Rotterdam

As you would expect from such a modern city, Rotterdam isn't short on accomodation options. 

Opt for cheap-as-chips hostels, such as the Stayokay Rotterdam (

span

Rotterdam's food market (

Elsewhere, this truly modern city offers a range of retail therapy options, from vintage-inspired Very Cherry (

span

first car-free, pedentrianised shopping arcade in the world.

In recent years, Rotterdam's dining scene has flourished, and you're sure to find something you love here with such a variety of restaurants, markets, cafes and bars. 

The trendy Pannekoekstraat is home to Tante Nel, which offers hungry patrons hand cut fries and a menu of 13 different gins, while Bazar (

span

serves mouthwatering Middle Eastern dishes.

span

Quail jelly, Anjou pigeon with cherry sorbet and truffle macaroni with gold leaf.

North Sea Jazz Festival

July

Jazz fans will be delighted by Rotterdam's highly-respected North Sea Jazz Festival, where around a thousand musicians perform over three days - and many acts play at unofficial jams outside of the festival as well.

Wereldhavendagen

September

In celebration of September's World Port Days, visitors and locals alike are invited to take part in tours of normally off-limit areas, and visit nautical displays. Meanwhile, for one night only, the Night of the Cape invites revellers to dress up in sailor and pirate costumes for a crazy night of partying in Katendrecht.