When it comes to vibrant and trend-setting cities, Amsterdam tops the list. The incredible markets that take place across the city each week provide ample opportunity to hunt down vintage finds, scrumptious cheeses, and anything else you might be looking for. Grab a coffee and explore some of the hidden gems and trinkets tucked away at the city’s best markets. Whether you’re looking for an eclectic shopping experience, picking up something special, or even just to enjoy the atmosphere, Amsterdam’s markets have you covered. Here is a look at twelve of the most notable markets in Amsterdam.
The Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp is the longest running market in Amsterdam and one of the best known. It has been open since 1905, offering an unbeatable selection of fresh meats, fruits and vegetables, jewelry, clothing, and a whole lot more. The streets are packed with cozy cafes and independent boutiques, so be sure to stick around for a while and take in the atmosphere. Be sure to sample some of the delicious street food while you’re there too – herring and roast chicken are two local favorites.
Bloemenmarkt is the only floating flower market in the world, and an absolute must-visit for flower lovers. Brightly colored tulips, bouquets, roses, orchids, and more can be found at the market, making it a great spot for souvenirs.
The Waterlooplein Market is a great place to pick up vintage clothing and accessories, second-hand goods, antiques, and jewelry. There are more than 300 stalls to browse, with some fantastic bargains to be found. As this is the former Jewish district, you’ll find a great selection of vintage Judaica items here as well.
Every Sunday from May to October, the Nieuwmarkt in Amsterdam Centre turns into a huge antiques market. Browse an incredible array of furniture, ornaments, bric-a-brac, and vintage clothing. There is a much calmer atmosphere here, and the standard of goods is generally quite high.
For the foodies, the Noordermarkt-Boerenmarkt in Jordaan is an excellent place to get the finest organic produce from the region. Expect to find top quality fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and more, with many of the stallholders happy to give advice on the best items in season.
Boekenmarkt Op Het Spui, located in the heart of the city, offers more than the same, dog-eared, neglected copies of old books that no one wants. Each Friday, vendors come from all across the country, each one more of an expert in the book and map industry than the last, with their stalls selling out-of-print, hard-to-find and rare periodicals and postcards. If you’re looking for something special or you’re a collector, simply ask the knowledgeable sellers and they will be able to point you in the right direction, or you can take your time browsing the neatly organised stacks of top-notch literature.
Jordaan’s Lapjesmarkt takes vintage fashion to the next level; held every Monday morning at the Noodermarkt, you can find something unique amongst the clothing side of the market, from quality leather jackets and fur coats to vintage shoes and pre-loved denim. The craft market is the perfect place to find materials and supplies for those of you looking to start or finish sewing projects; buttons, ribbons, fabric and yarn are some of the items that can be found here.
Nieuwmarkt, nestled where the old city gate used to stand, may not be as big as Noordermarkt but the produce is equally fresh. On Saturdays, farmers bring organic, budget-friendly fruit and veg, as well as flowers and wines. The highlight here, however, has to be the fresh orange juice stall, as well as the vendor serving freshly cooked corn-on-the-cob covered in salty Dutch butter.
Amsterdam natives come to Ten Katemarkt for their weekly groceries; fruits, meats, fish and vegetables can be found here, but also some great deals on clothing, homeware and electronics. The food-focused market also boasts some great cafés and restaurants nearby, where you can get something to eat after shopping.
For the largest secondhand flea market in Europe, take a trip to IJ Hallen. It’s only open for one weekend each month and features over 500 stalls. Although it’s tempting to try to sell off your unwanted belongings here, make sure to also keep an eye out for the vintage finds. Plus, the added bonus of the market is the free ferry ride from behind Centraal Station.
Artplein-Spui in Spui Square has been providing art to locals for more than 25 years; the local and international artists who sell their work here showcase their paintings, sketches, sculptures, glass-work, jewellery and mixed-media artworks at reasonable prices. Even if you have restrictions on how much you can bring home, it’s still worth a visit.
Finally, De Hallen, an indoor street food mecca, is located in an old tram depot and is the perfect place to try dishes from all around the world. You’ll find everything from Mexican, Italian and sushi to BBQ, all with seating or takeaway options available. It also includes independent stores, and an added bonus of a multiscreen cinema right next door.
Consider buying a Go CIty pass to get access to lots of great attractions in Amsterdam including museums, canal cruises and stadium tours – all for one great price.