Thinking of moving from Germany to the Netherlands? Try Rotterdam

Thinking of leaving Germany and heading to the Netherlands? Erik de Jong from the moving company Holland Movers explains why you should consider moving to Rotterdam. 

Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, is a vibrant metropolis renowned for its modern architecture, rich history, and dynamic cultural scene. As you start your expat journey in Rotterdam, you'll find a city that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, offering a unique and inviting experience. 

You’ll soon start looking for a moving company, because this article is going to delve into the diverse facets that make living in Rotterdam a unique adventure.

Exploring the different neighbourhoods of Rotterdam

Rotterdam's urban landscape is large, made up of a mixture of diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own charm and character. Here are some of the key areas to explore:

The heart of the city - Centrum

The bustling city centre, known as Centrum, is a melting pot of cultures, offering a lively atmosphere with its myriad of shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. The iconic Markthal, a futuristic food market, and the Cube Houses are must-see attractions that epitomise Rotterdam's modern architectural prowess.

Unleash your creativity in Noord

For art enthusiasts, Noord is a haven of creativity and multiculturalism. The former industrial district has transformed into a thriving hub for artists and designers. Visit the Van Nelle Fabriek, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which showcases Rotterdam's architectural innovation.

The nearby Hofbogen is filled with cosy restaurants, cafes and independent shops. The centre of this multicultural area is the Zwart Janstraat that ends at the Noordplein (north square). On this square there is a bustling market providing fresh products and meals, representing a whole spectrum of different food cultures.

Historic nostalgia in Delfshaven

Having been extensively bombed during the Second World War, Rotterdam is a city with a lot of modern buildings, something that is uncommon elsewhere in the Netherlands. Delfshaven, however, with its historic canals and 17th-century architecture, provides a charming contrast to the city's contemporary vibe. The Pilgrim Fathers departed from here in 1620, making it a significant historical site. But it’s not just for the history buffs: Delfshaven is a haven of restaurants, cafes and bars, making it a great destination for drinking, dining and partying.  

The green oasis of Kralingen

Nature lovers will appreciate Kralingen, home to the expansive Kralingse Bos park and the serene Kralingse Plas lake. It's an ideal place for outdoor activities and relaxation. Kralingen is also home to some of Rotterdam’s scant classical architecture, and is a great place for strolling among the beautiful houses. It is also the home of the Erasmus university, one of the biggest and most important universities in the Netherlands.

Rotterdam’s identity as a port city

Rotterdam's port is one of the largest in the world. It is not just a hub of economic activity; it's a testament to the city's work ethic and resilience. This hardworking culture is deeply ingrained in Rotterdam’s identity, reflecting a commitment to innovation and progress.

The work ethic in Rotterdam is characterised by a pragmatic approach and a collaborative spirit. Punctuality, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility are highly valued traits in both professional and social settings. Embracing these values will help you integrate seamlessly into the work environment.

Rotterdam's football culture

Football is more than just a sport in Rotterdam; it's a way of life. The city boasts three major football clubs, each with its own unique identity:

Feyenoord: The pride of Rotterdam

Feyenoord is the heartbeat and biggest football club of Rotterdam. The club's passionate fanbase fills the De Kuip stadium, creating an electric atmosphere during matches. Attending a Feyenoord game is a rite of passage for any Rotterdammer, expat or local alike.

Sparta Rotterdam: Tradition and tenacity

Sparta, the city's oldest football club, brings a sense of tradition and tenacity to the field. Their matches at Het Kasteel, one of the oldest stadiums in the Netherlands, offer a unique and authentic football experience.

Excelsior: A small club with a big heart

While smaller in scale, Excelsior exudes charm and community spirit. Their matches at the Woudestein stadium provide an intimate setting, allowing fans to feel a deep connection with the team.

Practical tips for your Rotterdam adventure

As you prepare to make Rotterdam your home, here are some practical tips to ease your transition:

Use the metro system

Rotterdam has an extensive metro system, making it easy to move throughout the city, go to the beach, or even as far as The Hague.

Explore local cuisine

Indulge in Rotterdam's diverse culinary scene. From stroopwafels at the Markthal to Indonesian rijsttafel, the city offers a range of different cuisines that mirrors its cultural diversity.

Embrace cycling

Join the locals in embracing the cycling culture. Rotterdam's bike-friendly infrastructure makes it easy to navigate the city on two wheels, offering a healthy and efficient means of transportation.

Engage with the community

Rotterdam is a city that values community and collaboration. Attend local events, join clubs or expat meetups, and engage with the diverse community to forge meaningful connections.

A welcoming haven for expats

Rotterdam beckons with its blend of tradition, innovation, and a warm community spirit. From exploring diverse city parts to immersing yourself in football fervour and a hard working culture, Rotterdam offers a unique expat experience.

As you embark on this journey, embrace everything the city has to offer, and you'll find Rotterdam to be a welcoming haven that you're proud to call home.

Thinking of making the move to Rotterdam? Ease your transition by enlisting help from a moving company. Over the past two decades, Holland Movers has helped more than 80.000 customers with their removal, transport and relocation needs. Get in touch with the team for a quote today.