Gaze up at the towering white pylon of the Erasmus Bridge, which stands taller than many of the city’s highest skyscrapers. It is one of many hypermodern structures built in the city over the past few decades, helping to cement Rotterdam’s reputation for innovative, cutting-edge architecture. Enjoy superb views of the city skyline from the bridge. The vistas are particularly lovely in the late afternoon when the sun sets over the river.
The Erasmus Bridge spans 2,624 feet (800 meters) across the Maas River, connecting southern and northern Rotterdam. It was designed by Dutch architect Ben Van Berkel and has been one of Rotterdam’s most recognizable features since it was completed in 1996.The most striking feature of the bridge is the 456-foot (139-meter) tall pylon that is fastened in place by 32 stays. It is this imposing yet elegant structure that has earned the bridge its nickname “The Swan.”
To see the Erasmus Bridge from a different perspective, make your way to the various waterfront cafés and restaurants on either side of the river. Enjoy a coffee with the bridge as your backdrop or an evening meal with the bridge lit up in front of you. You can also experience some of the city’s best museums and shopping centers, a few of which are set in the shadow of this stunning bridge.
In recent years the bridge has been the site of the Red Bull Air Race and the starting point of the Tour de France. Dance events and movie premieres are also frequently held here. Be sure to ask at one of the city information centers about any events that might be taking place during your stay.
As the bridge is a public site, you are free to walk across it at any time. There are excellent public transport links that will drop you at either end.
