Spotted by Locals
Rotterdam's architectural icons ensures that we rule on many lists of cool cities to visit.
There is always a building project going on here that keeps changing the city, with recently De Rotterdam building (Rem Koolhaas) next to the Erasmusbridge or the new Central Station building.
The Market Hall is a must see for architecture lovers and foodies. You'll find it opposite the cubic houses, the central Library (worth checking out inside) and next to Station Blaak.
Yes! It's the first indoor food valhalla in the Netherlands and right next to one of the largest outdoor markets of the Netherlands on Tuesdays and Saturdays for a complete shopping spree.
The Markthal was opened on the 1st of Oct. 2014 by the Queen and after 3 weeks it had attracted more than 1 million visitors.
The shape of the Market hall, by one of my favourite architects - MVRDV, is spectaculair. The curved roof covering the hall is made up of apartments and the building has a large underground parking where archaeological discoveries found during construction, are displayed around the staircases.
The inside of the curved ceiling is covered with an amazing colorful art piece 'Horn of Plenty' by Arno Coenen and his team.
Try to visit during hours when it's less busy and take the time to see what's on offer at the stalls, tick off your grocery list and take a snack/break at one of the rooftop terraces or dine at one of the restaurants.
Check RotterdamTours (Dutch only!) or Archiguides for guided tours.
Anne-Marie Ros
Spotted by Locals - Up-to-date tips by locals in 57 cities in Europe & North America.
