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10 unique things about Rotterdam

Kavana Desai
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10 unique things about Rotterdam

A few years ago, I moved to Rotterdam to start my master’s degree at Erasmus University. As I come closer to ending my journey here (bar a few submissions), I can’t help but remember all the things I found unique about Rotterdam. 

As soon as I lugged my suitcases off the train from Schiphol Airport and made my way to the trams, I could sense this would be the beginning of an arduous adventure in this Dutch city.

As I got on the tram, the attendant must’ve noticed my bags and my look of fascination as I was taking in the sights of the city and picked up a conversation with me.

He got so excited when I told him that this was my first day and I was here to stay awhile. With fervour and enthusiasm, he pointed out the amazing street art and the buildings and gave me a bit of history along the way.

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Rotterdam is unlike any other Dutch city. Image: Depositphotos

Like all Rotterdammers I’ve had the pleasure of knowing, he started with the history of the bombing, sort of trying to explain why the city looks and feels so different from other Dutch cities. He swore by Rotterdam’s eclectic nature and good city vibes.

As time went on, I wasn’t able to find a place I liked to call home, but I did feel fortunate to have had the experience of living in Rotterdam.

If I could do my journey all over again, I wouldn’t pick any other city — because it is truly like no other European place I’ve ever been to.

So, without further ado, here are 10 unique things about Rotterdam!

1. The red lights around Rotterdam

When you’re walking around, you rarely ever look down at the street’s path unless you have something stuck underneath your shoe or if you want to avoid eye contact with strangers.

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One unique thing about Rotterdam is the red lights that you find everywhere. Image: Smial/Wikimedia Commons/CC1.0

But when you’re walking around the city of Rotterdam, if you happen to look down, you might be able to find a small red light with flames on it. There are 400 of these spread across the city, and they are used to mark the line where the city was bombed during WWII.

2. Rotterdam is the birthplace of the Kapsalon

So why are the names of Kapsalon — the fast food — and your local hairdressing salon called the same? A product of Rotterdammer diversity, the popular dish was invented by — you guessed it — a hairdresser.

It combines Cape Verdian hairdresser Nathaniël Gomes’s favourite ingredients into one disposable metal takeaway container. It has a layer of patat (or frietjes?), topped with a whole lot of shoarma meat, melted Gouda cheese, and finished off with some salad, garlic sauce, and sambal.

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Did you know that Rotterdam was the birthplace of the Kapsalon? Image: Amin/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0

The hairdresser frequented a kebab shop in Delfshaven, El Aviva, and asked for this to be made for him. Other people started taking notice, and they wanted to jump on the calorie wagon as well.

It quickly grew in popularity and can now be found in almost every snack bar and kebab shop in the Netherlands and Belgium.

3. Napoleon Bonaparte stayed in Rotterdam

In September 1811, Napoleon Bonaparte visited the Kingdom of Holland. Not the Netherlands, but that was what the French client state of the French Empire in the Netherlands was called back then.

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Napoleon and his wife stayed in the Schielandshuis in Rotterdam in 1811. Image: F.Eveleens/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

His plan was to control every seaport so that he could go to war with England. During his visit to strategise, he, of course, ended up in Rotterdam with his wife in the Schielandshuis.

4. Erasmus is a Rotterdam native!

The scholarships and the university (yes, the university is different from the Erasmus+ program) get their name from Desiderius Erasmus or Erasmus of Rotterdam — a Dutch philosopher, humanist, and former Catholic Priest.

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A portrait of Desiderius Erasmus. Image: Hans Holbein/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain

He is said to be one of the greatest philosophers of the Northern Renaissance and the first person ever to edit the New Testament. He was born in Rotterdam in 1466 but lived there very briefly. He moved around Europe, teaching, lecturing, and collaborating with the thinkers of his time.

5. Rotterdam has the largest port in Europe

Rotterdam is famously known to many people outside of the city as the place where the largest port in Europe resides. As port cities go, it has a well-equipped and connected port with a long-standing history of maritime activities.

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The Rotterdam port has a surface area of over 126 square kilometres. Image: Depositphotos

There’s even an open and free-for-all part of the Maritime Museum where you can go into old boats and explore how they look from the inside. These boats are docked at the Oude Haven (Old Harbour), a nice place to get a biertje and gaze at the Willemsbrug by the water.

6. Rotterdam is home to 174 nationalities

Rotterdam is home to many different ethnicities, with only 50% of the populous being Dutch. It attracts a huge international community as it is the base for large multinationals and world-renowned universities like Erasmus University, Willem de Kooning Academy, and Codarts.

READ MORE | Where to live in Rotterdam: the ultimate guide to Rotterdam’s neighbourhoods

It has its own China Town at West-Kruiskade, restaurants offering cuisines from all around the world, festivals dedicated to its growing international populace, and ease of integration as almost everyone speaks English.

7. Rotterdam is filled with modern and surreal architecture

Is an article about unique things about Rotterdam complete without mentioning its architecture? Post-WWII, this city had to start rebuilding from almost nothing.

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The Cube Houses are just one example of Rotterdam’s unique architecture. Image: Pixabay

This means that outside of the historical Delfshaven, you won’t find many quintessentially Dutch buildings. Instead, you’ll find unique cube houses, colourful buildings, and modern architecture adorning the city.

8. It’s the only city in the Netherlands to have a skyline

With its modern architecture comes the title of being the only city in the Netherlands to have an actual skyline. It is home to 352 high-rises, the tallest (in the Netherlands and the Benelux) being the Zalmhaven at 203 metres.

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An aerial view of The Netherlands’ only skyline. Image: Pixabay

You will find many of these skyscrapers along the river Maas in the Kop van Zuid district. It’s also called the ‘Manhatten on the Maas’ because of all these high-rises constantly coming up. The skyline of Rotterdam is certainly a sight to behold!

9. Het Witte Huis was once the tallest skyscraper in Europe

Did you know that Rotterdam had the tallest building in Europe in 1897? It’s the office building of Het Witte Huis. You wouldn’t know if you looked at it today, though.

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The first skyscraper in Europe. Image: Racingfreak/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

Just over 43 metres high with 10 floors, this building built in the Art Nouveau style has seen many people come and go from the city of Rotterdam. You can see this also from the Oude Haven or walk by it and admire its architecture from up close.

10. Rotterdam’s Markthal has the largest artwork in the world

The Markthal of Rotterdam is an iconic piece of architecture for the city of Rotterdam. It’s dome-shaped, with offices and apartments in the building itself and shops and stores on the inside of the dome.

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Markthal is not just a place to go for great food. It’s also a place to admire incredible artwork. Image: Pixabay

But the most interesting bit of trivia about the Markthal in Rotterdam is that its roof has the largest piece of art in the world.

It’s the brainchild of Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam, and it’s a whopping 11,000 metres squared. It’s also known as the Sistine Chapel of Rotterdam!

You will see fruits, flowers, and insects inside the building, home to many restaurants, grocery stores, and bars.

Some stores give out free samples, so walk around and try the best cheeses, stroopwafels, olives, fruit salads, and more!

There are many more unique things about Rotterdam that are just waiting to be discovered. But besides that, Rotterdam is also bursting with hidden places, nature spots, and day trips you can take around the city!

Do you have any favourite spots? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

‘Strong evidence’ against Joost Klein in Eurovision incident: here’s what we know so far

Lyna Meyrer 🇱🇺
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‘Strong evidence’ against Joost Klein in Eurovision incident: here’s what we know so far

Everyone was shocked when Dutch contestant Joost Klein was disqualified from the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest. In light of harsh criticism, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has now issued a statement confirming that it fully supports its earlier decision.

The EBU says the decision was made unanimously and quickly, which raises the question of what really happened in Malmö and how serious the yet unspecified “incident” was.

As Swedish media and police have revealed more information, let’s have a look at what we know so far. 👇

An accelerated police procedure

Swedish police have told local media that they are currently investigating the incident in an accelerated procedure.

This sped-up procedure is necessary because there is “strong evidence” against Klein. However, as the NOS states, Swedish police have not specified what this evidence could be.

A decision on whether Joost will be prosecuted is expected to be made by the beginning of June.

Contradicting statements

Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS, who managed Joost’s participation in the contest, issued a statement on Sunday arguing that Joost’s disqualification was disproportionate.

Their version of events goes as follows:

The EBU has now responded by saying that AVROTROS’s version of the story does not match statements from witnesses, the police, and EBU staff.

Fans around the world were disappointed by Joost’s disqualification. Dutch satirical show Even Tot Hier created a parody of Europapa summarising the general consensus of the Dutch audience:

Joost returned to the Netherlands on Monday on a private plane. Whether he will be prosecuted remains to be seen.

What do you think about Joost’s disqualification from the Eurovision Song Contest? Share your thoughts in the comments.

UvA to close for two days as it can’t guarantee safety of staff and students

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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UvA to close for two days as it can’t guarantee safety of staff and students

Students of the Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA) will not have any classes for the next two days due to the ongoing Pro-Palestine protests.

According to the university’s website, its buildings will remain closed on both Tuesday and Wednesday as the university “cannot now take responsibility for the safety of everyone on campus.”

A change in atmosphere

The university made this decision following yesterday’s demonstrations on campus, during which a “walk-out” by staff and students took place.

According to the university, this part of the demonstration took place in an “orderly manner due to the intention of the participants and the organisers.”

However, once the “walk-out” was complete, the university claims “the atmosphere immediately changed” as people began to arrive dressed in black and wearing face coverings.

Translation: It wouldn’t surprise me if there are agitators who deliberately want to put the demonstration in a bad light.

These protesters then began to occupy university buildings on Roeterseiland. As part of the occupation, entrances and exits, including emergency exits, were barricaded.

And this is where the problem lies for the university.

Cannot take responsibility for student and staff’s safety

The university has announced that with this change in atmosphere, it cannot guarantee the safety of staff and students.

“For this reason, there will be no teaching at the UvA on Tuesday and Wednesday,” it announces.

READ MORE | Amsterdam’s pro-Palestine protests: in videos

The university also cites the destruction caused by the occupation of university buildings as part of the reasoning behind the decision.

The university does not expect its staff to move their teaching online, given the lack of notice. Instead, it simply points its students to the Canvas portal to get updates on their lectures.

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What costs do you pay when buying a house in the Netherlands?

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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What costs do you pay when buying a house in the Netherlands?

Signing the dotted line and buying a house in the Netherlands involves a number of costs aside from the purchase price.

So where can you and can’t you save money?  

In this article, we will cover the costs that you really can’t avoid when buying your own Dutch home.  

In the Netherlands, these costs are referred to as the kosten koper, meaning buyers’ costs. In total, you can expect to spend approximately 4% and 6% of the purchasing price of the home on these costs — let’s break them down.

Pssst! It’s worth noting that many of the mortgage-related costs involved in buying a house in the Netherlands are tax deductible.

Mortgage advisor fees 

A mortgage advisor will guide you through the process of securing a Dutch mortgage, covering everything from your borrowing power to which bank you should choose. 

photo-of-mortgage-advisor-sitting-with-couple-advising-about-what-costs-they-have-to-pay-when-buying-a-house-in-Netherlands
Mortgage advisors will help you navigate the entire process. Image: Freepik

Some mortgage advisors (hypotheekadviseur) charge a portion of their fees right after their first meeting with you, others may require you to sign a binding contract. 

However, there are also advisors who won’t expect payment until after you have successfully found yourself a home. 

What will I pay? This varies from expert to expert, but you can expect to pay between €1,500 and €3,000.

Appraisal fees 

A taxateur is an appraiser who must carry out an inspection of the house you’re interested in buying. 

READ MORE | Which experts can save you money when buying a house in the Netherlands?

The taxateur will check factors such as the location, size, and value of the house and deliver a taxatie rapport (valuation report). 

The appraisal ensures that the bank is comfortable loaning you the money for your mortgage.

What will I pay? The cost of a taxateur depends on several factors, such as the hours worked. You can expect to pay between €400 and €1000. 

Building inspector fees

Going hand in hand with the taxatie rapport is the bouwkundige keuring (building inspection report). 

This report is carried out by a building inspector (structurele beoordelaar) and will assess the structural integrity of the house. 

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A building inspection report is recommended. Image: Freepik

While a structural inspection is not mandatory, it is often done before making an offer to assist in determining the right price.

Some Dutch mortgage providers even require you to have this report carried out in order to secure a mortgage with them.

What will I pay? The cost of a bouwkundige keuring depends on the extent of the workload. However, it generally stands anywhere between €200 and €400. 

Notary fees 

The notary (notaris) handles both the deed of ownership and the mortgage deed. They also settle all payments for all parties involved. 

READ MORE | Is now the time to buy a house in the Netherlands? Here’s what the mortgage experts say

For non-Dutch-speaking clients, the notary also hires a registered interpreter to ensure that everyone involved understands the content of the deeds.

What will I pay? Depending on the range of required services, a notaris in the Netherlands can cost between €700 and €2000. 

Real estate agent fees

While real estate agents (makelaar) are not technically mandatory, many house hunters require these experts in order to be successful. 

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In the Netherlands, a real estate agent will usually cost between 1% or 2% of the purchase price. Image: Freepik

Dutch real estate agents have access to new houses on the market before they hit sites such as Funda, which greatly increases your chance of becoming a homeowner. 

What will I pay? Usually a commission of between 1% and 2% of the purchasing price (including VAT). You should establish their rate before you buy a home. 

Transfer tax

When buying a home in the Netherlands, you must pay transfer tax (overdrachtsbelasting). This is a government tax that applies when you become owner of “immovable property” — like a house.

However, if you’re aged between 18 and 35 and buying a house worth less than €510,000 in 2024, congratulations! You can get an exemption if you meet the conditions.

What will I pay? These taxes are 2% of the property’s price.

NHG application fee

In the Netherlands, you can take out a mortgage with the Nationale Hypotheek Garantie (National Mortgage Guarantee) for houses worth up to €435,000. This offers protection against any remaining debt if you can’t pay your mortgage due to unforeseen circumstances.

READ MORE | What is the Dutch National Mortgage Guarantee (NHG)?

What will I pay? In 2024, the fee to apply for a NHG is 0.6% of the mortgage amount. 

Bank guarantee fee

Generally when buying a house in the Netherlands, you’ll need to front 10% of the purchase price while you wait for your mortgage.

A bank can provide it for you instead through a bank guarantee (bankgarantie) — but you’ll need to pay for the pleasure.

What will I pay? A bank guarantee will usually cost you 1% of the amount guaranteed.

Are you ready to become a homeowner in the Netherlands? Tell us about your journey in the comments below!

The first LEGO flower shop in the world has just opened in the Netherlands

Lottie Gale 🇬🇧
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The first LEGO flower shop in the world has just opened in the Netherlands

Strolling along Dutch streets, you’re often greeted with a sweet floral scent. Now, you have to thank not just the markets but also the world’s first LEGO florists, made especially for adults.

LEGO’s botanical collection, including rose and wildflower bunches for around €59.99 each, has been delighting kids and adults alike for years now.

‘The Botanical’ in Utrecht is the first pop-up shop in the world selling their lifelike bouquets, the AD reports.

Scan for a bunch

If you fancy some spontaneous sunflowers or last-minute lilies, you won’t be cycling home with a bouquet right away.

READ MORE | Here’s how technology changed the iconic way the Dutch sell their flowers

To buy the flowers, customers first scan a QR code, which takes them to Bol’s online store to order.

Thomas Feuerstacke from Bol.com, wants people to enjoy their purchase in anticipation and save them walking through the city with a package.

But isn’t balancing bouquets while biking the cutest sight in the Netherlands? 🤭🚲

Big kids

These plastic petals are intended for a “more mature audience”, adds Vincent Andries from LEGO.

Think floral playground: you can take in a variety of LEGO creations, snap some special flowery pics and even get building there yourself. 👷‍♀️

In 2022, the toy company found 86% of adults said playing with LEGO helped them relax after work and 89% said it kept them mentally sharp.

READ MORE | 5 places to visit in the Netherlands for flower lovers

So, it’s no surprise the shop on the Lijnmarkt in Utrecht wants to create a fun space that’s not just for kids.

But these LEGO-lovers better act fast — The Botanical is just a pop-up and will close its doors again on May 18.

What do you think of this global LEGO first? Would you pay it a visit? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Northern lights visible across Dutch skies in rare appearance this weekend

Katrien Nivera 🇵🇭
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Northern lights visible across Dutch skies in rare appearance this weekend

Many lucky people had a chance to see the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, this weekend — and not just in their usual places.

The lights were visible to the naked eye across the entirety of the Netherlands thanks to a strong solar storm, reports the NOS.

Missed the aurora? Take a look at last weekend’s snaps:

How do the northern lights work?

Auroras occur when charged particles from solar flares pass through the Earth’s atmosphere and collide with each other, usually in the north and south poles where the magnetic field is strongest.

Energy is released, creating colourful patterns in the sky that we see as the northern lights. ✨

The aurora borealis is usually seen further north in Scandinavia, but it can be visible in the Netherlands a few days a year.

Want to spot the aurora? Go to an area with little to no light pollution on a dark night with a clear sky — and enjoy the sights!

Did you see the Northern Lights this weekend? Have you seen them before? Tell us in a comment below!

BREAKING: Dutch contestant Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision Song Contest

Katrien Nivera 🇵🇭
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BREAKING: Dutch contestant Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision Song Contest

Dutch artist Joost Klein has officially been disqualified from performing at the Eurovision Song Contest final in Malmö, Sweden, following a “backstage incident”.

A complaint was made to the Swedish police after Klein allegedly threatened a female member of the production crew, reports the NOS.

This is the first occasion in which a contestant has been disqualified from performing after the start of the five-day event.

Absent for rehearsals and jury show

Joost Klein was suddenly absent during the Friday rehearsal for the grand finale, and he was not allowed to participate in the jury show on Friday evening when the professional jury awards points to the artists.

Swedish police confirmed on Saturday that they had opened an investigation into the Dutch contestant and that the case was being passed on to the Swedish prosecution, reports the BBC.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has since confirmed that Klein will not be allowed to return to perform at the grand finale.

Many have come to his defence, including Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS, arguing that his disqualification is disproportionate.

A favourite entry

Joost Klein was a favourite to win Eurovision 2024 with his pro-Europe techno song “Europapa”.

The 26-year-old had dedicated the song to his father, who he lost to cancer when he was 12. Klein promised his father he would one day make it to the Eurovision stage.

Today’s grand final will go forward with 25 entries instead of 26.

Will you be watching the Eurovision Song Contest finale tonight? Tell us in the comments!

Amsterdam’s pro-Palestine protests: in videos

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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0
Amsterdam’s pro-Palestine protests: in videos

At the beginning of this week, things began to change on Amsterdam’s Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA) campus. Students gathered to peacefully protest against the war in Gaza, calling on UvA to cut its ties with Israel.

As we come to the end of this week, however, things have escalated with students creating barricades against police, arrests made, and blows dealt.

READ MORE | Pro-Palestine ‘protest camp’ at University of Amsterdam ends in violence and 125 arrests

This is what it looks like

Throughout the week, protesters have been clear about what they want from the university.

Students began occupying some of UvA’s buildings and built barricades.

@emshot1 Morning 7:00 #uva #amsterdam #press #fyp ♬ son original – FYP 🤍🇲🇺
@emshot1 #amsterdam #uva #universityofamsterdam ♬ original sound – ryan.

However, on Wednesday, the situation escalated when the University called in the police due to “insecurity in and around the occupied buildings”, according to UvA.

The police action included the use of a bulldozer to take down the barricades.

Some protesters were determined not to be caught.

@shomaesa protest today at the University of Amsterdam 🍉 #protest #universityprotest #solidarity #amsterdam ♬ الصوت الأصلي – الصَمِت"𓁹

The police then started dismantling the barricades as protesters chanted.

Things also escalated between protesters and police, with blows being dealt.

Last night, the protesters arranged a sit-in in Het Spui against the University’s decision to use police force on protesters.

The sit-in ended with two minutes of silence for those killed in Gaza.

This afternoon, the Amsterdam Council Committee will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the UvA protests and the actions of the police.

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Amsterdam crowned most popular destination for European city breaks in 2024

Liana Risseeuw 🇱🇰
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0
Amsterdam crowned most popular destination for European city breaks in 2024

Whether it’s the chocolate-glazed, sprinkle-laden stroopwafels that attract tourists or the city’s vibrant, historic heart — Amsterdam has royally earned its crown as one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations. 🇳🇱✨

Just how popular, you may ask? Well, according to leading vacation rental company Holidu, Amsterdam has already netted a whopping 91,200 Google searches in 2024.

After analysing Google search data from the past year, Holidu’s travel experts compiled a ranking of the most popular European cities.

Based on the number of Google hits each city received, the ranking placed Amsterdam solidly at number one! 🏆

Ireland, France, and Spain were also fan-favourites

Hot on Amsterdam’s heels were Dublin (Ireland) with 64,000 hits and Paris (France) with 61,000.

However, whilst the Netherlands may have snatched the crown, Spain enjoyed the highest number of cities in the top 20 — with Barcelona, Malaga, Madrid, and Valencia all making an appearance.

View-of-Barcelona-from-damous-wall-in-park-guell-reached-by-international-train-from-the-netherlands
Despite coming in at fourth place, Barcelona nabbed a very respectable 54,800 hits! Image: Depositphotos

Amsterdam was definitely in great company — but don’t just take our word for it!

Here’s a look at the top ten European city breaks, according to Holidu:

RankCityGoogle searches (on average)
1Amsterdam, Netherlands91,200
2Dublin, Ireland64,000
3Paris, France61,000
4Barcelona, Spain54,800
5Rome, Italy41,400
6Malaga, Spain33,960
7Prague, Czech Republic30,320
8Budapest, Hungary30,190
9Lisbon, Portugal27,900
10Berlin, Germany25,500

Just missing out on a spot in the top ten were other city break favourites, Milan and Copenhagen (coming in at numbers 11 and 12, respectively).

How many of these popular city break destinations have you visited? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below!

Road trips from the Netherlands to Luxembourg

Lyna Meyrer 🇱🇺
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4
Road trips from the Netherlands to Luxembourg

Looking to plan a road trip from the Netherlands this summer? Luxembourg isn’t too far, and it’s so worth it!

When speaking of Luxembourg, people tend to think: banks, rain, and money. While those are all (partly) true, there is much more to the tiny country.

From the Netherlands, Luxembourg is the ideal destination for a weekend road trip: it’s not too far away but has lots to offer (including cheap gas!).

And because it’s such a small country, you can get to any attraction really swiftly once you’ve crossed the border — especially if you have a handy door-to-door transfer.

Once there, these are the must-visit attractions. Ready? Let’s go! 🇱🇺

Live your fairy-tale dreams at Vianden Castle

As you slowly approach this castle through the tiny twists and turns on the road in the north of Luxembourg, you are met with the typical fairy-tale view: a beautiful castle on the top of a very steep hill, surrounded by nothingness. 🏰

Built between the 11th and 14th centuries, Vianden Castle is today one of the most important historical monuments in Europe.

The entrance fee for Vianden Castle is not high, and there are lots of displays to see inside. It’s worth it just to see the views from the castle windows!

Tip: Get a LuxembourgCard! It grants you admission to Vianden Castle and free or discounted admission to more than 90 other places in Luxembourg. It even lets you rent bikes for free at some bike rental shops!

Visiting-Vianden-Castle-on-your-Luxembourg-road-trip-is-a-must
Visiting Vianden Castle on your Luxembourg road trip is a must! Image: Depositphotos

Become one with nature in the Mullerthal

If you live in the Netherlands, chances are high that it’s been a while since you’ve seen a mountain (or even a hill). ⛰️

Well, lucky for you, Luxembourg’s Mullerthal region has got you covered! Known as “Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland,” the Mullerthal is located in the East of the country and boasts beautiful landscapes. The perfect road trip stop for some fresh air!

READ MORE | Why is the Netherlands so flat? The complete explanation

Here, you’ll find dense forests crisscrossed by rushing streams and waterfalls, towering sandstone formations, mysterious caves and a great variety of plants and trees. 🌳

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Before the Mullerthal region became easily accessible in 1814, it was nicknamed “The Land of the Wolves.” Image: Depositphotos

With 112 kilometres of hiking trails, the Mullerthal is any hiker’s dream, and is best explored on foot. 🥾

Visit the medieval town of Echternach

Located within the Mullerthal region is the small Luxembourgish town of Echternach, which is best known for its Benedictine Abbey and Basilica. 

The town was founded in the 7th century, and like the rest of Luxembourg, Echternach is not only pretty, but it also oozes history. Its cobbled streets are lined with a mix of historical buildings, small shops, cafés and restaurants.

History buff? You’ve come to the right place!

READ MORE | Road trips from the Netherlands to Belgium: the perfect getaway

A 20-minute walk from the town square of Echternach will take you to a beautiful artificial lake. Although you can’t swim in the lake, it’s a great spot for a picnic or a walk, and you can even rent paddle boats to paddle across the lake.

Tip: Don’t want to spend your hard-earned money on gas? Opt for public transport, it’s free in all of Luxembourg! (Take notes, Netherlands 👀)

Road-tripping to Larochette Castle

Larochette Castle is another beautiful castle in Luxembourg that also offers gorgeous views and has a typical fairy-tale look. It’s basically the site of old castle ruins, but there is still enough left of it to imagine how it would have looked back in the day. 👸

It is found in the picturesque village of Larochette, in the east of Luxembourg, and was originally built in the 11th century.

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Look at this gorgeous fort! Image: Depositphotos

Cool down at the Upper Sûre Lake

If you happen to be in Luxembourg on a hot summer day, the Upper Sûre Lake is a must!

Covering an area of 380 hectares, it’s not only impressive to look at, but also satisfies the drinking water demands for a big part of the Grand Duchy. (And that’s not only an indication of the small size of Luxembourg but also of the lake’s super clean water!)

Upper Sûre Lake is a superb area for leisure. Outside the protected area, you can practice a variety of water sports, such as swimming, sailing, diving, windsurfing and canoeing. 🛶

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Who knew Luxembourg had this much beautiful nature? Image: Lyna Meyrer/Supplied

Luxembourg City: road trip to the capital

The capital of Luxembourg, also called Luxembourg (…not confusing at all), is the home of many great sights — all of which are worth a visit.

READ MORE | Roadtrips from the Netherlands to Germany: a guide to your summer getaways

Image of Luxembourg city on a road trip from the Netherlands. We see a bridge over the water, surrounded by trees and houses.
Luxembourg city is a historical delight AND a shopper’s paradise! Image: Depositphotos

What’s special about Luxembourg city is its division into the upper and lower city — which also marks the division between the modern “New Town” and the historic “Old Town.” It will surprise you on every level (literally)! 😉

The upper city is great for shopping and eating, while the lower city is great to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so we highly recommend taking your time to explore its many little alleyways and local cafés.

Tip: For the best views, take the Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator down to the Old Town

Go to Le Chemin de la Corniche

If you wish to take in the Old Town without actually making your way down there, you should take a stroll along the Chemin de la Corniche.

This walkway has the best views of Luxembourg city. It overlooks the historic parts of the city and is perfect to take your holiday snaps. It’s not called ‘the most beautiful balcony of Europe’ for no reason!

Notre-Dame Cathedral

This is a medieval catholic cathedral, and it’s beautiful both inside and out. It’s free to go in, and it’s never too busy either, so it’s a peaceful place to visit to get a break from the hustle and bustle of Luxembourg city’s streets.

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It’s not the Notre Dame in Paris, but equally pretty! Image: Depositphotos

The Notre Dame is located right across from the “Golden Lady” — one of the city’s main tourist attractions. It’s a monument dedicated to the Luxembourgish soldiers who volunteered during the two World Wars and in the Korean War.

Visit the Grand Ducal Palace

Luxembourg is the only remaining Grand Duchy in the world — so of course, you have to visit the Grand Ducal Palace!

This is the official (but not principal) residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, where he performs most of his duties. There are guided tours there in the summer season, which we can highly recommend.

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An architect’s dream. Image: Depositphotos

Have you done a road trip from the Netherlands to Luxembourg? What were your favourite places to visit? Let us know in the comments!

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