got a very big rating with full delight reviews.

Most iconic buildings in the city

Take a day to explore architecture in Rotterdam. In the last few decades, many new city icons have been designed. The Markthal, De Rotterdam, and Kunsthal were designed by Rem Koolhaas, one of the most accomplished Dutch architects of all time.  Do you know why we have a lot of masterpieces of architecture in Rotterdam? Let’s go back to the time of World War II. A total of 150 bombs of 50 kilograms and 158 bombs of 250 kilos were dropped in the center of the city. Approximately 2.6 kilometers square was almost leveled and more than 900 civilians were killed by the bombs.

Discover the most beautiful and interesting sights around Rotterdam with Rotterdam Travel Guide Experiences. Find, compare, and book sightseeing tours, attractions, excursions, things to do, and fun activities.

Find out more information about Markthal in Rotterdam on:

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