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Markthal Rotterdam

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Markthal Rotterdam (Netherlands)

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The Markthal in Rotterdam is an architectural masterpiece that opened in 2014 and received worldwide acclaim. Designed by the architectural firm MVRDV, the building uniquely combines a food hall with residential living, featuring 228 apartments that form a massive horseshoe-shaped arch over the marketplace. The interior of the arch is adorned with the monumental artwork 'Horn of Plenty' by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam, displaying colorful fruits, flowers, and insects across 11,000 square meters. Inside the hall, there are nearly 100 stalls selling fresh food from around the globe, various restaurants, and a supermarket in the basement. During construction, significant archaeological finds dating back to the 10th century were discovered, which are now on display in a permanent exhibition called 'De Tijdtrap' within the parking garage. The building is considered a symbol of Rotterdam's innovative reconstruction and has become one of the most visited landmarks in the Netherlands. The glass facades at the ends are secured by a flexible steel-cable net, designed to withstand severe North Sea storms. The Markthal is not just a place for shopping but an urban experience center that harmoniously blends modern architecture, art, and culinary culture.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C446913161818161285
Rain mm776655385662788770798185

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Markthal is freely accessible as it is a public market hall. You can enter anytime to enjoy the atmosphere of the impressive building.
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Typical hours
The market hall is typically open daily from morning until evening; the exact hours of individual stalls vary. Residential areas have separate entrances.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the Markthal without flash. The spectacular arch construction and colorful food stalls provide great subjects.
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Time needed
Allow about one to two hours for visiting the Markthal. If you dine at one of the restaurants, your stay may be longer.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Cube Houses, just a few minutes' walk away. The Rotterdam port is also within walking distance.
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Getting there
Markthal is centrally located in Rotterdam and easily reached by tram, bus, or metro. It is about a 15-minute walk from Rotterdam Central Station.
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Insider tip
Visit Markthal early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. Be sure to try the fresh herring or other local specialties.

Geography

Coordinates
51.91750, 4.48420

Facts

  • Opened in October 2014 by Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.
  • The ceiling artwork is the largest digital print in the world at 11,000 m².
  • The structure integrates 228 apartments into its curved walls.
  • Features 96 fresh food stalls and 20 retail and hospitality units.
  • Underground parking garage has 1,200 spaces across four levels.
  • Showcases archaeological finds from the 10th century found during digging.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

RotterdamRotterdam<1 km · NWExplore →
Erasmus BridgeErasmus Bridge2 km · SExplore →
Diergaarde BlijdorpDiergaarde Blijdorp3 km · NWExplore →
Arboretum TrompenburgArboretum Trompenburg3 km · SEExplore →
Bergse PlasBergse Plas4 km · NExplore →
HillegersbergHillegersberg4 km · NExplore →
Rotterdam The Hague AirportRotterdam The Hague Airport5 km · NWExplore →
SchiedamSchiedam6 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Markthal Rotterdam (10)

Kids Marina

Kids Marina is a harbor for children in Rotterdam with electric boats.

Regentessebrug

Regentessebrug is a bridge in Rotterdam, crossing the Nieuwe Maas.

Geertruida

Geertruida is a historic ship in Rotterdam, used as a museum or restaurant.

Het lage licht

Het lage licht is a lighthouse in Rotterdam, marking the harbor entrance.

Maritime Museum🏛 museum

Maritime Museum in Rotterdam showcases the city's maritime history.

Soetenbrug

Soetenbrug is a bridge in Rotterdam, spanning a harbor basin.

Het Steiger

Het Steiger is a church building in Rotterdam, used for worship services.

Havenmuseum🏛 museum

Havenmuseum is a museum in the Netherlands, illustrating port development.

Grote Wijnbrug

Grote Wijnbrug is a bridge in Rotterdam, crossing the Oude Haven.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Markthal?
The combination of a marketplace and apartments.
What is the artwork on the ceiling called?
It is called 'Horn of Plenty' by Arno Coenen.
What can you buy there?
Fresh food, delicacies, and street food.
Are there parking spaces?
Yes, there is a large underground parking garage directly beneath.
When is the Markthal open?
Daily from 10:00 AM to 08:00 PM, Sundays from 12:00 PM.
Markthal Rotterdam: where is it located?
Markthal Rotterdam is located in South Holland, Netherlands.
Markthal Rotterdam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kids Marina, Regentessebrug, Rib Experience.
Markthal Rotterdam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Markthal Rotterdam: why is it worth visiting?
The Markthal in Rotterdam is an architectural masterpiece that opened in 2014 and received worldwide acclaim.
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