Lijnbaan Street, Rotterdam

Lijnbaan is Rotterdam's main shopping street. The street first opened in 1953 after German bombs destroyed the old shopping district during World War II. Lijnbaan was Europe's first specifically built pedestrian street and was part of the city's modernization plan.

The street is beautifully landscaped with flower beds, statues, trees, benches, and wooden shelters. Shopkeepers in the 1950s were initially concerned that shoppers wouldn't visit a pedestrian-only area, but the street has been very successful. Visitors and residents love the car-free zone and come to stroll and window-shop.

The street declined in the 1980s when some of the original shopkeepers retired. However, in 2010 the street was awarded national heritage status to recognize its innovative postwar architecture. Some of the original wooden canopies and shop fronts have been restored.

The street is a mix of modern fashion chain stores and boutique shops. There are high-end stores as well as more affordable stores. In addition, visitors will find fast food and a variety of restaurants.