Markthal is the first covered market and a prominent landmark of the Netherlands. The market building is created on the designs by reputed architecture firm MVRDV. It features an extensive fresh food market, restaurants, and supermarket on the ground floor covered with an arched ceiling. The colorful interior and impressive glass arches are awe-inspiring. Guided tours of this notable sight are available for the visitors.
Fenix Food Factory situated on Veerlaan by the Nieuwe Maas river offers a place for the foodies in the neighborhood to stop by for relishing fresh and delectable culinary delights. The outdoor patio at this restaurant offers the perfect setting for those who would like to dine while enjoying the view of the shimmering waters of the river. Fenix Food Factory features a shop selling various farm produces at reasonable rates. Everything from cheese and veggies to juicy meat and spices are sold here. Apart from these, you can also get yourself a glass of beer from the microbrewery.
The Bijenkorf literally means the "beehive", and the name is derived due to its unusual exterior design. For years, the Bijenkorf has been the most traditional department store of the Netherlands. The Bijenkorf is wonderful luxurious shopping experience with four floors full of luxurious and fashionable articles. Here you can find clothes, accessories, shoes and lingerie (both classic and trendy), alongside make-up and perfumes from the best cosmetic houses, available at the perfume department. For your home, the Bijenkorf has an extensive collection of modern furniture and home wares. For a shopping break there is a café-restaurant with a wonderful view of downtown Rotterdam situated on the top level.
The buying drain, yes that's basically what De Koopgoot is if you translate it literally, but don't be fooled, this is one of the most exclusive shopping areas in Rotterdam. You could be excused for not realizing that you are in Rotterdam, as the Koopgoot looks rather Mediterranean in style. Constructed just four years ago, it has captured the essence of Rotterdam's existence, that international feel that only the world's second largest harbor city can have. The Koopgoot has shops like the Body Shop, C & A, Yves Rocher, and many specialty shops. There are also cafe terraces overlooking the shopping center which provide a wonderful view of the Koopgoot, where you can rest your shopping weary legs over a cup of good Dutch coffee.
The Media Markt is probably the best discount electrical store in Rotterdam. It is undoubtedly the cheapest, with prices up to 50% less than their competitors. There are two outlets of this recently opened store. There is one located right in the heart of Rotterdam's shopping district and the other in the east of Rotterdam at De Oosterhof shopping center, which is one of the largest shopping centers in Holland. Whether you are looking for a simple hairdryer or a complete house full of eletrical equipment, you simply can't do better than the Media Markt.
Tired of getting your coffee in a vacuum-sealed pack in the supermarket? Want to see and smell the coffee beans and the tea leaves before you buy them? Well, this is your chance to create your own private blends! Theemaas sells coffee and tea like in the olden days. The shelves on the wall are stacked from top to bottom with large boxes of fresh coffee and tea from all over the world. Besides beverages and expert advice, Theemaas also sells tea and coffee pots, cups, and espresso machines. You can sit back and admire works of art while you decide exactly what your cup is. Every six weeks Theemaas has a new exhibition of glass, ceramics, stone or bronze.
The Scheveningen Strandweg is the promenade of the beach resort town. It is accessible via the tramlines from the city center and is a few minutes' drive from the central attractions. The Strandweg is packed with the hotels, casinos and shops for which Scheveningen is famous. One terminus of the Strandweg is a dune park, so walking long enough will bring one back to the wilderness. It runs down to Scheveningen's harbor as well, and if you are staying in the area, chances are your hotel will be siuated here.