Now is the time to discover the shopping paradise of Holland. Rotterdam is different. A vibrant metropolis, whose magnificent skyline is easy to recognise from afar, but which calls for some serious attention and an adventurous spirit when you are actually there. Whether you are looking for unusual and quirky gifts or a new wardrobe, you have a good chance of finding it in Rotterdam. All kind of shops can be found in Beursplein, Van Oldebarneveldtstraat, Pannekoekstraat, historic Delfshaven and Meent. From a unique Chinese department store on the Westkruiskade, ample shopping centres such as Alexandrium or exclusive boutiques - you'll be spoilt for choice.

For an overview of the best shops in Rotterdam check Rotterdam's website.

Shopping in Rotterdam: 8 shopping routes on foot

Do you have an adventurous nature or are you an adventurer? And do you want to spend a day or more discovering what the city has to offer for shoppers? Armed with eight unique shopping routes you can strip Rotterdam of its special ‘secrets’. The routes vary in length and character. They all have their own ambience. And reveal a different aspect of the dynamic shopping city every time. From classic to cool, from trendy to traditional. ‘Shopping in Rotterdam’ is available free of charge at many locations, such as the VVV Rotterdam Store (Tourist Information Office, Coolsingel 5) and VVV Rotterdam Info Café (next to Central Station).

Or click here to download ‘Shopping in Rotterdam’.

Nieuwe Binnenweg

The coolest shopping street in Rotterdam is the Nieuwe Binnenweg. Here you can find many record stores and shops for clubbers. You can get your hair styled, your make-up done and buy just the right outfit for a great night out.

Witte de Withstraat

Situated right in the centre of Rotterdam, the Witte de Withstraat is one of the most arty streets in town. It consists of many fun art galleries, unusual restaurants, quirky boutiques and various antique shops.

Bijenkorf Department store

A great department store where you'll find anything you need and everything you don't.

Lijnbaan

This street, where you can shop 7 days a week, is famous for being Europe's first pedestrianised shopping precinct. It is Rotterdam’s oldest shopping centre and contains a vast array of shops and boutiques. There are many parking facilities around Beursplein.

Maagd van Holland quarter (MaHo)

Just past Beursplein you will find a wealth of unique, intimate and exclusive shops. The choice around Meent and the Maagd van Holland Kwartier is diverse; cheeky is the keyword that links all the shops, galleries and food establishments in this compact shopping area.

Kop van Zuid

Shop in a completely different atmosphere in the ‘Vrij Entrepot’ Building at the Kop van Zuid area. This former warehouse houses a number of interesting shops, restaurants and bars. Opposite the ‘Vrij Entrepot’ Building a number of design and interior shops can be found.

Westelijk Handelsterrein

The Westelijk Handelsterrein resembles the set of a historical film about Rotterdam, but it is actually the breathtaking, beautifully restored warehouse complex from 1894 in the Scheepvaartkwartier. A double passageway of solid stone opens into the interior. The immense original beams in the ceiling connect galleries, wine importers and bars with grand cafés, luxury restaurants and nightclubs.

Delfshaven

Rotterdam does not usually conjure up the image of picturesque canals with grand, old buildings and cosy pubs. Yet the city does have a magnificent historic neighbourhood, where you can shop in fitting style. Antique shops and craftsmen are setting up business in Delfshaven, in the midst of friendly bars and attractive pavement cafes. Worth knowing: many of the (antique) shops have irregular opening times and sometimes also open on Sundays. 

Bargain hunting

Situated in the heart of Rotterdam’s city centre is one of Holland’s largest markets with special sections for food and drink, plants & flowers, fresh fish, second-hand goods and books. The market is open every Tuesday and Saturday at Binnenrotte square.