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 set up business in Delfshaven, among cosy bars and attractive pavement cafés. Worth knowing: many
of the (antique) shops have irregular opening times and are sometimes open on Sundays.

VISIT...

AROUND AELBRECHTSKOLK
The studio shop of Jos Exler (Havenstraat 33) can be found at the very beginning of Delfshaven. She sells beautiful and colourful partywear for women, made from natural materials such as silk and organza. 
In City Brewery De Pelgrim (Aelbrechtskolk 12) you can not only see how Rotterdam’s only real ale is brewed, but also experience it. Naturally, the beer is incorporated into various dishes in the accompanying restaurant. For bookworms, Tolle Lege (no. 49) is a must. This antiquarian bookshop is full of children’s books, books about Rotterdam, topography and maritime topics. Casa Interior (no. 53) is an inspiring store full of antiques and design. It specialises in religious
statues, crucifixes, bakelite and chandeliers. If you are feeling peckish, restaurant De Abrikoos next door (no. 51) is the place for you. Here, the tasty tapas and mezze will transport you briefly to the Mediterranean.

AROUND THE VOORHAVEN
At Manet Delfshaven (Voorhaven 5b) you will find everything you need to adorn your own dining room in style, such as antique chandeliers, crockery and furniture made from reclaimed wood. A little further along there are more antiques at Jeanneke Kootte-van den Heuvel (no. 11b). She also sells design, jewellery and exotic art. Antiquarian
bookshop Arnoud Voet (no. 16) specialises in books about old Rotterdam. Like to go even further back in time? Museum De Dubbelde Palmboom (no. 12) is a fun, low-threshold museum about life in Rotterdam past and present. You can discover the exotic side of Delfshaven at African Art (Watergeusstraat 115b). This gallery has countless authentic African statues, masks, fabrics and implements. After a day wandering along the canals, you can enjoy a meal of tapas at cosy Fritschy (Piet Heynsplein 25a). Or how about dining in a theatrical atmosphere in Cabaret Restaurant Schelling’s (Voorhaven 51)? Whatever you choose, it will be a stylish end to a day in Delfshaven!