Those seeking culture won’t be disappointed during their visit to Rotterdam. In 2001, Rotterdam which is a designation given by the European Union to a city for a period of one year. It gives the city a chance to show off its cultural prowess.

Therefore, visitors to Rotterdam will be able to taste some of what gave Rotterdam that designation. In Rotterdam, you might take in a performance of the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, which can boast its own world-famous conductor, Valery Gergiev.

The Rotterdam Academy of Fine Arts is also a popular spot for visitors as is the ahoy-complex in the south’s south area. It’s used for concerts, tennis tournaments, exhibitions and other activities. Check local schedules when you arrive to see if your plans coincide with an interesting activity there.

Other possible cultural activities include January’s film festival, June’s international poetry festival and the Valery Gergiev festival in September. In July each year, the city highlights its diverse cultures with the Summer Carnival, a 3-day party that brings in visitors from around the world.

Although Rotterdam’s reputation is of a more workhorse city than Amsterdam, many believe it holds its own with the larger Amsterdam with regard to its many cultural offerings.