Rotterdam Centraal Station

Overview

Rotterdam Centraal Station is a dramatic modernist transport hub reopened in 2014, featuring a pointed stainless-steel entrance canopy that has become an icon of the city. Designed by a trio of firms: Benthem Crouwel, MVSA, and West 8.

Highlights

• Pointed Canopy: The sharp, angular entrance roof in polished steel points toward the city centre like an arrow.
• Clock Letters: The original 1957 station's "Centraal Station" letter clock was preserved and reinstalled.
• Sustainable Design: Solar panels on the roof and natural ventilation systems throughout.

History

The original 1957 station replaced a pre-war building destroyed in the 1940 Blitz. After decades of service, it was demolished in 2008 and the current station opened in March 2014 after a €320 million rebuild.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Admire the entrance canopy from Stationsplein — it's designed to be photographed head-on.
• Tip 2: The station connects direct high-speed trains to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.