Outdoor markets are the best places to get good bargains and unique finds that you won’t be able to get anywhere else, and Amsterdam has more than 30 of them. Looking for antiques, vintage clothes, or even just some Dutch snacks? Here are the top 5 street markets where you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for!
Albert Cuyp Market
Opened in 1905, the Albert Cuyp Market is the biggest market not just in Amsterdam, but the whole of Europe, with 260 stalls selling everything from clothes to flowers to fresh produce. In this market, you will not go hungry either, with many stalls dedicated to all types of food. Try Dutch cuisine with local snacks like stroopwafels and herring, international foods like Vietnamese spring rolls and Japanese ramen, or find comfort in something simple like roast chicken and fries. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you will definitely be spoilt for choice!
The market is located in the De Pijp district, one of the liveliest areas in Amsterdam. The streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and bars, so even when you’re done browsing the stalls of the market, there is still much more to explore!
Address: Albert Cuypstraat, 1073 BD Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Waterlooplein Market
Another large market, the Waterlooplein Market is Amsterdam’s oldest, having started in 1888. It is the city’s largest flea market with 300 stalls, selling a mix of vintage clothes, second-hand goods, and antiques. Not everything is old however, as there are items like hand-made jewelry, art, and crafts, so be sure to support a local business while you’re there! There are also a few souvenirs stalls so don’t forget to pick up something to remember your trip by.
If you’re feeling hungry or thirsty there are plenty of food stalls too. Grab stroopwafel if you have a sweet tooth, or maybe just a cup of juice if you want something light before you continue your exploration of this large flea market.
Address: Waterlooplein 2, 1011 NZ Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9:30am - 6pm
Noordermarkt
Noordermarkt is a smaller yet wonderful market that provides a bountiful range of goods as well! On Mondays, second-hand goods are sold, ranging from clothes, jewellry, and even furniture, ready for you to give them a second home . At the edge of the market, there are also textile stores selling fabric by the yard.
On Saturdays, the market transforms into an organic farmer’s market. With the food being organic, it is no surprise that the produce is on the pricey side, but you can be sure that it will be fresh. Stall owners, who farmed the produce themselves, will be happy to assist you in choosing the best fruits and veggies, and may even give you some recipes should you want them! If you’re looking for a quick bite there are food stalls too, with sweet pastries and fresh oysters as some of your many options.
Address: Noordermarkt 42B, 1015 NA Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Monday: 9am - 2pm
Saturday: 9am - 4pm
Boekenmarkt Op Het Spui
For all the book lovers out there, this is the market for you. All kinds of books are sold here: second-hand, rare, even out-of-print ones! Take your time as you browse through the huge variety of genres offered here, and maybe you’ll find something to add to your collection! Fret not, many of the books here are in English along with Dutch, French, German, and other language books too if you want them.
There is also a wide array of posters, maps, prints, postcards, and periodicals available too, so even if you don’t want to pack bulky books into your language, there are still plenty of items to choose from if you don’t want to leave this market empty-handed.
Address: Spui, 1012 PP Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Friday: 10am - 6pm
Art Plein-Spui
To get unique art you can only find in Amsterdam, this art market is a must. Every Sunday, around 60 Dutch and international artists set up stalls in this market to showcase and sell their original works. Here, you can purchase artwork directly from the artists themselves, without any intermediary of a gallery or museum, so you know that you are paying the best price possible as there is no commission charge.
Engage in conversation with the artists to learn more about their process and technique as you browse. Other than the pieces done in the conventional mediums of oil, acrylic and watercolour paint, the market also offers a wide variety of artwork in other mediums, including glassware, ceramics, silks and many more.
Address: Spui 20HS, 1012 XA Amsterdam
Opening Hours:
Sunday: 11am - 6pm (Closed in Winter until March)
With so many markets, there is always one waiting to be explored, no matter what day of the week. So be sure to dedicate some time to one or more of these markets, and you’ll be sure to leave Amsterdam with a luggage full of unique goodies!
