When it comes to partying Dutch-style, forget about Amsterdam, real clubbers and those in the know head to the Netherlands second city, Rotterdam.

When it comes to electronic music and the world of dance, Rotterdam has an enviable reputation. Some of the hottest Dutch and international DJs of the last decade have entertained the crowds at some legendary parties: think Paul Van Dyk, Ferry Corsten and more. Their input, as well as the annual orgy of dance music that is the Rotterdam Love Parade, has helped transform Rotterdam into a hedonistic heaven, with all of the same delights on offer as Amsterdam, but none of the debauched undertones and bad British behaviour.

Nightlife

Rotterdam has the youngest population in the Netherlands and if you like clubbing, particularly of the techno/electro variety then there are few better places to go in Europe.

The city’s clubs and bars have a young, edgy, unique vibe about them and experimentation with different styles and sounds seems to be foremost in organiser’s minds; you won’t find the soulless chain pubs and clubs of your typical UK high street here, thankfully.

If nightlife with a difference appeals, then Worm, located in the historic East India Company building at Delfshaven – the historic port area - will appeal. Check out www.wormweb.nl to find out more.

Back in the city centre, other popular club nights include Catwalk (Weena Zuid 33). The club, located down an old tunnel underneath the city centre specialises in the best new electro from some of Rotterdam’s hottest DJs. The place doesn’t really get going until around 2am and doesn’t stop until day-break. www.catwalkrotterdam.com

Also worth checking out is the Bootleg DJ Café (Mauritsweg 33), something of a Rotterdam institution, acting as a meeting place for producers and DJs and a magnet for new talent. www.bootlegdjcafe.com

Off_Corso, located in an old cinema building in the centre of town, is also worth checking out. Young artists show their productions whilst trendy urbanites dance until the sun comes up. Visit: www.vvv.rotterdam.nl

And don’t forget, if you love clubbing, then the FFWD Rotterdam Dance Parade held each August is an absolute must. www.ffwdfitforfreedanceparade.nl

Essentials

Getting There by Plane

Direct flights to Rotterdam are available via Transavia.com departing from Standsted daily. Prices from £40 one-way including taxes. www.transavia.com.

Rotterdam is easily reachable from Amsterdam however, with a journey time from Schiphol Airport of less than 50 minutes. Flights to Amsterdam are available from: easyJet.com, Ba.com and KLM.

Transfer from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: From Amsterdam Airport Schiphol you can take the train to Rotterdam Central Station, direct trains depart every 30 minutes with a journey time of 47 minutes. Cost of one way ticket is 10,20

Rotterdam by Boat

From the UK you can reach Rotterdam easily by boat. In Hook of Holland, the Stena Line from Harwich docks; travellers can be at Rotterdam Central Station within half an hour. P&O Northsea Ferries from Hull arrives on the Maasvlakte, where a direct bus to Rotterdam is ready and waiting for foot passengers. Once in Rotterdam, the Fast Ferry brings you to the surrounding 'Drecht' cities. A water taxi offers you the opportunity to travel easily within the cityscape seen from the water.

Rotterdam Tourist Information: website: www.rotterdam.info

Visit Holland: www.holland.com/uk

Where to Stay

Bilderberg Parkhotel, a delightful hotel situated in the centre of the city, close to all amenities. Features a fantastic buffet breakfast. www.parkhotelrotterdam.nl

Hilton Rotterdam: Located off Hofplein square, the Hilton Rotterdam hotel is at the heart of the city's business and shopping areas. www.rotterdam.hilton.com

One for romantics and eccentrics alike in the middle of this city is this quirky hotel with themed rooms. Choose from Middle Eastern, South American and African. Check out the website to choose which room you like best – keep and eye out for the monster wooden bath! www.hotelbazar.nl