Where Amsterdam shows off the Netherlands' history, Rotterdam shows off its future. Rebuilt after extensive damage in the Second World War, the city leaned into bold, modern architecture rather than recreating what was lost - and the result is one of Europe's most striking skylines.
The Markthal, a horseshoe-shaped food hall beneath a vaulted glass ceiling, is the city's most photographed spot, closely followed by the angular Cube Houses nearby. The Erasmus Bridge and the Euromast both offer excellent views back over the skyline, while the Maritime Museum covers the port that made the city's fortune. Witte de Withstraat rounds things out with the city's best restaurants and nightlife.
Rotterdam is about 40 minutes from Amsterdam by train, making it an easy full or half-day trip depending on how deep you want to go.
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