Rotterdam Cube Houses Markthal
Iconic tilted Cube Houses and the stunning, food-filled Markthal – Rotterdam's architectural and culinary heart.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Rotterdam Cube Houses Markthal
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic tilted Cube Houses and the stunning, food-filled Markthal – Rotterdam's architectural and culinary heart.
"A must-see architectural marvel with a food market that's a feast for the senses!"
🎯 Peek Inside a Cube
Visit the Kijk-Kubus museum to see the unique interior design of these tilted homes.
🍜 Feast at Markthal
Explore diverse food stalls for international cuisine and local treats.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kijk-Kubus Museum House
Inside one of the Cube Houses
Step inside a tilted cube home and experience Piet Blom's innovative architectural vision firsthand.
Markthal Rotterdam
Adjacent to the Cube Houses
A stunning indoor market with a vibrant ceiling, offering diverse international cuisine and local delicacies.
The Cube Houses Exterior
Overblaak 70
Marvel at the iconic, tilted yellow cubes that form a unique urban landscape, a true architectural marvel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unique Architecture
Navigating the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Peek Inside a Cube
Visit the Kijk-Kubus museum to see the unique interior design of these tilted homes. +1
🍜 Feast at Markthal
Explore diverse food stalls for international cuisine and local treats.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The unique angles of the Cube Houses make for striking photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Area
Wander around the base of the houses and the surrounding streets for different perspectives.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Peek Inside a Cube
Visit the Kijk-Kubus museum to see the unique interior design of these tilted homes. +1
🍜 Feast at Markthal
Explore diverse food stalls for international cuisine and local treats.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The unique angles of the Cube Houses make for striking photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Area
Wander around the base of the houses and the surrounding streets for different perspectives.
⏰ Avoid Peak Times
Markthal can be very crowded; try visiting on a weekday for a calmer experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the unique and futuristic architecture of the Rotterdam Cube Houses and the vibrant atmosphere of the Markthal. The Markthal is praised for its diverse food offerings, while the Cube Houses are admired for their innovative design, though some find living in them less practical. +1
"My buddy told me about this cool landmark, I took a train from Amsterdam to get there. It was late when I arrived. I didn’t get to view inside the architecture, even though the surface was yellow, you could still clearly see that it was being built for decades.
If you’re in the area, you should totally drop by.
I solely walked around these innovative houses, had a meal and headed back."
Adrianne Cheung
"Fascinating quirky architecture. Though I probably wouldn’t want to live there. The ‘official’ museum house is more interesting than the more unofficial ‘art house’."
Stephen Waring
"Amazing and unique architecture! The Cube Houses are unlike anything I’ve seen before. This is a great example for the modern architecture. A great place to explore and take photos. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Rotterdam."
Yusuf Tuna Ozan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cube Houses and Markthal are conveniently located near Blaak station, easily accessible by metro and train. Many visitors arrive via Rotterdam Centraal Station and take a short metro ride or a pleasant walk. 
Yes, the area is pedestrian-friendly. You can easily walk between the Cube Houses and the Markthal.
Absolutely! If you're arriving by ship, the Cube Houses and Markthal are a short walk from the docking spot.
The quickest way is by train, with direct services taking around 40 minutes.
Yes, there are parking garages nearby, but public transport is often recommended due to the busy city center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can admire the exterior of the Cube Houses for free. To go inside one and learn about the architecture, you need to purchase a ticket for the Kijk-Kubus museum. +1
The Markthal is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
No, the Markthal itself is free to enter. You only pay for the food and drinks you purchase inside.
Ticket prices for the Kijk-Kubus museum are typically around €10-€15, but it's advisable to check their website for current pricing.
Yes, booking tickets for the Kijk-Kubus museum online in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic views are from street level, looking up at the tilted structures. Don't forget to capture them from different angles and in various lighting conditions.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Markthal, but be mindful of other visitors and vendors. The colorful ceiling is a popular subject.
While general photography is permitted, avoid intrusive photography of residents or private areas.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light. Midday can be harsh but still offers unique shadow play.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas like Rotterdam. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Markthal offers an incredible variety of international cuisines, from Dutch stroopwafels and herring to sushi, Italian, and Middle Eastern dishes.
Yes, with so many diverse vendors, you'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.
It's perfect for both! You can grab a quick bite or sit down for a more substantial meal.
While the museum house is accessible, the other Cube Houses are private residences. However, there are many dining options in the vicinity and within the Markthal.
Many visitors rave about the fresh stroopwafels, local cheeses, and various international street food options.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a unique, tilted living space with cleverly designed rooms. The Kijk-Kubus museum provides context and shows how people live in them. +1
You could easily spend an hour or two exploring the food stalls, enjoying a meal, and soaking in the atmosphere.
The Markthal is generally accessible with ramps and elevators. The Cube Houses museum may have some limitations due to their unique structure.
This refers to the massive, colorful artwork that covers the interior ceiling of the Markthal, depicting fruits and vegetables.
While the Kijk-Kubus is a self-guided museum experience, local walking tours often include the Cube Houses and their history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to spot the different fruits and vegetables in the Markthal's ceiling artwork. The open spaces around the base of the Cube Houses can also be a place for them to run around, though supervision is advised due to the urban setting.
📸 Photographers
+1The Markthal's vibrant ceiling artwork provides a stunning backdrop, and the diverse food stalls offer dynamic street photography opportunities. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the essence of this modern architectural hub.
🍜 Foodies
Don't miss trying local specialties like stroopwafels and Dutch fries. The sheer variety ensures you can sample a bit of everything, making it an ideal spot for lunch or a culinary adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Piet Blom
Each house is essentially a cube tilted 45 degrees and resting on a pylon. This unconventional design creates a unique interior living space with angled walls and ceilings. While visually striking, living in them presents certain challenges, as noted by some residents who find the angled spaces less practical for everyday life.
To truly understand Blom's concept, visiting the Kijk-Kubus (Look-Cube) museum is essential. This dedicated house-museum allows visitors to step inside a fully furnished cube and learn about the design principles and the architect's intentions. It offers a fascinating glimpse into how people adapt to living in such an extraordinary environment.
Markthal: A Culinary and Architectural Marvel
Inside, the Markthal is a sensory delight, offering an incredible array of food stalls and eateries. Visitors can sample everything from traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels and cheese to international delicacies such as sushi, tapas, and Middle Eastern cuisine. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a delicious and diverse culinary experience.
Its proximity to the Cube Houses makes it a perfect pairing for a visit. Many travelers enjoy exploring the unique architecture of the houses and then indulging in the culinary offerings of the Markthal. The bustling atmosphere, combined with the stunning visuals, makes it a memorable stop in Rotterdam.
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