Weekender: Rotterdam, The Netherlands

The Netherlands' second city has a very different feel to Amsterdam. A victim of World War II bombing, Rotterdam doesn't have the historical good looks of the Dutch capital. Instead it's a mix of modern architecture and thriving port city, with a population that likes to work hard and play hard.

Headline attraction
The highlight of the Rotterdam calendar is the North Sea Jazz festival, which takes place in July, when the whole city comes alive to the sound of bebop. In the huge Ahoy! stadium where most of the action takes place, you'll find jazz, blues, funk, soul, hip-hop and R’n’B, as well as a huge selection of Dutch beers and world food. The city streets are lined with buskers, and live music wafts from buzzing cafés. If you're not around for the festival, then head to Dizzy Jazzcafé to capture the experience.

Best of the rest
Rotterdam bills itself as the 'Architectural City of Europe' and it certainly has plenty to base this name on. From the quirky cube houses tilted on a 45-degree angle designed by architect Piet Bloom, to the 101m-high Euromast tower and the Erasmus Bridge bent over the Nieuwe River, there's always something to catch your eye.

On your bike
Make like a local and explore the city on a bike. There are several places where you can hire one, and it’s a great way to work off those Dutch beers. As this is the Netherlands there are dedicated bike lanes so you can cruise through the city without worrying about traffic – not advisable after a visit to a 'special café' though.

Try the local tipple
Rotterdam has a thriving club culture, with some of the funkiest night spots in Europe, and it draws a host of big-name DJs to its parties. Head to areas such as Witte de Withstraat, Nieuwe Binnenweg or Stadhuisplein to find the coolest bars in the city. And then there’s the legendary Fit For Free Dance Parade in August, when 40 trucks loaded with DJs and dancers tour the streets.

Museum musts
If you're after some culture, Museumpark (yep, the clue is in the name) is where you'll find Rotterdam's top art galleries. Be sure to visit the fabulous Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which is home to an art collection that includes works by Dutch masters such as Van Eyck, French painter Monet and his fellow Impressionists, and more contemporary artists and designers.

Need to know

When to go: This year's North Sea Jazz Festival takes place on July 10-12. The line-up includes Duffy, Herbie Hancock & Lang Lang, BB King and Jamie Cullum.

Getting there: Flights from £150

Money: Euro - Check out Currency Converter for the latest rates

Language: Dutch

Getting around: Jump on a retro tram or hire a bike

Accommodation: Hotels from £45