Lively Street Markets in Amsterdam

Shopping lovers and bargain hunters unite!

Who has visited Amsterdam has to admit that the Dutch capital offers so much more than bikes, canal tours, the Van Gogh museum, and high-end shopping on P.C. Hooftstraat. Immerge yourself into the multicultural city life and you will find many lively and colorful neighborhood markets.

With over 830,000 inhabitants Amsterdam is the largest city in the Netherlands, but strolling over the markets will convey an almost village-like atmosphere. Their existence goes back to the 18th century: in 1783 the first stall was set up in the Jewish Quarter and the culture has much evolved since. Today, the offering is vast and whatever you are looking for, you are guaranteed to clinch a bargain of two.

Though scattered through the entire city, most of the street markets are set in the center. As many as twelve outdoor markets open daily and all year long, while others take place less frequently or during the summer months only. Since Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination at any time of the year, be aware that the markets may attract pickpockets.

Several great markets offer a variety of merchandise, curiosities, little treasures and souvenirs. There is something for everyone at the vibrant street markets and you will not go home empty-handed easily. General goods and food produce is what you will find most. Are you looking for something more specific? Try the city's speciality markets for art, stamps, books and flowers!

Here is a selection of markets you should consider when in Amsterdam:

Albert Cuyp Market, Albert Cuypstraat Largest and most popular outdoor market in the Netherlands. General goods, food produce, exotic herbs and spices Mon-Sat, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm Ten Kate Market, Ten Katestraat Good alternative to the Albert Cuyp market, yet with fewer tourists. General goods, clothes, food produce Mon-Sat, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Book Market, Het Spui Here, booksellers gather to sell their collections of old, rare, second-hand and out-of-print books. You will find engravings, old prints, pamphlets and maps as well. Mon-Sat, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Rembrandt Art Market, Rembrandtplein Stop by this market to buy original pieces recreated by local artists or simply enjoy the outdoor exhibition. Sun, 10:30 am – 6:00 pm from mid March till end of October Flower Market, Singel 630 to 600 One of Amsterdam's most colorful attractions has to be the Flower Market. In Spring you will see an abundance of Holland's national flower, the tulip – next to an impressive array of other flowers and plants, bulbs and seeds. Don't forget to take pictures! In wintertime the Flower Market also offers Christmas trees and decoration. Mon-Sat, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm Dappermarkt, Dapperstraat This market offers many products of interest to the city's residents of Surinam, Antillean, Turkish and Moroccan origin, giving it a strong multicultural feel. Clothes, food, general goods Mon-Sat, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Book Market, Het Spui Here, booksellers gather to sell their collections of old, rare, second-hand and out-of-print books. You will find engravings, old prints, pamphlets and maps as well. Mon-Sat, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Farmer's Market, Noordermarkt Organic food, fruit, mushrooms, cheese, snacks Sat, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm and Mon, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Prices on the neighborhood markets are usually fixed. If you're up for the challenge of haggling, go visit the Waterlooplein Flea Market. Or go treasure hunting at IJ-Hallen, the biggest and most atmospheric flea market in Europe! Should you not be in much of a shopping mood or just want to mingle with the locals for food, drinks and music, the Pure Market and the Sunday Market are some great alternatives of hip spots.

Are you planning a trip to Amsterdam and are looking forward to connecting with its friendly people? Spending a couple of hours browsing through the many stalls is a great way to get a taste of the local culture! With your favorite market place a nice walk or a short tram ride away, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center is the perfect home base for your shopping tour.