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Markets in Amsterdam
There are a number of street markets around the city of Amsterdam which are of interest to the visitor. Markets are always a great place to observe and participate in local life. The following summarises where and when the markets happen... |
Albert Cuyp market - This is the main street market in Amsterdam which runs Mondays to Saturdays along the Albert Cuypstraat. This is located a short walk south of Amsterdam centre in De Pijp neighbourhood (trams 4, 16, 24 and 25 will also get you here from Central station / Dam). The market stall holders sell all sorts of items - you can find fruit & veg, meat, fish, cheese, nuts - try out a raw herring from the fish stall. Non-food items include toiletries, clothes, shoes, bags, bedding, cycle accessories and small electric items. Some stalls are connected to the shop behind with a wider selection of goods.
Prices are reasonable as the market is mainly frequented by local residents. It is well worth visiting the colourful neighbourhood with many other interesting shops, cafes and restaurants. You can also relax at the nearby Sarphati Park.
Flower Market - Netherlands is a world leader when it comes to flowers. The popular Bloemenmarkt (open Monday to Saturday) sits on fixed houseboats and is located right in the heart of Amsterdam on the south bank of the Singel canal between Muntplein and Koningsplein. Whilst a little bit touristy, you can find flowers, plants, bulbs, seeds and other souvenirs here. If you want cheaper flowers then consider buying at Albert Cuyp market.
Dappermarkt "World Market" - Located on Dapperstraat in Amsterdam East this general market runs Mondays to Saturdays and has a lively atmosphere with many multicultural stalls including Turkish, Moroccan and Surinamese. Amsterdam Oost is a working class district so prices for goods are on the cheap side - so head here if you're on a budget.
Farmer's Markets - There are 3 organic farmer's markets (known as "Boerenmarkt") held at the following: Noordermarkt (Saturdays), Nieuwmarkt (also Saturday) and Haarlemmerplein (Wednesdays).
There is also a general market for locals on Saturdays along the Lindengracht street a block from Noordermarkt.
Flea Market at Waterlooplein - This large market runs Monday to Saturdays and you can find a whole host of curious items - from designer bags and T-shirts, second-hand clothes and books, music, arts and crafts, to the more eclectic stuff like military helmets, badges and uniforms and quite a lot of old junk.
There is another flea market at Noordermarkt on Monday mornings.
Book market - This market specialises in old books and happens at the Spui square in the centre of Amsterdam every Friday. The Spui houses quite a number of popular bookshops as well.
Spui Art Market - Also at Spui square every Sunday is the "ArtPlein Spui" market where both Dutch and international artists can exhibit their work and connect with buyers directly in an informal atmosphere.
Coins/Stamps Market - On Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal (south of Dam) outside the stamp shops there are a few traders / collectors who set up shop on Wednesdays and Saturdays. These enthusiasts trade in stamps, coins and phone cards.