The 14 Best Markets in Amsterdam in 2024: A Journey of Flavors, Crafts & Culture
What Are the Best Street Markets in Amsterdam?
In the heart of Amsterdam’s vibrant neighborhoods lie a series of enchanting markets that encapsulate the essence of the city’s vibrant spirit. From bustling streets filled with colorful stalls to floating flower markets gracing the canals, each market tells its own unique story, offering an authentic glimpse into Dutch culture and culinary diversity.
Join us on a delightful journey as we unveil the best markets in Amsterdam, where tantalizing aromas, artistic crafts, and the warm hospitality of local vendors await to captivate your senses and leave lasting memories.
Why Is a Visit to a Market in Amsterdam Worth It?
Besides a different experience of the top things to do in Amsterdam, including some of the city’s main markets in your itinerary can make your trip more authentic and unique. Since the Amsterdam markets are very well located in tourist areas, you can enjoy many attractions in a short time and still taste many Dutch and international cuisines. You can also guarantee unique gifts and classic souvenirs for your loved ones. If you love art, antiques, books, and fashion, many of Amsterdam’s markets can be an ideal attraction for your trip.
Market in Amsterdam
While the Albert Cuyp Market is incredibly famous, I can honestly say it’s worth the hype, as it is also my favorite market in Amsterdam. It’s well-located, extensive, and offers a huge variety of products. Despite its high popularity, you should definitely add this market to your trip itinerary.
The Best Markets in Amsterdam
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01
Albert Cuyp Market - The Largest Market in Europe
Food Market in De Pijp
The Albert Cuyp Market, also known as Albert Cuypstraat, is undoubtedly Amsterdam’s most famous open-air market. Here, there are more than 300 stalls offering street food, gifts, souvenirs, vegetables, fresh fruit, clothes, children’s goods, second-hand articles, collector’s items, and so much more.
In other words, you have a food market, a vintage market, and a street market all in one place. However, make no mistake, the Albert Cuypstraat is not a secret Amsterdam tip. Instead, it is considered a tourist attraction, so expect a lot of people walking around and some lines you may need to wait in to grab street food or check out a purchase. Bring your patience, and you’ll have a great time.
Located in the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, the Albert Cuypstraat is just a few steps from the Heineken Experience, making it easy to find within the city’s tourist area.
My tip is to come hungry! You can basically make your own street food tour by tasting new flavors. And don’t miss the freshly made stroopwafels. They’re unforgettable!
- Opening days: Monday to Saturday.
- Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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02
Bloemenmarkt - The Famous Floating Flower Market in Amsterdam
Market in Amsterdam Canal Belt
Amsterdam’s famous flower market is located inside houseboats on a canal, so it’s known as the floating market. However, as it is attached to the street, you hardly realize that you are “walking on water.” But the fun remains the same!
At the Bloemenmarkt, as it is known in Dutch, you will find everything related to the famous tulips and other fresh flowers grown in the Netherlands. Expect lots of flowers, seeds, roots, and general gardening items to buy. You’ll get a beautiful look at the local culture!
The floating flower market is far from a secret tip among the best markets in Amsterdam, as hundreds of tourists circulate here every day. So, expect to find numerous types of souvenirs as well.
My tip for the Bloemenmarkt is to cross the Koningsplein Bridge and take a picture of the Bloemenmark. You will have a beautiful souvenir of your trip to Amsterdam that costs nothing.
- Days of operation: Every day of the week
- Opening hours: Mon-Sat from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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03
De Hallen Amsterdam - The Famous Food Hall in Amsterdam
Food Market in Amsterdam Canal Belt
De Halle is the second-largest market in Amsterdam. Still, it’s definitely the largest indoor and most famous food hall in Amsterdam. This means that whatever the weather—rain or shine—you have a foodie paradise at your disposal.
De Halle is a food market located in Amsterdam Oud-West, just a 15-minute walk from the Rijksmuseum. Several restaurants are also located here, so you can try so many different cuisines. As with any food market, it’s best to look around after you first arrive before you get anything. That way you can have a good look at all the options before deciding what you will drink and eat.
My tip for De Hallen is to come in the middle of the afternoon, between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. You’ll hit the area past the lunch rush and before everyone shows up for dinner. You’ll have a much smoother time to sample De Hallen’s flavors.
- Days of operation: Daily
- Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.
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04
Waterlooplein Flea Market - The Historical Market in Amsterdam
Market in Jodenbuurt - Jewish neighbourhood of Amsterdam
Right in the center of the Jewish Quarter is the vintage Waterlooplein Market, one of the city’s flea markets. More than 300 stalls offer everything from secondhand goods to rare collectors’ articles. You can find almost everything under the sun, including records, clothes, toys, books, bags, shoes, furniture, décor, and more here.
As well as unique vendors offering personal items, you’ll find woodworkers, painters, sculptors, and other talented local and international artists displaying their artwork for sale.
Antique hunters have a lot to see at this market in Amsterdam. Many rare and impressive pieces can be found at the Waterlooplein Market, a historical bazaar held since 1883 on Amsterdam’s Waterlooplein Square.
My tip for the Waterlooplein Market is to reserve at least two hours to visit this market in Amsterdam
- Days of operation: Monday to Friday
- Opening hours:9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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05
Antiekcentrum Amsterdam - The Antiques Market
Market in Nieuwmarkt en Lastage
Behind a humble maple-colored storefront is the Antiekcentrum Amsterdam, the Antiques Market in Amsterdam. Across the more than 1750 square meters, you will see countless pieces of antiques for your home.
Here, you’ll find decorations, collectors’ items, old machinery, vintage clothes, historical furniture, and even valuable and historic jewelry. This market in Amsterdam offers many hidden gems for those interested in antiques, decoration, and history.
If you like looking for different souvenirs and want to get away from buying an “I ♥ Amsterdam” t-shirt, give yourself a chance to walk the dozens of aisles of Antiekcentrum Amsterdam.
Because it’s so specific and unique, it’s a market in Amsterdam for those who are interested in vintage items and antiques. If that’s where your interests lie, don’t miss it. And if you don’t like it, don’t include it in your itinerary. There are many other markets in Amsterdam you can check out instead!
- Days of operation: Open Wed-Mon; Closed on Tuesdays
- Opening hours:Mon-Fri (except Tues) from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat-Sun from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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06
IJ Hallen Flea Market - The Biggest Flea Market in Europe
Market in NDSMLocated in the alternative and colorful NDSM neighborhood, the IJ-Hallen Flea Market takes place indoors. Unlike the other markets in Amsterdam, the IJ-Hallen Market requires a ticket to enter that you can purchase online, and if you order one in advance, you receive a discount. Just note that this second-hand monthly market does not have a fixed frequency. Generally, the event occurs once a month, always on a Saturday and Sunday, so just be sure to watch their website for their next dates.
More than 400 stalls await you inside a gigantic hall that used to be an NDSM shipyard. When visiting this gigantic market, you need to be in the spirit of treasure hunting, as you can sift through so much to find vintage clothes, books, records, personal items, furniture, and art pieces.
Don’t be shy: This is the place to bargain!
As the IJ-Hallen Flea Market is in the North of Amsterdam, it can be reached with a free ferry ride (F4 Ferry) that departs from the central station and arrives at the NDSM station.
My tip for the IJ-Hallen Flea Market is to combine your visit to Europe’s largest flea market with the STRAAT—the street art museum—about a 2-minute walk from the other.
- Days of operation: Once a month; Saturday or Sunday
- Opening hours:9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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07
Artplein-Spui - The Open-Air Art Market in Amsterdam
Market in Amsterdam Old CityRight in the center of Amsterdam, near the Begijnhof, is the Artplein-Spui Market.
Here, you will find canvases, sculptures, porcelain, jewelry, and ceramics made by Dutch and international artisans who exhibit their art pieces for sale every Sunday.
As a selection of 25 artists change with each edition, you will always experience a different version of Artplein-Spui Market than the last.
Because this art market in Amsterdam takes place under the open sky, they are closed during the winter, namely January and February. Because this market is weather permitting, it is closed on rainy days.
My tip for Artplein-Spui is to check the weather forecast. In case of heavy rain or wind, the fair may be canceled for the day.
- Days of operation: Sundays
- Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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08
Westerstraat Market - The Local Market in Amsterdam
Market in JordaanQuite different from the other Amsterdam markets mentioned so far, the Westerstraat Market has much more of an original vibe. Visited mainly by locals, the Westerstraat market offers food and everyday items. Expect to find organic items, local produce, fresh meats, and great Dutch cheese options here.
Initially, the Westerstraat market was considered a cloth market. Today, you will still find among the more than 170 stalls many offer fabrics, clothing, and accessories.
My tip for the Westerstraat Market is to get there early, as this market in Amsterdam takes place on Monday mornings. The earlier you show up, the better chance you have to look at all the fresh produce and take the prettiest picks!
- Days of operation: Monday Mornings
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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09
Farmer’s Market Noord - The Market in North Amsterdam
Market in Amsterdam NoordJust off the tourist trail is the Farmer’s Market Noord, a typical market in many European cities with organic and regional products.
Although not exactly close to any of Amsterdam’s tourist attractions, the journey to the market from Central Station only takes 5 minutes by metro.
As one of Amsterdam’s farmer’s markets, this stop is ideal for those who live in the city and really want to buy something. It’s not very interesting for tourists with little time in the city, but if you’re having an extended stay in the city and want fresh items to cook with, it’s worth checking out!
- Days of operation: On Saturday
- Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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10
Boekenmarkt Op Het Spui - The Amsterdam Book Market
Market in De WallenAt this street market, you’ll find all the second-hand and antique books of your dreams. And if you don’t speak Dutch, don’t worry! Books from all over the world and in many languages are sold here.
Every year, 25 book dealers from different parts of the Netherlands bring a special collection to sell. As the sellers are collectors themselves, if you are a collector, definitely talk to the merchants about rare or unique books they offer. They won’t be traveling with them, but they can bring it the following week or send it by mail. Who knows, maybe you’ll even find out of print books!
My tip for the Book Market on the Spui is that it’s best for book lovers. If that’s not really your interest, it’s probably a skip for you.
- Days of operation: Fridays
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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11
Nieuwmarkt - The Market in the Tourist Center
Square in Nieuwmarkt en Lastage
Nieuwmarkt is an organic farm market located right in the center of Amsterdam. Here, you can find fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and even second-hand products. Around the Nieuwmarkt Market, there are many bars and restaurants, so when you hit the area, you can be entertained for hours.
Nieuwmarkt is a great program to include in your itinerary because it is so well-located and close to many tourist attractions. Even if you’re just visiting Amsterdam for a short time, you can visit the market for picnic items and relax in one of the city’s many parks. This allows you to try the fresh foods of the region while taking in the area’s beautiful nature as well.
- Days of operation: Saturdays
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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12
Lindengracht Market - The Market in the Heart of Amsterdam
Market in JordaanOne of Amsterdam’s most famous markets is undoubtedly the Lindengracht Markt in the Jordaan district. This bazaar has a mixture of organic food, vintage clothing, flower stands, and delicious bites.
The Lindengracht Markt also welcomes visitors with a series of cultural performances that change every weekend, including live music or artists painting on the spot.
The history of Lindengracht Market goes back to the 19th century. What was once just for locals, today, the Lindengracht Market is a tourist attraction in Amsterdam.
My tip for the Lindengracht Markt is to allow at least 1.5 hours to explore the market. And be sure to come hungry, as there is so much to try.
- Days of operation: Saturdays
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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13
Lapjesmarkt - The Market Adjacent to Westerstraat Market
Market in JordaanLapjesmarkt is the textile market located right next to Westerstraat Market. It’s the perfect place for bargain hunters looking to score a new piece of clothing or accessory.
Here, you can find a mixture of vintage and modern pieces. If you like DIY, you’ll also find lots of stalls here with pieces of jewelry, fabrics, and accessories.
- Days of operation: Monday mornings
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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14
Dappermarkt - One of the Big Markets in Amsterdam
Market in WatergraafsmeerThe Dappermarkt is ideal for those who like to eat a variety of typical foods and try out different flavors. Here, you can find many food truck-style stalls, as well as a variety of fresh produce, local cheeses, homemade jams, clothes, vintage items, and art.
With this range of options, it’s no surprise that this market attracts hundreds of visitors every day. At the end of the day, it’s considered one of the great markets in Amsterdam.
My tip for the Dappermarkt: Come hungry! This is a great way to eat well without spending too much.
- Opening days: Monday to Saturday.
- Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Best Food Markets Tours in Amsterdam
If you also want to get to know the area’s food other than just walking around food markets, food tours offer a unique experience at Amsterdam’s food markets. You’ll get to know the curiosities, fun facts, and insider tips on the best dishes. We have selected the best food tours in Amsterdam at the food markets that you can check out here.
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01 Amsterdam: Dutch Street Food Market Tour
The Albert Cuypmarket is definitely one of my favorite markets in Amsterdam, not only because of the lively atmosphere, but especially because of the many delicious food stalls on the market. So that you do not have the agony of choice, you explore the culinary highlights of the weekly market best with this beautiful food tour: Stroll comfortably in a small group over the market and let already the many colors and smells on you, until it then finally comes to the most popular stalls on the market to taste. From typical Dutch specialties like Bitterballen, Stroopwafels, and Pannekoppen to multicultural treats from Indonesia, Suriname, and Japan – no one goes home with an empty stomach here. Refreshments are also provided with a stop at the local craft beer brewery. So you see, pack along some proper hunger and curiosity. Note: This tour is in English and in high demand, so book early!
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02 Amsterdam: Food Lovers Walking Tour with Tastings
Join a local guide on a food-filled journey through the heart of Amsterdam. On this tour, you’ll taste classic Dutch dishes like Tom Pounce, Dutch fries, and appeltaart in some of great markets in Amsterdam. What’s more is that you’ll explore notable city landmarks, such as the flower market and Jordaan. With eight food tastings and a bottle of water included, this tour is perfect for food lovers wanting to explore Amsterdam food.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Markets in Amsterdam
What are the most famous markets in Amsterdam?
The Albert Cuyp Market, Bloemenmarkt, and De Hallen are the three most famous markets in Amsterdam. Albert Cuypstraat and De Hallen are considered food markets, while Bloemenmarkt is an Amsterdam flower market. All three are worth a visit and are very well located in the touristy areas of the city.
When are these markets in Amsterdam open?
The markets’ hours in Amsterdam vary, but typically, most markets operate during daytime hours, starting from early morning until late afternoon. The Albert Cuyp Market, for instance, is open six days a week, while the Bloemenmarkt is open daily. Just be sure to refer to our list above or refer to their websites!
Is it possible to pay by card in the markets in Amsterdam?
You can pay by card in most markets in Amsterdam. However, it is impossible to say that all market sellers in Amsterdam accept cards, so always carry some cash. The most famous markets like De Hallen even encourage the use of cards, but smaller, more local markets opt for cash. Also, for places that allow haggling, this is much easier when you have cash than card.
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