The Rotterdam Metro stands as the cornerstone of efficient and modern urban transportation in the Netherlands, serving the vibrant city of Rotterdam since its opening in 1968. The first line, called the Noord-Zuidlijn (North-South Line), opened in 1968 and ran from Centraal Station to Zuidplein, crossing the Nieuwe Maas river in a tunnel. It was the first metro system to open in the Netherlands. At that time it was one of the shortest metro lines in the world with a length of only 5.9 km (3.7 mi). Operated by RET (Rotterdam Electric Tram), the metro system is intricately woven into the city's wider public transport infrastructure, allowing smooth transfers between metro lines, trams, buses and even water taxis. This integration reinforces Rotterdam's dedication to providing a comprehensive and interconnected transit system for its diverse population.