Scheveningen Fish Auction - Image 1
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Scheveningen Fish Auction

4.4
·89 reviews·Den Haag, Netherlands

Experience the vibrant Dutch fish auction and savor the freshest North Sea seafood directly from local boats and fishmongers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Freshest catch & lively auction

CrowdHigh
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Scheveningen Fish Auction - Image 1

Scheveningen Fish Auction

Best Time

Early mornings

Freshest catch & lively auction

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the vibrant Dutch fish auction and savor the freshest North Sea seafood directly from local boats and fishmongers.

4.4
(89 reviews)

"Perfect fresh fish. A top location for seafood lovers!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for the Best

Catch the vibrant fish auction action and the widest selection of fresh seafood. Aim for before 9 AM!

💰 Oysters Can Be Pricey

While the fish is high quality, be aware that oysters might be more expensive than expected.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Morning Fish Auction

The Morning Fish Auction

Witness the energetic Dutch fish auction, a true local experience. See the day's catch arrive and be sold.

Fresh Fish Stalls

Fresh Fish Stalls

Sample incredibly fresh seafood directly from the source. From herring to oysters, taste the best of the North Sea.

Local Fishmongers

Local Fishmongers

Buy high-quality fish to take home or have prepared. Roeleveld is a popular choice for many visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Fresh Catches

For the freshest fish and a lively atmosphere, aim for early mornings. This is when the auction buzz is at its peak, and you'll see the best selection before it's snapped up by restaurants and locals. Arrive before 9 AM to catch the action.

Beyond the Auction: Local Delights

While the auction is the main draw, don't miss the surrounding fish stalls and shops. Many offer prepared seafood dishes, perfect for a quick, delicious lunch. Look for places recommended by locals for authentic flavors.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Freshest catch & lively auction
Crowd
High
When
Late mornings
Why
Stalls still open, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

where to get good quality fish or meat in DH?

🎯 Arrive Early for the Best

Catch the vibrant fish auction action and the widest selection of fresh seafood. Aim for before 9 AM! Reddit

💰 Oysters Can Be Pricey

While the fish is high quality, be aware that oysters might be more expensive than expected. Reddit

reddit.com

Fish store Recommendations 2025

🐟 Explore Local Fishmongers

Discover excellent fish shops like Roeleveld for top-quality fish to cook or enjoy. Reddit

🍽️ Taste Prepared Seafood

Many stalls offer delicious, ready-to-eat seafood dishes – perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for the Best

Catch the vibrant fish auction action and the widest selection of fresh seafood. Aim for before 9 AM! Reddit

💰 Oysters Can Be Pricey

While the fish is high quality, be aware that oysters might be more expensive than expected. Reddit

🐟 Explore Local Fishmongers

Discover excellent fish shops like Roeleveld for top-quality fish to cook or enjoy. Reddit

🍽️ Taste Prepared Seafood

Many stalls offer delicious, ready-to-eat seafood dishes – perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(89 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the exceptional freshness and high quality of the seafood available at the Scheveningen Fish Auction. The lively atmosphere of the morning auction and the variety of fishmongers are significant draws. However, some find the prices, particularly for oysters, to be on the higher side.

"high quality but oyesters a bit overpriced compared to other places. 4eu for one oyester!"

Emma Vierra

"Out can add this place in your travel list if you are in Den haag."

Buddhadev Chowdhury

"Perfect"

Ibrahim Esk

What People Like

Incredibly fresh fish
Lively auction atmosphere
Variety of fishmongers

What People Dislike

Oysters can be overpriced

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The fish auction is located in Scheveningen, easily accessible by public transport from The Hague. Tram lines 1, 9, and 11 will take you close to the harbor area. If driving, there are parking garages nearby, but they can fill up quickly during peak hours.

Yes, there are several parking garages in the vicinity of the Scheveningen harbor. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak season, as parking can become limited. Consider public transport to avoid hassle.

The fish auction is located in the harbor area, which is a short walk from the main Scheveningen beach. It's a pleasant stroll along the waterfront.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, generally there are no tickets required to visit the fish auction area and the surrounding fish stalls. It's an open market experience.

The fish auction typically operates very early in the morning, often starting around 7 AM and finishing by 9 AM. It's best to check specific days as hours can vary. The surrounding fish shops and stalls are usually open later.

The fish auction usually operates on weekdays. It's always a good idea to confirm the schedule for the specific day you plan to visit, as weekend operations can differ or be limited.

While there aren't official guided tours for the auction itself, you can often find local guides or simply immerse yourself in the atmosphere. Many visitors enjoy exploring the stalls and interacting with vendors.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You can find a wide variety of fresh seafood, including herring, mackerel, sole, shrimp, and oysters. Many stalls also offer prepared dishes like kibbeling (fried fish pieces) and smoked salmon.

Absolutely! Numerous fish stalls and small eateries surround the auction, offering delicious, freshly prepared seafood. It's a great spot for a casual lunch.

Yes, several fishmongers sell high-quality fresh fish that you can take home and prepare yourself. Roeleveld is a well-regarded option for this.

Kibbeling is a popular Dutch snack of battered and deep-fried white fish, often served with a remoulade sauce. You'll find it at many of the fish stalls around the auction.

While the focus is heavily on seafood, the surrounding harbor area has various restaurants and cafes that may offer non-seafood options. However, the fish market itself is dedicated to fish.

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of their products or them. Be mindful of the busy environment and avoid obstructing the auction process.

Early morning offers the most dynamic action and light for capturing the auction's energy. The stalls also provide great photo opportunities with their colorful displays of seafood.

Focus on the bustling activity of the auction, the variety of fresh fish on display, the vendors at work, and the picturesque harbor setting.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Scheveningen Fish Auction can be an exciting outing for families, offering a unique glimpse into a working harbor. The lively atmosphere of the auction and the abundance of different types of fish on display can be fascinating for children. Many stalls offer kid-friendly options like 'kibbeling', which is usually a hit. It's a great opportunity to teach kids about where food comes from and the importance of fresh, local produce. Just be mindful of the early hours and the busy environment, and consider bringing snacks or drinks for younger children.

💰 Budget Travelers

While some items like oysters might be on the pricier side,Reddit the Scheveningen Fish Auction offers opportunities for budget-friendly meals. Look for 'kibbeling' or other prepared fish snacks from the stalls, which are typically affordable and filling. Buying whole fish from the fishmongers to prepare yourself can also be more economical than dining at a restaurant. Visiting in the late morning, after the main auction rush, might also mean slightly less crowded stalls.

🍽️ Foodies & Seafood Lovers

For true seafood aficionados, the Scheveningen Fish Auction is a must-visit. The unparalleled freshness of the catch is the main draw, offering a taste of the North Sea that's hard to beat. Explore the variety of fish available, from common catches to more unique offerings. Don't shy away from trying prepared seafood dishes from the stalls – they are often a direct reflection of the day's catch. Engaging with the local fishmongers can also provide insights into different types of fish and preparation methods.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Scheveningen Fish Auction Experience

The Scheveningen Fish Auction is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a glimpse into a traditional Dutch trade. Arriving early is key to witnessing the 'afslag' (auction) in full swing. Here, the day's catch is swiftly sold to buyers, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. You'll see a variety of fish, from the iconic Dutch herring to fresh sole and shrimp, all brought in by local fishing boats.

Beyond the auction itself, the surrounding area is dotted with fish stalls and shops. These are perfect for experiencing the freshness firsthand. Many vendors offer prepared seafood, making it an ideal spot for a delicious and authentic lunch. Look out for popular Dutch treats like 'kibbeling' (battered and fried fish pieces) or freshly shucked oysters. It's a sensory experience, with the smell of the sea and the calls of the vendors filling the air.

While the auction is the main event, the local fishmongers are also a significant draw. Places like Roeleveld are highly recommended for purchasing high-quality fish to take home. Visitors often praise the freshness and quality, though some note that certain items, like oysters, can be a bit pricey compared to other locations. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the bounty of the North Sea.

Navigating the Market and Making Purchases

When visiting the Scheveningen Fish Auction, understanding how to navigate the market and make purchases is essential. The auction itself is a fast-paced event, and while visitors can observe, direct participation is usually for registered buyers. However, the real joy for most tourists lies in exploring the fish stalls and shops that operate alongside the auction.

For those looking to sample prepared seafood, the stalls are your best bet. You can often point to what you want, and it will be freshly cooked for you. Be prepared for a casual, bustling environment. If you're interested in buying fresh fish to cook at home, seek out the dedicated fishmongers. They will expertly select and prepare your chosen fish. While many reviews highlight the high quality of the seafood, one common point is that oysters can be a bit overpriced, with some visitors noting a price of 4 euros per oyster.Reddit

When it comes to payment, most stalls and shops accept cash and card. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or if you encounter a vendor who prefers it. Remember that the market is most active in the early morning, so planning your visit accordingly will give you the best experience and selection.

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