12 Best Markets in Amsterdam

Is Amsterdam the international vintage shopping capital? We’re not going to argue with anyone who claims this. The Dutch capital has always been a trading and bargaining hub, and this tradition continues today. Everything from vintage threads to arts and crafts can be found at the best markets in Amsterdam, although be prepared to haggle your way to the finish line.

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Everything in Amsterdam has its own rhythm, including shopping. The hustle and bustle of the markets may be the best example of what makes the city so addictive. A morning market stroll is one of the best things to do in this town.

1. Market Albert Cuyp (De Pijp)

If you only visit one street market while in Amsterdam, make it the Cuyp. Going since 1905, it’s a one-stop-shop for fresh meat, fish, fruit and veg, clothes, jewellery and just about everything else. It’s worth wandering just to take in the atmosphere. If you’re hungry, try the roast chicken or herring; stroopwafels will satisfy your sweet tooth. And don’t miss the intersection of Albert Cuypstraat and Eerste van der Helststraat, which is teeming with cafés, bars, and cool little boutiques.

2. Bloemenmarkt (Centre)

Tulips are synonymous with the Netherlands, and if a trip to Keukenhof is out of the question, the next best thing is Bloemenmarkt. The world’s only floating flower market is made up of a slew of stalls strung together on one of the center’s longer canals, selling a wide variety of blooms. Tulip bulbs are an obvious choice, but roses, orchids, seeds, and intricate bouquets are also available.

3. Waterlooplein (Centre)

Originally known as the ‘Jewish market’ because of its location in the former Jewish district, this site has drawn stallholders since 1885. More than 300 people now work here, primarily selling vintage clothing, cheap bric-à-brac, and secondhand goods. Bargains abound, especially when it comes to bikes, antiques, and jewelry, and you’ll find plenty of locals gathered around what is widely regarded as Amsterdam’s largest and best flea market.

4. Antiques Market (Centre)

From May to October, the Nieuwmarkt site becomes a haven for aspiring Lovejoys. In stalls crammed full of curios, ornaments, furniture, and assorted bric-à-brac compete for attention, and there are plenty of vintage clothing vendors as well. It’s not as eclectic as the Waterlooplein Market, but the quality of goods sold is higher – you can find some stunning period pieces here. The pace is also a little slower, with a distinct ‘Sunday vibe’ encouraging idle browsing.

5. Noordermarkt-Boerenmarkt (Jordaan)

A haven for foodies, Jordaan’s plush Noodermarkt showcases the region’s finest organic produce every Saturday. It’s not cheap, but everything here is high quality and delicious. Check what’s in season ahead of time – asparagus in May, mushrooms in October – or simply ask what’s good; stallholders are happy to advise.

6. Het Spui Boekenmarkt (Centre)

Forget about dog-eared copies of old books that no one wants – Boekenmarkt is run by experts who know what they’re talking about. On Fridays, vendors come from all over the country to sell rare and out-of-print books, vintage maps and postcards, and hard-to-find periodicals. If you’re a collector or looking for something specific, ask around; chances are, someone here can assist you. Or simply browse the beautifully organised stacks of books – they’re all killer, no filler.

7. Lapjesmarkt (Jordaan)

Vintage clothing will always be desirable, and those in the know flock to the Noodermarkt site every Monday morning for Lapjesmarkt. There are two markets in one: a clothing side selling shoes, denim, leather, and fur coats, and a craft side selling fabric, textiles, buttons, ribbons, yarn, and anything else you might need to do some sewing.

8. Newmarket (Centre)

Although Nieuwmarkt is smaller than Noordermarkt, the quality is comparable. Farmers have been coming here since the 17th century, to the site of an old city gate, and many still prefer it to its glitzier Jordaan rival. Ultra-fresh organic produce is on offer every Saturday – at wallet-friendlier prices – alongside a few flower and wine vendors. Don’t miss the freshly squeezed orange juice stand, and don’t pass up the corn on the cob stand, which is boiled in front of you and slathered in rich, salty Dutch butter.

9. Ten Katemarkt (West)

Many Amsterdam residents prefer to do their grocery shopping here. The food is obviously the main attraction here – great-value meat, fish, fruit, and vegetables – but there are also stalls selling home essentials, clothing, and electronics. There are some decent cafés and a variety of excellent restaurants in and around the area.

10. IJ Hallen Flea Market (Noord)

This is Europe’s largest flea market of its kind, held once a month in a converted shipbuilding warehouse. Anyone can rent one of the 500 stands, but there is one simple rule at the market: everything must be used. For some, it’s an opportunity to get rid of any clutter in their home, but there are plenty of vintage finds for the intrepid bargain hunter. The free ferry ride from behind Centraal station alone is worth the trip.

11. Artplein-Spui (Centre)

Art markets may conjure up images of tacky caricature drawings or the terrible paintings found on the walls of cheap hotels, but this Spui Square fixture caters to true art enthusiasts. For over 25 years, Dutch and international artists have displayed their paintings and sketches to well-informed locals looking for classy bargains. Sculptors, glass-smiths, jewellers, and mixed media artists exhibit here as well, making it a fun place to spend a few hours (even if your baggage restrictions mean you can’t take much home).

12. De Hallen (West)

Although not strictly a market, this indoor street food mecca is not to be missed. The food truck-style stalls and bars that line the main hall of the renovated tram depot offer cuisine from all over the world, from Mexican to sushi, BBQ to Italian. There is plenty of seating, but if the weather is nice, many people choose to take their food to go. In addition to the food hall, there is a multiscreen cinema next door if you want to make a day of it.

Topic: 12 Best Markets in Amsterdam

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