One of the most fascinating modern architectures in the Rotterdam lies here just adjacent to the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk. Known as Markthal Rotterdam (Market Hall), this is an enormous arch standing in the middle of the sprawling city, comprising a huge open-air market on the ground floor, apartments built into the arch and an underground parking space. Its façade is grey in colour whereas on the inside, a full-scale vivid artwork is splattered across the glass-like ceiling, giving it an almost-transparent touch. Here and there, you will see windows of apartments, both on the inside and outside.

Markthal is the kind of place that will make you go “I’ve never thought something like this could be done” and you’re right – no country boasts such a marvelous a building like this. But that’s not the only reason to visit this place. Home to about 100 fresh food stalls and restaurants that serve a variety of delicacies from local to international, Markthal is a heaven for food lovers. As you binge on different kinds of stall food while staring at the beautiful ceiling, fresh air gushing through the arch will blow on your face, bringing a distinct sweet scent of Holland with it. Even though Markthal is open during the day, we suggest that you drop by during or after dusk – that’s when you’ll get to see its ceiling illuminated with colourful bright lights. The Markthal also plays host to the Tijdtrap, an enchanting exhibition that displays the archaeological finds excavated from the site where the building was constructed. If you’re seeking a place to discover a unique blend of Rotterdam’s history and culture, the Markthal is definitely for you!