Amsterdam to Rotterdam train

The Dutch capital of Amsterdam is one of Europe's most eclectic cities with so much to explore. As a hub of culture, history, and architecture, as well as sex, drugs, and all things rock and roll, no amount of time in this vibrant city will ever be enough. Of course, this makes it one of the best cities to visit after graduation.

To learn about one of the most significant parts of modern history, visit the Anne Frank House, a humbling testament to this remarkable girl's unwavering optimism and resilience during the horrors of World War II. The Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are also well worth a visit to discover artworks by Dutch masters.

For a look into contemporary life in Amsterdam, visit De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets), a micro-neighborhood brimming with independent shops, artisan food eateries, and cozy cafes where you can experience an authentic Dutch Coffeeshop. Taking an iconic canal tour is another must, allowing you to experience the city while relaxing on the water. Since Amsterdam is known for its cycling culture, bring your bike or rent one during your stay to get around the city as the locals do.

Travel to Amsterdam is easy, with its connections to the rest of Europe via a vast network of motorways, utilized by FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus services. Amsterdam’s many connections are why it’s the starting point for our budget tour of the Netherlands. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is also a major international travel hub, and the Central Station is one of the largest rail terminals in Europe.

With origins as a small fishing village in the 13th century, Rotterdam is now the largest port in Europe. The city's unique architecture attracts visitors from all over the world, with its many angular and glass buildings standing out among much of Europe's old-world architectural style. Rotterdam is worth visiting on its own, or travel on an entire tour of 8 Dutch cities.

The exciting contemporary feel of Rotterdam extends into its art and design scene, home to many modern art galleries and Groos, a vast and eclectic concept store selling pieces by Rotterdam-based designers. For a more traditional art museum, visit the Museum van Boijmans Beuningen, one of Europe's finest art galleries displaying works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Magritte.

Rotterdam is also home to a growing food scene, and visitors can experience this in the impressive Markthal. With over 100 stalls and restaurants, the Markthal is the best place for visitors to sample authentic local cuisine.

Getting to Rotterdam is simple, whether by sea, air, rail, or road. Several airlines fly to Rotterdam The Hague Airport, and a convenient shuttle bus offers frequent transport to the city. Rotterdam's Centraal Station also provides international train services across Europe, and FlixBus offers convenient travel from various locations throughout the continent. In addition, you can take a ferry to Rotterdam from Hull in the UK and experience the city's famous port first-hand.