I’ve never slept in the capsule before so we decided to experiment on one night and we were not disappointed. Although it looked very small in the photos, the room’s functionality, as well as the whole hotel, impressed us. CityHub Rotterdam is located in one of the most beautiful streets in Rotterdam, Witte de Withstraat. This location looks perfect because the street is full of cafes and young people who are looking for hotels like this one.
Our first impression was that the price was reasonable for accommodation in the city centre. It was around 20 € per person per night. Check-in and check out is very simple. In the entrance hall, you will find a couple of tablets to check-in/check-out. There you will activate a bracelet that will serve as the key to your room and elevator. The concept of hotel rooms as a capsule is absolutely stunning. Actually, these small futuristic rooms are perfect for short stays in Rotterdam.
CityHub Rotterdam has also its own app where you will be able to (after downloading and logging in) to change the colour and light intensity of your room. With the application, you can also ask the city hosts any questions you have. You can also connect your mobile phone via Bluetooth to play your own music.
Rituals toiletries rather than the standard shower gel and shampoo
Toilets and bathrooms are more than clean, which surprised me considering that the bathroom is shared. What made me particularly surprised is that for hand and shampoo soaps they use Rituals products rather than the standard shower gel and shampoos you get in most hotels. There are also towels in the bathroom while bathrobes are in your room.
So if you like this concept of sleep mode and want to save some money for it, this place is perfect for you. Find out more information about CityHub Rotterdam on:
The New York Times has awarded Rotterdam as a city that must be visited in 2015. One of the reasons is biking because in this city the bicycle is the main means of transport. Most cycling trails are separated from the road, and the entire Netherlands has over 20,000 kilometers of cycling trails. Since we came to this city for only one day we decided to visit all the attractions by bike. So let’s start the tour: Rotterdam on bike.
First: Renting a bike and starting the route Rotterdam on bike
Renting a bike in this city is not a problem. An interesting fact is that there is an underground garage for as many as 3800 bicycles. We rent your bikes at the Zwann Bikes bicycle shop (link), located 200m from the Central Station. The whole day’s rent is 12 euros plus a 100 euro deposit which you will get back when you return the bicycle.
Rotterdam Centraal Station
Since we were renting bikes nearby, this was the starting point for sightseeing. For cyclists, the most interesting is definitely a bicycle tunnel that you will find on the western end of the terminal.
Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen)
After just 5 minutes of cycling, you will reach one of the most famous public areas in Rotterdam. His name is Binnenrotte Square where are located some of the most famous attractions of this city. The first is Cube Houses. It consists of a total of 38 interconnected houses that symbolizing trees and altogether with a large forest. Because of its specific design, this house has become famous all over the world. About this topic, we have already written an article that you can find here.
Markthal
Right across the street, there is a market that has become so popular. Simply you must visit it. Apart from its shape, the building is also interesting for the functions it has. What are these functions and what’s under the wonderful ceiling find here.
Erasmus and Willemsbrug Bridge
We continued on the southern part of Rotterdam. To cross the river you will have to cross one of these two bridges. Going over Erasmus Bridge was a bigger experience, which is also the second-largest bridge in the Netherlands. We believe you will have to stop several times to take many wonderful photos. Willemsbrug Bridge has a dominant red color and will easily notice it.
Hotel New York
Hotel New York is a special hotel because it is located in the former Holland-America Line board building. There were boats on the way to America during the last century. The hotel was opened in 1993. Read here the history of this building and its meaning for this city.
Rotterdam Floating Pavillon
These are three transparent domes floating in the Rijnhaven port in Rotterdam. This building was very interesting to me as an architect. The question I asked myself was how to build buildings on the water and transport them lightly. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit it from inside, so we used it as a place where we made great photos of skyscrapers in the background.
Maastunnel
Finally, we return to the north side of town, which separates the river Maas. This time we didn’t do this by crossing the bridge. We did this bike ride through the bicycle tunnel. The tunnel is especially interesting because it has a separate infrastructure for pedestrians and bicycles in relation to motorized traffic. The tunnel is 585 meters long and the deepest point of tunnel is 20 meters. Rotterdam on bike
Delfshaven
Our last station in Rotterdam. After bombing the city of Rotterdam during the Second World War, the only part that survived is the Delfshaven. All those skyscrapers, all that glitter of the modern Rotterdam’s disappear here. The famous Dutch hero Piet Hein is also connected to this place. The whole story of Delftshafen you can find here.
Schiedam – our last stop of the route Rotterdam on bike
All of these attractions we visited with a bike lasted for over 3 hours. Really impressive since we didn’t rush at all. Given that much time left until the end of the day, we decided to visit another interesting city that is connected with Rotterdam. It is about Schiedam, a town known for its historical center with canals and windmills. What you can see in Schiedam read here. Also, check out here our review of the Chinese restaurant where we decided to eat.
Lastly, we believe that if you are in better form (unlike us) you have time to visit the city of Delft. While for those more courageous, the city of Den Haag is not far away. And here ends our tour: Rotterdam on bike.
During our two-day visit to Rotterdam (read the full article here), we also visited the Mockamore Rotterdam coffee shop. One of the first questions is why we just picked that cafe. Actually, my girlfriend wanted to go shopping in the city center where her favorite fashion stores are located. Since we became tired after a few hours of shopping, there was a time to rest. In search of the best place to have a good coffee, we came to the coffee bar Mockamore Rotterdam.
The first thing you’ll notice when you enter this cafe is the big inscription on the wall “Let’s fake your birthday and treat yourself”. This inscription is a trademark of all Mokamore cafes. Except in Rotterdam, they are still in Utrecht, Almere, Rosada, Luik, and Antwerp. The biggest advantage of the café in Rotterdam was the huge double space, as well as interesting ground floor chairs. Additionally, if you want to use a laptop then this space is perfect for you because the sockets are available in many places. The same goes for newspapers that you can find in multiple locations.
Mockamore Rotterdam menu
Mockamore is above all a pleasant place to enjoy a cup of coffee that is available in 9 versions. Seating areas except the ground floor are located on the first floor and on the terrace. However, here you will have the opportunity to have breakfast because the offer includes pancakes, sandwiches, waffles, and various pastries. For sweet lovers, there are cakes and their offer is changed every day. I would recommend you to visit the official website where the full offer was written in detail.
Perfect place for sitting and relaxing
The biggest disadvantage of this Caffe bar is definitely the prices. 3.55 euros for one espresso seems to be a bit too much. Like the fact that you have to order food and everything else in the bar. However, the service was quick and discreet and the staff was very friendly and profitable.
Find out more information about Mockamore Rotterdam on:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Find out more information about Cube houses in Rotterdam on:
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).
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:
The Caffe Booon is located on the north side of the Central Station in Rotterdam, only 2-3 minutes walking distance away. The reason why we came to this place is very good reviews on Tripadvisor and Facebook. Many people commented that this is the best coffee in Rotterdam. So, we have decided to check.
The street where Caffe Booon is located is pretty quiet for that part of town. Attending the coffee bar you will first notice the large windows that bring a large amount of interior light and provide you with a beautiful view from inside to the street life. The interior has a very relaxed atmosphere as the biggest advantage of this place. With a nice seating, you will feel like at home. During good weather, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the fresh air. The terrace is nice as it is sheltered from traffic and weather.
Caffe Booon Menu
The Caffe Booon is considered as the perfect place for a relaxed conversation with good coffee. However, here you will have the opportunity to eat something. On the menu are various breakfast pastries such as croissants and premium sandwiches. Also, with gluten-free bread and good vegetarian options, this place is great for a casual lunch. The standard beverage offerings are enriched with Italian wine and tea. We recommend smoothie with the mango that delighted us.
Working time till 19:00h
Of course, I have to mention the extremely kind staff. As well as the fact that we didn’t have any problems with talking in English. Unfortunately, the cafe closes already at 7 o’clock, so be careful when coming. However, I believe that it will not bother you to visit this perfect place where you will surely come back during your future visit to Rotterdam.
Where to eat & drink in Rotterdam?
The impact of international culture on Rotterdam’s food is enormous. You can taste the Dutch classics, but you also get to try Surinamese and Moroccan specialties. For your food tasting, visit Markthal and enjoy Dutch food (Dutch cheese, kroket, stroopwafel, herring, etc.).
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 Caffe Booon in Rotterdam on:
